Policies
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At Puptacular K9 we put pets first. This means we have policies put in place to ensure safety and comfort for every pet. Please read our policies below to familiarize yourself with them.
Grooming Policies
Matted Dogs
De matting a dog is a process where someone spends time brushing out a tangled coat. Just as it hurts people to brush out knots, it also hurts our pet friends. Matts, especially pin matts, are not always easy to identify and sometimes a dog will come in matted. We offer no judgment in these circumstances, but we absolutely will not brush out a severely, or even moderately matted coat. We will work out some minor matting, but if we feel that we will cause suffering and potential injury to the dog, we will not brush them out. In these circumstances we will call the owner and discussing alternative options, which could include trimming the matted sections or even a full shave down of the dog. To prevent this, we encourage you to bring in your coated pet every 4-8 weeks for grooming. We also offer a 10% discount program for clients who bring in their dogs every 6 weeks for grooming. We have a 15$ surcharge per every 5 minutes we spend de-matting dogs.
Late Pickups
Because we aim to provide pets as stress free of an experience as possible, we try to limit the number of dogs in our facility at one time. We ask that clients pick up their pets within 30 minutes of us letting them know they are ready for pick-up. If you have to wait until a specific time for pick up (until you are off work for instance) we ask that you let us know ahead of time. If pick up is past closing time, our fee is 2$ per minute past closing.
Reactive Pets
We take reactive pets depending on the circumstance. We do have a dog trainer on staff who is ready to assist with the more difficult dogs, however safety is our top priority. Reactive dogs must be muzzled with their own properly fitted muzzle before coming into the salon. If your pet is particularly difficult for grooming, we may need to request sedation or refuse the client altogether. We will never jeopardize your pets safety or the safety of other pets / staff. We are happy to give you some tips on desensitizing your dog for the groomer for a better grooming experience in the future. If your dog displays dog or human aggression outside of being groomed, please let us know at the time of booking your appointment and we will discuss options. Please note, severely aggressive dogs are not allowed in the salon or in group classes. We do offer training to help with behavioral difficulties and can come and groom at your vets if the dog is sedated and muzzled. All reactive pets will be assessed and taken on a case by case basis.
Missed Appointments
Time is valuable. When you miss your grooming appointment it leaves us with an empty slot during the day as we cannot book in a replacement dog short notice. We ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice if you cannot make it to your grooming appointment unless in the case of inclement weather. Repeated missed appointments with less than 24 hours notice will result in a 50$ fee due before your next groom. If you miss scheduled training you will not be refunded for missed sessions.
Shaving double coated dogs
We will shave your double coated dog if you insist on this, however shaving a double coated dog can have long lasting consequences. Here is what the AKC has to say about shaving a double coated dog. "Shaving a double coat can also do long-term damage. When it is shaved down to the skin, the undercoat hair will grow back faster, and sometimes will crowd out the slower-growing guard hairs. This can change the texture and color of a dog’s coat and make it appear patchy and unattractive." More information on this is available directly on the AKC website by following this link. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/is-it-ok-to-shave-your-dog/
There is no surcharge for shaving a double coated dog, but this is considered a "full groom" and is charged as such.
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Training Policies
Aggressive/ Reactive Dogs
At Puptacular K9 we are here for you and your pets. Whether you are looking to give your pup a head start in life or whether you are dealing with challenging behaviours. That said, we take safety very seriously and ask that you please notify us in advance if your dog displays aggressive, reactive or high prey drive behaviours. These dogs MUST wear a properly fitted muzzle to all training sessions.
No Flexi Leads
We are big on safety, and as dog professionals we strongly discourage the use of flexi leads for many reasons. During classes and private sessions, flexi leads are not allowed. Please bring a 6' leash to training classes or a longer leash where requested.
No choke chains, prongs, e-collars etc.
Puppies learn best through a positive, motivational approach. Young puppies in puppy class do not need harsh correction tools such as choke chains, e-collars, prong collars, or other aversive tools. These tools are rarely used correctly and rarely (if ever) needed on a puppy. Here at Puptacular K9 we like to address training with a scientifically proven approach. While we agree that all dogs need boundaries, we are LIMA compliant and feel dogs work best with motivational methods.
No shows
If you do not show up to private sessions or puppy classes, you will not be refunded. Payments for all training is due at the time of booking. Should you need to cancel a private session, we require 24 hours notice and we will reschedule your appointment.
Accountability
Our trainer has years of experience training and winning in competition. She is good at what she does. That said, training is one of those things that you get out of it what you put into it. You must hold yourself accountable to practice. Do not expect any gimmicks or quick fixes. Training takes time, patience and commitment. Plan to spend about 15 minutes twice daily training at home. Don't hesitate to ask for help via Facebook messenger if you are struggling with a skill you are expected to master before your next session.
Be respectful
Please be mindful of laws and dog etiquette when attending puppy classes. This includes:
- Picking up after your pet
- Keeping your pet on a leash at all times unless otherwise indicated by the trainer.
- Not allowing your dog to greet or otherwise disturb other dogs or their handlers
- Following local bylaws