Happy Tails - Forres

HAPPY TAILS FORRES
TERMS AND CONDITIONS – REGULAR / AD-HOC DOG CARE
Effective: November 2025

 

This Agreement is made between Happy Tails Forres (“HTF” or “the Service Provider”) and the Client (name and details as per the Booking Form).

The Client wishes to engage HTF to provide dog care and/or walking services (“the Services”) as detailed in the Booking Form. By completing the booking form, the Client confirms they have read, understood, and agreed to the following Terms and Conditions, together with HTF’s Policies and Procedures.

1. PRE-SERVICE REQUIREMENTS

1.1. A meet-and-greet will take place with the Client and Dog(s) before Services commence. HTF reserves the right to refuse or withdraw Services if any Dog is deemed aggressive, dangerous, or unsuitable at HTF’s sole discretion.
1.2. The Client must complete and sign all required documentation, including the Booking Form, Veterinary Release Form and, where applicable, an Off-Lead Consent Form, before Services begin.

2. CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. The Client shall provide accurate and complete information about the Dog(s), including health, behaviour, dietary needs, and emergency contact details, and must promptly notify HTF of any changes.
2.2. By booking Services, the Client confirms that each Dog is in good health, vaccinated, and free from contagious or infectious conditions.
2.3. HTF cannot accept any Dog with a contagious condition and the Client will be liable for any costs arising if non-disclosure results in infection of other dogs.
2.4. The Client is responsible for any damage, injury, or loss caused by their Dog(s) and shall indemnify HTF against all related costs, including veterinary, medical, or legal fees.
2.5. The Client confirms their Dog(s) is appropriately insured for the duration of this Agreement.

 

3. DUTY OF CARE, LIABILITY & INSURANCE

3.1. HTF will exercise reasonable care and skill in delivering Services. However, HTF shall not be liable for any loss, injury, illness, or death of any Dog(s) or for any damage to property, provided reasonable care has been taken.
3.2. HTF maintains appropriate insurance, including Public Liability cover, effective only during the provision of Services.
3.3. To the fullest extent permitted by law, HTF shall not be liable for any indirect, consequential, or economic loss, including emotional distress, reputational harm, or loss of profit.

4. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

4.1. The Client must provide an emergency contact authorised to make decisions on their behalf.
4.2. If neither the Client nor the emergency contact is available, HTF is authorised to seek veterinary treatment in the Dog(s)’ best interests.
4.3. HTF will use the Client’s nominated vet where practicable, though this cannot be guaranteed.
4.4. The Client remains responsible for all veterinary costs incurred.

5. ACCESS & PROPERTY

5.1. The Client must provide HTF with access to the Dog(s) at the agreed times. Failure to do so may result in cancellation and full charges.
5.2. HTF will store all keys securely and without address identifiers. Keys will be returned when Services end and all fees are settled.
5.4. HTF is not responsible for property damage caused by the Dog(s) or for security issues arising from third-party access to the property.

6. BOOKINGS

6.1. Bookings are made via completion of the booking form or if a current client via email or whatsapp.

6.2. Services may be booked:
 a) Monthly/Regular: recurring bookings at set days/times.
 b) Ad-Hoc: one-off or occasional bookings subject to availability.

6.3. HTF will provide an estimated time window for each visit or walk, which may vary due to weather, traffic, or unforeseen events.
6.4. HTF will give at least two months’ notice of holidays exceeding one week and may appoint a qualified, insured substitute in the event of illness or emergency.

7. PAYMENTS

7.1. Current prices are published on the HTF website and available on request. Rates are non-negotiable.
7.2. Invoices will be issued either monthly (for regular bookings) or after each ad-hoc service.
7.3. Payment is due within 7 days of invoice receipt. Late payments may incur a 10% charge per 7-day period thereafter.
7.4. HTF reserves the right to suspend Services until outstanding payments are received in full.

8. CANCELLATIONS

8.1. Individual Services: Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will not be charged or may be credited to a future booking.
8.2. Monthly Bookings: A minimum of 14 days’ written notice by email (to info@happytailsforres.com) is required. Cancellations via telephone, social media, or verbal communication will not be accepted.
8.3. If proper notice is not provided, HTF reserves the right to charge in full.
8.4. In cases of unforeseen circumstances (e.g., illness, extreme weather), HTF may cancel Services with as much notice as possible. No charges will apply.
8.5. HTF reserves the right to terminate Services immediately if the Dog(s) display aggressive or unsafe behaviour or if the working relationship becomes untenable.

9. AGGRESSIVE OR UNSOCIAL DOGS

9.1. If a Dog becomes aggressive, HTF may take any reasonable action to protect the Dog(s), other animals, or people, including refusal or termination of Services, contacting a vet, the RSPCA, or police.
9.2. Any resulting fees or costs are chargeable to the Client.
9.3. No refund of fees will be provided where the Client failed to disclose behavioural concerns in advance.

10. FEEDBACK & COMPLAINTS

10.1. HTF values feedback and aims to resolve complaints promptly.
10.2. All complaints must be submitted in writing to info@happytailsforres.com within 7 days of the relevant Service.

11. PHOTO & MEDIA CONSENT

11.1. The Client grants HTF permission to photograph or video their Dog(s) for documentation and promotional purposes (including website and social media).
11.2. No personal identifying information will be shared without explicit consent.
11.3. Clients who do not wish images of their Dog(s) to be used must notify HTF in writing.

12. PRIVACY & DATA PROTECTION

12.1. HTF complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and all applicable data protection laws.
12.2. For full details on how HTF collects, stores, and uses Client information, please refer to the Privacy Policy at www.happytailsforres.com.
12.3. By using HTF’s Services, the Client acknowledges and agrees to these data practices.

13. FORCE MAJEURE

13.1. Neither party shall be liable for delay or failure in performance caused by circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to severe weather, strikes, war, fire, or power failure.
13.2. The affected party must notify the other as soon as reasonably practicable.

 

14. ENTIRE AGREEMENT & GOVERNING LAW

14.1. This Agreement, together with the Booking Form and associated documents, constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements or representations.
14.2. Any amendments must be made in writing and signed by both parties.
14.3. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Scotland, and both parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Scottish courts.

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PART 2: Policies and Procedures

1.All Dogs being walked will undergo a trial period to ensure that they are adequately trained and socialised.

2.HTF reserves the right to reassess the suitability of the Dog at any time and may suspend or terminate services if the Dog displays behaviour that poses a risk to themselves, HTF staff, other animals or third parties.

3.HTF offer services where Dogs co-mingle in groups and meet other Dogs.  The Client accepts that during normal Dog play their Dog may sustain injuries.  All Dog play will be carefully monitored to avoid injuries, but injuries may occur despite the best supervision.

4.HTF is likely to transport your Dog(s) to and from suitable Dog walking locations by vehicle and therefore your Dog(s) should be able to travel in vehicles.  HTF will ensure the safe and secure transport of all Dogs and will maintain appropriate insurance.  Whilst all reasonable precautions will be taken during transportation, the Client acknowledges that transport carries inherent risks and agrees not to hold HTF liable for incidents beyond HTF's reasonable control.  

5.All Dogs will be exercised on a lead unless prior agreement has been provided and an “Off Lead Consent Form” has been signed.  Off lead exercise will remain at the discretion of HTF staff.

6.All Dogs being exercised must be fully vaccinated and on a regular flea and worm control regime.

7.The Client accepts that even if their Dog(s) has been vaccinated against Kennel Cough that there is still a chance that their Dog can contract Kennel Cough.  The Client agrees that they will not hold HTF responsible if their Dog(s) contracts Kennel Cough while attending services.

8.HTF will not provide Dog walking services to bitches while in season or pregnant, but Clients may choose to book a House Visit instead of a Dog walk during this time.

9.All Dogs must be microchipped and wear a collar displaying legally required identification tags.

10.In the event of a Dog going missing, HTF will immediately commence reasonable search and recovery efforts and notify the Client as soon as practicable. HTF may request the Client's assistance where appropriate.

11.HTF will apply their best personal judgement in the event of extreme weather conditions (e.g. hot weather, thunderstorms, snow), or the Dog(s) becoming ill, injured, distressed, or refusing to walk, to take necessary action to ensure the safety of both Dogs and walker, which may include for example (but not limited to) shortening walks, changing locations, increasing rest breaks, or substituting a walk with a house visit or enrichment session.

12.If HTF arrive to collect a Dog and the Dog is visibly unwell and/or sick, or refuses the walk (e.g. due to rain), HTF reserves the right to cancel the Dog walking services, giving the Dog the chance for a toilet break and immediately notifying the Client and will charge for a House Visit.

13.HTF tries to select riversides, woods, beaches, parks for walks and Dogs may get muddy, wet or dirty (including rolling in fox poo etc). HTF will make every effort to drop off a clean Dog but cannot guarantee the Dogs full cleanliness or that they will be smell-free.  Clients will be notified of all poo rolling and extreme muddiness. HTF staff will always remove dirty shoes etc prior to entering homes.  

14.Whilst HTF will take all reasonable precautions to prevent Dog(s) from picking up, consuming, or interacting with harmful substances or objects during walks, the Client acknowledges that Dogs may encounter and ingest food, plants, animal waste, litter, sticks, stones, or other items whilst outdoors. Such incidents are an inherent risk associated with dog walking. HTF will make reasonable efforts to prevent this and will notify the Client of any known or suspected ingestion as soon as practicable. Any veterinary treatment required as a result shall remain the responsibility of the Client unless caused by HTF's negligence.

15.HTF may exercise Dog(s) in areas where livestock, wildlife, or other animals are present. Whilst every reasonable precaution will be taken, the Client acknowledges that encounters with livestock, wildlife, and other animals are an inherent risk of outdoor exercise. HTF reserves the right to keep Dog(s) on lead, alter walking locations, or terminate a walk where safety concerns arise.

House Visits

1.The Client consents to HTF administering any medication, supplements or treatments as directed by the Client or a qualified veterinarian. HTF is not responsible for adverse reactions or complications that may arise as a result, provided HTF has followed instructions to the best of their ability.

2.The Client releases HTF from liability for any veterinary expenses or treatment outcomes while the Dog is in HTF’s care, provided HTF acted in good faith and with reasonable care.

3.The Client must provide all items necessary for your Dog(s) to be adequately cared for in the Client’s absence.  If additional supplies need to be purchased in the Client’s absence including, but not limited to food and medication, a receipt will be obtained, and the Client will be responsible for the reimbursement of the cost.

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