Walking Woofs – Terms & Conditions

Due to licensing requirements, these Terms & Conditions (T&Cs) cover legal stipulations. However, at Walking Woofs we provide informal, friendly, and empathetic care throughout all our services.

1. Client Responsibilities

1.1. The client agrees to provide full and honest information about their pets during the booking process. Dogs displaying behaviours that may negatively impact the safety or wellbeing of staff, hosts, other dogs, or neighbours will not be accepted. Examples include, but are not limited to: excessive barking, howling, aggression towards humans or animals, antisocial behaviour, destructive behaviour, separation anxiety, toileting in the home, straying, or severe phobias.

1.2. Aggression of any form will not be tolerated. If aggression occurs, your dog must be removed from Walking Woofs immediately. A veterinarian must assess the dog to identify any underlying causes. Full service fees remain payable, and future services may be terminated for that dog.

1.3. Dogs causing undue stress to staff, hosts, or other dogs may be asked to leave. If your dog is stressed and unsettled, we will contact you to discuss the best solution. The dog’s wellbeing is our priority.

1.4. The emergency contact nominated by the client will be asked to take over care in emergencies, such as evacuation or if your dog displays behaviours that prevent us from providing safe care (e.g., aggression, separation anxiety, antisocial behaviour, toileting, or destructive behaviour). Refunds will not be given under these circumstances. Please ensure your emergency contact consents to being nominated.

1.5. If your dog attacks another animal or person, including Walking Woofs staff or representatives, the client is liable for all resulting costs, including veterinary fees. The dog will be removed immediately and placed with the emergency contact. No refund will be given.

1.6. New clients must attend an introductory meeting to meet the dog(s), discuss care requirements, and, if necessary, introduce the dog(s) to our own dogs. Occasionally, an overnight trial (up to 24 hours) may be requested at standard rates.

1.7. Dogs must be handed over in good health, including nail and coat maintenance, and capable of participating in a one-hour walk unless prior arrangements have been made.

1.8. Any current illnesses or ailments must be disclosed, with all medication provided and details recorded on the Medication Permission form.

1.9. Undisclosed contagious illnesses discovered upon drop-off will result in immediate collection by the emergency contact, with no refund. Dogs may only return if cleared by a vet in writing.

1.10. For aged dogs or dogs with long-term conditions, additional written information is required, including:

• Vet confirmation that any illness is not contagious (including microchip number).

• Owner’s instructions regarding health decline, euthanasia, or after-death care (including cremation if desired).

2. Appointments & Collections

2.1. All dates and times are considered appointments and must be followed. Early arrivals may conflict with feeding or care routines. Late arrivals over 30 minutes require prior contact to arrange a new time.

2.2. Boarding drop-offs: before 9:30 AM weekdays (unless otherwise agreed). Daycare drop-offs: 7:30–9:30 AM or 12:00–1:00 PM. Daycare collections: 12:00–1:00 PM or 4:30–6:00 PM. Weekend times are flexible by arrangement.

3. Dog Care & Safety

3.1. Dogs will be walked by trained Walking Woofs representatives.

3.2. Dogs may come into contact with other dogs during supervised activities. By signing, the client agrees to their dog participating in supervised socialisation.

3.3. Puppies under one year will receive age-appropriate socialisation and supervised interactions. Rest periods will be enforced, and any illness will result in immediate segregation and vet contact.

3.4. Insufficient food or supplies provided by the owner will be purchased by Walking Woofs at the owner’s expense.

3.5. The client agrees to inform their vet of Walking Woofs’ care and provide access to payment details for emergency treatment if necessary. Any veterinary fees paid by Walking Woofs must be reimbursed immediately.

3.6. Escapes will be reported to the local warden, owner, and, if necessary, the police. All reasonable efforts will be made to locate the dog, including notices on local social media.

3.7. In medical emergencies, the client authorises Walking Woofs to seek veterinary care at the nearest practice. The client agrees to reimburse all veterinary costs.

3.8. Dogs will be walked on a harness or collar with a soft lead. If off-lead exercise is agreed, the client must sign an off-lead disclaimer accepting responsibility.

3.9. Dogs may get muddy during walks; owners are responsible for tick prevention.

3.10. In case of a serious accident or illness to staff, alternative emergency cover will be arranged, and the client will be informed.

3.11. Keys held by Walking Woofs will be stored securely, with copies made for emergencies. All keys will be returned at the end of service.

4. Health & Vaccinations

4.1. Dogs must be wormed and treated for fleas/ticks before arrival.

4.2. All dogs must be fully vaccinated or titre tested annually, with proof provided. Vaccinations must be completed at least two weeks before service.

4.3. Dogs appearing visibly unwell at drop-off may be refused service with no refund.

4.4. Dogs must be microchipped and wear a quick-release collar with correct ID.

4.5. Dogs with long or matted coats must be groomed for comfort and mobility.

5. Behaviour & Compatibility

5.1. Entire males will be accepted at Walking Woofs’ discretion following a trial. Behaviour may change over time.

5.2. Bitches in season are not permitted. Any bitch coming into season during a stay will be separated from males.

5.3. Walk times may be adjusted for safety due to weather conditions.

6. Fees & Payments

6.1. Boarding fees: 30% deposit due 3 months prior (or at booking if less than 3 months). Remaining 70% due before or on drop-off. Deposits are non-refundable if cancelled within 6 weeks of the booking start.

6.2. Notifications for cancelling walking or daycare bookings with less than 24 hours’ notice will incur the full service charge.

7. Liability & Conduct

7.1. Walking Woofs will provide services reliably, caring for your dog in a safe and trustworthy manner. The client waives claims against Walking Woofs except for gross negligence or misconduct.

7.2. The client is responsible for any damage caused by their dog to Walking Woofs’ property.

7.3. Dogs will be walked responsibly and supervised appropriately.