Estrella Animal Care LLC Liability Disclaimer and Terms of Service
PET SAFETY AND VETERINARY PERSONNEL PROTECTION
At Estrella Animal Care LLC, the safety of your pet(s) and our staff is paramount. We employ humane methods such as muzzles, collars, slings, and straps as necessary for everyone's safety. We recognize that accidents, like nicks from grooming tools or reactions during procedures, can occur if pets are uncooperative. Clients are asked not to assist with procedures unless requested. By agreeing to our services, clients accept all responsibility for their pet(s)' behavior and health and waive any claims against Estrella Animal Care LLC for incidents or liabilities related to the care, control, health, or safety of their pet(s) during our provision of services.
PET HEALTH CONDITIONS DISCLOSURE AND LIABILITY
Estrella Animal Care LLC prioritizes your pet's safety and comfort. We request clients inform us of any allergies, sensitivities, or pre-existing medical conditions to prevent exacerbating these issues. Clients are also encouraged to share any unsatisfactory animal care experiences to avoid repetition. We are sensitive to pets' reactions to routine procedures like nail trimming and ear cleaning, and we will discontinue any activity that could harm your pet or our staff.
Estrella Animal Care LLC is not liable for complications arising from disclosed or undisclosed pre-existing conditions. Clients authorize Estrella to act on their behalf for emergency services, boarding, or transportation when they are unavailable, agreeing to cover all associated costs. Liability extends to issues caused by age, nervousness, illness, injury, or skin conditions.
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS
Clients must provide proof of current vaccinations for all pets receiving services. Required vaccinations include, but are not limited to, Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), and Bordetella. Pets without current vaccination records may be refused service. It is the client’s responsibility to keep records updated.
PARASITE POLICY (FLEAS/TICKS)
If fleas or ticks are discovered on a pet during check-in, grooming, or daycare, Estrella Animal Care LLC may apply a flea treatment at the client’s expense or refuse service to prevent infestation. Clients are encouraged to use year-round preventative treatments for the health and safety of all pets in our care.
GROUP PLAY AND BEHAVIORAL RISKS
Pets participating in group daycare or play are supervised by trained staff. However, clients understand and accept that injuries may occur from natural play behavior or social interactions with other animals. By enrolling a pet in daycare, clients accept this risk and release Estrella Animal Care LLC from any liability related to pet-to-pet injuries.
MATTING AND GROOMING POLICY
Matting in a pet's coat is uncomfortable and hazardous to their health. We advocate for regular brushing to prevent matting and are available to demonstrate effective techniques. In cases of matting, we may perform a shave-down for health reasons, as it is the only method to ensure skin health and hair regrowth. Charges for shave-downs or matted ear and tail grooming vary by pet.
We avoid combing out mats to prevent stress and pain to your pet, recognizing that excessive de-matting can lead to discomfort and skin issues. Clients should be aware that neglecting a pet's coat could result in post-grooming problems like irritation or dissatisfaction. Shaving may alter your pet's appearance significantly and reveal underlying skin conditions.
ACCESS AND SAFETY AT SERVICE LOCATION
Clients must ensure safe and unobstructed access to the location where services are to be performed. This includes securing pets in a designated area and providing a safe environment for both the pet and veterinary staff. Failure to provide such conditions may lead to service modification or cancellation.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Estrella Animal Care LLC reserves the right to modify, reschedule, or cancel appointments based on adverse environmental conditions at the service location that pose risks to health or safety. Clients will be notified of such decisions as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY PROTOCOL
In the event of an emergency, Estrella Animal Care LLC will follow a predetermined protocol to ensure the pet receives immediate care. This may include transportation to a full-service veterinary facility, with all related costs being the responsibility of the client.
PET ABANDONMENT POLICY
Pets not picked up within 24 hours of their scheduled pickup time, without prior communication from the client, may be considered abandoned. Estrella Animal Care LLC reserves the right to take appropriate action, including contacting animal control or rehoming services. Clients will be responsible for all boarding costs incurred during this time.
PRIVACY AND PROPERTY
Estrella Animal Care LLC respects the privacy and property of our clients. Staff will take all necessary precautions to protect client privacy and property during on-site services.
CLIENT PRESENCE
While not always required, the presence of the client during the service is highly recommended. If the client cannot be present, they must provide prior authorization for the services to be performed in their absence, along with emergency contact information.
PHOTO AND VIDEO RELEASE
Clients authorize Estrella Animal Care LLC to take and use photographs or videos of their pet(s) during services for marketing, promotional, or educational purposes, including on social media and company materials. If a client does not wish their pet(s) to be photographed, they must notify Estrella in writing.
PAYMENT TERMS
Deposit and Balance:
A $20 deposit is required to schedule an appointment, which will be applied towards the total service cost. The remaining balance is due at the start of the appointment, before any services are rendered. Cash payments are not accepted; clients are advised to use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or online payment platforms.
Non-Payment Policy:
Services may be withheld for non-payment or incomplete payment. It is the client's responsibility to ensure full payment is made to receive scheduled services. Late payments for previous services may result in suspension of future services until the balance is settled.
CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING
Notice Requirement:
Clients must notify Estrella Animal Care LLC at least 24 hours in advance to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Failure to do so may result in the forfeiture of the deposit as a cancellation fee.
Refund Policy:
Deposits are refundable if the appointment is canceled in accordance with the above notice requirement. Fees for services commenced are non-refundable.
SERVICE REFUSAL, AGGRESSIVE ANIMALS, OLDER ANIMALS, AND VERY LARGE ANIMALS
Refusal of Service / Aggressive Animals:
Estrella Animal Care LLC reserves the right to refuse or discontinue services for pets deemed unsafe, overly large, or aggressive, prioritizing everyone's safety. We may modify or stop services if necessary for the pet's best interest or in response to aggressive behavior. Clients acknowledge our right to refuse service and understand that bite incidents will be reported as required by law. Charges for scheduled services may apply even if service is refused.
Older Dogs:
Special care and patience are provided for older pets, though Estrella Animal Care LLC is not liable for reactions due to the stress of procedures on geriatric pets. Services may be modified or stopped to prevent stress, with any care provided at the owner's risk. Clients are encouraged to disclose any health issues that could affect their pet's comfort during services.
Very Large Animals:
Estrella does not typically service excessively large animals. To ensure proper staffing and equipment, clients must inform us of their pet's type and weight ahead of time. Failure to do so may result in rescheduling or cancellation, with applicable charges.
CHANGES TO TERMS
Estrella Animal Care LLC reserves the right to update or revise these terms at any time. Clients will be notified of significant changes via email or public notice. Continued use of services constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.
By reviewing these terms and scheduling an appointment, the Customer absolves Estrella Animal Care LLC, including its staff and associates, from any liabilities arising from the services or products provided, including injuries to the Customer, their pet(s), or property. This release covers all consequences of the Customer's engagement with Estrella Animal Care LLC, including responsibility for outcomes related to emergency services, care transitions, or transportation. The undersigned acknowledges understanding and acceptance of these terms, recognizing their role and Estrella Animal Care LLC’s in their pet(s)’ care and maintenance.