Abandoned Dog Policy
Introduction The Dog Lounge canine salon is committed to ensuring the welfare of all animals left in our care. This policy outlines the steps to be taken when a dog has been abandoned at our premises due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the owner being involved in an accident, being unable to be contacted, or other situations where the dog is left without intention of collection. This policy is designed to protect the health and safety of the dog while also outlining the responsibilities and liabilities of The Dog Lounge. Policy Objectives The objectives of this policy are to: - Ensure the health and welfare of any dog left at The Dog Lounge in the event that the owner cannot be contacted or is unable to collect the dog. - Clearly define the responsibilities of The Dog Lounge in situations involving abandoned dogs. - Establish guidelines for communication with owners and relevant authorities. - Outline the liability of The Dog Lounge in cases where a dog is deemed abandoned. Scope This policy applies to all staff members of The Dog Lounge and covers any situation where a dog is left at our premises without clear intention for immediate collection by the owner, including cases where the owner is unable to be contacted or has not returned to collect the dog within a reasonable timeframe. Responsibilities All staff members are responsible for understanding and adhering to this policy when handling situations involving potentially abandoned dogs. Management is responsible for ensuring that all staff are trained on this policy and for overseeing the proper care and documentation of any abandoned dog cases. Liability The Dog Lounge accepts responsibility for the immediate care and welfare of any dog left in our care under unforeseen circumstances. However, The Dog Lounge does not accept liability for any health issues or incidents that occur beyond our control during the period of abandonment. We will take all reasonable steps to care for the dog, including providing food, water, shelter, and necessary medical attention. In the event that a dog is deemed abandoned, and the owner cannot be contacted after reasonable efforts, The Dog Lounge will notify the appropriate authorities (such as local animal control or welfare organisations) for further action. Communication The Dog Lounge will make all reasonable efforts to contact the owner or an emergency contact provided at the time of the dog's drop-off. All communication attempts, including phone calls, emails, or other means, will be documented thoroughly. If the owner or emergency contact cannot be reached within 24 hours, The Dog Lounge reserves the right to contact local animal control or relevant authorities to take custody of the dog. Review and Amendments This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if necessary to ensure it remains effective and compliant with any changes in legislation or best practices. Amendments to the policy will be made as required to address any operational or legal changes affecting the welfare of abandoned dogs or the responsibilities of The Dog Lounge. Approval and Implementation This Abandoned Dog Policy is approved by the management of The Dog Lounge and is effective immediately. All staff are required to familiarise themselves with this policy and to implement its guidelines in the course of their duties.
Animal Welfare Policy
introduction The Dog Lounge Canine Salon is committed to ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare in all our operations. We believe in treating all animals with respect, care, and compassion. This policy outlines our commitment to the welfare of the dogs in our care and provides guidelines for the handling, grooming, and overall care of pets in our facility. Policy Statement Our goal is to provide a safe, clean, and stress-free environment for all dogs under our care. We adhere to all relevant animal welfare legislation and guidelines, including the Animal Welfare Act 2006, to ensure that the physical and psychological needs of each dog are met. Scope This policy applies to all staff members, contractors, and volunteers at The Dog Lounge. It covers all activities involving the handling, grooming, and care of dogs within our facility. Responsibilities All staff members are responsible for upholding the principles outlined in this policy. This includes: - Ensuring the safety and well-being of all dogs in their care. - Reporting any signs of distress, illness, or injury in any dog to the management immediately. - Following all procedures for handling, grooming, and caring for dogs as set out in this policy and other related documents. Guidelines for Animal Welfare 1. **Handling and Restraint: ** All dogs should be handled with care and restraint techniques should only be used when necessary to prevent injury to the dog or the handler. Physical punishment or harsh handling is strictly prohibited. 2. **Grooming Procedures: ** Grooming should be performed in a manner that minimizes stress and discomfort for the dog. Grooming tools and equipment should be sanitized regularly to prevent the spread of infections. 3. **Health and Hygiene: ** All dogs must be checked for signs of illness, parasites, or injury upon arrival. Any health concerns must be documented and reported to the owner and management immediately. We do not accept dogs with parasites if discovered on arrival. If parasites are discovered post check there will be additional cost for fumigation of the salon and loss of business. 4. **Comfort and Environment: ** The grooming area must be kept clean and comfortable. Dogs have access to fresh water and be provided with rest breaks as needed during grooming sessions. 5. **Special Needs Dogs: ** Special attention and care must be given to elderly dogs, puppies, and those with medical conditions. Staff should be familiar with any special handling or care instructions provided by the pet owner. Training and Awareness All staff will receive training on animal welfare and the specific needs of different dog breeds. Regular refresher courses will be provided to ensure that staff are up-to-date with best practices and any changes in legislation or guidelines. Monitoring and Review The Dog Lounge management will regularly monitor adherence to this policy and conduct reviews to ensure its effectiveness. Any breaches of this policy will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action. This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect best practices and legislative changes. Approval and Implementation This policy is approved by the management of The Dog Lounge and is effective immediately. All staff are expected to familiarize themselves with the policy and adhere to its guidelines at all times.
Booking and Scheduling Procedure
Introduction This procedure outlines the steps for managing bookings and scheduling grooming appointments at The Dog Lounge. Effective booking and scheduling ensure optimal use of resources, minimise wait times for clients, and provide a smooth grooming experience for all dogs. Procedure Objectives The objectives of this procedure are to: - Ensure efficient and effective scheduling of grooming appointments. - Minimise overlaps and ensure sufficient time for each grooming session. - Provide clear communication with clients regarding appointment availability, confirmation, and cancellation policies. 1. Booking Process 1.1 Receiving Booking Requests a. Clients can request grooming appointments via phone, or in person. b. All booking requests should be documented promptly in the booking system. c. Confirm client details, including name, contact information, and pet details, during the booking request. 1.2 Checking Availability a. Review the current schedule to determine available time slots based on the requested service type and duration. b. Ensure there is adequate time between appointments to accommodate any unforeseen delays and to prepare for the next client. c. Offer the client available time slots and confirm their preferred appointment time. 1.3 Confirming Appointments a. Once a suitable time slot is agreed upon, confirm the appointment details with the client, including date, time, and grooming services to be provided. b. Record the appointment in the booking system and provide the client with a confirmation via their preferred method of contact (e.g., email or SMS). c. Inform the client of the cancellation policy and any deposit requirements, if applicable. 2. Scheduling Process 2.1 Preparing the Daily Schedule a. Review all confirmed appointments for the upcoming day to ensure that the schedule is balanced and manageable. b. Allocate grooming tasks to appropriate staff members based on their skills, experience, and availability. c. Ensure all necessary grooming tools and products are prepared in advance for each appointment. 2.2 Managing No-Shows and Late Arrivals a. Clients should be reminded of their appointments 24 hours in advance via their preferred contact method. b. If a client is late or fails to show up for an appointment, contact them immediately to reschedule or confirm a new time. c. Document any no-shows or late arrivals in the booking system and apply the cancellation policy as necessary. 2.3 Handling Walk-In Clients a. Walk-in clients will be accommodated based on availability and the current schedule. b. Inform walk-in clients of the potential wait time and offer to schedule a future appointment if no immediate slots are available. c. Record any walk-in appointments in the booking system to maintain an accurate schedule. 3. Communication with Clients 3.1 Appointment Reminders a. Send appointment reminders to clients 24 hours before their scheduled appointment time. b. Include all relevant details in the reminder, such as the date, time, and services to be provided. c. Offer clients the option to confirm, reschedule, or cancel their appointment. 3.2 Follow-Up Communication a. After each grooming session, follow up with clients to ensure they are satisfied with the services provided. b. Encourage feedback and address any concerns or issues promptly. c. Offer to schedule the next grooming appointment or provide information on future availability. Monitoring and Review The booking and scheduling process will be reviewed regularly to ensure it meets the needs of both clients and staff. Feedback from clients and staff will be used to improve the process, and any issues will be addressed promptly. The management team will monitor adherence to this procedure and make adjustments as necessary to maintain efficiency and client satisfaction.
Pregnant Dog Policy
For health and safety reasons we do not accept pregnant dogs for grooming. Grooming can be stressful and may pose risks to the mother and puppies. If pregnancy is suspected please consult your vet before booking an appointment.
We Don't Groom Dogs With Fleas
Please check your dogs prior to their appointment for fleas. This helps protect all our furry clients and keeps our salon safe and hygienic.