Conditions of Contract

(Home Boarding and Pet Sitting)

1. Definitions

 

In these Conditions of Contract the following definitions apply:

• “Company” refers solely to ALM Pet Services Ltd as a limited company. It does not include any self-employed contractors engaged by the Company to deliver services.
• “Client” refers to the organisation or individual entering into a contract with the Company via the acceptance of these terms and conditions.
• “Contract” refers to the legal contract between the Company and the Client for the purchase and supply of a service in accordance with these terms and conditions.
• “Booking” refers to the confirmation by a Client of their purchase request and acceptance of these Conditions of Contract.
• “Team Member” refers to a self-employed individual engaged to provide services under the ALM Pet Services branding. Team Members are not employees of the Company.

 

2. Booking Terms and Conditions

 

2.1 Making a Booking

 

1. Bookings can be made via social media, email, telephone, online - website, and by post.
2. A booking is deemed accepted when the Company issues written acceptance and receives a 25% deposit, at which point the Contract comes into existence (“Date of Commencement”). A confirmation will be sent to the Client.
3. All Clients must observe and comply with these terms and conditions. A breach by the Client will be treated as a breach of Contract.
4. These Conditions apply to the exclusion of any other terms the Client seeks to impose, or which may be implied by custom, trade, or practice.

 

2.2 Payments

1. The Company shall provide an invoice to the Client for advance payment.
2. The Client shall pay all invoices no later than 14 working days before the start date of the Booking.
3. All Bookings must be paid in full before commencement.
4. If the Client fails to make payment by the due date, the Company may cancel the Booking or charge interest at 4% per annum above Barclays Bank base rate, accruing daily until payment is made.
5. All deposits and payments are non-refundable, except where the Company is unable to fulfil the booking in full.
6. The Client must pay all amounts due in full, without deduction, withholding, or set off.

 

3. Discounts

1. Discounted rates apply only where the full payment is received by the deadline stated in Company communications.
2. Discounts cannot be split between multiple Clients.
3. The Company may, at its discretion, apply individual discounts based on booking length or number of dogs.
4. Boarding bookings are already discounted against daycare. A pricing guide is available on request.

 

4. Client Cancellations, Transfers, and Non-Attendance

1. If the Client cancels a booking, all payments made will be retained by the Company. If the Company cancels a booking, the Client will be entitled to a full refund or transfer.
2. Clients must notify the Company as soon as possible via WhatsApp, social media, or email if they are unable to attend a booking.
3. Clients may transfer their booking to another date free of charge on the first occasion if the Company deems the reason reasonable.

 

5. Special Requirements

1. Clients must inform the Company at the time of booking of any special requirements (e.g., crate use, on-lead only, food aggression, other animal aggression).
2. The Company will advise if such requirements cannot be accommodated.

 

6. Photography, Filming, and Social Media

1. The Company may take photographs, video, or livestream for promotional purposes during the booking.

 

7. Destruction of Property, Harm to Animals & Sanitary Standards

1. If a Client’s pet causes damage to property, the Client will be charged for repair. Failure to pay may result in the emergency contact being required to collect the pet.
2. If a pet is aggressive towards people or other animals, the Client is liable for any vet bills.
3. If a pet creates an unclean or unsanitary environment (e.g., persistent urination or defecation inside the Host Home beyond what is reasonably expected), the Client will be liable for the cost of professional cleaning. This will be charged at a minimum of 2 hours with Meredith's Maids at a rate of £18 per hour.
4. The Company may cancel a booking if the pet cannot be safely managed due to aggression, destruction, or unsanitary behaviour. No refund will be provided, and the emergency contact must collect the pet.

 

8. Data Protection & Personal Data

1. ALM Pet Services Ltd is the Data Controller and Processor of personal data supplied.
2. Personal data will be used to process bookings and, where necessary, shared with partners that assist with service delivery.
3. Data will not be shared with third parties without consent.
4. Clients may object to their data being used for specific purposes. Objections must be sent to alm.group.petcare@gmail.com with the subject line “Data Protection”.
5. ALM Pet Services are regulated and pay the data protection fee to the ICO in accordance with the Data Protection Regulations 2018 Law.

 

9. Insurance

1. It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure appropriate pet insurance is in place.

2. The Company holds Business Insurance to cover negligence on its part, including failure to follow Client instructions that result in injury.

 

10. Force Majeure

The Company shall not be liable for failure to deliver services due to circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to: acts of God, war, fire, or severe disturbances.

 

11. Admission & Right of Entry

The Company reserves the right to refuse bookings and to remove pets where necessary.

 

12. In-Home Pet Sitting – Specific Terms

 

1. Local Authority Regulation

• Bolton Council regulates home boarding only.
• In-home pet sitting is not regulated by the Council.
• Care provided in pet sitting arrangements falls under civil law, not criminal law.

 

2. Service Hours

• Part-day sitting hours are generally 3pm – 10am (for guidance only; not guaranteed fixed hours).
• Full 24-hour sitting: Team Members may leave pets unsupervised for up to 3 hours in line with Bolton Council boarding guidelines. This is charged at a higher rate.

 

3. Keys & Access

• Keys may be left in secure locations at the Company’s discretion to avoid unnecessary travel/fuel costs.

 

4. Exercise & Routine

• While in the Company’s care, pets’ exercise and routines will be managed by Team Members at their discretion, taking into account the pet’s needs and welfare.

 

13. Self-Employed Status of Team Members

1. All individuals who provide services on behalf of ALM Pet Services Ltd are engaged on a self-employed basis. They are not employees of the Company.
2. Each Team Member is responsible for their own conduct and professional actions while carrying out services.
3. By entering into this Contract, the Client acknowledges and accepts that any claims, disputes, or proceedings relating to the actions or omissions of a Team Member shall be directed to the individual concerned, and not to ALM Pet Services Ltd as the contracting company.
4. The Company will, where appropriate, cooperate with Clients in providing the contact details of the relevant Team Member should an issue arise.

 

14. Client Instructions for Pet Care

1. Clients must provide clear and accurate written instructions regarding the care of their pet(s). These should be submitted centrally to the Company (e.g., attached to the booking form or sent directly to the office team).
2. Where care instructions are only given verbally to a Team Member, or provided in handwritten notes that are unclear, the Company cannot be held responsible or liable for any misunderstanding, omission, or error in the delivery of care.
3. It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure that the Company has the most up-to-date instructions regarding feeding, exercise, medication, routines, and any special requirements for their pet(s).
4. The Company will circulate any centrally provided instructions to the relevant Team Member(s) to ensure consistency and clear communication.

 

15. Animal Welfare Standards

1. ALM Pet Services Ltd is committed to upholding recognised animal welfare standards at all times. These standards are based on the internationally recognised Five Freedoms, which reflect society’s expectations for the care and conditions under which animals under human control should live.

 

The Five Freedoms

• Freedom from hunger and thirst: Animals must have ready access to fresh water and a diet that maintains full health and vitality. - Food is provided by the Client. 
• Freedom from discomfort: Animals must be provided with an appropriate environment, adequate shelter, and a comfortable resting area.
• Freedom from pain, injury, and disease: Conditions should be managed to prevent pain, injury, and disease, with rapid diagnosis and treatment when necessary.
• Freedom to express normal behaviours: Animals must have sufficient space, proper facilities, and appropriate company of their own kind, enabling them to move freely, run, jump, and play.
• Freedom from fear and distress: Conditions and treatment should ensure animals are protected from mental suffering.

 

Legal and Practical Application

• In the UK, the Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a legal duty on owners and keepers to meet their animals’ needs as described by the Five Freedoms.
• Responsible care involves meeting both the physical and mental well-being of animals through proper husbandry, appropriate housing, and humane handling (including when euthanasia is necessary).

 

Key Components of Welfare Standards

• Environment: Suitable living spaces with protection from the elements and comfortable bedding.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet with constant access to fresh water.
• Health: Prevention and prompt treatment of injury and disease.
• Behaviour: Adequate space and facilities to allow the expression of natural behaviours.
• Socialisation: Housing with or apart from other animals as appropriate for the species and individual temperament.

 

16. Filming of Team Members

1. Clients do not have permission to film or record Team Members while they are providing services in the Client’s home.

2. Any filming, recording, or live-streaming of Team Members without their explicit consent is strictly prohibited.

3. The Company and its Team Members reserve the right to take appropriate action if this clause is breached.

 

17. Behaviour, Safety, and Welfare

1. If a dog behaves aggressively or unpredictably, the Company reserves the right to refuse or terminate services.
2. The Client is responsible for any costs arising from their dog causing injury to other animals, people, or property.
3. Dogs must be sociable with other dogs and people to participate in group walks unless pre-approved for solo care.
4. Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations, worming, and flea treatments.
5. If a Client states that their dog is suitable for group walks and sociable with other dogs, but our team observes behaviour that suggests otherwise, we will place the dog on a short trial and training period. During this time, we will attempt to integrate the dog safely into a group setting. If, after reasonable efforts, we determine that group walking is not in the best interest of the dog or the group, the Client will be informed, and the dog will be moved to solo walks under our care.
6. Bitches in season will not be accepted on group walks and may only be walked on a solo basis. If a bitch is booked in for boarding and comes into season, the Company reserves the right to refuse boarding without offering a refund.

 

18. Revisions

 

The Company reserves the right to amend these Conditions of Contract at any time.

Terms and Conditions

(Dog Walking and Doggy Daycare)

 

Conditions of Contract

 

In these Terms and Conditions:

 

• “Company” refers to ALM Pet Services Ltd.

 

• “Client” refers to the individual or organisation entering into a contract with the Company.

 

• “Contract” refers to the legal agreement between the Company and the Client for the supply of services as outlined herein.

 

• “Booking” refers to a confirmed request for services, along with the Client’s acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

 

1. Making a Booking

1.1 Bookings may be made via social media, email, telephone, online, or by post.

1.2 A Booking is confirmed once the Company issues written confirmation and receives the relevant deposit or payment, at which point the Contract comes into effect ("Date of Commencement").

1.3 By booking a service, the Client agrees to comply with all conditions herein.

1.4 These terms override any others the Client may propose, including those implied by trade, custom, or practice.

 

2. Payments

2.1 All payments must be made in advance of service delivery. No walks or daycare sessions will be provided unless payment has been received.

2.2 The Company accepts ad hoc bookings where availability allows. However, to secure a regular space with a specific walker or on a particular day, the Client must commit to monthly recurring bookings, paid in advance.

2.3 Regular monthly bookings are prioritised over ad hoc or last-minute requests. Ad hoc bookings do not guarantee availability.

2.4 The Company will issue invoices for regular bookings on a monthly basis. These must be paid by the due date to avoid disruption to service.

2.5 Late or non-payment may result in cancellation of services and loss of the Client’s allocated space.

2.6 If the Client misses a scheduled service and has not provided sufficient notice (minimum 24 hours), the session will be charged in full and not credited or refunded.

2.7 Refunds are only issued if the Company cannot fulfil the booking and no suitable alternative is available.

 

3. Service Disruption and Credits

3.1 If a walk or daycare session cannot go ahead due to a Company-side emergency (e.g. vehicle breakdown or personal emergency) and no suitable alternative carer is available, a credit will be issued for use within the same calendar month, as agreed with the Client.

3.2 In cases where a regular walker is on annual leave, the Client will be offered a choice of:

(a) Moving the booking to an alternative date, or

(b) Using an alternative walker familiar with the dog.

If the Client declines both options, the booking will be forfeited without refund or credit.

 

4. Weather Policy

4.1 The safety and wellbeing of dogs is our top priority. In extreme weather, we may modify walks (e.g. reduced duration, shaded routes, smaller groups).

4.2 Cancellations initiated by the Client due to weather preference (e.g. rain or heat) are not refundable or transferable to another month.

4.3 We may offer flexibility within the same month where feasible, depending on availability and admin impact.

4.4 During hot weather, the Company may offer a drop-in service as an alternative. This includes a 30-minute visit to provide a toilet break, fresh water, and check-in.

4.5 If the Client declines all reasonable alternatives, no refund or credit will be issued.

 

5. Special Requirements

5.1 Clients must notify the Company of any behavioural or medical needs in advance (e.g. reactivity, on-lead requirements, medication).

5.2 The Company will assess whether it can safely accommodate these requirements.

 

6. Behaviour, Safety, and Welfare

6.1 If a dog behaves aggressively or unpredictably, the Company reserves the right to refuse or terminate services.

6.2 The Client is responsible for any costs arising from their dog causing injury to other animals, people, or property.

6.3 Dogs must be sociable with other dogs and people to participate in group walks unless pre-approved for solo care.

6.4 Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations, worming, and flea treatments.

6.5 If a Client states that their dog is suitable for group walks and sociable with other dogs, but our team observes behaviour that suggests otherwise, we will place the dog on a short trial and training period. During this time, we will attempt to integrate the dog safely into a group setting. If, after reasonable efforts, we determine that group walking is not in the best interest of the dog or the group, the Client will be informed, and the dog will be moved to solo walks under our care.

6.6 Bitches in season will not be accepted on group walks and may only be walked on a solo basis. If a bitch is booked in for boarding and comes into season, the Company reserves the right to refuse boarding without offering a refund.

 

7. Photography, Filming, and Social Media

7.1 The Company may photograph or film dogs during services for promotional purposes, unless the Client explicitly opts out in writing.

 

8. Professional Conduct and Staff Relations

8.1 It is a breach of contract for any current or former staff member of ALM Pet Services Ltd to offer pet care services independently to clients of the Company.

8.2 Clients must not solicit or employ Company staff directly for services outside of ALM Pet Services.

8.3 If you require a referral to another trusted professional, the Company is happy to recommend vetted, welfare-conscious carers from the local network.

 

9. Cancellations and No-Shows

9.1 The Client may cancel or reschedule a booking with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.

9.2 Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice are non-refundable.

9.3 No-shows will be treated as cancellations without notice and will not be refunded or credited.

9.4 If the Company cancels a service without a suitable alternative, a credit will be issued for use within the same calendar month.

 

10. Data Protection

10.1 ALM Pet Services Ltd is both Data Controller and Processor.

10.2 Personal data is used only for the purposes of service delivery.

10.3 Data will never be shared with third parties without consent, unless required to deliver services (e.g. emergency veterinary care).

10.4 Clients may request access to, or deletion of, their data by emailing: alm.group.petcare@gmail.com with the subject line “Data Protection”.

 

11. Insurance

11.1 Clients are responsible for insuring their pet.

11.2 The Company holds public liability and business insurance, covering its own negligence and failure to follow Client instructions that result in injury or harm.

 

12. Force Majeure

12.1 The Company shall not be liable for delays or cancellations caused by events outside its reasonable control, including but not limited to: adverse weather, illness, emergencies, or acts of God.

 

13. Admission and Right of Refusal

13.1 The Company reserves the right to refuse or terminate services for any dog it deems unsuitable for group or solo care, at any time.

 

14. Amendments

14.1 The Company reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time. The latest version will be available upon request or via our website.