Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions of Service

Effective Date: 1st October 2025
Welcome to Ed’s Pets, a sole-operated service offering compassionate, tailored dog walking and pet visit solutions. Throughout this document, “I,” “my,” “we,” “our,” or “us” refers to Ed’s Pets. All services are provided via www.edspets.co.uk, where clients can explore offerings, make enquiries, and request bookings.

1. General Terms of Service

1.1 Introductory Visit and Assessment

Before any services commence, an initial meet-and-greet and pet assessment is required. This ensures compatibility, safety, and comfort for your pet. We reserve the right to decline services if a pet is deemed disruptive, unsafe, or unsuitable for care.

1.2 Health and Behaviour Disclosure

By booking services, the Client confirms their pet is in good health and has not exhibited aggressive, threatening, or harmful behaviour toward people or other animals. The Client agrees to promptly inform us of any behavioural changes, including aggression, mating behaviours, or other risks that may affect safety.

1.3 Allergies and Sensitivities

Clients must disclose any known allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities their pet may have. This includes dietary restrictions, environmental triggers, or medication reactions.

1.4 Aggressive Animals

We do not accept bookings for pets with a history of aggression. This policy ensures the safety of all animals, carers, and members of the public.

1.5 Duty of Care and Liability

We commit to providing attentive, responsible care. However, we cannot accept liability for injury, illness, loss, or death of a pet while in our care, whether inside or outside the home.

1.6 Insurance

We maintain appropriate insurance, including Public Liability cover. This insurance applies only during the agreed service period and for the services specified.

1.7 Veterinary Costs

The Client is responsible for all veterinary costs incurred during the service period, including treatment, medication, and emergency call-out fees.

1.8 Pet Insurance

We strongly recommend that Clients maintain pet insurance for added peace of mind and financial protection.

1.9 Emergency Contact and Veterinary Authority

Clients must provide an emergency contact who is authorised to make decisions regarding their pet. If unreachable, the Client authorises us to seek veterinary care and make decisions based on professional advice. We will attempt to use the Client’s preferred vet but may use any registered veterinary service if necessary. All costs incurred are payable by the Client upon return of the pet or by prior agreement.

1.10 Access and Security

Clients must provide access to their home or pet as agreed. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of that day’s service, which will be charged in full. Keys will be stored securely without address identifiers. Clients must inform us of any alarm systems or security protocols and ensure that indoor-only pets (e.g., cats) are kept away from exit points.

1.11 Media Consent

Unless otherwise specified, Clients consent to their pet being photographed or filmed during services. These images may be used for marketing or promotional purposes. We will always discuss usage beforehand, and all media remains the property of Ed’s Pets.

2. Bookings

2.1 Booking Confirmation

Bookings are only confirmed once the introductory visit is completed, the “Pet Visit / Owner Information / Dog Walking and Vet Release Form” is signed, and the Client agrees to these Terms and Conditions. This can be either a physical or an electronic signature verified by email by us.

2.2 Updates to Client Information

Clients must notify us of any changes to their contact details, emergency contacts, pet care instructions, or other relevant information.

2.3 Booking Methods

Bookings may be made via telephone, email, or through our website. Confirmation will be sent by email, subject to availability.

2.3.1 Monthly Service

For recurring services on set days and times, Clients must allow sufficient time for the introductory visit and completion of forms before the first appointment.

2.3.2 Ad-Hoc Service

For occasional or one-off bookings, Clients must also allow time for the initial meeting and paperwork before the service begins.

2.4 Service Time Slots

We will provide a time window for each walk or visit and will aim to align with the pet’s routine. This may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances.

2.5 Planned Leave

We will provide 6–8 weeks’ notice of any planned leave exceeding one week, allowing Clients time to arrange alternative care if needed.

3. Payments

3.1 Pricing

Service rates are listed on our website and available upon request. Prices are competitive and non-negotiable.

3.2 Invoicing

Invoices are issued via email following booking confirmation. Monthly or ad-hoc billing will apply depending on the service type.

3.3 Payment Methods

Preferred payment is via bank transfer (details provided on invoice). Cash is also accepted.

3.4 Payment Terms

Full payment is due within 7 days of invoice receipt or by the date specified. Late payments may incur a 20% penalty fee for every 7-day period overdue.

3.5 Suspension of Services

We reserve the right to suspend services until outstanding payments are settled.

3.6 Deposits

We may request a non-refundable deposit for certain bookings.

4. Cancellations

4.1 Individual Service Days

Clients may cancel individual services within a monthly or ad-hoc booking up to 48 hours in advance. No charge will apply, and any prepayment may be refunded or credited toward future bookings.

4.2 Monthly Bookings

Clients must provide at least 14 days’ notice to cancel a monthly booking.

4.3 Ad-Hoc Bookings

Ad-hoc bookings may be cancelled up to 48 hours before the scheduled start date.

4.4 Late Cancellations

If notice is not provided within the required timeframe, the full service fee will be charged.

4.5 Emergencies

We understand that emergencies happen. Please contact us as soon as possible if circumstances prevent you from meeting the cancellation notice period.

4.6 Our Right to Cancel

We may cancel services on short notice due to illness, accidents, extreme weather, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, we will notify the Client promptly and no charges will apply.

4.7 Behavioural or Compatibility Issues

We reserve the right to cancel services immediately if a pet does not respond well to the carer or other animals, or if the working relationship becomes unmanageable.

5.0 Privacy Policy

5.1 Data Protection and Client Privacy

Ed’s Pets is committed to safeguarding the privacy and personal data of all Clients. We collect only the information necessary to provide safe, reliable, and personalised pet care services. This may include contact details, emergency information, pet health records, and service preferences.

All data is stored securely and used solely for the purpose of delivering our services. We do not share Client information with third parties unless required by law or in the event of an emergency where veterinary or medical professionals require access.

Clients may request access to, correction of, or deletion of their personal data at any time. For full details, please refer to our Privacy Policy above. Available on our website.

6.0 Terms and Conditions – Dog Walking

6.1 Trial Period and Suitability

All dogs will undergo an initial trial period to assess their temperament, training level, and socialisation. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all dogs in our care.

6.2 Group Walks and Social Play

We offer group walks where dogs may interact and play together. While we supervise all interactions closely, the Client acknowledges that minor injuries (e.g. scratches, sprains) may occur during normal dog play. We will notify the Client of any incidents and take appropriate action.

6.3 Transport and Travel

Dogs may be transported by vehicle to suitable walking locations (typically within 30 minutes of the Client’s home). All transport is conducted safely and securely, and our insurance covers dogs during transit.

6.4 Lead Policy and Off-Lead Consent

Dogs will be walked on a lead unless the Client has signed the “Off Lead Consent” section of the Dog Walking Form. Off-lead exercise is offered at our discretion and only in secure, appropriate environments.

6.5 Vaccinations and Parasite Control

All dogs must be fully vaccinated and on a regular flea and worm treatment schedule. Clients must provide a valid vaccination certificate upon request.

6.6 Disease Risk and Responsibility

While vaccinations reduce risk, they do not eliminate the possibility of illness. The Client accepts that their dog may still contract pathogens and agrees not to hold Ed’s Pets liable for any such occurrences.

6.7 Contagious Conditions

We do not accept dogs with contagious, infectious, or communicable diseases. Clients must notify us immediately if their dog has been exposed to or is showing symptoms of illness. We reserve the right to suspend services until the dog is cleared by a vet.

6.8 Bitches in Season or Pregnant

We do not walk bitches that are in season or pregnant. During this time, Clients may opt for a Pet Pop-In service instead.

6.9 Identification and Equipment

All dogs must be microchipped and wear secure collars, harnesses, and leads with appropriate ID tags. The Client is responsible for providing safe, well-fitting equipment.

6.10 Missing Dog Protocol

If a dog goes missing during a walk, we will immediately notify the Client and request their assistance in the search if the dog remains missing for more than 30 minutes. We will follow all reasonable steps to locate and recover the dog.

6.11 Weather and Health Adjustments

In cases of extreme weather (e.g. heatwaves, storms, snow), or if a dog becomes unwell, distressed, or refuses to walk, we will use our best judgement to modify the service. This may include shortening the walk or switching to a Pet Pop-In visit to ensure safety.

6.12 Refusal to Walk or Illness on Arrival

If a dog is visibly unwell or refuses to walk (e.g. due to rain or anxiety), we will provide a toilet break, notify the Client, and charge for a Standard Pet Pop-In instead of a walk.

6.13 Cleanliness and Muddy Adventures

We aim to walk dogs in natural, enriching environments such as parks and woodlands. Dogs may return muddy, wet, or smelly (e.g. from rolling in fox poo). We will towel down dogs using our own towels and those provided by the Client, and notify the Client of any extreme mess. We always remove muddy footwear before entering homes.

7.0 Terms and Conditions – Pet Visits

7.1 Home Security and Pet Safety

We will take all reasonable steps to ensure your home remains secure during pet visits. However, we cannot be held liable for burglaries, accidents, or damage caused by pets while you are away.

7.2 Medication Administration

We will follow the Client’s instructions for administering medication. While every care is taken, we cannot be held responsible for any complications that arise from prescribed treatments.

7.3 Supplies and Reimbursement

Clients must provide all necessary items for their pet’s care, including food, litter, medication, and cleaning supplies. If additional items need to be purchased during the visit, we will retain receipts and the Client agrees to reimburse the cost.