Ashley's Paws and Claws

07/07/2023

Such an important video. 🐾 I always talk about how our dogs will provide warnings before a bite. That warning isn't always growling and showing teeth. In addition, licking and tail wagging doesn't always mean your dog is happy and giving "kisses." Teaching our children not only to love animals but to respect their boundaries and space is essential. ❤️

07/01/2023

When a dog's EAR is almost as big as my head!!! 🤣🤣🤣 Sweet Cooper is such a gentle giant!

06/23/2023

All the love, cuddles, and furry hugs I get from my friends make my job worth it. 🥰

06/21/2023

Just a quick reminder: Cancelation fees invoiced due to "no shows" and late cancelations need to be paid before you can reschedule your next appointment.

If you are having any issues with accessing your cancelation invoice, please message me for help. Thanks so much! 🐾

06/15/2023

Hey Furry Family!
July is filling up fast for drop ins and pet sitting. Drop ins are a great option for our fantastic feline friends 🐱 that may not do well staying somewhere other than their own home.

And the best part is that your furry friends have already established a relationship with me through our nail trim appointments which means a less stressful experience overall. 🙂

If you would like to reserve drop ins for an upcoming vacation, day trip, or long weekend getaway, send me a message. 😉

06/05/2023

Are you having a party this summer and worried about your furry family members getting stressed over all the commotion? You can book my time with your dogs at my drop in rate so they have can have a "pawty pal🎉" to keep them company! Cuddles, potty breaks, treats, and lots of love is always included.

Miss Molly enjoyed a stress free, mid afternoon nap as over 100 people had a party right outside. 🐾😴

06/03/2023

Hey there Furry Family!🐾
Did you know that you can now add a 15 minute brushing/deshedding session to your pet's appointment? Jax feels great after his deshedding, and his mom loves how much less fur she has in the house! Dogs $20/ Cats $25

Please contact me prior to your appt to add on this service as is may require a longer visit. 🐾

06/02/2023

Today will be our first 90 degree day of the season! 🥵 Remember to keep your furry friends inside and cooled off as much as possible. Heat stroke, in these high temperatures, can happen quickly.

06/01/2023

I got to enjoy spending some time doing outside nail trims on the deck with Bentley and Sydney today! 🥰🐾

05/24/2023

Good Morning Furry Family!
I wanted to answer a quick question that seems to be popping up more and more since my schedule tends to fill quickly.

I LOVE referrals, and your referrals mean the world to me.❤️ If you have friends/family that would like to get on my schedule, a great option is to have them "share" your appointment with you. If I am visiting your home and your (for example) friend would like their dog to have a pawdicure as well, they can bring their dog(s) over to your house for a "paw party"!

Many of our F.F. already take advantage of this option. Please let me know ahead of time if you decide to have a "paw party" so that I can allow enough time for your appointment. This is also another great way to create a positive association with their regular nail trims. 🐾

Another quick side note: As summer is pretty much here (YAY!), my drop in services are becoming more popular. If you are going to be in need of those visits anytime in the next few months, please make sure you have filled out all of the forms on apcfurryfamily.com in addition to booking a complimentary consult visit. Drop ins are great for vacations, long days at work, or long days out such as Kennywood, Idlewild, etc. You won't have to worry about rushing home to care for your pets. ❤️

Have a PAWsome Day!

05/19/2023

I wanted to introduce the newest member of our furry family to everyone. This is Oliver! Look at that face! Oliver is another little guy that was turned away at traditional places and left with anesthesia as his only option for a pawdicure.

After spending some time with Oliver and his lovely family, we were able to get his nails trimmed and filed with minimal stress. ❤️🐾 I know that he will continue to get better at each visit. I am so proud of him!

05/11/2023

Good Morning Furry Family!
I have made a slight change to my cancelation policy. I was previously keeping cards on file using Square. It isn't working out as I had anticipated, so instead of keeping this information on file, I will now be invoicing cancelation fees through Pawfinity.

It also is a bit more clear on "multiple cancelations."

You may view the updated cancelation policy at apcfurryfamily.com.

Thank you so much, and have a PAWsome day! ❤️🐾

05/07/2023

Here are the updated services menus to reflect the price change that I put in place yesterday. There are also a couple of new surprises on there too! ❤️🐾 I hope to keep adding to my available services more in the future as well! See you all at your next appointments. 🙂🐈🐕

05/06/2023

Furry Family🐾,
I wanted to make everyone aware of a small price change that will be put into effect immediately. As you all know, I try my very best to keep my prices as low as possible.

Normal ear cleanings will stay priced at $5. If your pet's ears are very dirty (or infected) and require more time and supplies to ensure a proper cleaning, the price will increase to $10.

Your pet's health and well being is my number one priority.❤️ If you are concerned about the increase in cost of this particular service in any way, please contact me to discuss payment.

Thank you all so much for your understanding and have a PAWsome day! 🙂

05/05/2023

A sweet little lady is dressed and ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo today! I had to share this with the rest of our Furry Family because Rollo put a huge smile on my face this morning with this great picture. 🙂🎉🐾BTW, Miss Rollo, your nails look lovely!

05/02/2023

Hey F.F.!!!

If you haven't been to my website yet, now is a great time to check it out! I just added a new section. If you have been with us for some time, you may remember that I created an Amazon list a while ago with some great products that I recommend and use. Well, I made a "My Favorite Things" section on my site. Now, it is easier than ever to find exactly what you are looking for! 🙂🐾

I am hoping to add more to the list such as a section with training products in the near future. Btw, today and tomorrow are Prime Pet Days! Is anyone shopping? 🤣❤️🐾

If you have any questions about anything I posted, please feel free to ask. Also, if you would like to see any specific products on the list, feel free to let me know. (Everyone's favorite ear cleaner is on there!)

apcfurryfamily.com

Legal Disclaimer: If you use my links posted on my site to purchase any products, I make a small commission. It does not affect the price of the product in any way. It is a great way to get the products you need and help out one of your favorite small businesses. 😉

04/28/2023

I saw a great diagram of the anatomy of a nail this morning so I had to share. I made these visuals in hopes that it would make it easier to explain the difference between regular nail clipping and grinding. I really try to encourage desensitization to the Dremel because nail grinding is much more beneficial to your dog and allows for receding of the quick.

Desensitization to the Dremel doesn't have to happen at one appointment. Sometimes, it can take several appointments, and we work with just a few nails at a time. This is okay! 🐾

04/27/2023

A HUGE "thank you" to my clients Tracy, Kelly, and Cindy for allowing my daughter to join me today for their appointments as she participated in "Take Your Kid to Work Day."

Today, she learned about animal handling, time management, entrepreneurship, customer service, professionalism, and much, much more! It will be a memory she will never forget. ❤️🐾

04/25/2023

Furry Family!

I want to make just a quick comment about the recent spread of the Dog Flu. Please keep in mind that cases of the Dog Flu have been confirmed in Westmoreland County. Out of respect for both the entire F.F. and my own pets, I ask that you please contact me prior to your appointment if your dog (or cat) is exhibiting the following symptoms: cough, nasal discharge, low grade fever, lethargy, or reduced appetite. Also, please contact me if you feel that your pet has been exposed to another animal that is sick or may be sick.

I do NOT require the canine influenza vaccine and have no plans to require the vaccine in order to continue services.

Let's all do our part to make sure every one of our precious furry friends stays happy and healthy. ❤️🐾

04/19/2023

Today is No Declaw Day 4/18! 4 paws. 18 toes. Please remind everyone you know that declawing is bad for all. It hurts the cat, it hurts the people who have the cat, it hurts the soul of the veterinarian who declaws the cat, and it doesn’t even help the sofa because declawed cats tend to p*e on sofas.

The Paw Project

04/19/2023

Furry Family!

As many of you know, I have been navigating a new software system to manage appointments, text reminders, and more. 🙂🐾 It has been a learning process, and I appreciate everyone's patience.

Now, you will be able to log into that system as well!!!! 🎉
As a member of the furry family, you will be able to follow the link below and create your unique profile. There, you can update information about your pet(s) and see information about previous appointments. Forget when your next appointment is scheduled? No problem! Log onto your profile, and it will be listed there for your convenience.

You will also be able to add your credit card information to have on file there as well as sign the policies and procedures.

https://crm.pawfinity.com/ashleys-paws-and-claws/application/

After creating your profile at the link above, you can login here:
https://crm.pawfinity.com/client/login/

04/12/2023

Furry Family,

I am so grateful and absolutely amazed that our F.F. has grown to over 120 different families. With that being said, I want to be able to continue to provide the time and personal attention to my 4 legged clients that they deserve.

For the time being, I will no longer be accepting NEW clients. I apologize if this causes anyone any inconvenience.

I will continue to have a wait list for people that would like to join our furry family if space should open up in my schedule.

To my current clients... thank you so much for all of your kind words, both spoken and written. Thank you for allowing me into your homes and to help you have a healthier, happier pet! I will see you all at your next appointments. 🙂🐾

04/10/2023

I have *ONE* open appointment next week on Tuesday 4/18 for my furry family that lives in Murrysville. It is for 9:00am. If you would like to have this time slot, please message me. 🐾🐕🐈

04/07/2023

Furry Family🐾!
I want to introduce the newest upgrade that is now available.🎉Do you want to pamper your pooch🐕?

Do you have a dog that...
🐾Has itchy paws?
🐾Dry, cracked paw pads?
🐾Rough paw pads?
🐾Constantly licks their paws?

My new upgrade MAY be able to help provide some relief. The Pampered Paw Upgrade is available to add on to any nail appointment for an additional $10.

What is included?
A waterless gel oatmeal cleanser is applied to the paw pads to clean and sanitize them. It will kill the bacteria and fungus that causes that "frito" smell often described by many pet parents. While completely normal, too much of that bacteria can cause problems. The oatmeal and chamomile among other ingredients will soothe and moisturize the skin in and around the paw pads.

After they are cleaned, a paw wax and protectant will be massaged into the pads. It seals the pads and helps heal cracks and dry rough patches that can develop over time. It also contains ingredients to moisturize and help heal irritated skin such as vitamin E.
*The is a grooming service and not a medical treatment. Results may vary.

04/02/2023

Hello Furry Family!
Whether you realize it or not, I am always listening to your comments and concerns about your pets. I want to be able to provide you with services that can benefit the overall well being of your much loved furry companion.

With that said.... a new add on treatment is in the works and will be available soon!

More details and information will be revealed in the near future. However, here are a few hints:
🐕 Does your dog's paws smell like Fritos? While this smell is caused by NORMAL bacteria and fungal buildup, too much of this bacteria can create a problem. It can lead to redness, yeast infections, excessive licking and chewing, irritation, etc.
🐾Does your dog have dry, cracked, or rough paw pads?
🐾Would you like a treatment that could help reduce the overgrowth of bacteria and fungus (that Frito smell!), soothe red and itchy skin, and protect those precious paws while you start taking walks outside again?

03/28/2023

Meet my special kitty friends for the week! Yoshi and Lou are getting lots of love and extra treats at their drop in visits! Remember that it is much less stressful and much more comfortable on our fantastic felines for them to stay home when you are away. Btw, did you know that I am fully insured and have my clearances? ❤️🐾

03/23/2023

This question of the day is for you, Furry Family!

Would you be interested in a "nail pawlish" 💅/paw balm treatment that you could add on to your nail trim service? The "pawlish" would be 💯 percent pet friendly, of course! 😉 The service would need to be booked in advance to allow for the extra time needed. I would love to know your thoughts! Thanks 😊 ❤️🐾

03/21/2023

5 dogs, a little (or lot) or mud, a lot of laughs, and a forklift made for some fun nail trims today at Hronyetz machine shop in Apollo!🐾🤣🐕 Miss Cheyenne got special treatment today with the help of her dad's forklift while her furry friends watched the action!

03/17/2023

Hey F.F.!
Just a quick update. I will NOT be available tomorrow (Saturday, March 17) unless you have an appointment scheduled with me for the morning. I am taking some time to enjoy a personal hobby of mine. I will be back to my normal working schedule on Sunday. Thank you! 🐾❤️

03/15/2023

Hello Furry Family!
If you have an upcoming appointment, please take just a moment to sign the P&P form that has been updated to include the newest revisions to the cancelation policy that were put in place earlier this month. If you cannot open the link, let me know, and I can email it to you.

If you have already used the link in your reminder text to sign (which many of you have), thank you so much! I greatly appreciate it, and you can disregard this message. I look forward to visiting each and every one of my furry friends very soon! 🐾❤️

Payment I strive to keep my prices as affordable as possible. For this reason, I do not accept credit cards at this time. I accept cash, or you can also pay electronically by Venmo. A credit card will be kept on file for cancelation fees. However, credit cards will not be accepted for normal payment...

03/13/2023

I got to "hang out" with some of my friends this morning! This is my furry friend Thor waiting patiently for his nail grinding and paw cleanup. 🐾

03/09/2023

You might think🤔...Just a nail trim🐾 appointment, no big deal, right? But, with my services, they are!

Reasons why my services are more than "just a nail trim" include:
🐾Convenience! 🚗 I come to your house so there is no need to drag anxious, fearful, or stressed pets into the car for a trip to the vets or grooming salon. I am insured and have my clearances as well so you can feel safe about having someone new in your home.
🐾Consistency! You will get the same person (Me!) at your house each and every appointment.
🐾Expertise! 🐕🐈 With over 15 years of pet service experience, you can feel confident that your 4 legged companion is in good hands.
🐾Knowledge! I have experience in grooming, training, pet care and more. And I love to share that knowledge with others. Often, we don't just talk about nails, but you will learn something new too!
🐾Bonds! ❤️ I am able to form bonds and relationships with the pets that I see on a regular basis. This enables them to trust me and become less fearful over the process of certain grooming procedures. In addition, these bonds carry over to the other services I offer such as drop ins!
🐾I have furry friends that have been turned away everywhere else. They have been sent home from the groomer for bad behavior. The vet has told their pet parents that they would need anesthesia for a simple nail trim or ear cleaning!😮 I am the only mobile pet care provider in the area with a lift/harness system that I can bring to your house!!! This makes a huge difference for almost all of these pets.
🐾And the most important reason they are more than just nail trims... You are establishing a healthy routine for your pet that will allow them to walk pain free, maintain the correct position of their feet/legs, and greatly reduce the risk of developing arthritis in their joints as they age. ❤️

03/06/2023

Attention Furry Family!
Unfortunately, due to some recent circumstances, I had to make changes to my cancelation policy. The following changes will be effective immediately. Please bear with me as I get these new changes into effect. 🙂🐾

I will now be asking everyone to provide me with a credit card to have on file. I will be using Square to keep these numbers on file. Square is completely secure, and I DO NOT have access to your credit card information once it is in the system, so no worries there.🙂 I will not be taking credit cards as payment for services at this time. It might something in the future...

I will now be charging a $25 (plus $5 per additional pet) cancelation fee to your credit card on file if you cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled appointment time.

In addition, if you cancel more than 3 times, I will ask you to prepay for your appointment through Venmo in order to continue services.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause any of you. I don't want to have to put policies like this in place. However, cancelations in the middle of the night, hours before an appointment, etc., greatly effect the ability to rebook that open time slot and a groomer's financial livelihood. Thank you all for your understanding.

03/01/2023

Hey Furry Family!
I wanted to update everyone on scheduling. March is pretty much completely booked already!!! I can't believe it! 🐾🎉❤️ I only have a handful of appointments left for the end of the month. This means that it could be over a month wait for new appointments. Please keep this in mind if you do have to reschedule. As always, I have a waitlist available if something would open up sooner.

Warmer weather is almost here 😎which means so are longer trips out of the house, vacations, weddings, etc. If you think that you might be needing drop ins any time over the spring or summer months, consider filling the forms out now so we can schedule a consultation. I keep all of your information, including keys (in a secure location) on file, if you would ever need me to care for your furry friends in the future. It is nice to know that you have a back up if you can't make it home on time. All of the forms are available on my website at apcfurryfamily.com.🙂

Thank you all so much for allowing me to get to know both you and your pets. I truly enjoy getting to know all of their unique personalities. I can't wait to each of you at our next appointment! 🐾❤️

02/22/2023

02/16/2023

I have had a number of people comment to me about how calm and patient I am during our appointments. There is a reason for this! 🙂 I also try to teach our F.F. about the importance of remaining calm and stress free during times when we think our pets might be more anxious. But, why???

Our pets pick up on our emotions and react to our reactions. If we are stressed and anxious, they will be too. They often look to us to find out how they should act or what they should think about something. Based on how we react, they follow.

You may not realize, that when you become stressed, upset, anxious, etc., your body releases chemicals such as adrenaline and cortisol among others. Amazingly, dogs can smell those higher levels of chemicals that you are producing during those times! 😲

I recently found a study that was done that I thought was interesting and was worth sharing. It looked at this exact concept.

In an experiment, dogs were surprisingly accurate in detecting sweat and breath samples from people who were stressed.

02/03/2023

🎉Good Morning Furry Family! 🎉

I am so excited to be able to let you know about something that I have been working on for the last couple of months...

I now have a website!!! 😁On my website, you will be able to find information about my services as well as a new PHOTO GALLERY!📷 I have added quite a few of your pets to the photo gallery already but would love to add more. If you don't see your furry friend in the photo album, please send me a picture so I can add them. ❤️

Also, you can now fill out the drop in forms online. You will still have to discuss details in person with me regarding drop ins, but you are able to complete and sign the forms at your convenience.

apcfurryfamily.com

01/30/2023

I saw this on my personal feed so I wanted to also share it here. Having many F.F. with high anxiety and fear, I think it is important to remember that dogs don't communicate the same way we do. Learning how to use your body, voice, and movements when meeting a dog will allow them to understand your intentions in a non threatening way. 🐾❤️

01/29/2023

Furry Family!!!

We are growing every day! I couldn't have imagined a few nail trims would have turned into helping so many people with their pets. In order to better serve your needs in both my pet care and drop in services, I would like you to know that I am now fully insured. Being fully insured is just another way that I can help you as pet parents feel confident in my at home services. 🐾

01/27/2023

Ever wonder what happens at one of my appointments🤔 ? Let me tell you...

Whatever it takes to make your pet happy!!!😁🐾
For one of our new F.F. members, Rocky🐾, this was my lift, a happy hoodie, and a spoonful of peanut butter!

He is one of my friends that needed several people at the vet to help assist in his "pawdicures." Upon arrival, I spent a few minutes talking with his Dad about his history and previous experiences. Based on this information, we came up with a plan for Rocky to help ease his anxiety.

Great job Rocky!