FAQs and Legal

FAQs

Would it be alright if my dog stayed at your house instead of you pet sitting at mine?

Unfortunately, I am unable to accommodate clients' pets at my home for two reasons. Firstly, I do not hold a registered boarding license, which means I lack the necessary protections and qualifications. Secondly, I reside in the annex of my family home alongside our family dog Paddy and our 11-year-old retired greyhound, who is going blind and prefers not to share his sofas.

Are you experienced with special needs pets or those with medical conditions?

From a technical perspective, I've completed a Pet First Aid course and pursued studies in Animal Science and Welfare at University. Additionally, I've amassed over 5 years of professional experience working with animals. However, I've been a pet owner my entire life, currently sharing my home with our family greyhound. Since he began losing his sight three years ago, I've dedicated myself to ensuring his quality of life remains high, even as he navigates challenges such as low light visibility and occasional mobility issues due to his advancing age. He means the world to me, and I'm committed to doing whatever it takes to support him.

Can you administer medication or adhere to special dietary needs for my pet?

For pets that require medication I have medication forms which the owners will need to fill in that will include the frequency and dosage of medication the pet requires. I will also be sure to discuss this during the pre-assessment appointment so you can show me how to administer and any tips or tricks you find helpful for your pet.

During dog walks you may notice I a have a variety of treat options and special treat pouches for grain free plus chicken allergy dogs and even just those who are food fussy, if your dog does have strict dietary requirements I am more than happy to keep a bag of their special treats just for them in my van.

What qualifications or certifications do you have as an animal caretaker?

I started my business whilst getting my foundation degree in Animal Science and Welfare at University of East Anglia. Before which I had already made sure to have completed a Pet First Aid & CPR Course during my time working in a kennel and cattery, subsequently at a Canine Crèche. Since starting my business in 2021 I have made sure to obtain a Level 2 Diploma in Pet Sitting and I am currently working my way through my Level 3 Canine Behaviour Training Diploma.

How do you communicate with pet owners while they are away?

You can reach me directly through my phone number, which is linked to a WhatsApp Business account. This allows me to send regular updates, or "pup-dates," while you're away. Alternatively, we can also communicate through my Facebook Business page using the Facebook Messenger app.

How do you handle pets who may be anxious or shy around strangers?

This is one of the reasons pre-assessments are so important they give your pets a chance to meet me on their terms. Anxious behaviours are very common in new situations with lots of different animals when I conduct pre-assessments I always try to bring a treat for the pets to help ease the tension.

When it comes to walking an anxious dog I always make sure to familiarize myself with their triggers so we can try our best to avoid them, I also use the yellow dog scheme, meaning I walk them with a bright yellow lead cover saying nervous and be sure to advocate for them when it comes to meeting new people or dogs. Every dog should be able to enjoy their walks without fear and I will always try my best to accommodate this.

What does my insurance cover

I am comprehensively insured with Pet Business Insurance, which provides coverage for a wide range of services and situations.

You may observe that my insurance includes coverage for services that I currently do not offer. This is due to various reasons, but it ensures that if I choose to add these services in the future, I will be fully covered by insurance.

  • Dog Walking (Groups of upto six dogs in accordance with local restrictions and guidelines)

  • Pet Taxi

  • Dog Training

  • Horse Sitting

  • Pet Sitting

  • Pet Minding

  • Pet Boarding

  • Dog Daycare

  • Pet Photography

  • Pet Grooming

  • Public Liability

  • Injury to Animals 

  • Money & Assault

  • Loss or Theft of Key

  • Travel Costs

  • Loss of Licence

  • Legal Expenses

  • Trade All Risks (Equipment) 

  • Professional Indemnity

Legal Information

Some Legal information that might intrest you

The Animal Welfare Act 2006

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 mandates that owners and caretakers fulfill the welfare needs of animals. These encompass:

  • Provision of a suitable living environment

  • Provision of a suitable diet

  • Encouragement of normal behavioral patterns

  • Facilitation of appropriate housing arrangements, considering the need for individual retreat areas in multi-pet households

  • Protection from suffering, pain, injury, or disease.

I, Emma Walker, ensure compliance with these standards when attending to your pets' needs and care. Furthermore, in line with the Animal Welfare Act, I reserve the right to refuse care and services for any individuals causing harm or injury to their pets, including the use of e-collars, prong collars, or any other painful and unethical training tools. In such cases, I also maintain the authority to walk your dog using equipment that I deem secure and appropriate, subject to agreement with the owner before providing care.

Pet Microchipping

In England, pet owners are required to have their dogs microchipped, since April 6th 2016, and as of June 10th 2024, it is now mandatory for cats as well. Consequently, I, Emma Walker, reserve the right to refuse services to any owner whose pets do not comply with this legal requirement.

Banned Breeds

Due to the New laws banning XL Bully type dogs, and adding the breed to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act as of 31st December 2023, some services may have to be altered to be able for me to provide adequate care and uphold the restrictions that are in place for the breed. If you own an XL Bully I will require a copy of certain forms and information to add to your account information before I am able to work with you, I will also provide a copy of my insurance information.

The Department for Health, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) oversee the regulations surrounding disease control in the UK.

I, Emma Walker, uphold the right to refuse services until all pets' vaccinations are up to date. Vaccinations play a crucial role in safeguarding pets against harmful viruses, which can cause irreversible damage to their organs, even if detected early. These illnesses can lead to suffering and, in severe cases, death. Failure to maintain current vaccinations and boosters may pose risks if the animal becomes ill due to this neglect. Such negligence could potentially violate Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, resulting in unnecessary suffering for the animal. Furthermore, many vaccinations are essential if your pet is to socialize with others. Therefore, I must enforce strict adherence to vaccination protocols, not only for your pet's well-being but also for the safety of all the pets under my care.

The Data Protection Act 2018 & GDPR

At Emma Walker | Animal Carer, we are dedicated to safeguarding and respecting your privacy. We pledge to utilize your personal information solely to deliver the finest care, products, and services for you and your pets, as per your requests. Your personal data, as well as your pets', will only be shared sparingly with certified veterinary practices and professionals. Periodically, we may contact you regarding your reserved services, your feedback on our services, and other services that may interest you. You retain the right to request a copy of your personal data and that of your pets. Upon cessation of our services for a client, all information will be deleted. However, in compliance with GDPR regulations, all data must be securely retained for a minimum of two years.