Effective from 28 June 2025

Please read this agreement carefully. By using our services, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to the terms outlined below. These are subject to change without notice, and the most current version will always be available on our website. Please check back periodically for updates.

Vaccination Requirement
You confirm that your dog is up to date with all required vaccinations at the time of drop-off.
Puppies must have completed their second vaccination at least two weeks prior to their first grooming session.

Health Disclosure
Please inform us of any existing health conditions, medications, sensitivities, or mobility issues your dog may have before grooming. This helps us tailor the session to your dog’s needs and ensure their safety. While we take every reasonable precaution, grooming can occasionally reveal or worsen pre-existing or underlying conditions. Country Lane Dog Grooming and its staff will not be held liable for any stress, injury, or complications that may arise as a result of grooming dogs with such conditions. Any veterinary costs that arise as a result remain the owner’s responsibility.

Safety and Transparency
We take every possible precaution to ensure your dog’s grooming experience is safe and comfortable. However, you acknowledge that grooming does come with some inherent risks. In some cases, grooming can also reveal hidden health issues or worsen existing conditions.

Minor incidents may occur during grooming (e.g. small nicks, clipper rash, nail quicking). If anything happens, we will inform you.
We may pause or stop a groom if your dog becomes overly anxious, stressed, or aggressive.
We may use holistic, low-stress handling tools such as the Groomer’s Helper, Doggy Dignity belly band, or a protective cone to assist. These are used gently and only when necessary.
We do not use muzzles.

Senior Dogs
We understand that older dogs may have age-related health concerns such as arthritis, skin growths, or reduced tolerance to handling. We take extra care with our senior clients, working slowly and gently to keep them comfortable. However, due to age-related vulnerabilities, grooming may carry increased risk of stress or complications. We will always prioritise your dog’s well-being, but we cannot accept liability for any issues that may arise due to underlying or age-related conditions.

Behavioural Concerns
It is your responsibility to disclose any known behavioural issues, including anxiety, reactivity, or history of biting or aggression. This helps us ensure a safe experience for your dog and our groomer. We reserve the right to decline or stop a groom if safety becomes a concern. We do not groom aggressive dogs.

Accidents or Emergencies
If your dog experiences a medical emergency during their appointment and we cannot reach you, we’ll seek immediate veterinary care. We’ll try to contact your preferred vet, but may use the nearest available clinic. All veterinary costs are the owner’s responsibility.

Matting & Coat Condition
You understand that matted coats can be painful and may require shaving to remove. This is not only time-intensive but carries risks of skin irritation, nicks, or clipper rash due to the skin being compromised beneath the mats. We follow a “humanity over vanity” approach and do not perform de-matting. Additional charges apply for matting removal. It is expected that you maintain your dogs coat condition by brushing and combing frequently. We are happy to show you how to correctly brush your dog and advise on the right brush to use. 

Photography & Media Use
We capture photos or videos of dogs in our care for use on our social media or website to showcase our work. If you would prefer your dog not be included, please let us know in writing by sending an email to countrylanedoggrooming@gmail.com

Anal Glands & Medical Procedures
We do not offer anal gland expression or ear plucking. While we check for visible concerns during grooming, we do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. If anything appears unusual, we will advise you to follow up with your vet.

Cancellations and Missed Appointments
As a one-on-one grooming service, each appointment is reserved especially for your dog. Late cancellations or missed appointments result in lost time that cannot be filled at short notice.

We require at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment will incur a late cancellation fee equal to 50% of the scheduled groom cost. No-shows (failure to attend without notice) will be charged the full grooming cost. Future bookings may require a deposit to secure your appointment.

Reminders are sent via text and/or email as a courtesy only. It remains your responsibility to remember and attend your scheduled appointment.

Payment Terms
Payment is due in full on the day of service. We accept bank transfer (please use your dog’s name as reference) or cash. If payment is not received, we reserve the right to pursue recovery of the debt, and any associated collection costs will be your responsibility.