Missed Appointments

Wow what a busy time of the year it is . Actually it’s been consistently busy all the time. People calling wanting to get their pets short and cool for the summer is the main concern. I wish I could get those babies in on that very day cause I feel bad for them. It’s hard for me when I have to say I am booked up until the next week. Which brings me to the next subject…… Missed appointments .

Its Saturday Morning and the phone is ringing with several calls from new people wanting to know If I can get their pet in today. Unfortunately I have a full schedule today and they will look else where . Oh well my schedule is full so i have to focus on what’s coming in the door .  At 11 o’clock I have a client scheduled for two dogs, They are 45 min late , this is ok she called me because of an emergency and we worked it out  but just for an example in the 45 min I could have had a rough cut and bath/dry done on a little dog that had called earlier that I turned away.  Fast forward to 12 30 ….. no show …no phone call. Wow ,I could have fit in another potential client that I turned away that day. This person texted me three hours later saying she was helping with a wedding or something. I totally understand but what about my schedule. I’ve been grooming this dog for several years on a discounted price mind you . I really like this little dog but I am trying to make a living here . So I text back and say sorry but you will be charged for this appointment if you want to reschedule what happens next , she says I have to save up now before I can reschedule. The guilt sets in what should I do , cause I know its been a while and my little friend needs grooming. Ugg I hate this.

How can I charge for a missed appointment when I know how hard it is for some people to even pay for one groom?