Hot Weather Policy

The safety and wellbeing of every dog in my care is my highest priority. During periods of warm or hot weather, walks may be adjusted, shortened, rescheduled or cancelled to protect dogs from heat-related illness.

Temperature Guidelines

• Below 20°C: Walks will normally go ahead as planned, with regular water breaks as required.
• 20°C–24°C: Walks may be shortened, moved to shaded areas, or replaced with a garden visit and enrichment activities.
• 25°C and above: Group walks may be cancelled or replaced with a welfare visit, including toilet breaks, fresh water, play, enrichment, and companionship in the owner’s home or garden (where appropriate).
• During extreme heat or official weather warnings: All outdoor walks may be suspended for the safety of the dogs.

Walk Adjustments

Where possible, walks may be:

• Scheduled earlier in the morning or later in the evening.
• Moved to shaded woodland or cooler locations.
• Shortened to reduce the risk of overheating.
• Replaced with enrichment activities, scent games, play, or garden time.

These decisions are made at my sole discretion based on the weather conditions, humidity, pavement temperatures, and the individual needs of each animal.

Owner Responsibilities

Owners are responsible for informing me if their pet:

• Has any medical condition that may increase the risk of heat-related illness.
• Is elderly, overweight, brachycephalic (flat-faced), or otherwise more susceptible to heat.
• Requires any specific care during warm weather.

Owners should also ensure their pet has access to fresh drinking water before and after walks.

My Commitment

I will always make decisions based on the welfare of the animals in my care. While I appreciate that cancelled or altered walks may be inconvenient, I will never compromise a dog’s safety by walking in unsafe weather conditions.

No refunds will be given where walks are altered or replaced with a welfare visit due to hot weather, as the booked time will still be dedicated to your dog’s care.

By using my services, you acknowledge and agree to this Hot Weather Policy as part of my Terms and Conditions.

 

 

Veterinary Advice and Medical Disclaimer

As a qualified Veterinary Nurse, I have professional knowledge and experience in animal health and welfare. However, I am not a veterinary surgeon and, by law, I am unable to diagnose medical conditions, prescribe treatment, or provide veterinary medical advice.

If I observe any signs of illness, injury, pain, or changes in your dog’s health or behaviour while in my care, I will notify you as soon as reasonably possible. Where I believe your pets welfare may be at risk, I may recommend that you seek advice from your registered veterinary practice.

In the event of a medical emergency, I will make every reasonable effort to contact you or your emergency contact. If you cannot be reached and urgent veterinary attention is required, I reserve the right to seek treatment from your registered veterinary practice, or the nearest available veterinary surgeon if your usual practice is unavailable. Any veterinary fees incurred will remain the responsibility of the owner.

Any observations or comments I make regarding your animals health should not be interpreted as a veterinary diagnosis or a substitute for examination and advice from a registered veterinary surgeon.