Policies

At Ruffology, every decision is made with intention — to protect your dog’s well-being, preserve a calm experience, and ensure safety for everyone involved.

Grooming is a close, hands-on service, and clear policies allow us to offer thoughtful, one-on-one care without rushing or pressure.

Booking Policy

To preserve a calm, on-time, and one-on-one grooming experience for every dog, all services at Ruffology are offered by appointment only.

Appointments are thoughtfully scheduled to allow adequate time, care, and attention for each pet. For this reason, we kindly ask that all bookings be made in advance through our official scheduling system.

Appointments

  • All grooming services require a confirmed appointment.

  • Walk-ins are not available.

  • Appointment times include setup, grooming, and gentle transitions to ensure a stress-free experience.

Arrival & Timing

  • As a mobile service, arrival times may vary slightly due to traffic or prior appointments.

  • Clients will be notified if there are any significant delays.

  • Pets must be ready at the scheduled time to maintain smooth service for all clients.

Standing Appointments

  • Membership clients receive standing monthly appointments, reserved exclusively for them.

  • These recurring appointments help maintain consistency and priority scheduling.

First-Time & Signature Services

  • New clients and all Signature Grooming requests require a consultation prior to booking.

  • This allows us to understand your dog’s needs and ensure the service is the right fit.

Ruffology schedules intentionally — not to rush, but to honor each dog with patience, care, and presence.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

Life happens — we understand. Because appointments are reserved exclusively for your dog, we kindly ask for advance notice when changes are needed.

  • A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling.

  • Same-day cancellations or missed appointments may result in a cancellation fee.

  • Repeated no-shows may require prepayment for future appointments.

Safety, Behavior & Biting Policy

Your dog’s safety and emotional well-being — as well as the groomer’s — are always the top priority.

While every grooming session is handled with patience and care, grooming involves close physical interaction and carries inherent risk.

Behavior & Handling

  • Any history of aggression, snapping, biting, or severe anxiety must be disclosed prior to booking.

  • Ruffology does not force or restrain dogs beyond what is humane and safe.

  • Muzzles may be used only when absolutely necessary to protect both the dog and groomer.

If a dog’s behavior compromises safety, the session may be modified, paused, or ended at the groomer’s discretion.

Bite & Injury Responsibility

In the event that a dog bites and causes injury requiring medical attention, the pet parent agrees to be financially responsible for any related medical expenses.

This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Doctor or urgent care visits

  • Emergency treatment

  • Medications

  • Follow-up care

Failure to disclose known behavioral issues may result in immediate termination of service and refusal of future appointments.

Health, Coat Condition & Matting

  • Dogs must be free of contagious conditions at the time of their appointment.

  • Please inform Ruffology of any medical conditions, recent surgeries, or special needs prior to grooming.

  • Matting increases grooming time and may require humane shaving for the dog’s comfort.

  • Additional charges may apply for excessive matting or extended handling time.

Rabies Vaccination Requirement

For the safety of your dog and the groomer, Ruffology requires proof of a current rabies vaccination for all dogs.

  • Proof of rabies vaccination is required prior to the first grooming appointment.

  • Once verified, vaccination records are kept on file and do not need to be resubmitted unless updated.

  • Puppies must meet the minimum age and vaccination requirements recommended by their veterinarian.

If proof of vaccination is not available at the time of booking, the appointment may need to be rescheduled.

Fleas & Parasites

  • If fleas are discovered during grooming, the service may be modified or stopped.

  • Additional fees may apply to safely address the situation and properly sanitize equipment.

Payments

  • Payment is due at the time of service unless otherwise arranged.

  • Accepted payment methods will be communicated at booking.

  • Signature Grooming services may require a deposit following consultation.

Service Areas

Ruffology is a mobile service with intentional service zones designed to preserve a calm, on-time experience.

Service areas may expand naturally based on demand and route availability.
Please refer to our Service Areas page for current locations.

Our Philosophy

Ruffology believes grooming should never be rushed or traumatic.

If a service cannot be completed calmly and safely, it is not the right moment — and that is okay.

Every dog deserves respect, patience, and understanding.

With love,
Julia