The Perfect Grooming Client Intake Form

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Your intake form is the first impression you make as a professional organization. A well-designed intake form tells clients you're thorough, prevents miscommunication, and protects your business. A poorly-designed one (or no form at all) creates liability and frustration.

Why Digital Intake Beats Paper

• Clients complete it before arriving — no scramble at check-in
• Data goes directly into their profile — no re-entry, no transcription errors
• Easy to update when information changes
• E-signature capability for service agreements and liability waivers
• Can be sent via text link — clients complete it on their phone in 3 minutes

The Complete Intake Form Template

Owner Information

• Full name
• Cell phone (primary for reminders)
• Email address
• Home address (for records)
• Emergency contact (name + phone)

Pet Information

• Pet name and species
• Breed(s) — purebred or mix
• Age and weight
• Sex and spay/neuter status
• Color and any identifying markings
• Any known health conditions, allergies, or medications

Grooming History

• When was the pet last professionally groomed?
• Any previous grooming salon experience you'd like us to know about?
• Does your pet have any known sensitivities (ears, paws, muzzle)?
• Has your pet ever snapped, bitten, or shown aggression during grooming?

Vaccination Information

• Rabies — date of last vaccination / expiration
• Bordetella — date of last vaccination / expiration
• DHPP — date of last vaccination / expiration
• Option to upload vaccination records directly

Service Agreement (E-signature)

• Acknowledgment of grooming time estimate (not guaranteed)
• Authorization for necessary shaving due to matting
• Acknowledgment that pre-existing conditions may be identified during grooming
• Emergency veterinary authorization if owner is unreachable
• Cancellation and no-show policy acknowledgment

Keep It Short

The ideal intake form takes 3–5 minutes to complete. Every question beyond that reduces completion rates. Focus on information you'll actually use. Don't ask for their favorite color.