Terms and Conditions | Amy's Animal Service

Terms and conditions

These T&Cs are for the interest of safety, responsibility and welfare for our yous, both human and animal. We reserve the right to change these terms and conditions at any time. Any changes will take immediate effect and it is your responsibility to read these.

Amy’s Animal Services agrees to provide services in a reliable and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, you expressly waive any and all claims against Amy’s Animal Services, unless arising from gross negligence. You agree to notify Amy’s Animal Services of any concerns within 24 hours of service.

1. Training Classes, socials and 1-2-1 Training

1.1. Bookings

1.1.1. A deposit is required before attendance to a class or 1-2-1. To ensure you are guaranteed a place on a course, it is advisable to pay by bank transfer. By booking you have acknowledged that you are aware of our terms and conditions. It is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive at the right venue and at the correct time.

1.2. Classes

1.2.1. We limit the number of dogs in our classes to provide the appropriate trainer-to-dog ratio. Booking in advance guarantees a place on our courses.

1.2.2. You must not knowingly book a dog that shows aggression or nervousness onto a group training course unless it is a specific course that is intended to address these issues. We reserve the right to excuse dogs that are aggressive. If you do not advise us of potential problems and your dog shows aggression in class you will not be entitled to a refund. Contact us if you are not sure whether a class is suitable for your dog. If you are unsure about the suitability of your dog in class and have not asked us to assess your dog before your attendance, you will not be refunded if your dog is unsuitable for the class you have booked. If we have agreed to your dog attending but the dog is not suited to the class environment, we will offer you alternative arrangements, such as working with you on a one-to-one basis.

1.2.3. We are unable to refund course fees once the course has commenced and partial refunds for missed classes are not given. Please notify us beforehand if you will miss a class. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide makeup sessions however we will endeavour to ensure you are able to catch up at your next attendance.

1.2.4. Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to cancel the contract (at any time & with immediate effect) if any dog(s) under the contract do not respond well to the therapy plan (where the continuing of said contract is deemed, by Amy’s Animal Services, to constitute a risk).

1.2.5. Amy's Animal Services will apply personal judgement and ask an owner to remove their dog from a class if necessary if we feel the dog is not coping well. In the case of anxious dogs, we may change to 1-2-1 sessions.

1.3. Health and safety

1.3.1. When arriving at class please avoid crowding doorways and allow plenty of room for a dog to enter and exit the site. On arrival enter the site when requested.

1.3.2. A toilet break before each class/1-2-1 will ensure your dog is empty and comfortable. Please be a responsible dog owner and always clean up after your dog.

1.3.3. For livelier, excitable dogs it can be beneficial to exercise your dog before class/1-2-1 with a game or a short walk. Do not over-exercise your dog before a class otherwise they will be too weary.

1.3.4. Please consider others in the class and switch your phone to silent. Photography or video recording is not permitted in class. We may record for promotional or training purposes, however, please alert us if you do not wish to appear.

1.3.5. Our training involves practical handling therefore appropriate shoes and clothing are recommended. Please wear comfortable flat shoes for safety reasons, as you will be moving about. You will be required during training to get down on the ground therefore suitable attire is recommended. It may be muddy at the venue so Wellies or walkies shoes are recommended.

1.3.6. Please keep to areas of the site designated only for our training purposes. All dogs must be kept under the owner’s control and on a lead, except where specifically instructed. You are responsible for the conduct of your dog at all times. Dogs in class must not lunge at other dogs present.

1.3.7. We provide a safe and secure environment as practicably reasonable and endeavour to apply good practices with all our training services. We endeavour to run all classes in a safe and professional manner as possible. Amy’s Animal Services also takes all reasonable precautions when providing behavioural services to minimise the risk of injury from being bitten. However, dog training is not without risk therefore participation in training and behaviour services is at the owner’s risk. Amy’s Animal services or any of its individual assistants, or helpers, will not accept responsibility for any loss, injury or damage to any persons, or dogs attending a course, or to their property however caused during the provision of dog training activities.

1.3.8. We encourage family members to attend classes. Children are welcome and when encouraged to participate often make competent handlers. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Children are encouraged to behave appropriately in the presence of unfamiliar dogs and are requested not to run in class, or distract other dogs from working. For safety reasons, it is advisable all children are educated in how to approach an unfamiliar dog.

1.3.9. Young children may not find training classes exciting. It can be challenging to supervise young children while training a dog. Very young children can become bored and may need another adult to supervise them. If you provide your children with entertainment during a class, please ensure it is quiet and will not distract the class.

1.3.10. Welfare and safety of all dogs are paramount to us. Dogs in an unfit state of health due to illness, disease or injury cannot be brought to class. Do not bring your dog to class if they have been in contact with an infectious disease, such as kennel cough or conjunctivitis. If you are unsure as to whether your dog is well enough to attend, please refer to your Vet. If your dog is unable to attend you are encouraged to attend the class without your dog so you can maintain continuity of training.

1.3.11. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure dogs are adequately protected by vaccination as advised by their vet. It is recommended that Puppies wait to attend group classes until 1 week after their 2nd vaccination. It is also the owner’s responsibility to ensure their dogs are adequately protected against fleas and worms. It is recommended that dogs are vaccinated against; Canine Distemper, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Canine Parvovirus. An unvaccinated dog may put itself and others at risk. Amy’s Animal Services takes no responsibility for any dog that may contract any of the aforementioned diseases. Amy’s Animal Services may ask for proof of vaccination and veterinary information which must be provided.

1.3.12. Bitches in season are not permitted to attend a class. Please notify us if you consider your bitch may come into season during a course. Refunds are not given though we may offer alternative arrangements, such as deferring to another course or 1-2-1 sessions.

1.4.Cancellations

1.4.1. Cancellations for a course that has been paid for require at least 48 hours notice before the start of a course. Course fees will not be refunded within 48 hours notice of the course starting. We are unable to refund course fees once the course has commenced. Any refund will incur a £20.00 administration fee. No refunds are given for non-attendance to a course.

1.4.2. The Landlord of the venue may at short notice cancel our use of the site. Should this occur, or that the venue is cancelled for any unforeseen circumstances, such as COVID-19 restrictions, you will be notified by email, or text as soon as possible. In such instances, we will move classes to an online format or defer the course to a later date.

1.4.3. Insufficient numbers booked onto a course may result in the course being postponed or cancelled. In this instance, you will be notified of future course dates or offered 1-2-1 sessions. If this is not acceptable a full refund will be given.

1.4.4. Requests for a refund and any cancellations, including for one-to-ones are made at the discretion of Amy’s Animal Services and any decision is made on a case-by-case basis.

1.5. Start times

1.5.1. Please arrive in time for each class as latecomers can be disruptive to the other dogs in class. Dogs arriving late can experience stress if barked at by the other dogs. If you are late and we are working dogs off lead, for safety reasons the doors will be locked. Please wait for a convenient moment and we will open the door for you.

1.6. Our methods

1.6.1. We practise kind, fair and effective techniques avoiding the need to use physical correction of any type.

1.6.2. Harsh handling of dogs is wholeheartedly discouraged and the use of check chains and other coercive or punitive methods, including lead jerking, shouting or smacking, is not permitted.

1.6.3. You may not use any gadget or device in class that we consider aversive, such as slips leads, pinch collars, spray collars, compressed air canisters, rattle cans or water squirters, or any other device, or method, that has the potential to cause injury, pain or fear. Any owner who continues to use harsh methods when asked not to, will be asked to leave our classes and not return.

1.7. Additional terms and conditions for 1-2-1s

1.7.1. The training session will take place at your home or at a suitable, agreed location, depending on the nature of the training. Practical aspects of the programme are included and will be demonstrated to you.

1.7.2. A non-refundable deposit must be paid at least 48 hours prior to the training session. If booking a 'package' of sessions, the deposit must be paid prior to the first appointment. Any parking expenditure or congestion charge, if applicable, will be in addition. If you need to cancel your appointment please inform me, allowing 48 hours notice. Cancelled appointments with less than the notice period will incur a cancellation charge of £30.00. For a package deal, the session will still be counted as one session.

1.7.3. You are happy for Amy’s Animal Services to share success stories about my dog via social media and share photos. You agree that Amy’s Animal Services can use my pet's photograph(s) and/or video(s) taken during training sessions for educational and promotional purposes in any type of media.

1.7.4. You agree to report/check in regularly about your dog’s progress through either email, text, or by or respond to any communication from Amy’s Animal Services. Continual failure to do so can result in the termination of your support.

1.7.5. In the case of behavioural issues you agree to give consent to work with us and are happy for us to contact your vet on your behalf.

1.7.6. Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to cancel the contract (at any time & with immediate effect) if any dog(s) under the contract do not respond well to the therapy plan (where the continuing of said contract is deemed, by Amy’s Animal Services, to constitute a risk).

1.7.7. The trainer will apply personal judgement and cut short a training session, if necessary if we feel the dog is not coping well. In the case of anxious dogs, we may do the initial session with the owner only or split the initial consultation into two smaller sessions.

1.7.8. Dogs must be always kept under control when I am entering your premises. Failure to do so and any injury caused by your dog being out of control will be your full responsibility. In cases where your dog is anxious of people, I will meet you outside your premises first and in some instances, we may work only outside taking a hands-off approach working at a distance (especially in cases of anxious dogs).

1.7.9. In some cases, I use stooge dogs to aid training. You will be responsible for keeping your dog a sufficient and safe distance from the stooge dog and if asked will need your dog to wear a muzzle during these sessions.

1.7.10. You are happy to write a testimonial if requested.

1.7.11. All dogs that are known to bite other dogs or cause injury need to wear a muzzle, we take no responsibility for dogs who are not muzzled or kept under control, during our session or when working outside of our session. Failure to wear a muzzle when asked may result in termination of your support.

1.7.12. Dogs must be always kept under control when I am entering your premises. Failure to do so and any injury caused by your dog being out of control will be your full responsibility.

1.7.13. You understand and agree that Amy’s Animal Services does not offer free evaluations or consultations and that the first visit is considered session #1 of the program.

1.7.14. You understand that lesson duration is determined by the trainer at the time of service and that time spent during the session discussing my dog, dog training and/or behaviour is considered training/lesson time.

1.7.15. You further agree to accept responsibility for any damages the above-named dog may cause through malicious, aggressive or improper behaviour that may occur before, during, or after all services provided by Amy’s Animal Services. You also agree to assume all responsibility for any damage done to property, persons, or other dogs done by yourself or your Dog's actions.

1.7.16. You understand and agree that dog training may involve risks to yourself, members of you’s family, or Dog. Client assumes all risks associated with participating in this training and will not hold Amy’s Animal Services responsible in the event of injury to Client, you’s family member or Dog.

1.7.17. You understand that Amy’s Animal Services agrees to provide private lessons for You and your Dog on a lesson-by-lesson basis, the goal being to teach you how to train and work with their Dog. Amy’s Animal Services will make every reasonable effort to help you achieve training and/or behaviour modification goals but makes no guarantee of Dog’s performance or behaviour as a result of providing professional animal behaviour training and advice.

1.7.18. You understand that in the case of behavioural issues you agree to give consent to work with us and are happy for us to contact your vet on your behalf.

1.7.19. You understand that Amy’s Animal Services practise kind, fair and effective techniques avoiding the need to use physical correction of any type. Harsh handling of dogs is wholeheartedly discouraged and the use of check chains and other coercive or punitive methods, including lead jerking, shouting or smacking, is not permitted. You agree that you may not use any gadget or device for training that we consider aversive, such as slips leads, pinch collars, spray collars, compressed air canisters, rattle cans or water squirters, or any other device, or method, that has the potential to cause injury, pain or fear. If you continue to use harsh methods when asked not to, your sessions terminated.

1.7.20. You understand that cancellations for a course that has been paid for require at least 48 hours notice. Course fees will not be refunded within 48 hours notice of the course starting. We are unable to refund course fees once the course has commenced. Any refund will incur a £20.00 administration fee. No refunds are given for non-attendance to a course.

1.7.21. You acknowledge that Amy's Animal Services has not represented, promised, guaranteed or warranted that Dog will never bite, that Dog will not be dangerous or vicious in the future, that Dog will not exhibit other behavioural problems, or that the results of the training will last for any particular amount of time.

1.7.22. You understand that you and members of the household must follow Amy's Animal Services instructions without modification, work with dog daily as recommended, and constantly reinforce training being given to Dog. You agrees to comply with the instructions, rules and decisions about training as it relates to you or Dog's ability to safely complete each training session.

1.7.23. You understand and agree that Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to terminate this Agreement at any time without any further liability or obligation to me.

1.7.24. You will reimburse Amy’s Animal Services for any and all personal injury and/or property damage caused by their dog while being trained by Amy’s Animal Services.

1.8 Disclaimer (Classes and 1-2-1s)

1.8.1. Although we cannot fully guarantee a 100% success rate with our training methods, we have a high success rate with previous yous who follow and practice our methods in the long term. Our methods are all kind and effective however are never instant and take commitment from you to work with your dog in the long term. The elimination or modification of behaviours is not guaranteed and dog training does not always provide exact results. Each dog is different in regards to ability, breeding, and temperament.

1.8.2. Animal aggression can cause injury, including fatal injury, to other animals and people. Treatment for aggression is not a guarantee of success and modifying behaviour does not assure that the aggression will be successfully controlled. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that their pet does not harm in the future. Precautions may involve but are not limited to, keeping a dog on a lead, the use of a muzzle, informing others of the dog’s aggressive tendencies, not mixing with certain types of people or other dogs, or confinement behind fencing and doors. Owners remain responsible for their dogs at all times and are advised they have adequate pet or household insurance cover for liability in the unlikely event of damage or injury caused by their dog to property or to a third party. It is strongly recommended that your dog is insured for third party liability with or without vet cover.

1.8.3. Amy’s Animal Services is insured, however, any accident or injury during our training session will not be covered if you have failed to use the appropriate equipment or failed to follow my advice.

2. Pet sitting, house sitting and dog walking

2.1 Booking and payment

2.1.1 Amy’s Animal Services will not confirm any booking until a face-to-face meet and greet has been carried out, with both you and the pet, with full details of any special requirements, and a contract has been signed by you. Unless otherwise agreed due to circumstances.

2.1.2. We try where possible to walk your dogs/visit your pets within a requested allocated time on a first come first basis, however, due to traffic, we can never guarantee any specific times. We shall always try and visit your pets as near as possible to the time slot you request but we reserve the right to visit outside of the allotted time slot in case of any situations or problems that may arise on other visits. I would like to take this moment to remind everyone that I do not drive and rely on public transport.

2.1.3. Deposits are required to secure bookings and dates for overnight stays/house sits. These deposits are non-refundable and the amount required is at the discretion of Amy’s Animal Services.

2.1.4. All fees are to be paid on the day of the visit or before. In some cases, such as emergency service, fees may be paid at a later date at Amy’s Animal Services discretion.
2.2Security and keys

2.2.1. If it is necessary for keys to be picked up or dropped off, charges may be applied to the final bill to cover each trip. Keys will need to be provided 48 hours prior to the service commencing.

2.2.2. Amy’s Animal Services can not be held liable for any accident or injury to your pet when we are not in your house, this includes the unlikely likelihood of a fire or burglary.

2.2.3. Please inform Amy’s Animal Services of any video cameras/additional security measures in place. In the failure to do so we have the right to terminate the contract.

2.2.4. For safety purposes Amy’s Animal Services will always have their phone on them during service.

2.2.5. If you have any additional security measures please inform us before the service takes place.

2.2.6. All keys when not in use will be kept in a secure lockbox. Keys will not be marked with any of your details but may be identified by your pet’s name. If we have not heard from you for 24 months then we reserve the right to securely dispose of your keys.

2.2.7. If we cannot access your property due to a faulty key or lock, then there will be no refund for the cost of the visit.

2.2.8. Following the service period Amy’s Animal Services will securely retain the Client’s key(s) for safekeeping of the above address until the Client contacts the Sitter to arrange repossession of key(s). Amy’s Animal Services will not post keys back through the letterbox in case of you travel delays, or ingestion by the pet. There may be a fee for key return, this is at the discretion of Amy’s Animal Services.

2.2.9. Amy’s Animal Services will keep secure and confidential any keys, passcodes, access numbers and personal information.

2.3.Cancellations

2.3.1. Once payment has been paid and you need to cancel your appointment we do not offer refunds, unless due to special circumstances at the discretion of Amy’s Animal Services.

2.3.2. Please note there are no refunds if you arrive home early.

2.3.3.The following cancellation charges will apply to dog walking and pop-in visits:

If cancelled within less than 24 hours notice of the start date, full payment will be required. If less than 48hrs notice given 50% of payment required.

2.3.4. The following cancellation charges will apply to overnight stays/housesits:

If you cancel between 1-7 days, full payment will be required.
If you cancel between 8-14 days, the deposit will be kept.
If you cancel between 14-30 days’ 25% of your deposit will be returned to you.

2.3.5. Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to deny service or terminate service because of safety concerns, financial concerns, or inappropriate or uncomfortable situations.

2.4. Medical, veterinary, loss and injury

2.4.1. You are responsible for any veterinary bills, regardless of how they are incurred, whilst the recipient is in the care of Amy’s Animal Services.

2.4.2. In the unlikely circumstance that we need to take your pet to the vet payment plans should be organised prior to the service taking place.

2.4.3. Please inform us of any medical history your pet has prior to walking/sitting arrangements.

2.4.4. Please form us of any allergies your pet has prior to walking/sitting arrangements.

2.4.5. Amy’s Animal Services will endeavour to care for the pet as you would and, whilst we will make every effort to ensure that your pet is well looked after in your absence, Amy’s Animal Services cannot be held liable for any loss, injury or death to the pet, either inside or outside of the home, whilst in our care.

2.4.6.Amy's Animal Services will not be liable for any incident that occurs during transportation of the dogs to a vet, kennel or clinic.

2.4.7. You will provide any medication or special needs instructions for each of the pets.

2.4.8. Amy’s Animal Services cannot be responsible for pets that bite, suffer an accidental death or escape from faulty fencing or from inside the home due to faulty screens, doors, etc.

2.4.9. Amy’s Animal Services cannot be responsible for any complications pets may suffer or actions of pets while they are unattended.

2.4.10. Amy’s Animal Services shall not be held responsible for the loss, injury, death, or actions of any pet that you have let outside or is allowed outside while Amy's Animal Services is not there. This includes pets with cat/dog flaps and outdoor pets.

2.4.11. Amy’s Animal Services will not sit for acutely ill animals or those with uncontrolled medical conditions. We suggest the pet be boarded with a vet.

2.4.12. Amy’s Animal Services does not diagnose, prognose, or make therapy decisions, nor does it offer veterinary services. Any veterinary/medical concerns will be referred to a veterinarian.

2.4.13. Amy’s Animal Services can not be responsible for the pet or home if another service provider enters your property during the agreed sitter period.

2.5. Behavioural/training issues

2.5.1. Amy’s Animal Services must be alerted to any behavioural problems your pet(s) have at the time of booking. Failure to do so may result in additional charges or cancellation of any future contract.

2.5.2. All behavioural issues will be discussed during the meet and greet. Please inform us of any likes/dislikes or fears/phobias your pet has prior to arrangements.

2.6. Emergency contact and non-medical emergencies

2.6.1. You must provide Amy’s Animal Services with the names and contact numbers of a third party, who can decide relating to the pet in case of emergency. If the contact is not available, Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to consult with a veterinary surgeon and decide which is in the best interests of the pet.

2.6.2. The emergency contact needs to be an independent person (ie. not one of your holiday party) and be authorised to make a decision on your behalf should a situation with your pet arise and we are unable to get in.

2.6.3. In the unlikely event of you being delayed from returning an emergency contact needs to be in place to take over the service if we are unable to continue doing so ourselves.

2.6.4. You agree to authorise Amy’s Animal Services to handle any non-medical emergencies (e.g. gas leak, burst pipe, etc) that may arise. Amy’s Animal Services will make every effort to contact you, however, you give Amy’s Animal Services authority to act in the pet’s / home’s best interest.

2.7.Equipment/household supplies

2.7.1. You must provide all items necessary for the pet(s) to be adequately cared for in your absence; including (but not limited to) ‘waste bags’, food, medication, leads, tags, collars.

2.7.2. Should pets require any additional supplies whilst in the care of Amy’s Animal Services, these will be purchased and added to the final bill. If any required items are taken from your home then you will be informed, however, the restocking of such items remains the responsibility of you (unless agreed upon beforehand and added to the final bill).

2.7.3. You are not expected to provide food or drink for Amy’s Animal Services during pet sitting, however, items for personal care such as toilet paper, clean bed linen and towels should be provided. Coffee is appreciated.

2.7.4. During any sits Amy's Animall Services is permitted to use your house's amenities (heating, electricity, water, etc).

2.8. Photography/media

2.8.1. Amy’s Animal Services may wish to take (and retain) photographs of the pet to demonstrate their services. At no point will these pictures feature the owners, their family or their homes (in such a way that could result in a compromise to the security of the premises). If you would prefer that ‘Amy’s Animal Services did not retain such pictures, please indicate this on the contract.

2.8.2. Pictures of the pet may be taken to aid recognition and (in the unlikely event that the recipient gets free) to aid in retrieval. Should you have indicated their wish for such pictures not to be retained then the picture/s will be erased at the end of the contracted period.

2.8.3. Amy’s Animal services will often post photos of your dog on Social Media. Please inform us if you do not want any of your pets’ photos shared.

2.9. Walk requirements

2.9.1. All dogs will be exercised on a lead unless a prior agreement has been reached with Amy’s Animal Services and the disclaimer section of the contract has been signed.

2.9.2. The walker will apply personal judgement and cut short a walk, if necessary, because of extreme weather conditions; including, but not limited to excessive heat, torrential rain, thunderstorms and snow/ice. The decision to do so lies with the judgement of the walker, for the safety of themselves, members of the public, other animals and that of the dog(s).

2.9.3.If the recipient requires towelling off after walks, towels must be provided and left by the front door. We towel dry dogs after a walk, however cannot guarantee that all mud traces will be removed. We recommend protecting household items such as sofas or providing extra covers on these items or having a separate area to keep dogs after a walk.

2.9.4.Dogs will be picked up and walked to a safe walking location. Walk time will start from the moment we arrive at your home to the time we drop off your dog. Any additional services, i.e. towel drying will be included in this time.

2.9.5. As dogs are walked around owners' neighbourhood, it is useful if owners let us know where good walking places are.

2.9.6. You will provide all required leads, harnesses, muzzles, jackets and collars. Unless otherwise agreed.

2.9.7. Amy’s Animal Services will perform the dog-walking duties to the best of their abilities, in a reliable and caring manner.

2.9.8. Amy’s Animal Services will supply and be equipped with a pooper scooper and/or disposable waste bags.

2.9.9. While Amy's Animal Services will try to accommodate your dog's normal walking schedule during a housesit, this may not always be possible due to their daily work. There is a chance your dog may only get one walk every other day, however in this case Amy's Animal Services will ensure your dog has appropriate enrichment to keep them stimulated. If the owner would like more regular walks it is up to you to book an additional dog walker.

2.9.10. If Amy's Animal Services percieves a risk to themselves either by attempting to place the appointed walking equipment on the dog or when walking the dog due to nervous or aggressive behaviour, walks can be refused by Amy's Animal Services with no notice given at any time during the sit.

2.10. Additional services

2.10.1. Amy’s Animal Services will always treat your home with the greatest of respect and endeavour to leave your property in the same condition prior to our services. In the case of pet sitting overnight we are happy to strip the beds, hoover where necessary and wash up any dog bowls however, we are not a cleaning or laundry service including washing bed linen or dog beds.

2.10.2. Amy's Animal Services is also not obligated to clean up dog mess in owner's back gardens when the garden is large; overgrown; muddy; or there is bad weather. Amy's Animal Services can provide the detail of businesses that provided this type of cleaning service.

2.11.Legislation and safety

2.11.1. In accordance with the control of Dogs Order 1922, dogs should wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on it. A telephone number is optional but advisable. Failure to do so may result in a fine, which the dog owner will be liable for. Amy’s Animal Services can source a tag and collar, at an additional cost which will be added to the final bill, or can provide a temporary collar and tag.

2.11.2. Amy’s Animal Services reserves the right to cancel the contract (at any time & with immediate effect) if any pet(s) under the contract do not respond well to the pet sitter (where the continuing of said contract is deemed, by Amy’s Animal Services, to constitute a risk). In the likelihood of such events, your emergency contact will be contacted.

2.11.3.The you will be considered liable for any damages or injuries caused by the dogs while under the care of the Dog Walker/pet sitter. You agree to be responsible for all costs (including, but not limited to, medical care, attorney fees, etc) if your pet should bite another person or animal.

2.11.4. Client is required to tell Amy’s Animal Services if a dog has a bite injury whether there has been police involvement or not. If the dog is required to wear a muzzle you must provide it. Amy’s Animal Services will not be held liable for any injuries caused due to ill-fitting muzzles.

3. Workshops

4. Playdates

5. Grooming

5.1. Payment and pricing

5.1.1. Any quotes provided are an estimate only. Grooms are charged at £15 per hour. Additional charges may be incurred due to:

size/breed
age
temperament
tolerance to grooming
Weight
coat condition
fleas/ticks
Dogs that require additional handling for whatever reason

5.1.2. The minimum charge for a dog grooming appointment is £30

5.2.Cancellations

5.2.1. We require 48 hours notice for cancelled appointments or the full grooming charge will apply and must be paid in full before re-booking. Please either email or text. We are more than happy to reschedule.

5.2.2. If you fail to be there for your appointment and have not cancelled or rescheduled the full cost of the groom will be payable. No further appointment will be given to you until this fee is paid in full.

5.3. Health and medical

5.3.1. A full groom can take in excess of 3 hours and is physically demanding as well as stressful for some animals), especially for senior, young, overweight dogs or those with medical concerns. Whilst Amy’s Animal Services make every effort to provide additional support to elderly/infirm/overweight and young dogs we cannot guarantee that your dog will be able to adequately support themselves for the duration of the groom which may result in serious health risks. There is also an increased risk of other injuries such as cuts and grazes. Amy’s Animal Services reserve the right to stop the grooming process at any time with payment in full.

5.3.2.The process may expose unknown medical conditions or aggravate a current one during or after the groom. Unless we are deemed to be negligent all medical expenses are the responsibility of the owner.

5.3.3. Amy’s Animal Services are unable to groom pregnant or in-season bitches. Should your Bitch be in season during the time of a pre-booked appointment notice must be provided to avoid the cancellation charge noted above.

5.3.4. There is always the possibility an accident could occur. Grooming equipment is sharp, even though we use extreme caution and care in all situations. Possible problems that could occur include cuts, nicks, scratches and quickening of the nails. In most cases, this can happen when a dog is wiggling or moving around. We make every effort to ensure your dog is groomed as safely as possible, but if your dog does not accept the process it can be dangerous to continue the groom.

5.3.5. A general ‘visible’ health check takes place prior to any groom. Whilst bathing or grooming if I find anything that I think you should be concerned about I will inform you when you collect your pet. Please remember that grooming is not a substitute for a veterinary inspection and staff are not qualified to diagnose abnormalities or disease.

5.3.6. We don’t empty anal glands. This is a veterinary procedure.

5.3.7. We only pluck ear hairs that come out easily and if your dog can tolerate it. Ear plucking can be painful for the dog and can further irritate an ear canal already prone to irritation and lead to ear problems that may not have occurred otherwise.

5.3.8. Please remember your animal is a moving, living thing. It may not sit 100% still, we can only do our best. We have the right to halt the groom at any point if your animal is distressed, and we may suggest that Amy’s Animal Services return in a couple of days for us to complete the groom when your dog is more accepting to finish the procedure.

5.3.9. You agree that the groomer will not be held liable or responsible for irritation, abrasion, shaving rash, patchiness or other hair loss as a result of the process of grooming, de-matting, thinning, stripping, or shaving or any mishap caused by the non-disclosure of your pets medical condition or behaviour.

5.3.10. If your pet becomes particularly distressed, your pet will be given a short rest period. This may prolong the overall grooming time period. Elderly dogs are welcome at your own risk. They are always given extra time and great care and kindness extended. Our estimated grooming times are just that – an estimate.

5.3.11. No animal will be groomed if they are obviously sick.

5.3.12. No liability will be accepted by Amy’s Animal Services when any health problem is uncovered or aggravated by any part of the grooming process. We will endeavour to notify you of anything we uncover during the grooming.

5.3.13. Please toilet/walk your dog before their appointment.

5.4. Fleas/ticks

5.4.1. If you think that your pet has fleas, or you suspect them, or if you know that you have them, we ask that your grooming appointment be rescheduled to a time when your pet is free from said infestation. 48 hours notice must be provided to avoid a cancellation charge. We recommend that you contact your veterinary surgeon to provide you with the best recommended treatment.

5.4.2.If fleas are found on your pet, we are required to do additional disinfection of equipment.

5.4.3. An additional £15 will be charged to your bill if Fleas are found. If ticks are found an additional £5 will be charged to include removal. We will not be held responsible for any infection caused by the tick or removal thereof.

5.5.Coat condition and de-matting

5.5.1. Amy’s Animal Services practices humanity over vanity. If we are presented with a neglected coat and believe, in our professional opinion, it is kinder to remove the coat than it is to de-mat this will be done in accordance with The Animal Welfare Act 2006. Whilst we will make every effort to identify this as part of the pre-groom consultation and coat assessment there may be occasions where the degree of matting cannot be fully identified until we commence the groom. In this event, we will do what we believe is in the best interest of the welfare of the pet. Amy’s Animal Services will only attempt to de-mat or comb out a couple of knots in a coat only if we feel that the animal will not suffer pain, and the procedure will take a few minutes. If it will take longer or is too much then we will shave the area(s).

5.5.2. When a pet’s coat becomes matted, it causes discomfort as the mats pull tightly on the skin and underlying health conditions may not be visible. It pulls, twists and ridges, felts to the skin and causes grazes or catch marks to the skin. We will not ‘just bath and dry’ any animal that is matted because you do not want the coat shorter or you think the animal looks fine as it is. If this is your requirement then please find an alternative grooming establishment to take your dog to. When shaving off the coat, we will shave using a very close blade, attempts will be made to leave your pet some dignity by leaving them with as much fur as possible, to your length requirements if possible. Although, we afford ALL CARE & ATTENTION during this process, some minor irritation, marking or shaving rash may occur – which does not usually require veterinary treatment and which normally settles within a day or so. If shaving is carried out in your pets best interests and you have agreed to this course of action then you understand these risks may occur and we are not liable for any of the above problems experienced by shaving. The process of de-matting increases the risk of injury including but not limited to cuts and grazes, skin irritations caused by the shortness of the clipper blades that will be used as well as possible haematomas. In addition, you may see some behavioural changes such as head shaking, excessive scratching, licking and “scooting”. This is where the dog will scrape their back end on the floor to relieve itching and irritations. Should you have any concerns you should seek advice from your usual vet. Behavioural changes may also be caused by the owner accusing the pet of looking silly and exclaiming “What have they done to you?” Your pet only recognises your tone of voice and not what you are actually saying and thinks he has done something wrong and goes and hides under the bed. The owner then misconstrues this as the pet not liking what happened to him at the grooming shop. We do not traumatise your pets. We love them and treat them as our own.

5.5.3. Removal of the matting may also reveal skin irritations caused by moisture trapped near the pet’s skin allowing mould, fungus or bacteria to grow. Clipping may also reveal embedded grass seeds, which may leave puss-filled holes in your pet’s skin if not removed and treated by your vet. You will be advised on collection what the state of the skin has been found to be.

The health and condition of a dog’s coat and skin are the responsibility of the owner.

5.5.4. An additional cost will be incurred for any dogs that require knot or matted coat removal. This incurs additional costs because it is a time-consuming process requiring expertise so as not to injure the animal, it also dulls equipment. Any additional products used in knot removal will be charged for.

5.5.5. The after-effects of mat removal procedures can include itchiness, skin redness, self-inflicted irritations or abrasions and failure of the hair to re-grow. Shaved pets are also prone to sunburn and should either have sunscreen applied daily or should be kept out of the sun until the hair grows sufficiently to protect the skin. In some cases, pets may also exhibit brief behavioural changes.

5.6.Behaviour

5.6.1.You have the obligation to inform Amy’s Animal Services of any known aggressive behaviour traits their pet may have to

humans. Specifically, the owner must inform Amy’s Animal Services if they have been advised by previous groomer(s) of any of the behavioural issues during grooming. Owners MUST inform us if your pet bites, has bitten or is aggressive to people, or specific grooming procedures.

5.6.2. Amy’s Animal Services caters to dogs with nervous traits, owners have the obligation to inform us of any such behaviours in order for us to cater to their needs to the best of our ability.

5.6.3. Behavioural charges will be decided by Amy’s Animal Services depending on the severity of the behaviour and the time, skill, and equipment required to groom the dog. If your dog should bite the groomer, you agree to be responsible for all related medical bills, loss of earnings and equipment damage. We reserve the right to refuse service if we believe your dog may become a danger to itself or the groomer. In the event, any of these behaviours present during the groom the session may be stopped at any time and the full fee incurred.

5.7.Photography/ media

5.7.1.We reserve the right to take and use pictures of your pet for social media, advertising and education. If you do not wish pictures of your pet to be used for these purposes, you must notify us at the time of your appointment.

5.7.2. A photograph pre and post grooming may be taken for comparison of ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures, and may be used on our Social Media Pages/groups or website.

5.8.Additional cat grooming terms and conditions

5.8.1. For safety of Amy’s Animal Services and your Pet, Amy’s Animal Services requires that you disclose when booking if your cat exhibits or is prone to any difficult or aggressive behaviour.

5.8.2.For health and safety – All cats will have nails cut prior to grooming.

5.8.3. The minimum charge for a cat grooming appointment is £30. All prices quoted are an estimate and can be subject to change depending on the circumstances.

5.8.4.Cats showing signs of aggression will not be bathed and may be muzzled or the groom might be terminated.

5.8.5. An additional cost will be incurred for any cats that require knot or matted coat removal. This incurs additional costs because it is a time-consuming process requiring expertise so as not to injure the animal, it also dulls equipment. Any additional products used in knot removal will be charged for.

5.9.Complaints

5.9.1.When you see your grooming result, please advise me before I leave if you would like the face, tail or whatever slightly tweaked or shorter etc so that we can do this straight away. This is never an issue and I would rather you say there and then so we can tweak at that time.

5.9.2. If for some reason you are not happy we will try to resolve the issue quickly and amicably. However, if you are not happy with the groom you must let me know before I leave your house, to resolve the issue.

6. Website and social media pages/groups

6.1.The information on this site/social media is provided on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. We try to ensure, but do not guarantee or warrant, the accuracy or completeness, availability or reliability of the information on our website. Our aim is to keep this information timely and accurate. If errors are brought to our attention we will try and correct them.

6.2. We exclude any warranty, express or implied, as to the quality or fitness for a particular purpose of any of the content on this site.

6.3. We reserve exclusive right at our sole discretion to alter, limit or discontinue part of this site. Under no circumstances shall we be liable for any loss, damage or liability or expense suffered which is claimed to result from the use of this site, including without limitation, any fault, error, omission, interruption or delay. Use of this site is at the user’s sole risk.

6.4. We make every effort to minimise disruption caused by technical errors. However, some data or information on our site may have been created or structured in files or formats, which are not error-free, and we cannot guarantee that our service will not be interrupted or otherwise affected by such problems. We accept no responsibility with regards to such problems (failure of performance, computer virus, communication line failure, alternation of content, etc.) incurred as a result of using this site or any link to external sites.

6.5. The materials on this site (and social media pages/groups) do not constitute medical, financial or other professional advice. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.

6.6. Amy’s Animal Services website and its content, including without limitation the design, text, graphics and all software and source codes connected with the website and its services, are protected by copyright and other intellectual property rights and legislation. In accessing the Website you agree that you will access the contents solely for your personal, non-commercial use. None of the content may be downloaded, copied, reproduced, transmitted or distributed without the prior written consent of the copyright holder. Photographs, videos or any graphics cannot be used without the accompanying text or without obtaining the permission of the copyright holder. Material from this website is for personal use only and is not to be redistributed. To our knowledge the books, DVDs, training devices or equipment promoted via Amy’s Animal Services are to promote only kind, fair and effective methods. We do not intend to endorse any material that advocates the use of punishment or harsh methods. Opinions and advice given through this website via these materials may not reflect those of Amy’s Animal Services.

6.7. Any external link via this website or social media pages/groups affiliated with Amy’s Animal Services is provided for convenience. Use of links or their content is at your own risk. I am happy to link to other websites however please contact us first before linking to this website.

7. Privacy

7.1. Privacy notice

When you supply your personal details to us they are stored and processed for 2 reasons:

1. We need to collect personal information in order to provide our services safely and effectively and as such have a ‘Legitimate Interest’.

2. Provided we have your consent, on occasion we may email you news, updates from us, announcements about and offers for our training courses. You may withdraw this consent at any time by emailing us.

We have a legal obligation to retain our records about you for 7 years after your most recent appointment. After this period you can ask us to delete our records about you. Otherwise, we may retain our records about you indefinitely in order that we can provide the best possible service should you contact us again in the future.

Your records are stored on paper at our premises and on our email systems (which is hosted by a third party and secured by password) and Google Drive.

We will never share your data with anyone who does not need access without your written consent. Only the following people will have routine access to your data:

Amy-Rose McAllister
Amy’s Animal Services team members

We will never pass your details on to other parties without your permission

You have the right to see what personal data of yours we hold, and you can ask us to correct any factual errors. Provided the legal minimum period has elapsed, you can also ask us to erase your records by emailing us.

We may collect the following information:

Name and telephone number
Information including email address
Demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests
Other information relevant to supporting you and your pet’s needs

What we do with the information we gather:

We require the above information to understand you and your pet’s needs and provide you with a better service and for the following reasons:

Internal record keeping.

To improve our products or/and services.

We may also use your information to contact you for market research purposes. We may contact you by email, phone or mail. We may use the information to customise the website or Facebook group according to your interests.

8. Miscellaneous

8.1. Amy’s Animal Services does not accept dogs registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1919. Amy’s Animal Services does not accept dog hybrids registered under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (eg, Wolf Hybrids).

8.2. You agree to provide full and detailed information about your animals and agrees to keep us informed of any changes to your including medical conditions or/and prescribed medications.

8.3. Please inform us of any changes regarding your contact numbers, your pet’s care needs, your emergency contact details and other pertinent information.

9.Covid-19 policies

9.1. Amy's Animal Services will not enter any home where a member of the household has symptoms of Covid-19 or has tested positive. We ask that owner’s let us know as soon as possible if this applies to them so we can reschedule appointments. Dog Walks can still go ahead but pick up and drop off must be contactless, and walk time may need to be rearranged.

9.2. If after your appointment you develop symptoms or test positive, again I ask you to let me know as soon as possible to minimise the chance of passing covid on to further households.