Setting Boundaries ≠ Rude!

We need to talk about YOUR boundaries! Answering texts at 11pm, grooming a client on what was supposed to be a date night with your spouse...  Sounds familiar? There are dozens of scenarios where groomers allow their boundaries to be crossed. Let me start of by saying: setting boundaries ≠ being rude! It simply means protecting your time, energy, and peace.

Hi! I’m Marilou Lekanne: pet groomer, author, and pet business coach. Today we’re talking about setting boundaries in your grooming business without losing clients or coming off as rude.

📱 Late-Night Texts

It is completely okay not to respond to texts that come in after hours, as in, not at all until morning! Set a cutoff time like 7pm and stick to it. You can also set up an auto-reply shortcut in your phone settings: “Thank you for contacting [Your Business]! You’ve reached me after hours. Please text me between 7am–7pm and I’ll be happy to help.” Everyone respects that and you gain back your evenings and time with your own family and pets.

🐾 Walk-In Requests

When a stranger walks in at the end of your day asking for “just a quick groom,” saying no is a completely valid response. Try: “I’d love to help, but I don’t have any openings today. I can schedule you for tomorrow at 2pm, though. Would that work?” If they insist it has to be today, simply say: “Unfortunately, I won’t be able to assist you today. Sorry. Next time, please call ahead as I’m usually fully booked and I hardly ever have last minute openings available.” Staying kind and firm together is always possible.

🔧 When YOU Have to Reschedule

Van trouble, a power outage, illness... life throws you all kinds of curveballs! Apologize sincerely, then reschedule on your next available business day. Do not feel pressured to squeeze clients in on your day off or tack them onto an already full day. Spread them across upcoming dates and people will understand, even if they’re disappointed.

🎁 Freebie Requests

“Could you trim the face? And the paws? Oh, and maybe the back?” Sounds familiar? When a client tries to expand a bath-only appointment, simply respond: “Absolutely!  For a face trim it’s just $15 extra. Want to add it on?” Same goes for a surprise extra pet: “Of course! Nail trims are just  $25. Shall I add that?” Framing extras as easy add-ons keeps it positive and professional.

✂️ Haircut Complaints a Week Later

Make sure clients know upfront they have 12–24 hours to flag any concerns about a groom. The person picking up the dog is responsible for approving the cut at the time of pickup. After that window, especially when the dog is already dirty again, a free redo is not something you’re obligated to offer. Clear policies set upfront, like a notice behind the counter, prevent awkward conversations later.

🕐 Late Pickups

If you run a salon, late pickups are a real boundary issue that needs a firm policy. Post a visible notice that a late fee applies, for example $20 for every 10 minutes past your closing time. Once clients know this, they will show up on time. Your hours are worth protecting just as much as your clients’ appointments.

Setting boundaries ≠ losing clients!  It does, however, equal earning their respect. Over time, people will treat you differently, more professionally, and with greater appreciation for your time. You deserve that!

With respect, admiration, and a firm belief in your worth,

Your Fellow Business Thinker & Pet Groomer:

Marilou Lekanne

Marilou’s Method & Successful Grooming

🌐 www.successfulgrooming.com

📲 Text COACH to 310-922-0282 for your FREE 20-min intro coaching session

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