Terms & Conditions

1. General

1.1 All clients will be deemed to have accepted Ribble Trails and Tails terms and conditions (as laid out here) on signature of the contract.

1.2 Ribble Trails and Tails will not confirm any booking until a consultation has been carried out with the client, and the contract with full details of client requirements has been signed by the client.

1.3 Full payment for services (agreed either at the time of booking or subsequently) is to be made within 7 days of receipt of invoice or, by the date specified on the invoice via cash, cheque or bank transfer. If payment is not made within this time 2.5% of the total bill will be added for each day that payment is overdue.

1.4 The client must provide all items necessary for their dog to be adequately cared for in the client’s absence. (i.e., food, medication, leads, tags, collars). Please note that tags are a legal requirement. Should dogs require any additional supplies whilst in the care of Ribble Trails and Tails, these will be purchased and added to the bill with copies of receipts.

1.5 Ribble Trails and Tails will provide poo bags, towels for cleaning, and dog treats unless the client prefers to provide their own dog treats (these will need to be made available at collection time).

1.6 All dogs must be in a secure location prior to collection by the dog walker. Being loose in the garden does not constitute this.

1.7 The client must provide Ribble Trails and Tails with a name and a contact telephone number of someone capable of making a decision relating to their dog in an emergency. A nominated vet’s details will also be recorded and they will be contacted if we are unable to communicate with the client or their representative. The client is responsible for any veterinary bills, no matter how they are incurred, whilst their dog is in the care of Ribble Trails and Tails.

1.8 If your pet requires Emergency Veterinary attention whilst in our care, we will take it to your nominated vet wherever possible. All pets in our care MUST be registered with a vet. If we are unable to go to your vet; we will utilise the nearest vet available. Any consultation, call-out or treatment costs will be charged to the client. Your pet will be treated under your name and address. When you sign the Contract you are confirming that you are giving Ribble Trails and Tails your authority to request any such treatment and that you will pay ALL fees, to the Vet concerned directly in full.

1.9 Ribble Trails and Tails must be alerted to any behavioural problems with your dog(s) at the time of booking. Failure to do so may result in additional charges or cancellation of any future contract.

1.10 Ribble Trails and Tails must be informed if your dog does or has ever used a muzzle and this should be made available for use at our discretion.

1.11 Ribble Trails and Tails reserves the right to refuse or discontinue walks for any dog that doesn’t respond well to the walker or is deemed to be unsuitable for group walks

1.12 Should your dog be in season then she will have to be lead-walked in a quiet area. Clients must inform Ribble Trails and Tails if their dog contracts any infectious condition (e.g. Kennel cough, conjunctivitis). Any dog with an infectious condition will not be walked until cleared to do so by a vet.

1.13 Ribble Trails and Tails holds Public Liability insurance, wherever possible pets should be insured by the client. Ribble Trails and Tails reserves the right to refuse a booking for any animal which is not insured.

1.14 Ribble Trails and Tails will care for your animal as you would. All dog play is carefully monitored to avoid injury but scratches, punctures or other injuries may occur despite the best supervision. Whilst we will make every effort to ensure your pet is well looked after in your absence, Ribble Trails and Tails cannot be held liable for any loss, injury or death to a pet either inside or outside of the home whilst in our care.

1.15 A spare key is required for each household to gain access to your pet. House keys will be kept securely and only marked with the name of your dog and any internal office code.

1.16 Paperwork relating to your dog is kept separate and secure away from keys. No personal details will be forwarded or passed on to any third party. If you prefer Ribble Trails and Tails can collect keys from a neighbour.

1.17 All holiday dates for Ribble Trails and Tails will be provided at the time of consultation and booking. Reminders will be made available through your preferred method of communication 1 month before and are available on the website.

1.18 Ribble Trails and Tails will take photos of your dog(s) while we are out and about and we will upload them to our facebook/instagram page and occasionally our website. Clients will be provided with their own individual photos and brief update after each walk via whatsapp or other preferred method.

2. Dog walking

2.1 Cancellations must be notified at least 48 hours prior to the agreed booking otherwise initial payments for each single walk will be non-refundable. Cancellation on the day will be charged in full but Ribble Trails and Tails may apply discretion depending on the circumstances of the cancellation. Walks will be fully chargeable if Ribble Trails and Tails arrive but cannot gain entry through no fault of our own. Ribble Trails and Tails reserves the right to cancel at short notice and if such an event should occur a full refund will be given.

2.2 All dogs will be exercised on a lead unless prior agreement has been reached with Ribble Trails and Tails and a disclaimer form has been signed. This will be discussed at the time of booking.

2.3 Ribble Trails and Tails walks a maximum of 3 dogs per walk to ensure a safe and enjoyable walk for all dogs in our care. Walks are time booked for either 30 minutes or one hour this does not include pick up or drop off.

2.4 Ribble Trails and Tails will apply personal judgement and cut short a walk if necessary because of extreme weather conditions (i.e, heat, thunder storms) for the safety of both the dogs and the walker. The walk will still be charged for at the agreed rate.

3. Home visits

3.1 Specifics will be agreed at the time of booking. Ribble Trails and Tails will make every effort to ensure your home is left safe and secure in your absence however we cannot be held responsible for any burglaries or accidents caused by your dog(s). We cannot be held liable for any loss or injury or death to a dog(s) either inside or outside your home.

Our commitment

Ribble Trails and Tails agrees to adhere to any specific instructions given by the owner. We will take the utmost care of your dog(s), ensuring their safety and welfare at all times whilst in our care. We will do everything within our power to protect your dog from any danger and will treat your dog(s) with respect and kindness ensuring that they have the very best experience.