SERVICE AGREEMENT

All pets must be handed off by an adult 18 years of age or older. NO EXCEPTIONS. Please allow a 30-minute window for arrival due to traveling and unexpected road conditions, weather, traffic, or accidents along the route, as well as possible delays with grooming appointments.

ONE TIME SIGN OFF

This agreement is meant for speedy drop-offs and no paper trail. Pet parents are responsible for informing DSZ Grooming of any changes in their pet’s behavior, health, injuries, or life changes since the previous grooming appointment. These changes will be noted in their pet’s profile. A physical health check will also be performed on every pet prior to the grooming service. If something is missed during the health check and found later while grooming, the pet parent will be notified immediately.

PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY THE FOLLOWING POLICIES AND GUIDELINES

HEALTH CONCERNS & CONDITIONS

At DSZ Grooming, we strive to provide a safe and stress-free experience for every pet. It is essential that owners inform us of any known health conditions, allergies, injuries, or behavioral concerns prior to the grooming appointment. Failure to disclose this information may put your pet at serious risk.

Certain medical issues—such as heart conditions, respiratory problems, seizures, or skin sensitivities—can be aggravated during grooming. Without this knowledge, our groomers may unintentionally perform services that could compromise your dog’s safety or well-being. DSZ Grooming cannot be held liable for adverse reactions or incidents resulting from undisclosed health issues. Your pet’s health is our priority; transparency and honest communication ensure we provide the safest care possible.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

At DSZ Grooming, we understand that every pet is unique and may have special conditions that require extra care and attention. This includes anxiety, past trauma, mobility issues, recent surgeries, or any other physical or behavioral concerns. It is essential that owners inform us of any special conditions their pet may have prior to the grooming appointment. Without this information, our groomers may unintentionally perform services or use handling techniques that could cause stress, discomfort, or injury. By sharing these details, we can make necessary adjustments to ensure a safe, gentle, and positive grooming experience tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

VACCINATIONS

At DSZ Grooming, we prioritize the health and safety of all pets in our care. While Hawaii is recognized as a rabies-free state, we strongly recommend that all dogs be current on their rabies vaccinations. This precaution helps protect your pet, our staff, and other animals from potential health risks, especially for families that travel with their pets on a consistent basis. Additionally, we advise pet owners to consult with their veterinarians about other core vaccinations, such as DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) and Bordetella (kennel cough), to ensure comprehensive protection against common canine illnesses.

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge the importance of keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date and understand that DSZ reserves the right to request proof of vaccination records. Failure to provide such documentation may result in the rescheduling or cancellation of grooming services to ensure the well-being of all pets and staff involved.

PUPPY VACCINATIONS

At DSZ Grooming, ALL puppies under the age of one MUST be vaccinated. NO EXCEPTIONS. Puppies under the age of one are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases due to their developing immune systems. To ensure their protection, we require that all puppies have completed their core vaccination series and a Bordetella vaccine before receiving grooming services.

Core vaccines include protection against diseases such as distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. These vaccinations are typically administered in a series starting at 6–8 weeks of age and continuing every 2–4 weeks until the puppy is at least 16 weeks old. Additionally, the rabies vaccine is generally administered around 16 weeks of age, depending on local regulations. Failure to vaccinate puppies not only puts them at risk of contracting serious illnesses but also poses a threat to other animals they may come into contact with. By ensuring your puppy is fully vaccinated, you help create a safer environment for all pets and staff members.

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge the importance of timely vaccinations for your puppy and agree to provide up-to-date vaccination records before any grooming services are provided.

PET AGE

At DSZ Grooming, we tailor our grooming services to meet the specific needs of each pet, including their age. Puppies and senior dogs require special care and handling due to their developmental stage or age-related health conditions. It is crucial that pet owners inform us of their dog’s age prior to grooming. Older pets may have joint pain, vision or hearing loss, or other sensitivities that require gentle handling, while puppies may need shorter sessions and extra patience during their first grooming experiences. Failure to disclose your pet’s age may increase the risk of stress, injury, or discomfort. Providing accurate age information helps us ensure a safe, comfortable, and positive grooming experience.

SICK DOGS

At DSZ Grooming, we care deeply about your pet’s health and comfort. Just like humans, when dogs are sick, they may feel sore, irritable, and sensitive to touch. Illness can make grooming painful, stressful, and even dangerous, as pets may react unpredictably due to discomfort or changes in behavior. For the safety of your pet and our groomers, we do not provide grooming services to dogs who are currently ill or undergoing immediate medication treatment. This includes pets recovering from infections, injuries, or any condition requiring active veterinary care.

Once your dog is fully recovered and no longer on short-term medications, grooming services can safely resume. This policy ensures your pet receives care only when they are well enough to handle it calmly and comfortably.

FLEAS & TICKS

DSZ Grooming is committed to maintaining a clean, safe environment for all pets in our care. If your dog has fleas, ticks, or other parasites, it is vital to inform us before the grooming appointment. Parasites not only cause discomfort and skin irritation but can also lead to serious health issues such as infections, anemia, or the transmission of diseases to other animals.

Undisclosed infestations put both our groomers and other clients’ pets at risk. If parasites are found during grooming, an immediate flea/tick treatment will be administered, and an additional fee will apply. For your pet’s health and the safety of others, regular parasite prevention is strongly recommended.

BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS

Brachycephalic dogs—such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and other flat-faced breeds—require special care during grooming due to their unique anatomy. These breeds are more prone to breathing difficulties, overheating, and stress-related complications.

At DSZ Grooming, we take extra precautions to groom brachycephalic pets safely, including limiting stress, avoiding heat exposure, and monitoring breathing throughout the session. It is essential that owners inform us if their dog is a brachycephalic breed so we can prepare accordingly. Failure to disclose this may increase the risk of serious health issues during grooming. Your dog’s safety is our top priority, and proper communication helps us provide the safest possible care.

PREGNANT & NURSING DOGS

At DSZ Grooming, the health and safety of every pet is our top priority. We do not provide grooming services for dogs that are pregnant, nursing, or in heat.

Grooming during these sensitive times can pose serious risks, including increased stress, hormonal imbalances, or physical complications—especially for pregnant or nursing dogs. Dogs in heat may also experience heightened sensitivity and unpredictable behavior, which can lead to discomfort or injury during grooming and may also create a disruptive environment for other pets. For these reasons, we strictly require that all owners disclose if their pet is pregnant, actively nursing, or in heat at the time of booking. Failure to do so may result in immediate cancellation of the appointment, and a service fee will be applied. Seventy-five percent of the total bill for that day of service will be charged on the same day of service or on the next grooming visit. Failure to pay will result in immediate termination of any future business relations with DSZ Mobile Grooming. This policy is in place to protect your dog’s well-being and ensure a safe grooming experience for all.

SPAYED & NEUTERED DOGS

At DSZ Grooming, the safety and comfort of your pet is our highest priority. If your dog has recently been spayed or neutered, it is important to understand that the post-surgery period involves healing, potential discomfort, and the presence of stitches or medication.

Grooming too soon after surgery can interfere with the healing process, risk infection, or cause stress that may disrupt recovery. For this reason, DSZ Grooming will not perform grooming services on any pet that has recently undergone a spay or neuter procedure until the surgical site is fully healed, stitches (if any) are removed, and your veterinarian confirms it is safe.

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge the importance of allowing adequate recovery time and agree to inform us of any recent surgeries to protect your pet’s health during the grooming process.

MATTED DOGS

At DSZ Grooming, your pet’s safety and comfort are our top priority. When a dog’s coat becomes severely matted, it can lead to serious health risks, including skin irritation, sores, restricted movement, and hidden parasites. Removing mats can be a delicate and sometimes painful process, often requiring shaving close to the skin.

By signing this agreement, the pet owner acknowledges the potential risks involved in dematting or shaving a matted coat. This includes nicks, redness, and stress to the animal. DSZ will always prioritize humane treatment and may refuse dematting if it causes undue pain or distress. Additional fees will be applied due to the extra time and care required.

Shaving Down Severe Matting – Possible Side Effects

1. Skin Irritation or Nicks: Mats often sit close to the skin, making it difficult to shave without risking minor cuts, abrasions, or razor burn.

2. Bruising or Sensitivity: Skin under mats can be fragile or already bruised from pulling. Shaving can expose this sensitivity.

3. Post-Grooming Itchiness: Sudden exposure of previously covered skin can cause itchiness or discomfort, especially if the skin is dry or inflamed.

4. Clipper Shock: A dog may feel anxious or behave unusually after a very close shave, particularly if the coat was a major part of its sensory comfort.

5. Sunburn Risk: Shaved areas are more susceptible to sunburn—especially in light-coated or short-haired dogs.

6. Uneven Coat Regrowth: In some breeds, shaving can alter the texture or pattern of hair regrowth. In rare cases, hair may not grow back the same at all.

Brushing Out Severe Matting – Possible Side Effects

Brushing out severe mats can be stressful and physically harmful to your pet. While it may seem like a gentle alternative to shaving, in many cases, it can cause more pain and trauma. Here are the potential side effects:

1. Pain and Discomfort: Mats pull tightly on the skin, and brushing them out can be extremely painful for the dog, especially in sensitive areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the neck.

2. Skin Irritation and Redness: The friction and tension from repeated brushing can cause skin irritation, redness, and soreness.

3. Skin Tears and Bruising: In severe cases, mats can trap moisture and bacteria, weakening the skin underneath. Brushing too hard or trying to break apart dense mats can result in bruising or even skin tearing.

4. Hair Loss or Patchy Coat: Forceful dematting often pulls out healthy hair along with the mats, which can lead to thinning or bald patches in the coat.

5. Stress and Anxiety: The prolonged discomfort of dematting can cause significant stress, especially in nervous or senior dogs. It may also create long-term grooming anxiety or fear.

6. Increased Risk of Infection: If skin becomes raw or torn during the process, it can become vulnerable to infections, especially if the area was already moist or damaged beneath the matting.

For these reasons, many professional groomers—including DSZ Grooming—will highly recommend shaving instead of brushing out severe mats to minimize pain and ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.

Shaving is usually the more humane and less traumatic option when dealing with severe matting. Though not always ideal cosmetically, it relieves discomfort more quickly and avoids prolonged pain associated with dematting.

AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

At DSZ Grooming, the safety of your pet and ours is our top priority. If a pet displays aggressive, unpredictable, or dangerous behavior during grooming—such as biting, excessive resistance, or signs of extreme stress—we reserve the right to stop services at any time to prevent harm.

In some cases, a soft muzzle may be used if deemed necessary for the safety of both the pet and the groomer. Continued grooming will only proceed if it can be done safely and humanely. By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that any aggressive behavior may result in an incomplete groom and that full or partial fees may still apply. A HANDLING FEE may be applied at the end of the service.

Clear communication about known behavioral issues before the appointment helps us prepare and handle your pet with the care they deserve.

CALMING AIDS ~ PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION ~ MEDICATED SHAMPOOS

For pets that experience high anxiety or stress during grooming, calming aids or prescription medications may be recommended by a veterinarian. At DSZ Grooming, we require that any such treatments be disclosed prior to the appointment and administered properly by the owner as directed by a licensed vet.

Improper use or undisclosed medication can pose serious health risks, including adverse reactions during grooming. DSZ does not administer medications but will work with you to schedule appointments at the appropriate time following your pet’s dosage. Transparency ensures your pet’s safety and allows us to provide a calm, supportive grooming experience.

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, DSZ Grooming will allow the use of prescribed medicated shampoos for pets with specific skin or medical conditions, provided they are veterinarian-prescribed and not expired. Written veterinary recommendations for medicated shampoos will also be permitted. No over-the-counter shampoos or conditioners will be allowed. NO EXCEPTIONS. DSZ Grooming will ensure the highest level of care in preventing adverse reactions or product conflicts.

CAT SERVICES

Doggie Stylz Grooming provides cat grooming on a limited basis through the Kitty Stylz Maintenance Options. Services are restricted to nail trims, ear cleaning, sanitary trims, baths, and shave-downs only. These offerings are intended to cover essential maintenance needs and do not include full-service feline grooming or styling. All services are performed with the goal of maintaining safety and comfort for both the pet and the groomer. Restrictions may apply based on the temperament, behavior, or condition of the cat, and assistance from the pet parent may be requested when necessary. By scheduling cat services, pet parents acknowledge and agree that Doggie Stylz Grooming reserves the right to refuse, modify, or discontinue service if a situation is determined to be unsafe or beyond the scope of the maintenance options provided.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

DSZ Grooming loves showcasing our furry clients! We may take photos or videos of your pet during or after their grooming session. These images may be used for marketing, advertising, and promotional purposes, including on our website, social media, and printed materials.

By using our grooming services, you acknowledge and agree that DSZ reserves the right to capture and use such media without additional consent or compensation. If you have concerns or wish to opt out, please notify us in writing prior to your appointment.

PAYMENT TERMS

Payment for all grooming services is due at the time of service. Doggie Stylz Grooming accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Personal and business checks are also accepted. If a check is returned for any reason, future check payments will not be accepted, and the amount owed from the returned check, along with a $30 returned-check fee, will be added to the client’s next grooming visit. If a client fails to resolve a returned check or refuses to pay the balance due, Doggie Stylz Grooming reserves the right to terminate future services immediately.

To respect our schedule and other clients, we require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. No-shows or last-minute cancellations (less than 24 hours) will result in a cancellation fee that will be added to the next grooming service. This fee will be 75% of the total bill for that day of service. Failure to pay will result in immediate termination of any future business relations with DSZ Grooming. Additionally, DSZ Grooming may require a deposit for future appointments. Repeated no-shows or consistent last-minute cancellations may lead to refusal of future service.

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge these terms and agree to communicate promptly regarding appointment changes to avoid additional charges.

Pricing Policy

At DSZ Grooming, we strive to provide high-quality services at fair and competitive prices. However, due to fluctuations in supply costs, fuel, and overall economic conditions, prices are subject to change at any time without prior notice.

At DSZ Grooming, our prices are based on a variety of factors, including your dog’s size, breed, coat type, coat condition, style of haircut, and behavior during grooming. These elements help us determine the time, effort, and care required for each individual pet.

We are committed to transparency and will always inform clients of any pricing adjustments in advance of their appointment. By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that grooming rates may vary over time and agree to stay informed through our official communication channels.

CONVENIENCE & TRAVEL FEE (CT)

DSZ Grooming charges a set convenience and travel fee for all bookings. This flat rate helps cover the unique benefits of our mobile service, including—but not limited to—trust, safety, convenience, pet comfort, the number of pets in the household, and travel to your location.

This fee reflects the value of having a professional grooming experience brought directly to your doorstep, minimizing stress for both pets and owners. The travel fee is subject to change based on various factors, but clients will always be notified in advance via text or email before any adjustments are made.

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge and accept the travel and convenience fee as part of the premium, personalized care DSZ Grooming provides.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge and accept that DSZ Grooming will take every reasonable precaution to ensure your pet’s safety and well-being during grooming services. However, grooming may involve inherent risks, especially for pets with health conditions, behavioral issues, or severe matting.

You agree to release DSZ, its staff, and representatives from any liability, claims, or damages that may arise from injury, illness, stress, or unforeseen complications during or after grooming. This includes, but is not limited to, reactions to grooming products, pre-existing conditions, or emergency situations. Your signature confirms that you have disclosed all relevant information about your pet and understand the potential risks involved.

EMERGENCY

At DSZ Grooming, your pet’s safety is our highest priority. While we take every precaution to ensure a safe grooming experience, emergencies can sometimes occur due to unforeseen health issues, accidents, or severe reactions.

In the event of a medical emergency, we will make every effort to contact you immediately. If you cannot be reached and urgent care is necessary, we reserve the right to seek veterinary assistance at the nearest available clinic. All related expenses will be the responsibility of the pet owner.

By signing this agreement, you authorize DSZ Grooming to act in the best interest of your pet during an emergency.

Doggie Stylz LLC may refuse or stop service at any time before or during grooming to ensure the safety of the pet, or other animals. If service is stopped due to the pet’s behavior or other client issues, the owner is still responsible for the cost of services provided up to that point.

Doggie Stylz LLC insured by Pet Care Insurance (PCI)