Terms and Conditions of Business

Effective as of 2nd September 2024

1. Definitions

  • “Service”: Dog walking, let-out, pet care, and dog training services provided by Bark Side of Midlothian Limited.

  • “Client”: The person or entity purchasing the Service.

  • “Walker/Trainer”: Any individual employed or contracted by Bark Side of Midlothian Limited to perform the Service.

  • “Dog(s)”: The canine pet(s) owned by the Client and receiving the Service.

2. Services Provided

  • Bark Side of Midlothian Limited agrees to provide Services as per the Client’s requirements, subject to availability and agreement on terms.

  • Services may include dog walking, let-outs, pet care, and training.

  • Additional services (e.g., feeding, medication administration) must be pre-arranged and may incur extra charges.

3. Service Hours and Availability

  • Bark Side of Midlothian Limited will strive to accommodate all requests but cannot guarantee availability at all times.

  • Clients should provide as much notice as possible when booking to avoid disappointment.

4. Fees and Payment

  • Fees are charged according to the rates published on Bark Side of Midlothian Limited’s website or as otherwise agreed in writing.

  • For all training services, a 20% non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking.

  • The remaining balance is due within 7 days of the appointment/service date.

  • Payments may be made via BACS transfer or other agreed methods.

  • Late payments may incur a fee of 20% of the outstanding amount per 30 days, and services may be suspended until payment is received.

5. Client Obligations

  • Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations, flea treatments, and worming; proof may be requested.

  • Clients must disclose any relevant medical conditions, dietary needs, or behavioural issues.

  • Dogs must wear a suitable collar/harness with ID tag, and properties must be safe and secure for service delivery.

6. Health and Safety

  • Bark Side of Midlothian Limited reserves the right to refuse or discontinue Services if a Dog displays aggressive or dangerous behaviour, or if the Walker/Trainer believes the Dog poses a risk to safety.

  • In a medical emergency, Bark Side of Midlothian Limited will attempt to contact the Client. If unreachable, veterinary treatment may be sought at the Client’s expense.

7. Liability

  • Bark Side of Midlothian Limited is insured for public liability.

  • We will not be liable for loss, injury, or death of Dog(s) arising from pre-existing conditions, unforeseeable accidents, or circumstances beyond our control.

  • Clients agree to indemnify Bark Side of Midlothian Limited and its staff against any claims, damages, or expenses caused by their Dog(s).

8. Holding of Keys

  • Keys may be held to access the Client’s property for Services.

  • Keys will be stored securely and labelled without direct property identification.

  • In the event of loss/damage to keys in our possession, replacement costs up to £30 will be covered.

  • We are not liable for indirect or consequential loss resulting from key loss or misuse.

9. Cancellation & Refunds

  • Dog Walking/Let-out Services:

    • Cancellations with at least 48 hours’ notice – deposit retained, remaining balance (if paid) refunded.

    • Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice – full service charge applies.

  • Dog Training Services:

    • Cancellations with at least 7 days’ notice – deposit retained, remaining balance (if paid) refunded.

    • Cancellations with less than 7 days’ notice – 50% of the service fee due.

    • Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice or no-shows – 100% of the service fee due.

  • If Bark Side of Midlothian Limited cancels a booking, a full refund including the deposit will be issued, or the session rescheduled.

10. Training Services

  • Training uses positive, reward-based methods. Results may vary depending on consistency and commitment from the Client.

  • The Client understands training is not without risk to themselves, household members, or their Dog(s).

  • Aggressive or highly reactive dogs may be referred to a specialist if deemed unsafe.

  • The Client agrees to indemnify Bark Side of Midlothian Limited against any liability, claims, or expenses relating to participation in training.

11. Data Protection

  • Personal data will be processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

  • Data will only be used to provide Services and will not be shared without consent.

12. Governing Law

  • These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of Scotland.

  • Disputes will fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Scottish courts.