Terms and Conditions

This document includes:

Service RequirementsRequired VaccinationsBordetella Vaccine (optional but recommended)Illness in DogsInjury ProtocolGrooming MishapsLiability InformationSalon Conduct GuidelinesPolicies on Cancellations, Rescheduling, and No-Shows

Service Requirements

To use our services, all clients must complete a profile form for both themselves and their pet, as well as agree to these Terms and Conditions. Please note: All required forms and information must be submitted at least 48 hours before your scheduled appointment, or it will be automatically canceled.

Each pet must be up-to-date on all vaccinations required by Connecticut's Department of Health (Rabies and Distemper/DHPP) and must wear an ID tag. Updated vaccination records must also be submitted 48 hours prior to any appointment, or it will be canceled.

We ask that all dogs are well-suited for our environment, which includes being safe around both our staff and other dogs. These requirements ensure a positive experience for all pets while maintaining a safe and healthy space for dogs and staff in our off-leash and cage-free setting.

A valid credit card must be on file for services to be confirmed. If no credit card is on file, your appointment will remain unconfirmed. (Happy Paws Grooming LLC does not store credit card details, but our payment processor, which complies with global Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards, does. You can view their privacy policy here.)

Unless otherwise noted, all purchases and services are non-refundable.

For more details or questions, feel free to reach out to us.

Required Vaccinations

To maintain a healthy environment, all pets receiving services from Happy Paws Grooming LLC must be current on their rabies and distemper vaccines. This typically means your pet needs the following vaccines from your veterinarian:

Rabies (required)DHPP (required)Bordetella (optional)Most veterinarians in Connecticut administer a vaccine known as DH2PP, DA2PP, or DHPP, which covers distemper, parvo, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. Ensure your dog is up-to-date with these vaccinations, particularly if they are a puppy still going through their vaccine series. We track vaccination records and expiration dates to help you keep your pet protected.

Bordetella Vaccine – Optional Annual Immunization

This vaccine helps prevent the spread of bacteria that can lead to kennel cough. Since there are many strains of this illness, the vaccine only covers some, meaning your dog could still develop symptoms even if vaccinated. The bacteria are airborne and can travel several city blocks, making it difficult to identify the source of infection. Although not required by Connecticut's Department of Health, annual Bordetella vaccinations are recommended as new strains of the bacteria emerge each year, similar to the flu vaccine for humans.

Sick Dogs

We only admit healthy dogs, as we care for many pets at once. If we believe a dog may pose a risk to others, we reserve the right to refuse service. It's your responsibility to inform us of any health issues your dog may have, so we can determine the best course of action. If a client brings a sick dog without notifying us, fails to remove the pet once it is deemed a risk, or neglects to inform us of health problems, a $500 surcharge may apply. In extreme cases, clients may lose the right to use our services and forfeit any remaining credits.

Matted Dogs – "Comfort Over Style"

If a pet is not groomed regularly (every 4-6 weeks), its coat may become matted. Matting occurs from overgrown hair, lack of brushing, or improper coat care after a bath or exposure to water. Severe matting, especially close to the skin, can lead to discomfort, irritation, or infections.

The process of de-matting can be time-consuming, so additional charges will apply. Fees are calculated in 15-minute increments at $15 per session.

For minor matting, we may be able to detangle the coat using specialized tools. However, if the matting is severe, the most humane solution is to shave the coat down to the skin. Regardless of the extent, de-matting fees apply.

We are not responsible for health issues that may be revealed after removing matted fur, such as hot spots or sores.

Injuries

While we strive to ensure every dog’s safety, accidents can happen. If your dog or cat is injured while in our care and requires medical treatment, we will take them to your vet or the nearest emergency animal hospital.

In cases where your pet bites another animal at Happy Paws Grooming LLC or under our supervision, resulting in an injury that requires medical attention, we will inform the bitten pet’s owner. Upon their written request, we will provide the necessary information, including your contact details and any relevant medical data.

Please note that all pets at Happy Paws Grooming LLC play at their own risk.

Grooming Mishaps

Though rare, accidents during grooming can occur. Our equipment is sharp, and despite our best efforts, cuts, scratches, or other minor injuries may happen, especially if a pet is restless or moves suddenly.

Your pet’s safety and comfort are our top priority. If an accident happens, we will notify you immediately. In more serious cases, where you're not present, we will seek veterinary care at the nearest clinic.

Liability

Clients are responsible for any medical expenses or damages caused by their pet.

By using our services, you agree to waive any claims against Happy Paws Grooming LLC and its staff for any grooming-related incidents.

If a medical issue arises while your pet is in our care, you authorize us to take whatever steps are necessary for their health and well-being. You assume full responsibility for any associated costs, whether due to injuries or accidents as outlined in these terms.

Salon Conduct

Appointments:

To keep our schedule running smoothly, please arrive on time for your appointments. We offer a 15-minute grace period. After that, the appointment is considered a no-show and will be canceled. The full rate for the service will be charged.

Vaccinations:

All pets must be up-to-date on Rabies and Distemper vaccinations.

Entering the Salon:

Dogs should be walked before entering the salon and must remain on a leash at all times.

Grooming Preferences:

Discuss your pet’s grooming history and style preferences with the groomer to ensure we meet your expectations.

Aggressive Behavior:

If your pet exhibits aggressive or challenging behavior, a surcharge will be applied to cover the extra time and resources required to groom them.

Flea Policy:

If your pet has fleas and we were not informed ahead of time, an additional fee will apply.

Late Pick-ups:

After your pet’s grooming session, we will notify you via text. Pets must be picked up within 60 minutes of this notification, as we are not a boarding facility. If you're late, a boarding fee of $15 per hour will apply after the 60-minute grace period.

Cancellation and No-Show Policy

Cancellations:

Grooming appointments are reservations for individualized attention. We have limited availability each day, and missed appointments affect our staff’s income. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours in advance.

Missed Appointments:

No-shows without 24-hour notice will incur a fee equal to the full cost of the scheduled service, charged to the card on file.

Vaccination Issues:

If your pet’s vaccinations are not current and you do not cancel at least 24 hours in advance, or if you arrive without proof of vaccinations, the full rate for the scheduled service will still be charged.

By using our services, you confirm that you are the legal owner of the pet and agree to these Terms of Service and our Salon Etiquette Policy. All sales are final; no refunds.