Know Before You Go
Policies & FAQs
We believe in complete transparency. Our policies are designed to keep your pets safe, our team respected, and every appointment running smoothly. Here is everything you need to know before your first visit.
BOOKING
Scheduling an Appointment
Because we tailor our schedule to the specific needs and timing of each individual pet, we handle all scheduling personally. We do not use online booking at this time.
How to Book
The fastest way to reach us is by text.
You can also call during business hours.
Please call us at (412) 716-2352 to schedule your appointment or ask any questions.
Cancellation & Late Policy
Respecting Our Schedule
Our groomers dedicate a specific block of time to each pet. Last-minute cancellations and no-shows directly impact their ability to serve other clients. We appreciate your understanding of the following policies.
Cancellation Policy
We require a minimum of 24 hours' notice for all cancellations. Any appointment canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled time will be subject to a late cancellation fee.
Late Arrival Policy
If you arrive more than 15 minutes past your scheduled drop-off time, it may result in your appointment being rescheduled. A missed appointment fee may also be applied.
Vaccination Requirements
Keeping Every Pet Safe
The health and safety of every pet in our care is our highest priority. We strongly encourage all clients to follow their veterinarian's recommended vaccination schedule. Our only strict requirement is the Rabies vaccine, as it is legally mandated.
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We trust our clients to keep their pets up-to-date on all other vaccines recommended by their vet, and we appreciate your commitment to the health of every animal in our salon.
Coat & Matting Policy
Humanity Over Vanity
We want to be very clear about something: we never want to shave a dog. It is not easier for us. Shaving a severely matted coat takes significantly more time and skill than a standard groom.
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However, the well-being of your pet always comes first. If a coat is too matted to be safely and comfortably brushed out, we will take it short rather than subject your pet to unnecessary pain or discomfort. Attempting to brush out a severely matted coat can cause skin irritation, bruising, and significant stress to the animal.
Our Commitment
Any service that cannot be performed safely will not be completed. We will always communicate with you about your pet's coat condition and discuss the best course of action together before proceeding.
All-Inclusive Services
What's Always Included
Every full grooming appointment at The Spaw is all-inclusive. We do not push add-on packages or charge extra for services your pet actually needs. The following is included in every appointment:
BATH
Premium bath with products selected specifically for your pet's coat type and skin needs.
EAR CARE
Ear plucking and thorough ear cleaning to maintain ear health and prevent infection.
Haircut & Styling
Professional haircut — breed-specific or custom — tailored to your preferences and your pet's coat condition.
Anal Gland Expression
Routine anal gland expression included at every appointment — no upcharge.
Nail Care
Nails trimmed and filed for comfort and proper posture.
TAILORED PRODUCTS
De-shedding treatments, hypoallergenic shampoos, and specialty conditioners selected based on your pet's individual needs.
MOBILE GROOMING
Mobile-Specific Policies
Our executive mobile service comes with a few additional policies to ensure the safety and success of every appointment.
MONTHLY SCHEDULING
Mobile clients are placed on a set monthly schedule. This ensures your pet is consistently maintained and our route remains manageable.
Latch-Key Access
We do not take keys from clients' homes. Access must be provided via a code box or a hidden key arrangement. We will not enter a home without a pre-arranged access method.
Pet Containment
For latch-key appointments, dogs must be crated or contained in an area close to the entry point we will be using.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Still Have Questions?
Please text or call us at (412) 716-2352. Texting is the fastest way to reach us. We handle all scheduling personally to ensure we allocate the right amount of time for your pet.
Appointment length varies depending on your pet's breed, size, coat type, and the service selected. We will give you an estimated timeframe when you book. We never rush — your pet gets the time they need.
Yes! Our groomer Rachel DiPietro-Caputo specializes in cats and has over 30 years of experience. Please mention when booking that you have a cat so we can schedule accordingly.
Absolutely. Kait specializes in anxious, reactive, and special-needs dogs and has developed specific techniques to make grooming as comfortable as possible. Please let us know about your dog's temperament when you book so we can prepare accordingly and allow extra time.
The well-being of your pet always comes first. If a service cannot be completed safely, we will stop and discuss the best path forward with you. You will never be charged for a service that was not completed.
This depends on your dog's breed, coat type, and lifestyle. We are happy to make a personalized recommendation when you come in. Most dogs benefit from a professional groom every 4–8 weeks.
We are appointment-based only. This allows us to dedicate the right amount of time and attention to each pet. Please reach out to schedule in advance.
I take my Cavapoo puppy and I couldn’t be happier with the experience! Jess is our groomer—she’s incredibly kind and always gives him the perfect cut. Highly recommend!!
BROOKE E.
Kait did an AMAZING job on my baby! she made him look so handsome and cleaned up I will be recommending Kait to all of my friends who need a sweet, gentle and great groomer!
ASHLEY N.
They gave our dog, Bentley, the personal attention he needed to be groomed, as he is 95 pounds of high anxiety. No other groomer has ever cared for Bentley like Kait. He would get so excited to see her, and he always gave her hugs.
SHARON A.
