Policies
A few common sense guidelines in which in run both my walking and canicross business by.
Policies:
Following all meet and greets is a minimum trial period of 2 weeks, used to ascertain behaviours of the dogs. Provided this proves successful, walks can be booked in on a longer-term basis, however if behaviours change, or become challenging then we reserve the right to refuse service on the basis of the welfare of the individual dog and others on my books.
Minimum behaviour requirements:
For a dog to be suitable for group walking they must meet a minimum behaviour requirement.
Dogs who do not have the skills needed for group walks will need further training from either knowledgeable owners, professional accredited trainers or accredited qualified behaviourists depending on the severity of the issues preventing them from taking part in group activities. For the welfare of the other dogs, should behaviours not improve then dogs will either be offered a solo walk should these spaces be available, if not then we recommend finding another walker.
****Dogs that have a bite history or show serious signs of aggression to other dogs, people or others will not be allowed to continue group walks. These dogs require additional care, and 1-1 attention to help them feel safe and able to function calmly as well as happily.
Communication:
I always request that owners keep me up to date on behaviours or incidents that happen whilst not in my care. This includes communication between dog professionals such as trainers and behaviourist.
As always, I believe in force free, positive reinforcement science and ethical based training. Should I have reason to believe that a dog has had adverse tools/punishment based training I reserve the right to refuse to continue to work with any dog. This includes but is not limited too: chock chains, prong collars, spray/shock collars/cans, hitting, yelling, starving, stamping, kicking, hitting, and leash jerking. This is due to the long term issues this type of 'training' can cause and the knock on effects it has in other areas of the dogs life.
Booking and Cancellations:
I ask that clients try and set days as far ahead as possible. Whilst I will always try to keep some spaces free during the week for last minute and emergency walks, I cannot guarantee that I will be able to fit dogs in on short notice. So advanced planning is recommended to avoid disappointment, I will always try to accommodate, however I don’t want anyone to be let down.
Cancellations also need to be made in advance. I require a minimum of 24/48 hours is required unless it is a genuine real emergency. As of January 2022 I will be enforcing my cancellation charge policy for last minute cancellations, this is owning to spaces on my walks/canicross sessions being limited. I do operate a 3 strike policy, should you cancel with short/no notice without a sufficient reason, I will terminate services effective immediately.
Booking requirements:
Minimum booking requirements. To fully develop a trusting working relationship with your dog I have a minimum of one walk a week or you fall under the 'Ad-Hoc' category which is priced at £25 a walk, booked on a first come first served basis.
All bookings must be made in writing, so please message me to book something in so there is a clear record of bookings. No booking can be made verbally.
Equipment:
All dogs must have legally UpToDate information on, collars/harnesses and fleeces must be in good condition, easy to fit, and easily accessible for me to be able to put them on for the dogs. If we request trackers, changes to harnesses, or other items, these requests have been made for good reason. We cannot be held responsible for situations that arrive if you have failed to provide proper fitting/charged/fitted equipment for walking.
Invoices/Payment:
All invoices must be paid within 5 days please use up to date references so it is clear whom the payment is from. Non paid invoices will result in termination of services and possible legal proceedings to collect the outstanding amounts.
Collection/Drop Off Services:
All prices include collection and drop off as free of charge. However for the safety of our charges we require good easy access to the property and good parking facilities that are close to the property. (this does not need to be a drive way, road parking will do so long as it is reasonably accessible). For this reason we are sorry to say we are unable to collect any dogs from flats, with the exception of ground floor flats with immediate parking outside, this also includes maisonettes or any property that doesn't have access to the front.
Keys/Electronic Gates and others:
If you wish us to hold keys for your property please do let us know, although we do prefer a key safe. Keys need to be checked regularly to ensure they are in good working order and fit freely and easily to open locks.
Gates, especially electronic gates need to have clear instructions on how to use so we can quickly access collect and continue on to our walks. We cannot afford to lose time waiting for gates to open and close as our aim is to keep the dogs in the vehicle for as short a period of time as possible.
If you are present to allow us access to collect and drop of dogs we ask that you are freely accessible in the time frame given. We do not have the time to wait for you to be free to drop off or collect.
Canicross Policies:
For dogs to take part in physical activities like Canicross, or free running along side myself, you need to ensure they are fit and well. If you have any doubt to their ability to engage in that level of activity, they are very young, old, have health conditions then please check with your Veterinary professional prior to booking.
Conduct:
I do not tolerate abusive behaviour directed towards myself, my associates, dogs or others. If I feel as though behaviour is not acceptable then all services will be terminated effective immediately.
Costs:
I operate an annual price review each April. I will be reviewing all of our service charges and there may possibly be an increase to keep in line with current inflation.
***I ask that you check this page regularly throughout the year to see any updates and changes made to policies. By continuing to use Hoppes Hounds services you are agreeing to follow the polices listed above.
Nearly every penny I make goes back into my business so I can offer the absolute best service possible. I am NOT just a regular dog walker, I have invested significant time and money into my Canine Education and am working towards my Level 5 Behavioural Accredited with OCN London.
On top of this I am: Insured, experienced in handling dogs, hold a current first aid certificate, certified Canicross Instructor, Bikejor and Scooter Instructor, hold a Level 3 certification in behavioural work, have done various courses including, puppy development, over arousal in canines, anxiety/stress and separation workshops, canine learning theory, canine predatory motor pattern, recall, tt-touch and am Canine First Aid Trained and more...I am always doing courses.