Stress-Free Grooming for Small & Medium Dogs

1. Assumption of Risk & Release of Liability

Owner understands that pet grooming, including bathing, brushing, drying, nail trimming, ear cleaning, hair cutting, and the use of grooming tools, involves inherent risks. Owner voluntarily assumes all such risks and releases Groomer, and Groomer’s owners, employees, and agents, from any and all liability for injury, illness, loss, or death of the pet, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct by the Groomer.

2. Health & Vaccination Representation

Owner represents that the pet is in good health and is currently vaccinated against rabies as required by California law and Riverside County ordinance. Owner agrees to disclose any medical condition, illness, injury, allergy, skin sensitivity, or infestation (such as fleas or ticks) prior to service. Groomer reserves the right to refuse or discontinue service if the pet appears ill, contagious, or in distress.

3. Matting & De-Matting Release

Owner understands that matted coats can cause skin irritation, hidden sores, redness, and nicks that may only be discovered during or after grooming. De-matting or shave-downs may be necessary for the pet’s comfort and welfare. Owner authorizes the Groomer to use professional judgment to remove matting in the most humane way possible and releases the Groomer from liability for any pre-existing condition revealed by such work.

4. Senior, Special-Needs & Pre-Existing Conditions

Grooming of senior pets, or pets with disabilities or pre-existing medical conditions, is performed strictly for cleanliness and comfort and at Owner’s own risk. Owner understands that the stress of grooming may, in rare cases, expose or aggravate an underlying condition, and Owner accepts this risk.

5. Emergency Veterinary Care Authorization

In the event of an apparent emergency during or after grooming, Owner authorizes the Groomer to seek immediate veterinary care for the pet if the Owner cannot be reached. Owner agrees to be financially responsible for any and all veterinary or emergency costs incurred on the pet’s behalf.

6. Behavior, Bites & Restraint

Owner certifies that they have disclosed any history of biting, aggression, or anxiety. Owner understands that humane restraint and/or a muzzle may be used for the safety of the pet and the Groomer. Owner accepts full responsibility for any injury caused by the pet to the Groomer or any third party, and agrees to reimburse resulting medical or damage costs.

7. Accuracy of Information

Owner certifies that all information provided about the pet and its history is true and complete to the best of Owner’s knowledge, and understands that the Groomer relies on this information when providing services.

8. Photo & Media Release (Optional)

If elected below, Owner grants the Groomer permission to photograph the pet and to use such images for portfolio, website, and social media purposes without compensation. This election is optional and does not affect the provision of grooming services.

9. Payment, Cancellation & No-Show

Owner agrees to pay all quoted fees at the time of service. Prices are estimates and may change based on the pet’s size, coat condition, and behavior. Owner agrees to provide reasonable notice for cancellations and understands that repeated no-shows may require a deposit for future appointments.

10. Indemnification & Hold Harmless

Owner agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Groomer and its agents from any claim, demand, cost, or liability (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of or related to the pet, the information provided by the Owner, or the services performed, to the fullest extent permitted by California law.

11. Governing Law & Venue

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to its conflict-of-law provisions. Owner and Groomer agree that the exclusive venue for any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be the state courts located in the County of Riverside, California.

12. Severability & Entire Agreement

If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This document constitutes the entire agreement between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes any prior oral or written understandings.