California Bill 478

The California government passed a law in October, SB 478, concerning consumer protection.

“This bill would, beginning on July 1, 2024, with specified exceptions, additionally make unlawful advertising, displaying, or offering a price for a good or service that does not include all mandatory fees or charges other than taxes or fees imposed by a government on the transaction, as specified.”

​https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB478

This bill does not contain anything specific to pet grooming but there is a lot of area left to interpretation. There is also no precedent set so it is unclear how the judicial branch will rule. The only clear information is that the fine is substantial.

Based on this information, we are going to be restructuring our prices and our check-in process. You will be receiving an exact price at check-in. We will be assessing pets more closely in the lobby, which may increase check-in time. To simplify our pricing and make it easier for front desk staff to calculate pricing, we are condensing the weight ranges. Our current ranges are in 9lb increments, the new range will be 14lbs. We have also looked at our expenses for the last year and concluded that a price increase is necessary to stay open. The condensing and price increase may impact some clients more than others. Those that are being moved into a higher weight category will be affected the most. New pricing and check-in process go into effect March 1,2024.

The pet virus has been on everyone’s minds recently. We always disinfect surfaces between pets and do not allow them to interact. There is nothing we can do to limit airborne exposure except to limit the amount of time a pet spends in our care. We are requiring you to pick-up within 30 minutes of notification of completion. If you need more advanced notice or a specific contact method/number, please let us know at the time of drop off.

If you have specific questions about this information, please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] or comment below.

These changes allow us to continue to provide you and your pet with the best service and only use the highest quality products. We appreciate you supporting a women owned and family operated small business.