terms + conditions

To make sure every appointment runs smoothly and each dog receives the best possible care, please take a moment to read the following terms. By booking with Sapaws Grooming Studio, you agree to these conditions.

Bookings & Deposits

  • A £10 deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your appointment.

  • Deposits must be paid within 24 hours of booking, otherwise the slot will be reopened.

  • Deposits are deducted from the final cost of your appointment.

Cancellations & No-Shows

  • Please give at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.

  • Deposits are non-refundable if less than 48 hours’ notice is given, or in the case of a no-show.

  • Repeated cancellations or no-shows may result in refusal of future bookings.

Studio Etiquette

Every dog’s comfort and well-being comes first at Sapaws. These simple guidelines help make each visit calm, safe, and positive for your best friend:

  • Arrival & Collection: Please arrive on time for your appointment. If you are more than 15 minutes late, I may be unable to complete the groom, and your deposit will be forfeited. Collection time will be agreed at drop-off to ensure your dog isn’t left waiting.

  • Parking: Parking on the drive is required for all appointments to allow safe and easy handover of your dog.

  • Dogs on Leads: All dogs must be kept on a lead at all times when arriving at and leaving the studio.

  • Dogs in Season: Please avoid booking bitches in season, as they can be more sensitive and uncomfortable during this time, making the grooming experience harder for them.

  • Flea-Free Policy: Dogs must arrive flea-free. If fleas are discovered during a groom, an additional charge will apply, and the groom may be ended early for the wellbeing of all dogs.

  • Toileting: Please ensure your dog has been given the opportunity to toilet before arrival.

  • Respectful Behaviour: I will never judge or shame owners for coat condition or behaviour. Education over judgement is my ethos — but I ask that clients are honest about their dog’s needs, health, and temperament so I can provide the best care possible.

Nail & Paw Care

  • Nail trims and the Sapaws Pawdicure must be booked in advance — walk-ins are not available.

  • Same-day appointments may sometimes be possible if you call ahead.

Health & Welfare

  • Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations. I trust owners to be honest about this.

  • Dogs must arrive flea-free. If fleas are discovered during a groom, an additional charge will apply to cover treatment and sanitising of the studio.

  • If a dog is too stressed, reactive, or unwell to continue safely, I will stop the groom and call you to collect. A partial charge may still apply for the time spent.

Matting Policy

  • Severe matting can cause pain and skin issues. In these cases, a full clip-off is usually the kindest and safest option.

  • Additional charges of £5–£35 may apply depending on the time and care required.

  • I will only attempt minor de-matting (up to 5% of the coat).

  • Owners will be asked to sign a Dematting Waiver before the groom continues.

Handling & Safety

  • Dogs may be safely tethered or crated during their stay. Same-family dogs may be housed together where possible.

  • For safety, muzzles or protective collars may be used as a last resort.

  • I will never put a dog at risk — their wellbeing always comes first.

Weather & Emergencies

  • Appointments may be rearranged in cases of extreme weather (such as heatwaves) for the safety of the dogs.

  • In case of an emergency during a groom, I will contact you immediately.