FAQs
Please get in touch with any questions and enquiries.
Who will be looking after my dog or pet?
The team at Puddy Paws includes Sophie Jenkins, Grace Beardshaw, and myself; your pet/s may occasionally meet some of our friends or family if they are with us, but we will be the only people responsible for providing care for your pet.
How many dogs do you take on group walks?
We walk up to three dogs at a time. This maximises the individual attention we can give to each dog and ensures we are all kept happy and safe. We organise groups of dogs based on their character, needs, compatibility, geographical distance to a walking route, travel time for pick-ups and drop-offs, and based on what we feel is best for each dog in the group.
How long are dog walks?
Solo Walks might be exactly an hour, or slightly longer if we go in the car. On Group Walks, your dog/s will be with us for up to two hours to include pick-ups and drop-offs. They will be walking for a minimum of one hour and often longer.
When are day Group Walks?
Every day depending on availability.
Do you offer Solo Dog Walks?
Yes. These are also every day depending on availability.
Do I need to provide dog bags, treats, toys, leads and water?
We provide everything your dog/s need for their walk unless you’d like to, and will carry anything you would like us to take along for them, like a specific sort of treat.
Will you meet me and my pet/s before their first walk or visit?
We always offer a meet and initial short walk with your dog/s. This also gives us an opportunity to understand your requirements, wishes, and everything you would like me about your dog or pet. We will give you an agreement to sign before we look after your pet/s.
What do I need to provide before you walk or care for my dog/s?
We ask that your dog is microchipped and has a secure collar with an ID tag engraved with up-to-date contact details.
Where will you take my dog/s on walks?
We will take your dog/s on routes that are tried and tested, dog-friendly and varied, allowing for physical exercise, lots of sniffs, and mental stimulation. We aim to find routes that are near to your home and provide interest and space to run. We don’t always allow dogs off of leads completely, (unless you and Sophie, Grace and I are completely happy for them to be off-lead). We may use extendable/long training leads when we are in open spaces enabling your dog/s to run and play securely.
What are pet visits?
If you would like one of the team to come to your home to check on a pet and give them some company while you are away, a pet visit is right for you. We will follow your instructions for providing water, food, letting your pet/s outside, or cleaning out their living space. A pet visit is a minimum of thirty minutes but can be shorter or longer.
What if my dog or pet falls ill or gets injured while they are in your care?
In this case, our priority is to contact you or the emergency contact you provide first. If necessary, we will take your pet directly to your named veterinary surgery. I am Pet First Aid trained.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
There is a cancellation policy of 48 hours for any service. If a service is cancelled within 48 hours before the booking, we ask that the full cost of the service is paid for. Under very specific personal circumstances, this fee will be wavered.
How can I pay for the services at Puddy Paws?
When you book and sign the agreement, you will be provided with an invoice inclusive of all the details of your booked service. The invoice will also include my business bank account details so that payment can be made by bank transfer, (or a scheduled payment if we regularly walk your dog/s or care for your pet/s). We ask that payment is made either in advance of or within 48 hours of me caring for your pet/s. If a bank transfer doesn’t work for you, we can accept cash.
What is the agreement that I will sign before you care for my pet/s?
The agreement is an information sheet that is bespoke to you as it outlines the specific requirements we have talked about ahead of me caring for your pet/s. Generally, it includes the date, time and cost agreed plus a signed statement to say that your dog or cat is micro-chipped and has a collar with up-to-date contact details. It will also ask you to list your veterinary surgery and emergency contact details, and to read and sign the cancellation policy and payment section.
Do you take last minute bookings?
We do take last minute bookings if we have availability. For pet sitting that extends to overnight and longer, it is best to book a week or so in advance.
When are you available?
Every day.
We will always try to accommodate you where we can!
Information about the team:
I am also an English Teacher in a Secondary School; I teach during the day on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I find running Puddy Paws goes hand in hand with teaching as there are so many brilliant similarities like meeting new people and building trust. Sophie Jenkins works full time in dog walking and animal care and Grace Beardshaw is a Paediatrician and very experienced with caring for animals for friends and family, as well as her own rescue cat, Leo.
How do I book?
Please book by getting in touch via the contact form, via email, phone, or through Facebook, or Instagram.
puddyhl@ymail.com
07969156223