Terms & Conditions for Boarding Services at Dogs at Spencerfield

1. Health & Vaccination Requirements
 

1.1. All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations and flea protection, be wormed, and bathed prior to boarding. Proof of vaccinations must be provided to the carer before the dog’s stay.

1.2. All dogs must be fully vaccinated against the following diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. A booster must be given within the previous twelve months.

1.3. Dogs must also be vaccinated against Canine Infectious Bronchitis (Kennel Cough) at least three weeks prior to arrival. If the dog does not have this vaccination, Dogs at Spencerfield is not responsible for any potential exposure to Kennel Cough, an airborne virus.

1.4. All dogs must have up-to-date flea and worm treatments. Proof of treatment must be provided.
 

2. Drop-Off and Collection
 

2.1. A mutually convenient time for drop-off and collection must be agreed upon between the owner and the carer.

2.2. The dog(s) must be accustomed to living in a home environment, not exhibit territorial marking, and be housetrained. If the dog exhibits destructive behavior or markings, the owner will be responsible for the additional costs of cleaning and repair.
 

3. Emergency Contact & Veterinary Care
 

3.1. The owner must provide an Emergency Contact who is aware of their role, duties, and responsibilities, and is available for the duration of the stay. If the Emergency Contact cannot be reached, Dogs at Spencerfield reserves the right to make decisions regarding the dog’s care, including seeking veterinary assistance.

3.2. In the event of a medical emergency, Dogs at Spencerfield will make every effort to contact the owner or the Emergency Contact. If neither can be reached, Dogs at Spencerfield reserves the right to seek veterinary care, and all associated costs will be the responsibility of the owner.

3.3. The owner is responsible for any veterinary fees incurred during the dog's stay, including emergency care, treatments, or hospitalization.
 

4. Owner’s Responsibilities
 

4.1. The owner must provide sufficient food, water bowls, bedding, lead, toys, and other items necessary to help the dog settle comfortably into the new environment. If insufficient food is provided, the owner will reimburse the carer for the purchase of additional food.

4.2. All dogs must wear a collar with an identity tag showing the owner's name and address (telephone number optional but advised). A Dogs at Spencerfield identity tag will also be worn during the stay.

4.3. The owner must disclose any behavioral concerns, aggression, or medical issues that may affect the dog's ability to be safely boarded. Failure to disclose these matters may result in the termination of the stay without refund.

4.4. The owner is responsible for ensuring all equipment provided (collars, leads, bedding, etc.) is of suitable quality and fit for purpose.
 

5. Carer’s Responsibilities
 

5.1. The carer will make every reasonable effort to provide high standards of care. However, Dogs at Spencerfield will not be held liable for any loss, injury, or death unless negligence is demonstrated. In the event of negligence, liability will be limited to the cost of the boarding service and any direct damages.

5.2. If the dog escapes from the premises and no negligence is found on the part of the carer, the owner remains responsible for any resulting consequences or actions.
 

6. Aggressive Behavior
 

6.1. If the dog exhibits aggression or bites during its stay, the Emergency Contact will be asked to remove the dog. If the Emergency Contact cannot take the dog, the dog will be transferred to a kennel at the owner’s expense. There will be no refund for boarding fees, and the owner will be responsible for any additional kennel fees.

6.2. If a dog is found to have not been vaccinated for Kennel Cough and must be moved to a kennel, the owner gives permission for the dog to receive the vaccination at their own cost.
 

7. Boarding Conditions
 

7.1. Dogs at Spencerfield will not accept dogs that have shown aggression towards other dogs or people or those subject to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

7.2. Unspayed bitches will be accepted for boarding. However, if the owner believes the dog may come into season during the stay, they must notify Dogs at Spencerfield. A bitch in season must not be boarded with a resident dog.

7.3. Entire male dogs may be accepted at the carer's discretion, provided they do not show aggression towards other dogs or people.
 

8. Booking and Payment
 

8.1. A booking will only be considered confirmed once the booking form has been signed by the owner (or within 5 days of meeting with the carer). The owner agrees to provide accurate and detailed information on the booking form. Any failure to disclose information that may affect the dog’s suitability for boarding may lead to the termination of the stay without refund.

8.2. The booking fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.

8.3. In the event of early collection of the dog, the owner will not be entitled to a refund of the boarding fees.

8.4. If the owner cancels the booking:

• Less than 2 weeks notice: 100% of the booking fee is due.

• Between 2 and 4 weeks notice: 50% of the booking fee is due.

• More than 4 weeks notice: Full refund.
  We strongly advise to make sure that your Pet Insurance/Travel Insurance covers any cancellations to boarding, due to ie illness etc
   

9. Late Collection of Dog
 

9.1. If the dog is not collected by the owner within 10 days of the confirmed return date and Dogs at Spencerfield has made every reasonable attempt to contact the owner or Emergency Contact without success, the dog will be considered for re-homing.

9.2. If the owner returns early and wishes to collect the dog before the confirmed end date of the stay, no refund will be provided.
 

10. Force Majeure
 

10.1. If the carer is unable to continue boarding the dog due to unforeseen circumstances (such as illness, emergency, or other matters), Dogs at Spencerfield will attempt to find alternative care for the dog. If no alternative care can be found, the dog may be moved to a kennel or veterinary facility at the owner’s expense.

10.2. If a booking must be cancelled by Dogs at Spencerfield due to circumstances beyond its control (e.g., closure due to law, weather, etc.), a full refund will be provided, and no further liability will be accepted.
 

11. Confidentiality and Data Protection
 

11.1. Dogs at Spencerfield is committed to protecting the privacy of all clients. Personal information provided by the owner will be kept confidential and only used for the purposes of the dog’s care and management.