Barks ‘n Bubbles: Appointment, No-Show & Cancellation Policy

At Barks ‘n Bubbles, we believe consistent grooming is key to a happy, healthy pup and a stress-free experience for both dog and owner. Our new Pawfectly Groomed Plan is designed to make regular professional grooming more affordable and convenient by spreading the cost of your dog’s grooms into easy, manageable direct debit payments. No more large lump sums – just consistent care for a consistently well-groomed dog!

At Barks ‘n Bubbles, we pride ourselves on providing dedicated, one-on-one grooming sessions for every cherished dog. This personalized approach means that when an appointment is missed, cancelled without sufficient notice, or started significantly late, it directly impacts Michael’s schedule and the opportunity to offer that valuable slot to another deserving pup.

To ensure fairness to all our clients and to maintain the smooth operation of our home salon, we have implemented the following policy:

1. Booking & Payment Details

  • To confirm your grooming appointment, we require valid credit or debit card details at the time of booking.
  • These details are securely held by our PCI-compliant third-party booking system, GrooMore, and will only be charged in accordance with the terms outlined in this policy. No upfront deposit is charged for standard bookings, and your card will only be debited if a no-show or late cancellation occurs.

2. Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

  • We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling requests. This allows us sufficient time to offer the slot to other clients on our waiting list.
  • Late Cancellation Fee: If you cancel or reschedule your appointment with less than 24 hours’ notice, a fee equivalent to 50% of the booked service fee will be charged to the card details held on file.

3. No-Show Policy

  • An appointment is considered a “no-show” if you fail to arrive for your scheduled appointment without providing any prior notification.
  • No-Show Fee: In the event of a no-show, a fee equivalent to 100% of the booked service fee will be charged to the card details held on file. Future bookings may also require full prepayment.

4. Late Arrivals

  • We run on a precise schedule to give every dog the dedicated attention they deserve. If you are 15 minutes late or more for your scheduled appointment, we will unfortunately need to cancel the appointment. In such cases, the full outstanding balance of the booked service will be charged to the card details held on file. This is to compensate for the lost appointment slot and impact on our schedule.

5. How Fees Are Processed

  • Any applicable cancellation, no-show, or late arrival fees will be processed using the credit or debit card details provided at the time of booking. You will be notified via email of any such charge.

6. Exceptions

  • We understand that unforeseen emergencies can occur. In cases of genuine and verifiable emergencies, please contact us as soon as possible. Any exceptions to this policy will be at the sole discretion of Barks ‘n Bubbles management.

7. Appointment Reminders

  • As a courtesy, our GrooMore system sends out appointment reminders to help you remember your booking:
    • 4 days before via email
    • 2 days before via SMS
    • 1 hour before via SMS
  • Please ensure your contact details are up-to-date. However, it remains your responsibility to remember and attend your appointment regardless of whether a reminder is received.

8. Your Agreement

  • By booking an appointment with Barks ‘n Bubbles, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the terms of this Appointment, No-Show & Cancellation Policy.

Contact Us:

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, or anticipate being late, please contact us as soon as possible:

Important Information: Ultrasonic Teeth Cleaning Policy

At Barks ‘n Bubbles, we are pleased to offer non-anaesthetic ultrasonic teeth cleaning as a proactive approach to your dog’s oral hygiene. To ensure clarity and safety, please review the following policy regarding this service.

1. Nature of the Service: Maintenance & Cosmetic Care

  • Our ultrasonic teeth cleaning is a non-invasive, non-anaesthetic procedure focused on the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface above the gum line.
  • It is a cosmetic and preventative maintenance service and is NOT a substitute for professional veterinary dental care. It is designed to complement your dog’s regular brushing routine and help maintain oral health between veterinary check-ups.

2. Suitability Assessment is Required

  • Every dog must undergo a pre-service oral assessment by Michael, our experienced groomer. This assessment determines if your dog is a suitable candidate for non-anaesthetic cleaning.
  • Factors considered include your dog’s temperament, level of existing plaque/tartar, presence of gum inflammation, loose teeth, or any other signs of underlying dental disease.
  • Barks ‘n Bubbles reserves the right to refuse service if, during the assessment or at any point during the cleaning, we deem the procedure unsafe or unsuitable for your dog’s oral health or stress level.

3. Limitations of Service

  • This service cannot treat existing dental disease, infections, cavities, or severe gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis).
  • It does not involve scaling below the gum line, which is where serious periodontal disease often originates and can only be accessed by a veterinarian under anaesthesia.
  • We cannot diagnose, prescribe, or treat any medical conditions related to your dog’s oral health.

4. Veterinary Referral

  • Should our assessment reveal signs of significant dental disease, loose teeth, inflamed gums, bad breath that indicates infection, or any other veterinary concern, we will immediately stop the procedure (if started) and strongly recommend that you seek professional veterinary attention for a comprehensive dental examination, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • In some cases, we may require a recent veterinary dental check-up and clearance before we can perform our ultrasonic cleaning service.

5. Expected Outcomes

  • The results of ultrasonic teeth cleaning can vary depending on the individual dog’s existing plaque and tartar buildup, diet, age, and genetics.
  • While significant improvements in visible tartar reduction and fresh breath are often observed, this service does not guarantee perfectly white teeth, nor does it address issues below the gum line.

6. Client Responsibility

  • It is your responsibility to provide us with accurate and complete information regarding your dog’s health history, including any previous dental issues or sensitivities.

7. Client Acknowledgement & Consent

By proceeding with the ultrasonic teeth cleaning service for your dog, you confirm that you are the legal owner/guardian of this dog and that you understand and consent to the following:

  • Teeth Cleaning Method: Barks ‘n Bubbles will utilise an ultrasonic toothbrush, which operates with vibration, movement, and noise-free technology for a gentle cleaning experience.
  • Tartar and Plaque Removal: I understand that the teeth cleaning process aims to remove existing tartar, plaque, and stains from my dog’s teeth.
  • Treatment Termination: The teeth cleaning process may be immediately stopped if:
    • Loose teeth are suspected.
    • My dog becomes excessively stressed or exhibits aggressive behaviour.
    • Obvious abnormalities (such as foreign bodies, warts, injuries, or tumours) are noticed within the oral cavity.
  • Gum Bleeding: I acknowledge that some minor gum bleeding may occur during or immediately after the cleaning process, especially if significant tartar is present.
  • Dog’s Health Declaration: I declare that my dog is currently healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, de-flead, and wormed, and I am unaware of any medical reasons or pre-existing conditions that would prevent or contraindicate teeth cleaning.
  • Veterinary Care: I acknowledge that this non-anaesthetic teeth cleaning service is not a substitute for comprehensive veterinary dental examinations, diagnoses, or treatments (such as extractions). I understand that Barks ‘n Bubbles staff are not veterinarians and cannot diagnose abnormalities or diseases.
  • Full Payment: I understand that if the session is stopped at any point for health or behavioural reasons related to my dog, I will still be responsible for and agree to pay the full fee for the booked service.
  • Before and After Photos: I consent to photographs being taken of my dog’s teeth and mouth before and after the cleaning for reference purposes, and for potential use in Barks ‘n Bubbles publicity and marketing materials.

Contact Us:

If you have any questions about this policy or whether ultrasonic teeth cleaning is suitable for your dog, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Pawfectly Groomed Plan: Important Terms & Conditions

By enrolling in the Pawfectly Groomed Plan, you agree to the following terms:

  1. Minimum Commitment: The Pawfectly Groomed Plan requires a minimum commitment period of [e.g., 6 months or 3 grooms, whichever is longer] from the date of your first direct debit payment.
  2. Direct Debit Agreement: All payments for the Pawfectly Groomed Plan are processed via automated direct debit from your nominated bank account or credit/debit card. It is your responsibility to ensure sufficient funds are available to cover scheduled payments. In the event of a failed direct debit payment, a small administration fee of [e.g., $5 – $10] will be charged by Barks ‘n Bubbles for each unsuccessful attempt, in addition to any fees your bank may apply. We will attempt to re-debit the payment within [X] days.
  3. Grooming Frequency & Price: Your monthly direct debit amount is calculated based on your agreed grooming service and a fixed grooming frequency (e.g., every 6 weeks). This price is locked in for the duration of your commitment period, subject to clause 4.
  4. Price Adjustments: Barks ‘n Bubbles reserves the right to adjust plan pricing with [e.g., 30 days’] written notice. Any such adjustments will be applied to your direct debit payments after the notice period.
  5. Matting & Additional Services: The plan covers your agreed standard groom. If your dog arrives with severe matting requiring extra work, or if additional services not covered by your plan are requested (e.g., Handstripping instead of a standard trim, flea treatment), standard additional fees as per our general Matting Policy or Services will apply and will be charged separately at the time of the groom.
  6. Missed or Cancelled Appointments: Our standard Appointment, No-Show & Cancellation Policy applies to all scheduled grooms under this plan. If an appointment is missed, cancelled with insufficient notice, or if you are late as per our policy, the applicable fee (50% or 100% of the groom price) will be charged in addition to your regular direct debit payments. This fee covers the lost appointment slot and is separate from your accumulated pre-payments.
  7. Accumulated Credit: Your direct debit payments accumulate credit towards your next groom. If your plan is cancelled (outside of a no-show/late cancellation), any accumulated credit will be applied to your final groom or refunded, less any outstanding fees.
  8. Pausing or Skipping Grooms/Payments: Pausing or skipping grooms or payments within the commitment period may be possible in exceptional circumstances and at the sole discretion of Barks ‘n Bubbles, but must be arranged with sufficient notice. This may affect your scheduled grooming frequency.
  9. Plan Cancellation: You may cancel your Pawfectly Groomed Plan after the minimum commitment period by providing [e.g., 30 days’] written notice. Any outstanding balance for grooms received but not yet fully paid for through direct debit will be due upon cancellation.
  10. Non-Transferable: This plan is specific to the dog(s) registered and is non-transferable to other pets or individuals.
  11. Dog’s Condition: If your dog’s temperament or health significantly changes, making grooming unsafe or requiring different services than those covered by the plan, Barks ‘n Bubbles reserves the right to discuss alternative arrangements or cancel the plan, with appropriate notice.

Barks ‘n Bubbles: Matting Policy – Addressing Severely Matted Coats

At Barks ‘n Bubbles, our top priority is the safety, comfort, and humane treatment of every dog we groom. While we always strive to achieve your desired style, the presence of matting can severely impact both the grooming process and your dog’s well-being. This policy outlines our approach to matted coats.

1. Understanding Matting

  • What is Matting? Matting occurs when a dog’s fur becomes tightly tangled and knotted, often forming dense clumps close to the skin. This can be caused by neglect, lack of regular brushing, moisture, or friction.
  • Dangers of Matting: Mats are extremely painful for dogs, pulling on their skin and restricting movement. They can cut off circulation, cause skin irritation, sores, hot spots, bacterial and fungal infections, and can even hide parasites (fleas, ticks) or other underlying health issues. In severe cases, mats can be life-threatening.

2. Our Humane Approach: Why Shaving is Necessary

  • Prioritizing Comfort: Our ethical responsibility dictates that we will NOT attempt to de-mat a severely matted coat. Attempting to brush out tight matting is an incredibly painful, stressful, and inhumane experience for a dog, and often causes more damage to the skin than the matting itself.
  • The Only Humane Option: In cases of severe or widespread matting, the only humane course of action is to shave the coat very short (often down to the skin) using professional clippers. This removes the matting quickly and with the least amount of discomfort to your dog.

3. Important Risks Associated with Shaving Matted Coats

Please be aware that while shaving is necessary for your dog’s comfort, it carries inherent risks, especially with severe matting where the skin is pulled taut by the mats:

  • Skin Irritation/Redness: The skin underneath mats often lacks air circulation and may be sensitive, irritated, or already inflamed. Shaving can expose this raw skin, leading to post-grooming redness or irritation (sometimes referred to as “clipper rash”).
  • Nicks & Cuts: Due to the skin being pulled tightly into the matting, and the groomer having to work very close to the skin, there is a significantly increased risk of accidental nicks, cuts, or abrasions. We exercise extreme caution, but these can still occur.
  • Revealing Hidden Issues: Shaving a matted coat may reveal pre-existing skin conditions (e.g., hot spots, sores, bruising, infections) that were hidden by the mats.
  • Haematomas: In very severe cases, the sudden release of pressure from tight mats can sometimes lead to blood clots (haematomas), particularly in the ears.
  • Coat Re-growth: The coat may grow back differently in texture or colour. This is usually temporary, but can occasionally be permanent depending on the severity of the matting.
  • Post-Grooming Behaviour: Your dog may experience temporary discomfort, itching, or unusual behaviour (e.g., shaking, hiding) as they adjust to the sudden removal of the heavy, matted coat.

4. Responsibility for Veterinary Bills

  • Barks ‘n Bubbles is not responsible for any veterinary bills or expenses incurred due to conditions revealed or caused by pre-existing matting, or any issues arising directly from the necessary process of shaving down a matted coat. This includes, but is not limited to, skin irritations, cuts, bruising, or the discovery of underlying skin conditions or parasites once the matted coat has been removed.

5. Client Communication & Consent

  • Upon arrival, if we determine your dog is matted, Michael will conduct an assessment and discuss the situation with you. He will explain why shaving is necessary and outline the associated risks.
  • Your verbal or written consent will be required before we proceed with shaving a matted coat. We will only proceed with what is in the best interest of your dog’s welfare.

6. Additional Fees for Matted Coats

  • Severely matted coats require significantly more time, specialised tools, extra blade sharpening, and a higher level of skill and care to remove safely.
  • Therefore, an additional dematting/shaving fee will be applied to the regular grooming price. This fee will be discussed with you during the assessment.

7. Post-Grooming Care & Prevention

  • Following the groom, we will provide you with advice on how to care for your dog’s skin and coat after a shave.
  • We strongly recommend establishing a regular grooming schedule and consistent at-home brushing between appointments to prevent future matting and ensure your dog remains comfortable and healthy.

8. Your Agreement

  • By booking an appointment with Barks ‘n Bubbles, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the terms of this Matting Policy. You accept that if your dog arrives with a matted coat, shaving it short may be the only humane option, and you acknowledge the associated risks, additional fees, and the limits of our responsibility as outlined herein.

Contact Us:

If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s coat condition or our matting policy, please contact us: