Aurora’s Explorers Dog Walking & Pet Services
Policies & Client Agreement
These policies are in place to ensure the safety, wellbeing, and happiness of every pet in our care, while providing a reliable, professional, and friendly service. If you ever have questions, please feel free to get in touch.

1. General Care & Welfare
All dogs are cared for with kindness, patience, and respect at all times.
Walks are tailored to suit each dog’s age, breed, health, and individual needs.
Fresh water is offered after every walk.
Dogs are never walked off-lead unless it has been agreed in advance and it is safe to do so.

2. Client Information & Responsibilities
All dogs must have a completed Client Intake Form before services begin.
It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure all information provided is accurate and kept up to date.
Any changes to health, behaviour, routine, or contact details must be communicated as soon as possible.

3. Health, Vaccinations & Parasite Control
Dogs must be in good general health to attend walks.
Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations or have a valid titre test.
Regular flea, tick, and worm treatment is required.
Any medical conditions, injuries, allergies, or medication requirements must be disclosed via the client form.

4. Behaviour & Handling
Dogs must be safe to handle on lead and in public environments.
Any history of aggression, reactivity, anxiety, or bite incidents must be declared.
We use positive, reward-based handling only. Harsh handling methods or aversive equipment are not used.
We reserve the right to decline or suspend services if a dog’s behaviour poses a risk to themselves, other dogs, the public, or the walker.

5. Group Walks
Group walks are carefully matched based on size, temperament, energy levels, and behaviour.
Group sizes are kept small to ensure safety and individual attention.
If a dog becomes unsuitable for group walks, we will discuss alternative options such as solo walks.

6. Puppies
Puppies must have completed their vaccinations before joining group walks.
Puppy walks focus on positive experiences, confidence-building, and appropriate rest periods.
Walk duration and structure will be age-appropriate.

7. Equipment
Owners must provide suitable collars or harnesses and a secure lead.
We reserve the right to use our own equipment if we believe it is safer for the dog.
Choke chains, prong collars, or aversive training equipment will not be used.

8. Access to Property
Clients must provide safe and clear access to their property, including instructions for keys, alarms, or entry systems.
We will take all reasonable care to ensure your home is left secure.
We cannot be held responsible for issues caused by faulty locks or unclear instructions.

9. Weather & Environmental Conditions
Walks may be adjusted during extreme weather conditions (including heat, storms, or icy conditions) to protect dog welfare.
Adjustments may include shorter walks, shaded routes, or enrichment-based visits instead.

10. Emergencies & Veterinary Care
In the event of an emergency, we will attempt to contact you immediately.
If you are unreachable, we are authorised to seek veterinary care using your nominated vet or the nearest available practice.
All decisions will be made in good faith and in the best interests of your dog.
Any veterinary fees or related costs remain the responsibility of the owner.

11. Cancellations & Changes
We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or changes.
Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged.
We understand emergencies happen and will always aim to be fair and reasonable.

12. Payments
Payment terms will be agreed in advance.
Invoices must be paid on time to secure ongoing services.
Continued late payment may result in suspension of services.

13. Photos, Videos & Updates
With permission provided via the Client Intake Form, we may take photos or videos during walks for updates or social media.
If you prefer your dog not to be featured, this can be updated at any time by notifying us in writing.

14. Liability
While every care is taken, Aurora’s Explorers Dog Walking & Pet Services cannot be held liable for illness, injury, or loss unless caused by proven negligence.
Owners remain responsible for any damage or injury caused by their dog to people, animals, or property.

15. Acceptance of Policies
By using our services, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these policies.
Completion of the Client Intake Form forms part of this agreement.
Policies may be updated from time to time, and clients will be informed of any significant changes.

Thank you for trusting Aurora’s Explorers Dog Walking & Pet Services.
We’re proud to be part of your dog’s adventures.