Terms & Conditions

Dog-walking Terms & Services

1. Service Overview

  • The dog-walking service includes scheduled walks and basic care as requested by the client. The walker will ensure the dog receives exercise, bathroom breaks, and attention during the agreed-upon time period.
  • Services may also include feeding, fresh water provision, and cleanup of minor pet-related messes, as specified in the booking agreement.

2. Responsibilities of the Dog Walker

  • Safety and Supervision: The walker will ensure the safety and well-being of the dog during walks, including keeping the dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas as agreed upon by the client. Off-leash walks are agreed to as part of the Joes Happy Tails Group Walks service.
  • Pet Handling: The walker agrees to use only gentle handling methods. Positive reinforcement will be prioritized to maintain a calm and enjoyable experience for the dog.
  • Communication: The walker will provide updates to the client as requested, including photos or messages after each walk to report on the dog’s well-being and behavior.
  • Emergency Protocol: In the event of an emergency (e.g., injury, illness, or a lost pet), the walker will promptly contact the client or an emergency contact and seek veterinary assistance if necessary.

3. Responsibilities of the Client

  • Pet Information: The client must provide complete and accurate information about the dog’s health, temperament, special needs, and any behavioral tendencies (e.g., aggression, fear of loud noises).
  • Leash, Collar, and Supplies: The client will supply a secure leash, collar, harness (if used), and any other equipment necessary for safe and comfortable walks.
  • Access to Property: The client will ensure access to the property and the dog at the agreed-upon times by providing keys, codes, or other necessary instructions.

4. Cancellations and Rescheduling

  • Client Cancellations: Clients may reschedule a walk where possible, without a fee if notice is provided at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made within 30 minutes may be subject to a €10 cancellation fee.
  • Walker Cancellations: If the walker must cancel, they will notify the client as soon as possible and attempt to reschedule.

5. Weather Policy

  • Walks will be conducted as scheduled in most weather conditions. However, in cases of extreme weather (e.g., thunderstorms, extreme heat/cold, heavy snow), the walker may shorten the walk for the dog’s safety or cancel and reschedule the service.

6. Payment Terms

  • Rates: The rate for each walk or package of walks will be outlined in the booking agreement. Additional fees may apply for services requested outside of regular walking hours or for multiple dogs.
  • Payment in Arrears: Payment is due after the completion of each walk or package of walks. Invoices can be provided if client is paying monthly, as agreed upon by the client and walker, with payment due within 7 days of invoice receipt.

7. Liability and Indemnification

  • Pet Health and Behavior: The walker is not liable for any pre-existing health conditions, injuries, or illnesses the dog may incur during the service period, nor for injuries or incidents resulting from previously disclosed behavioral issues. The client assumes responsibility for any injury or damage the dog may cause to third parties or property during the walk.
  • Property Damage: The walker agrees to take reasonable care of the client’s property while accessing the dog but is not liable for accidental or unforeseen damage.
  • Indemnification: The client agrees to indemnify and hold the walker harmless for any claims or expenses, including veterinary care, that may arise from incidents during or as a result of the dog-walking service, provided the walker has followed the client’s instructions.

8. Disclosure of Hazards and Equipment

  • Equipment and Environment: The client agrees to disclose any hazards (e.g., slippery floors, loose gates) that may pose risks during service and ensure that all pet equipment (leash, collar) is secure and in good condition.

9. Privacy and Confidentiality

  • The walker agrees to respect the privacy of the client’s home and property and to maintain confidentiality regarding any personal information shared in the course of the service.

10. Termination of Services

  • Termination by Client: The client may terminate services at any time with written notice, with any remaining balance refunded or credited, as applicable.
  • Termination by Walker: The walker reserves the right to terminate the agreement if the dog’s behavior is deemed unsafe for the walker or others, or if there is a breach of the terms and conditions.

11. Acceptance of Terms

  • By booking a dog-walking service, the client acknowledges and agrees to these terms and conditions.

Pet-visit and pet-sitting Terms & Conditions

1. Service Scope

  • The sitter will provide house-sitting and dog-sitting services as specified in the booking agreement, which may include pet care, routine house maintenance, mail collection, and other mutually agreed-upon tasks.
  • The sitter will stay at the client’s home as specified in the booking dates to provide regular care and supervision of the home and pets.

2. Responsibilities of the Sitter

  • Pet Care: The sitter will follow the pet care instructions provided by the client, including feeding, administering medications (if applicable), walking, and other routine pet care needs.
  • House Maintenance: The sitter will keep the house tidy and secure, including handling trash, watering plants, and ensuring all windows and doors remain locked when the sitter is absent.
  • Communication: The sitter will provide regular updates on the house and pets as requested by the client, including photos or messages.
  • Emergencies: In case of an emergency (medical, security, etc.), the sitter will immediately contact the client or a designated emergency contact, as well as any necessary local services (veterinarian, security services, etc.).

3. Responsibilities of the Client

  • Pet and Home Information: The client must provide comprehensive information about pet needs, medical history, emergency contacts, and any household systems the sitter will need to use (e.g., alarm systems, Wi-Fi, appliances).
  • Supplies and Access: The client must provide adequate pet food, cleaning supplies, and access to necessary areas of the home. The client is responsible for ensuring that all required keys, alarm codes, and passwords are shared securely with the sitter.
  • In cases where the pet has come to stay in the pet-sitters home, and any damage is done to the property or the pet-sitters property, the pet-sitter will be compensated for the dame done by the pet-owner.

4. Booking, Cancellations, and Refunds

  • Booking Confirmation: Bookings are confirmed upon written confirmation by the house-sitter (via text message, WhatsApp, or email).
  • Cancellation Policy: Clients may cancel their booking up to 48 hours before the scheduled start date. Cancellations made within 48 hours may be subject to a partial fee.
  • Sitter Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the sitter must cancel, they will make every effort to arrange for a suitable replacement or provide a full refund.

5. Liability

  • Damage to Property: The sitter agrees to treat the client’s property with respect. However, the client assumes responsibility for routine wear and tear. Any damages caused by the sitter due to negligence will be addressed and resolved.
  • Pet Health: The sitter will care for the pet as directed by the client but is not liable for any pre-existing health conditions, injuries, or illnesses the pet may incur. The client will assume responsibility for any emergency costs not covered by pet insurance (if applicable).
  • Accidents and Emergencies: The sitter is not liable for unforeseen incidents, such as weather damage, burglaries, or other unexpected events impacting the home. Reasonable efforts will be made to secure the premises and contact emergency services if necessary.

6. Privacy and Confidentiality

  • The sitter agrees to maintain the confidentiality of the client’s personal information and respect their privacy while in the home.
  • No photographs of the home or pets will be shared publicly or used for promotional purposes without the client’s explicit permission.
  • The client agrees to disclose any cameras or recording devices located inside or outside the home prior to the start of the service. Failure to disclose such devices may be grounds for termination of the agreement without refund, as privacy and transparency are prioritized in the sitter-client relationship.

7. Conduct and Boundaries

  • The sitter will maintain a professional and respectful demeanor at all times. Any guests or visitors must be pre-approved by the client.
  • The sitter agrees to keep the client’s home and property secure, not engaging in any activities outside the scope of agreed-upon tasks.

8. Payment Terms

  • Rates: The rate for house-sitting and dog-sitting services will be outlined in the booking agreement. Additional fees may apply for special care instructions or additional pets.
  • Payment Due Date: Payment for services is due in full upon the completion of the agreed-upon service period. Payment due within 7 days of completion of services.

9. Dispute Resolution

  • In the event of a dispute, both parties agree to attempt to resolve the matter amicably through direct communication.

10. Acceptance of Terms

  • By booking house-sitting and dog-sitting services, the client acknowledges and agrees to these terms and conditions.
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