Dog Walker & Pet Visiting Service in Chippenham & Local Area
Terms & Conditions
Playful Paws Dog Walks -Terms & Conditions
Our Terms & Conditions are set out below. Please take the time to read them as they ensure a shared understanding of the basis on which our services are provided.
Playful Paws Dog Walks
Terms and Conditions (Updated April 2023)
Terms and Conditions (Updated April 2023)
Terms and Conditions of Service Effective 1st April 2023. Playful Paws Dog Walks (hereafter referred to as “PPDW”, “we”, “our” or “us”) is a one-person entity that provides dog and pet related services including dog walking and pet visiting (collectively known as the “services”). These services are offered at playfulpawsdogwalks.co.uk where Clients can analyse, enquire and/or request services.
1.0 Terms and Conditions – General
1.2. The Client agrees that on booking services for their dog(s)/pet(s), PPDW has relied on the Client’s representation that their dog(s)/pet(s) is in good health and has not harmed or shown aggressive or threatening behaviour to any individual and or any other dog or pet, and the Client agrees to notify PPDW immediately of any unwelcome, aggressive, procreative or dangerous behaviour of their dog/pet that has the potential to cause harm to any other individual or dog/pet.
1.3. The Client must inform PPDW of any allergies or intolerances that their dog/pets may have.
1.4. PPDW will not agree to provide services for aggressive animals.
1.5. PPDW will ensure all reasonable care is taken to look after your pet, and whilst we will make every effort to ensure your pet is well looked after in your absence, PPDW cannot be held liable for any loss, injury or death to a pet either inside or outside of the home whilst in our care.
1.6. PPDW will ensure that appropriate insurance is maintained, including Public Liability cover. The insurance only covers PPDW, for the duration of the selected service and only for the services agreed.
1.7. The Client is responsible for the full cost of treatment of any injuries or illness that their dog and/or pet receives whilst under the care of PPDW, including any other associated costs e.g. call-out charges.
1.8. Pet Insurance is always recommended for peace of mind.
1.9. The Client must provide PPDW with the name and contact number of someone who can be contacted in emergencies and who is capable and authorised to make decisions about their pet in the event of an emergency. If the contact is not available, the Client authorises the staff of PPDW to seek such veterinary advice and/or treatment and make decisions (on veterinary advice) that is in the best interests of the animal. Where possible this will be carried out by the Client’s usual/preferred vet, but this cannot be guaranteed (e.g. in an emergency) and the Client accepts that PPDW may use any registered Vet. The Client agrees to pay all such costs immediately on pick-up of their dog, or by agreement with PPDW. PPDW will always endeavour to contact either the Client or Emergency Contact prior to independently seeking veterinary advice and/or treatment.
1.10. The Client agrees to provide keys or arrange access to dogs and/or pets for the agreed service and appointment; failure to do so will result in the cancellation of that day’s service and will be paid for in full by the Client. PPDW will ensure that all keys provided are kept secure and will not be stored identifying address details. The Client should advise on the use of burglar alarms or any other security devices. The Client must ensure that other pets within the house that are not allowed outside (e.g. cats) are kept away from access doors.
1.11. The Client consents to their dog/pet being photographed and videoed and to photos or videos being used in any media or marketing by PPDW. All such media will remain the property of PPDW.
2.0 Bookings
2.2. The Client must inform PPDW of any changes to the information provided on the “Pet/Dog Information Sheet”, including contact numbers, emergency contact details, pet’s care needs and any other pertinent information.
2.3. Bookings can be made by telephone, email or via our website and will be confirmed by email (subject to availability).
2.3.1. Monthly – being a continuous booking for a regular service for a regular number of days at set times, bookings must allow enough time before the start of the booking for an initial meeting and forms to be completed.
2.3.2. Ad-hoc – periodic and occasional use of services, bookings must allow enough time before service start date for an initial meeting and forms to be completed.
2.4. PPDW will provide a time slot during which walks/visits will occur, this interval may be amended in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
2.5. PPDW will provide 2 months’ notice of staff holidays greater than 1 week to allow Clients time to make alternative service arrangements.
3.0 Payments
3.2. On confirmation of the booking, PPDW will start charging for services provided, with services invoiced (via email) as per the type of booking either monthly or ad-hoc.
3.3. PPDW accepts payment by bank transfer (in preference) or cash (bank details provided on invoice).
3.4. Full payment for services is to be made within 7 days of receipt of invoice or by the date specified on the invoice. If the Client fails to make payment to PPDW by the due date, then a penalty fee of 10% of the invoice total may be charged for every 7 days the invoice is overdue thereafter.
3.5. PPDW reserves the right to suspend all services until payment has been made in full.
3.6. PPDW reserves the right the request a non-refundable deposit for services booked.
4.0 Cancellations
4.2. For monthly bookings, the Client is requested to provide at least 14 days notice of their wish to cancel the booking.
4.3. For ad-hoc bookings, the Client may cancel the service 48 hours prior to the start date of that booking.
4.4. If the required notice is not given, PPDW reserves the right to charge in full for the cancelled services.
4.5. PPDW understands that there are unexpected circumstances that cannot be anticipated and interfere with the notice periods set out in these Terms and Conditions. Please contact PPDW as soon as possible should such circumstances arise.
4.6. PPDW reserves the right to cancel any service on short notice in the event of, but not limited to, illness, accidents, extreme weather (e.g. heavy snow) and other unforeseen circumstances. In such an event, PPDW will provide as much notice to the Client as possible and services will not be charged for.
4.7. PPDW reserves the right to cancel the booking/service at any time and with immediate effect if the dog/pet does not respond well to the walker/carer and/or other dogs/pets or if it is felt that the working relationship is becoming untenable or unworkable.
5.0 Privacy Policy
5.1. Please refer to Playful Paws Dog Walks Privacy Policy document at www.playfulpawsdogwalks.co.uk.
6.0 Covid-19
6.1 PPDW has prepared a risk assessment and working protocols in accordance with the advice and guidance produced by the UK Government and will ensure these are updated as and when required to ensure continued compliance. These protocols will take precedent during the current pandemic arrangements and therefore some normal working arrangements may not currently be in place.
6.2 PPDW will take all reasonable and possible steps to minimise the risk of disease transmission, but cannot guarantee that this will not happen and the Client accepts this risk if purchasing services during this time.
6.3 In the event that bookings need to be amended or cancelled as a result of Covid-19, e.g. the development of symptoms or changes in government guidance, the standard booking and cancellation notice periods will not apply.
7.0 Terms and Conditions – Dog Walking
7.1. All dogs being walked will undergo a trial period to ensure that they are adequately trained and socialised.
7.2. PPDW offer services where dogs co-mingle in groups and meet other dogs. The Client accepts that during normal dog play their dog may sustain injuries. All dog play will be carefully monitored to avoid injuries, but scratches, punctures, torn ligaments, or other injuries may occur despite the best supervision.
7.3. PPDW is likely to transport your dog(s) to and from suitable dog walking locations (up to approx. 30 mins) by vehicle and therefore your dog(s) should be able to travel in vehicles. PPDW will ensure the safe and secure transport of all dogs and will maintain appropriate insurance.
7.4. All dogs will be exercised on a lead unless prior agreement has been provided and an “Off Lead Consent Form” has been signed. Off lead exercise will remain at the discretion of PPDW staff.
7.5. All dogs being exercised must be fully vaccinated and on a regular flea and worm control regime and the Client will provide a copy of a valid vaccination certificate.
7.6. The Client accepts that even if their dog has been vaccinated against Kennel Cough that there is still a chance that their dog can contract Kennel Cough. The Client agrees that they will not hold PPDW responsible if their dog(s) contracts Kennel Cough while attending services.
7.7. PPDW will not provide services to dogs with any form of contagious, infectious or otherwise communicable diseases. The Client agrees to take any necessary precautions or measures to ensure that their dog is continuously free from contagious, infectious or otherwise communicable diseases. The Client further agrees to notify PPDW immediately of any contagious, infectious or otherwise communicable disease or conditions that their dog has been exposed to or is affected by. PPDW reserves the right to refuse to provide dog walking services until satisfied that the condition is resolved.
7.8. PPDW will not provide dog walking services to bitches while in season or pregnant, but Clients may choose to book a Pet Pop-In instead of a dog walk during this time.
7.9. All dogs attending PPDW must be microchipped and the Client must provide secure collars and leads, with appropriate tags. Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, PPDW is providing leads and harnesses for all dogs walked.
7.10. In the event of a dog going missing, PPDW will notify the Client and advise them to come and help with a search, should a dog be missing for longer than 30 minutes.
7.11. PPDW will apply their best personal judgement in the event of extreme weather conditions (e.g. hot weather, thunderstorms, snow), or the dog becoming ill, injured, distressed, or refusing to walk, to take necessary action to ensure the safety of both dogs and walker, which may include for example (but not limited to) cutting walks short or providing an alternative Pet Pop-In Visit.
7.12. If PPDW arrive to collect a dog and the dog is visibly unwell and/or sick, or refuses the walk (e.g. due to rain), PPDW reserves the right to cancel the dog walking services, giving the dog the chance for a toilet break and immediately notifying the Client and will charge for a Standard Pet Pop-In.
7.13. PPDW tries to select green and/or woody areas for walks and dogs may get muddy, wet or dirty (including rolling in fox poo etc). PPDW will make every effort to drop off a clean dog but cannot guarantee the dogs full cleanliness or that they will be smell-free. Clients are asked to leave towels by access doors for towelling down. Clients will be notified of all poo rolling and extreme muddiness. PPDW staff will always remove dirty shoes etc prior to entering homes.
8.0 Terms and Conditions – Pet Pop-Ins
8.1. PPDW will take necessary steps to ensure your home is safe and secure in your absence, however PPDW cannot be held responsible or any burglaries or accidents/damage caused by your dogs/pets.
8.2. PPDW will follow instructions for administering medications as directed but cannot be held responsible for complications that arise as a result.
8.3. The Client must provide all items necessary for your pet/dog to be adequately cared for in the Client’s absence. If additional supplies need to be purchased in the Client’s absence including, but not limited to, food, cat litter and medication, a receipt will be obtained, and the Client will be responsible for the reimbursement of the cost.
Version Control: Version 5.0 November 2020 (Covid-19)