Terms & Conditions

Insurance and Training

Wild Paws Pet Care is fully insured and committed to ensuring the safety of all pets in our care. Our team is First Aid trained and DBS checked, allowing us to provide trustworthy and secure services to our clients.

Initial Consultation

Before any dog walking or pet sitting services can be booked, Wild Paws Pet Care will arrange a complimentary “Meet & Greet” session with all new clients. This meeting is essential for establishing a connection and ensuring we understand the needs of both the client and their pets.

Service Commencement and Permissions

Wild Paws Pet Care reserves the right to delay or refuse services until all necessary information and permissions have been provided. Clients must complete the required forms, either supplied by our team or available through our online portal. By engaging our services, clients grant Wild Paws Pet Care permission to enter their property at the scheduled time and date.

Access to Property

The client grants Wild Paws Pet Care permission to enter their property to perform the booked service at the pre-arranged time and date.

By signing the key holder waiver form, clients cannot hold Wild Paws Pet Care liable for any loss or damage to property or its contents, both in the present and future.

The client must provide keys or arrange access to the pets for the scheduled appointment, as failure to do so will result in a cancellation of that day's service.

We recommend that clients inform their neighbours of our visits while they are away. Additionally, clients must notify Wild Paws Pet Care of any third parties who may access their home during the service period. Wild Paws Pet Care cannot accept liability for any incidents involving these third parties.

Home Security and Pet Responsibility

While Wild Paws Pet Care takes appropriate measures to secure your home, we cannot be held responsible for any burglaries that may occur. Furthermore, we will not be liable for any damage caused by pets to the owner’s property while they are away.

For pets that are microchipped, it is the owner's responsibility to ensure that the correct information is registered with the appropriate company in case their pet goes missing.

Waste Disposal

Wild Paws Pet Care is dedicated to responsible pet care, including the disposal of pet waste. We will dispose of all waste outside the household; for waste located within the home or garden, clients are asked to specify the appropriate disposal location.

Business Commitment

As a small business, we prioritize our clients' satisfaction and well-being. In the rare event of unforeseen circumstances that require us to cancel a booking, we will strive to provide at least 24 hours' notice.

Timeliness and External Factors

While we aim to arrive on time for every scheduled appointment, our mobile services may be impacted by factors beyond our control, including adverse weather, traffic, and unexpected delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience in such situations.

Veterinary & Medical Terms

Authorization for Veterinary Care

The client authorizes the staff of Wild Paws Pet Care to seek veterinary advice and/or treatment as deemed necessary for their pet. Whenever possible, this will be carried out by the client’s usual or preferred veterinarian; however, in emergency situations, this cannot be guaranteed. The client accepts that Wild Paws Pet Care staff may, at their discretion, utilize any registered veterinarian.

The client understands the necessity of contacting their registered veterinarian before any services begin. They must grant permission for the veterinary practice to discuss their pet's care with Wild Paws Pet Care, should veterinary treatment be required while their pet is in our care. This permission must be noted on their veterinary records.

Pet Health Requirements

The client is responsible for ensuring that their pet is in good health, free from fleas, and adequately wormed. If Wild Paws Pet Care believes that a pet is not in good health, we reserve the right to seek veterinary advice and treatment on behalf of the client, and the client will be liable for any veterinary fees incurred.

Emergency Procedures and Medication

The client grants Wild Paws Pet Care permission to perform any emergency first aid procedures deemed necessary for the safety and welfare of their pet prior to immediate consultation with a veterinary professional. This ensures that the pet receives the best and most appropriate care as quickly as possible. 

The client also authorizes the administration of any medication prescribed by a veterinarian in the client’s absence, including the administration of Piriton antihistamine for treating allergic reactions.

Responsibility for Veterinary Fees

The client is responsible for any veterinary fees and associated costs, such as call-out fees, that arise during their absence while their pet is under the care of Wild Paws Pet Care for any illness that may occur during this time. If emergency veterinary treatment needs to be arranged by Wild Paws Pet Care for an illness, pre-existing injury, or condition, the client accepts that our business insurance policy will not cover these costs and acknowledges that they will be responsible for the full cost of such emergency care and any necessary follow-up treatment.

In the event of an injury to the client’s pet caused by an incident while under the care of Wild Paws Pet Care, the client acknowledges that we will make every effort to recover emergency veterinary costs through our business insurance policy. However, the client understands that insurance recovery may be subject to policy limitations, and full reimbursement cannot be guaranteed.

Should insurance coverage be partial or unavailable, the client may be responsible for any remaining costs, provided that the incident is neither due to the client’s fault nor to the negligence of Wild Paws Pet Care. If the incident is determined to be the result of the client’s negligence or a pre-existing condition of the pet, the client acknowledges their responsibility for all associated veterinary costs.

To facilitate any insurance claims, the client agrees to retain all paperwork provided by the veterinarian and forward it to Wild Paws Pet Care within 14 days of the incident. Both parties agree to communicate openly regarding any incidents and necessary documentation

Emergency Contact Protocol

A maximum amount for veterinary expenses will be agreed upon in advance. In the event of an emergency, every effort will be made to contact the client. We recommend that clients provide the contact details of at least two trusted third parties in case we are unable to reach them. However, Wild Paws Pet Care reserves the right to make decisions regarding the health of the client's pet, ensuring that all actions are in the best interests of the animal and based on the advice of a veterinary surgeon.

Administration of Medication

Wild Paws Pet Care will administer oral medication, eye drops, and creams at the client’s request, provided that clear instructions are given. If a pet requires medication administered via injection, Wild Paws Pet Care staff must be shown the correct method of administration by a veterinarian and be provided with a letter of certification from the vet confirming their approval. This is necessary for insurance purposes.

Wild Paws Pet Care will not be responsible for any issues or adverse reactions resulting from the administered medication.

Dog Walking Terms

General Terms for All Walking Services

All dogs will undergo a free initial assessment by Wild Paws Pet Care staff before using any services.

Wild Paws Pet Care reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to refuse admission to any dog deemed potentially dangerous or disruptive.

Vaccination and Health Requirements

Admission may be refused if the client fails to provide adequate proof of vaccinations, including Bordetella (kennel cough), or if vaccinations are expired or incomplete.

The client acknowledges that, although their dog is vaccinated against Bordetella, there is still a possibility of contracting the illness and agrees not to hold Wild Paws Pet Care responsible if their dog contracts kennel cough while in attendance.

Wild Paws Pet Care advises that all dogs being exercised are fully vaccinated and on a regular flea and worm prevention regime. If a client chooses not to vaccinate or use flea and worm prevention, and their dog develops or contracts a condition that could have been prevented by such treatments, the client acknowledges and agrees that Wild Paws Pet Care cannot be held liable.

The client agrees to take all necessary measures to ensure that their dog remains free of contagious, infectious, or otherwise communicable diseases and must notify Wild Paws Pet Care immediately of any exposure to infectious or contagious diseases.

Treats and Food Intolerances 

Wild Paws Pet Care will use treats in moderation to reward good behaviour. The client is responsible for accurately completing the new client form, either provided in person or through the online portal, detailing any allergies, intolerances, or special dietary needs your pet may have. If specific treats are required due to allergies, intolerances, or special dietary requirements, these should be supplied by the client.

Behavioural Responsibilities

The client must notify Wild Paws Pet Care immediately of any unwelcome, aggressive, or dangerous behaviour exhibited by their dog that has the potential to cause harm to other dogs or individuals. Failure to do so will result in Wild Paws Pet Care not being held responsible for the dog's actions, and all future services will be cancelled. Should an incident occur whilst in the care of Wild Paws Pet Care resulting in another dog, person or animal being injured, responsibility would fall onto the owner of the dog, not the walker if the client have failed to disclose any previous issues.

Banned Breeds and Legal Obligations

If the client’s dog is on the banned breed list according to UK law, the client agrees to provide copies of all required paperwork for insurance purposes. The banned breed dog will only be walked on a one-to-one basis, must remain on a lead, and must be muzzled at all times, with the client responsible for providing the muzzle.

The client confirms that their dog is not subject to a Dog Control Order and agrees to inform Wild Paws Pet Care of any changes to this status before the next scheduled service.

Disclosure of Dog History

The client must disclose any history of bites to humans or other animals. If the dog has a bite history, Wild Paws Pet Care will need to discuss the situation with the insurance company and will only walk the dog according to their requirements.

The client agrees that, in accepting their dog, Wild Paws Pet Care has relied on the client’s representation that their dog is in good health and has not harmed or exhibited aggression or threatening behaviour toward any person or other dog.

Insurance

While Wild Paws Pet Care holds public liability insurance, it is recommended that clients also insure their pets whenever possible. If the client chooses not to obtain pet insurance, separate public liability insurance for their dog is advised. This coverage can be acquired from organizations such as The Dogs Trust for a small annual fee.

Safety and Identification

In accordance with the Control of Dogs Act 1992, any dog in a public place must wear a collar displaying the owner's name and address.

The client agrees to ensure that their dog has not eaten in the hour preceding the scheduled pick-up time by Wild Paws Pet Care. This allows sufficient time for digestion before any exercise or play, reducing the risk of the potentially life-threatening condition known as gastric torsion (bloat). 

The client understands that if their dog will be off-lead and running around, a longer interval between eating and exercise is advised—typically 2 to 4 hours.

Wild Paws Pet Care prioritizes the safety and well-being of all dogs in our care. Therefore, we do not walk any dogs equipped with check or choke chains, prong collars, or e-collars, nor do we employ aversive training methods during our walks. If your dog does not have a suitable collar or harness, we regret to inform you that they will not be walked.

Tracking and Lost Pets

Wild Paws Pet Care will not use the client's own GPS tracker due to GDPR regulations. Instead, we will utilize our own tracking devices for the duration of the walk. In the event that your dog goes missing, Wild Paws Pet Care will notify you and use the tracking device information to assist in locating them.

Transportation 

All dogs will be transported in a Wild Paws Pet Care adapted vehicle, equipped with secure cages. The client agrees to inform Wild Paws Pet Care if their dog experiences travel sickness before any services commence.

Liability and Indemnity

Wild Paws Pet Care assumes no responsibility for any consequences, including financial damages, if the client’s dog impregnates or is impregnated by another dog while under our supervision.

The client acknowledges that animals can be unpredictable, and Wild Paws Pet Care cannot be held responsible for any incidents involving the dog(s). Wild Paws Pet Care will promptly inform the client of any incidents or observations regarding their dog(s) that require their attention.

Wild Paws Pet Care is not liable for any injury or damage resulting from the client’s pet escaping due to a faulty or ill-fitting lead or collar.

Post-Walk Care and Cleanliness

Wild Paws Pet Care will rinse and quickly towel dry the dogs if they become wet and muddy during their walk but cannot be held responsible for any dirt or mess caused by your dog in your home after a walk.

Extreme Weather

Wild Paws Pet Care reserves the right to use personal judgment to shorten or cancel a walk in cases of extreme weather conditions. In the event of a cancellation, we will inform the client as soon as possible and discuss alternative arrangements.

Personal Belongings and Media Consent

The client agrees that Wild Paws Pet Care is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged leads, collars, tags, clothing, or other items left with their dog.

The client consents to their pet being photographed or videotaped for any media or advertising produced by Wild Paws Pet Care.

Cancellation Rights

Wild Paws Pet Care reserves the right to cancel the contract with immediate effect under specific circumstances, if a dog displays aggressive behaviour, or causes harm to Wild Paws Pet Care staff or other dogs. In such cases, the current walk and any future walks may also be cancelled, and the client will be charged the full amount for the walk

Additional Terms for Group Walking Services

Wild Paws Pet Care offers a group walking service where dogs may walk off-lead when safe. Off-lead walking requires written consent through an 'Off-Lead Consent Form' and is at the discretion of Wild Paws Pet Care staff. If approved for off-lead exercise, the client must ensure their dog responds reliably to recall commands. All new dogs will typically remain on-lead during an initial trial period.

Group Interaction and Supervision

Wild Paws Pet Care provides a service that allows dogs to interact and socialize with one another. While all interactions are supervised to minimize the risk of injury, the client acknowledges that injuries may still occur during normal play.

The client must inform Wild Paws Pet Care if their unspayed female dog is in season or due to come into season, as she will not be able to participate in group walks. 

Wild Paws Pet Care will not be held liable for any accidental pregnancies if this information is not disclosed. Additionally, the client must inform us if their dog is pregnant so that we can adjust walks accordingly.

Cancellation Due to Behaviour or Health

If a dog behaves in a way that prevents staff from giving equal attention to all dogs in the group, or does not respond well to others in the group, this may lead to cancellation.

Additionally, aggressive or excessively unruly behaviour, such as excessive pulling on the lead, growling, barking, or actions that may harm others, may result in the cancellation of the walk and/or future services.

If a dog in the group becomes unwell or sustains an injury during the walk, the walk will be  immediately cancelled, and all other dogs will be transported home as quickly as possible. In such cases, the client will only be charged for the actual duration of their dog’s participation in the walk. 

Flexible Scheduling for Group Walks

Wild Paws Pet Care offers flexible time blocks for group walks instead of fixed walking times. While clients can specify their preferred walking times, we cannot guarantee these requests. This approach allows us to group the dogs in the most compatible way and ensures they experience a greater variety of walking locations.

Home Visits

Wild Paws Pet Care provides home visit services to ensure the well-being of your pets during your absence. It is important for the client to acknowledge certain responsibilities and limitations regarding this service.

Liability Acknowledgment

The client acknowledges that Wild Paws Pet Care is not liable for any injury, disappearance, or death of a pet with outdoor access. The use of a cat flap or dog flap may increase the risk to the pet’s safety. Furthermore, the client understands that pets such as rats and mice may have a naturally shorter life expectancy, and unexpected death can occur, which is beyond the control of Wild Paws Pet Care.

Essential Supplies

To ensure the proper care of pets, the client must provide all necessary items during their absence. This includes food, water, medication, cat litter, leads, tags, and collars. Should additional supplies be required while the pet is in the care of Wild Paws Pet Care, these will be purchased and added to the final bill.

Litter Tray Requirements

If litter trays are present, we request that clients provide a scoop, plastic bags, any necessary cleaning spray, and fresh cat litter. This applies to any caged animals that require cleaning as well. By ensuring these items are available, Wild Paws Pet Care can provide the best care possible for your pets.

Bookings and Cancellations

Wild Paws Pet Care requests that bookings be made ideally 24 hours in advance to avoid disappointment. However, if existing clients require last-minute care, Wild Paws Pet Care will make every effort to accommodate their pet’s needs, provided arrangements are confirmed by Wild Paws Pet Care staff. Please note that last-minute appointments are not available for new clients, as a “Meet and Greet” is required before services commence.

Cancellations should be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled booking, except in cases of unforeseen circumstances. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the booking may be charged in full.

Payment Terms

Wild Paws Pet Care prefers payment by card through our online booking portal. If you are unable to book appointments online, we offer various payment options and are happy to accommodate what works best for you.

Invoices will be issued via the online portal on Fridays, and we kindly request payment by the following Friday at the latest, unless alternative payment methods have been prearranged.

If you are unable to make a weekly payment due to exceptional circumstances, we will accept a one-week delay. Please note that failure to make payments may result in the suspension of services until all outstanding payments have been received.

The terms and conditions outlined in this document apply to all pets owned by the client, including any new pets acquired on or after the date this document is signed. No variation of these terms and conditions will take effect unless confirmed in writing by Wild Paws Pet Care.