FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is your dog walking service offered?
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I am based in South Bristol but can travel to most places across the city, depending on what other bookings I have. Just give me a call and I’ll let you know when I’ll be in your area. ​
What is the best way to book one of your services?
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Call Jane on 07902 606497 or email uppupandawaybristol@gmail.com
What happens on a group dog walk?
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​​Your dog will be out for a full hour, getting a quality walk and all the physical exercise it needs. Whether it prefers a gentle stroll or a good old run-out, I’ll let your dog set the pace. I plan group walks so all the dogs have an enjoyable time, with furry friends who have the same needs, so no one gets left behind.
What qualifications and insurance do you have?
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I have public liability insurance, a pet first aid certificate, canine body language certification and an enhanced DBS check.
What happens on a solo walk?
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​​If your pooch doesn’t get on well with other dogs or just likes a bit more peace and quiet, you can book a solo walk. It’s just like the group walk but your dog will get my undivided attention, for a whole hour of jogging, walking or chasing a ball. Whatever suits your dog best is fine by me.
What happens on a play date?
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If you’re at work or away for the day, I can visit your dog or puppy at home – once, twice or three times during the day. While I’m there, I can give your dog some food, make sure it goes to the loo or takes any medication it needs. I can also clean up any little accidents that might happen. But just as important as all the other stuff, I can be there for the cuddles, love and attention they usually get from you.
What happens on a feeding visit?
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For cats and any other animals, you might just need me to pop in, give them some food, clean out their bedding or litter tray and make sure they get a bit of love and attention. If you’re away for a while and want me to water your plants, close the curtains or put your bins out, I’ll happily do that while I’m there too!
Here are some of the things you might want to know but didn’t like to ask. If you have any other questions, please just give me a call – there’s no such thing as a silly question!
Will it always be you who cares for my pets?
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I work alone so it should always be me. If for any reason I can’t come, maybe due to illness, then I have family members who can act as backup. However, I understand you’ll want to know who’s taking out your dog or entering your house, so I’ll always contact you beforehand to check that’s ok. If it’s not, then I can ask your emergency contact to step in until I’m able to get there.
Can you give my pet medication?
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Yes. I’ve got lots of experience of giving medication to pets, so as long as I have all the necessary instructions regarding doses and times, that’s fine.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
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For dog walking or pet care services, no charge will be made for cancelling, providing you let me know at least 24 hours in advance. If you provide less notice, all charges will be payable in full.
For my Pets at Home service, all fees other than the non-refundable deposit will be returned providing I am notified at least 14 days prior to the start of the booking. Any bookings cancelled between 14 days and 48 hours before the start date will be charged at 50% of the cost. Any bookings cancelled within 48 hours of the start date have to be charged in full as I won’t be able to re-book my time at such short notice.
What if my dog or cat messes in the house?
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No matter how good they are, all cats and dogs have little accidents from time to time – especially when there’s a change to their routine. If that happens I’m more than happy to clear it up while I’m there. Obviously, if it’s anything major I may have to charge a little extra to cover my time, but I’ll always tell you about it first.
Can I keep in touch with you while I’m away?
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Yes of course. I want you to enjoy your trip and it’s perfectly normal to worry about how your pets are getting on while you’re away. Feel free to call, email or text me as often as you like. I’m also more than happy to send you a few photos of them having a lovely time to put your mind at rest.
How will I pay you?
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Most services are invoiced and paid for weekly in advance, either by bank transfer or cash. For my Pets at Home service, a 20% deposit is taken to confirm your booking and full payment must be made before your departure.
Will you need a key to my house?
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Most of my clients give me a key at the initial consultation, so I can pick up and drop off pets or enter the house to care for pets whenever required. Or some will give me a key just before they leave for a holiday. When you are due to return, I won’t leave the key inside your house in case you’re delayed, and I need to go back for further visits – as soon as you’re back, I’ll contact you to arrange its return.