We require a current copy of your pet(s)s’ vaccination records. Rabies vaccination is required annually by the State of Maryland. DHLP-Parvo & Bordetella (Kennel Cough) are needed for the protection of your pet(s). 

Proper care will be taken with the pet(s) for the safety of the pet(s) and groomer. If it is necessary for the safety of the pet(s) and the groomer, muzzles, elastic collars etc. will be humanely used.

Allergies and Sensitivities: Your dog's safety and comfort is our primary concern. Please advise us of any allergies, sensitivities, or pre-existing medical conditions so we can avoid aggravating these situations. Please let us know of any prior grooming history you or your dog may not have found satisfactory. We want to avoid the repetition of poor or unpleasant experiences or situations.

Animal Crackers understands that some dogs are extremely sensitive to certain grooming procedures such as nail trimming and/or ear cleaning. It is not our intent to cause your dog discomfort, so although these are routine procedures normally performed for the well-being of the pet(s), we will not continue with any grooming procedure that will cause pain, discomfort to the pet(s) or harm to the groomer. Sometimes, for a more sensitive dog, these procedures are best left to the care of a veterinarian.

Animal Crackers/the groomer will be held harmless from damage, loss or claims arising from any known or unknown pre-existing condition of the pet(s). The terms, special services or handling shall include but are not limited to veterinary emergency services in the event that the client is not available. Client authorizes the groomer to act as his/her agent in the event emergency veterinarian services, boarding, care-taking, and/or transportation is necessary and agrees to pay all costs. Any/all damages or claims shall include but not be limited to advanced age, extreme nervousness, neurosis, illness, previous injury, skin or coat conditions or other medical conditions.

If fleas are found on your pet, Animal Crackers will   administer a flea bath to eradicate the fleas in order to maintain salon sanitation. This is at the groomer’s discretion and at the client’s expense. The shampoo is gentle, non-alkaline and hypoallergenic.

Allowing a pets coat to get matted is not only very UNCOMFORTABLE, but DANGEROUS for your pet’s health. Excessive matting can be avoided with regular brushing and grooming and the groomer will be happy to show you some brushing techniques for mat prevention. The groomer will de-mat the pet (if possible) at $1 per minute (minimum $15) in addition to the regular grooming fee OR the pet will receive a “shave down” to remove the mats. Under this circumstance, a shave down is the only way to allow the skin to receive necessary oxygen and for new, healthy hair to grow. Charges for the shave down or shaving ears and tail if they are matted are determined on a per pet basis. If the client requests the mats be combed out, the groomer will not do so if it causes pet undue stress or pain. Excessive de-matting is a painful, time-consuming and costly procedure that causes extreme discomfort and can aggravate (or cause) skin problems. Shaving of your pet may dramatically change your pet’s appearance and the hair will be very close to the skin. This may expose pre-existing skin conditions.