Terms & Conditions for Pet sitting
Section 1: Booking & Payment
1.1 Booking Confirmation
No deposit is required. A booking is only confirmed once an invoice has been issued and acknowledged by the client.
1.2 Payment Terms
Payment must be made by bank transfer or cash. Full payment is due 7 days before the first scheduled visit.
1.3 Cancellations & Changes
A minimum of 7 days’ notice is required for any cancellation.
Cancellations with less than 7 days’ notice will be charged in full.
Early returns or late changes to the booking will not result in a refund.
1.4 Delays & Continued Care
If your return is delayed, you must inform us immediately. If we do not hear from you by the end of your scheduled care period, we will continue visits to safeguard your pet’s welfare. If care is no longer required and no notification has been received, an additional visit fee will be charged.
Section 2: Home Access & Security
2.1 Shared Access Responsibility
If others (e.g. neighbours, cleaners, or tradespeople) are expected to access your home during your absence, Tong Pet Sitting accepts no liability for any incidents that may arise. You must inform us of any such arrangements during your consultation.
2.2 Key Holding & Security
Keys will be held securely, stored separately from identifiable addresses, and returned at the end of your booking unless otherwise agreed. All alarm codes, entry methods, and key handling instructions must be provided in writing. We accept no liability for loss, theft, or damage where third-party access is permitted.
2.3 Household Emergencies
You must provide an emergency contact and, where possible, a trusted maintenance contact. Please also complete the Emergency Repairs Authorisation Form to instruct how you would like us to respond to domestic issues (e.g. water leaks or power cuts).
2.4 Thermostat Settings
Please set your thermostat to a pet-appropriate range (typically 16–22°C for small mammals). We reserve the right to make minor adjustments to ensure your pet’s comfort and wellbeing.
Section 3: Pet Care
3.1 Service Visits
We aim to visit your pet(s) as close to the requested times as reasonably possible. Slight adjustments may occur due to traffic, weather, or scheduling. Visit durations are based on the service booked:
Cat visits: 15, 30, or 60 minutes
Small animal drop-in visits: approximately 15 minutes unless otherwise agreed
Excessive cleaning, emergencies, or extended care may incur an additional charge.
3.2 Client Responsibilities
You must supply all items required for your pet’s care, including food, litter, cleaning materials, bedding, and any prescribed medication. All items should be clearly labelled with instructions. Any shortages or omissions may result in additional charges or require emergency purchases.
3.3 Vaccinations
All pets must be fully vaccinated prior to the first visit where appropriate. Proof may be requested at any time.
3.4 Behavioural Disclosures
You must inform us of any known behavioural traits or issues, including aggression, separation anxiety, escape risk, or reactivity. We reserve the right to refuse or withdraw services if any undisclosed behaviour places our carers or your pet at risk.
3.5 Emergency Purchases
Should supplies run out during your absence, we will purchase essential items (e.g. food or litter). A £15 trip fee will apply in addition to the cost of goods. Receipts will be provided.
3.6 Cleanliness & Waste Disposal
We will clean up after your pets using the materials you provide. Please supply waste bags and indicate your preferred disposal method. Excessive or unexpected mess may incur an additional cleaning charge.
3.7 Veterinary Treatment
If your pet becomes unwell during your absence, we will seek veterinary advice or treatment using your nominated veterinary practice where possible. In an emergency, or if your vet is unavailable, we will use a local veterinary provider. All veterinary fees and associated costs incurred remain the responsibility of the owner. We will make every effort to contact you or your emergency contact prior to seeking treatment unless urgent care is required.
3.8 Pricing & Additional Charges
Cat home visits:
£10 for 15 minutes
£18 for two 15-minute visits per day
£20 for 30 minutes
£30 for 60 minutes
Travel beyond our 5-mile radius of BD4 is charged at 45p per mile
Small animal drop-in visits (fresh water, feeding, and spot cleaning): £10
Full habitat cleans:
Standard small enclosure: £10
Medium cage (up to 5ft): £20
Large enclosure (up to 10ft): £30
3.9 Liability
Tong Pet Sitting holds public liability insurance. However, we accept no responsibility for illness, injury, or death unless caused by proven negligence. You remain fully responsible for any damage or injury caused by your pet to property, people, or animals. Any medical costs resulting from harm caused to our staff by your pet remain the client’s responsibility.
Section 4: Insurance & Indemnity
4.1 Public Liability
Tong Pet Sitting is covered by public liability insurance for accidental injury or damage caused during our visits. This does not replace your responsibility to maintain adequate pet insurance, home insurance, or third-party liability cover.
4.2 Indemnity
You agree to indemnify Tong Pet Sitting against any claims, costs, or losses incurred due to inaccurate information, negligence on your part, or damage caused by your pet.
Section 5: Data Protection & Media Consent
5.1 Data Protection
All client information, including personal contact details, home access instructions, and Wi-Fi credentials, will be treated as confidential and stored securely. Information will not be shared with third parties except in emergencies or where legally required.
5.2 Photography & Social Media
With your consent, we may take non-identifiable photographs of your pet during visits for use on our website or social media pages. Please inform us in writing if you do not wish your pet to be included.