1. Keys & Access Policy
Key Collection
- Keys can be collected during the initial meet-and-greet or by prior arrangement.
- If using a keysafe, the code must be provided in advance and tested for functionality.
- Please inform me of any alarms or security systems and provide instructions to arm/disarm them.
Key Labelling & Identification
- Keys are tagged with the dog’s name or a coded label only — no addresses or personal information.
- All keys are catalogued and securely logged in a confidential key list.
Storage & Transportation
- Keys are stored at my residence when not in use.
- During working hours, keys may be carried on my person or kept in a lockable vehicle compartment, depending on what is safest.
Keysafe Requirements
- Keysafes should be in an accessible, well-lit area and maintained free of debris or rust.
- Owners are responsible for faulty or broken keysafes and must notify me of any code changes immediately.
Lost or Stolen Keys
- Owners will be notified immediately.
- I will cover replacement key or locksmith costs if necessary.
- If security is compromised, I will support and cover lock changes.
- A full incident report will be provided, and measures reviewed to prevent recurrence.
2. Property Condition
- Your home will be left in the same condition as found unless specific instructions are given.
- At the end of our relationship, all keys will be returned in person or via tracked post as agreed.
- You may retrieve your key at any time with prior notice.
3. Off-Lead Consent & Walk Behaviour
- Dogs are only allowed off-lead with express consent and reliable recall.
- Recall must be demonstrated over three consecutive walks while on a longline before off-lead privileges are granted.
- Recall will be tested in various environments with distractions.
- If recall is inconsistent, dogs remain on a longline or short lead until re-evaluated.
Dogs with unreliable recall:
- Will be walked on a longline or short lead for safety.
- While every effort is made to ensure safety, animals are inherently unpredictable and there is always a small risk involved.
4. Group Walks
- Group walks are naturally more energetic and may result in dogs becoming muddier.
- Cleaning supplies, towels, dry shampoo, and a portable shower (Mud Daddy) are available to clean dogs to a reasonable standard.
- Lighter-colored dogs may show more visible dirt. Towels should be left out for use, especially in wet weather.
- If dogs are very dirty, protective blankets or towels will be used to protect your furniture.
5. Injuries & Emergencies
- Minor scratches or bumps may occur during group play and are considered normal. I am not liable for minor injuries.
- Medical Emergency:
- I will contact you immediately; if unreachable, your emergency contact will be called.
- If neither can be reached, I will act in the dog’s best interest.
- My insurance covers emergency vet costs unless related to pre-existing conditions.
- Aggressive behaviour resulting in injury may lead to immediate removal from walks and termination of services. Owners are responsible for any vet costs or damages caused by their dog.
Pre-Existing Conditions: Owners must disclose medical or behavioural issues prior to care.
Flea/Tick Control: Dogs must be up-to-date on prevention; Hudson’s Hampshire Hounds is not responsible for infestations resulting from lack of treatment.
6. Behaviour Assessment & Safety Policy
- All dogs must be temperament-assessed prior to joining group walks.
- Dogs showing aggression or unsafe behaviours may be removed immediately.
- Safety of all dogs and myself is a top priority; I reserve the right to refuse or terminate services for dogs that present a risk.
7. Insurance & Liability
- Hudson’s Hampshire Hounds is fully insured for dog walking and pet care.
- Liability is limited to the terms outlined in this agreement.
- I am not responsible for incidents arising from pre-existing medical conditions, behavioural unpredictability, or failure to disclose relevant information.
8. Payment Terms
- Weekly Clients: Invoices sent Fridays, due Monday 5pm.
- Monthly Clients: Invoices sent last Friday of the month, due following Monday 5pm.
- Late payments may result in temporary suspension of services. Repeated late payments may require full payment in advance.
9. Cancellations, Attendance & Holding Fees
Cancellations:
- Minimum 48-hour notice required to avoid charges.
- Late cancellations (<48 hours) incur 50% of the walk rate unless due to emergency.
- Same-day cancellations or no-shows are charged at full rate.
Attendance Requirement:
- Dogs on regular schedules must attend at least 50% of walks each month to maintain their reserved spot.
- Missed walks beyond this incur a £5 holding fee per walk.
Cancellations by Me:
- Clients will be notified as soon as possible if I need to cancel due to illness, weather, or emergencies. Alternative arrangements will be offered where possible.
10. Leads & Equipment
- I use a combination of my own equipment and client-provided items.
- Unsafe leads or harnesses will be replaced with suitable alternatives.
- Lost leads will be replaced with a similar value item (up to £15).
11. Hot Weather Policy
- Walks are replaced with drop-ins when temperatures exceed 22°C.
- Forecasts are monitored, and clients notified in advance.
- Walks may be shortened or rescheduled to prevent overheating.
- Fresh water and collapsible bowls are always carried.
12. Water Access
- Outdoor taps may be used for cleaning dogs; indoor taps may be used to fill water bottles or operate the portable shower.
- Clients should inform me if certain taps should not be used.
13. Wet Weather Adjustment
- Extra cleaning may be required in muddy conditions, potentially reducing walk time by up to 5 minutes.
- Towels should be provided for drying.
14. Lost Dog Policy
Initial Response:
- Search begins immediately with other dogs secured if necessary.
- Owner is contacted if the dog is missing for more than 10 minutes.
Continued Search:
- Route retraced, hiding spots checked, local contacts enlisted if possible.
- Other dogs secured safely while search continues.
If Not Found:
- Local vets, dog wardens, and rescue centres notified.
- Social media alerts may be posted with owner permission.
- Regular updates and a detailed incident log provided.
15. Force Majeure / Emergency Clause
- In cases of extreme weather, illness, or other unforeseen events, services may be modified, rescheduled, or cancelled.
- I will communicate promptly and provide alternatives where possible.
- Hudson’s Hampshire Hounds is not liable for events beyond reasonable control that affect service delivery.
16. Photos & Updates
- Daily updates, photos, and notes will be provided unless opted out.
- A private Facebook group is available for regular updates.
- Photos may be used for promotional purposes unless requested otherwise.
17. Data & Privacy
- All personal information, including your contact details, dog information, and property access instructions, is stored securely and used only for providing Hudson’s Hampshire Hounds services.
- Information will never be shared with third parties without your consent, except where legally required.
- Digital records are protected, and physical records (such as keys or notes) are kept safely and confidentially.
- You can request access to, correction, or deletion of your personal data at any time.