MY CORNISH PET COMPANION
PET SITTING TERMS

1. This Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions under which the Service Provider will provide pet sitting and related pet care for the Client. By signing this Agreement, the Client acknowledges and agrees to the provisions set out herein, and the Service Provider agrees to provide the services specified below.

 

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Service Provider agrees to provide pet sitting services as outlined in this Agreement. These services may include but may not be limited to feeding, walking, playing, administering medication (as directed by the Client), and providing general companionship and care for the Client’s pet or pets.

The Client acknowledges that the Service Provider is certified in advanced pet first aid. While the Service Provider will take all reasonable precautions to ensure the health and safety of the pets in their care, they are not a licensed veterinary practitioner. In the event that a pet requires medical attention beyond basic care or first aid, the Service Provider will immediately seek the services of a qualified veterinarian. The Service Provider will ensure that pets in their care are treated with the highest level of care and attention, but any medical care that is required, including the treatment of illness or injury, will be administered by a qualified veterinarian. The Service Provider will make every effort to notify the Client immediately if any veterinary attention is needed and will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the animal.

 

2.1 Core Pet Sitting Services

24hr Pet Sitting

For clients requiring one-to-one care, the Service Provider will remain at the Client’s residence for a continuous period over the agreed dates, ensuring that pets are fed, exercised, and kept company throughout the day. The Pet Sitter will monitor the pet(s) for signs of distress, illness, or injury and will take necessary action as described in this Agreement.

21hrs of 24hrs Policy

The Service provider will remain at the client’s residence for a minimum of 21hrs unless stated otherwise. This is to allow the service provider to get essentials such as food shopping.

Emergency Veterinary Assistance and Transportation

In the event of an emergency or when veterinary care is required, the Service Provider will take the pet to the designated veterinary clinic or to the nearest emergency veterinary service. The Service Provider will contact the Client as soon as possible to inform them of the pet’s condition and the steps taken.

Medication Administration

Should the pet require medications, the Client must provide detailed instructions and sufficient supplies (including dosage, frequency, and any specific requirements) to ensure correct administration. The Service Provider will follow the instructions to the best of their ability and will maintain accurate records of medication given.

 

2.2 Additional Services (Optional)

The following services can be added for an additional fee, subject to availability:

Non-Professional Pet Grooming Services – Bathing, brushing, and other grooming services can be arranged upon request, subject to the pet’s needs and the Client’s preferences.

Home Care Services – The Service Provider may assist with minor household tasks, such as watering plants or collecting post, during the course of their visits. The Client must provide explicit instructions regarding such tasks.

Special Requests – Any requests not covered above, such as custom feeding routines or behavioural training, must be discussed with the Service Provider and agreed upon in writing before being incorporated into this Agreement.

 

3. DURATION OF SERVICE

This Agreement will begin and end on the dates specified below, and services will be provided during the agreed period unless otherwise amended by mutual written consent.

 

3.1 Service Term

The Service Provider will carry out the services during the times and days specified in this Agreement. Should the Client require additional services or changes to the schedule, a minimum of 48 hours' notice must be given for any adjustments to be made.

 

3.2 Flexibility in Service Times

If, for any reason, the Client needs to alter the schedule (e.g., due to travel delays, last- minute changes in the pet’s routine), the Service Provider will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such changes, subject to availability. If adjustments are needed outside of the Service Provider's working hours, an additional charge may apply.

 

4. FEES AND PAYMENT TERMS

The Client agrees to pay the Service Provider for the services rendered according to the terms set out below:

 

4.1 Service Rates

The rates for each service provided are as follows:

Meet and Greet: Free

Flat Day Rate over 7hrs: TBC

Pet sitting drop-in visits: £16.50 per hour for as long as the client requires, and a capped day rate applied after 7hrs.

Emergency Veterinary Transport & Care: Will be discussed in the event of an emergency. 4.2 

 

Booking Deposit & Payment Terms

A non-refundable deposit of 50% is required to secure the booking. The deposit is payable at the time of booking and will be deducted from the final service fee.

The remaining 50% of the total service fee is due 48 hours before the start date of the pet sitting service. If the full balance is not paid by this time, the Service Provider reserves the right to cancel the service and retain the deposit as compensation for the reservation.

Late Payment Fees: Any payments made after the due date will incur a late payment fee of £20 per day until full payment is received. If payment remains overdue by more than 7 days, the Service Provider reserves the right to take legal action to recover the outstanding balance, including seeking compensation for all associated collection and legal fees.

 

4.3 Additional Fees

The following additional charges may apply if requested by the Client or required during the term of this Agreement:

Travel Expenses: £0.50 pence per mile for the sit and meet and greet. Medication Administration: £20 per medication session (if applicable).

Emergency Service Charge: If the pet requires emergency care or additional services not initially agreed upon, the Client will be invoiced for the additional costs incurred.

 

4.4 Cancellation Policy

More than 7 days' notice: A 50% refund will be provided, excluding the deposit.

Less than 7 days' notice: No refund will be issued, and the full-service fee is payable.

Same-day cancellations or no-shows: In the event that the Client cancels on the day the service is due to begin, the full-service fee remains due and payable.

 

5. CLIENT OBLIGATIONS

To ensure the smooth execution of the services provided, the Client agrees to:

 

5.1 Provision of Information

The Client agrees to provide accurate and complete information about pet health, dietary needs, behaviour, and any other factors that may affect the pet’s care. Failure to disclose critical information may result in the termination of this Agreement and forfeit of payments made.

 

5.2 Supplies & Equipment

The Client agrees to provide all necessary items for the pet’s care, including but not limited to:

 

Pet food and water bowls

Leashes, collars, harnesses, horse tack

Medications and treatment instructions

Toys, bedding, and other comfort items

Any grooming equipment or special tools required must also be provided.

 

5.3 Property Access

The Client agrees to provide the Service Provider with two sets of keys or access codes to the property. If any access issues arise, the Client will bear the responsibility for any necessary arrangements to provide access.

The Client must ensure that the property is secure, with functioning locks and secure areas for the pet(s) during the service period.

 

6. PET SITTER AUTHORITY AND LIABILITY

The Client grants the Service Provider the authority to make decisions regarding the pet's health and wellbeing during the period of service:

 

6.1 Emergency Care Decisions

In the event of an emergency, the Service Provider has the authority to act in the best interest of the pet, including obtaining veterinary care or emergency services as required. The Client will reimburse all associated costs for emergency services.

 

6.2 Liability

The Service Provider will not be held liable for any illness, injury, or loss of the pet, unless it is proven that such issues were caused by negligence or failure to meet the terms of this Agreement.

The Client is responsible for ensuring that the pet is in good health and fit for the services provided.

 

6.3 Loss or Damage to Property

The Service Provider is not responsible for any damage to the Client’s property, including furniture, carpets, and personal items, caused by the pet. The Client is advised to remove any valuables or items that may be at risk of damage.

 

7. FORCE MAJEURE

Neither party shall be liable for failure to perform any obligations under this Agreement if such failure is due to an event or cause beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to:

Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, etc.) Fire or theft

Strikes, lockouts, or labour disputes Government restrictions or health crises

 

8. TERMINATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION 8.1 Termination of Agreement

This Agreement may be terminated by either party under the following conditions:

 

By the Client:

The Client may terminate this Agreement at any time, provided that notice is given in writing to the Service Provider. However, cancellation terms and fees as outlined in Section 4.4 (Cancellation Policy) will apply.

In the case of immediate termination by the Client, for reasons other than the Service Provider’s breach of contract or failure to perform duties as agreed, the Client acknowledges that the full-service fee is payable, regardless of whether services are rendered.

If the Client chooses to terminate the Agreement prematurely, any services provided by the Service Provider up to the point of termination will be charged at the full agreed rate, and no refund will be issued for any unused services or deposits.

 

By the Service Provider:

The Service Provider reserves the right to terminate the Agreement at any time with immediate effect, without notice, if:

The Client or anyone at the Client’s residence is abusive, aggressive, or threatens harm to the Service Provider, including but not limited to slander, libel or defamation of services provided.

The Client fails to provide necessary and accurate information regarding the pet’s health, behaviour, dietary needs, or any other relevant factors that may endanger the pet or the Service Provider.

The Client refuses or fails to comply with the Service Provider’s requests for access to the property, including, but not limited to, providing keys, access codes, or adequate instructions regarding the pet’s care.

The Client breaches any of the terms of this Agreement, including payment terms, and fails to resolve the breach within 7 days of notice from the Service Provider.

In such cases of termination by the Service Provider, the Client will not be entitled to any refund, and the full-service fee is payable.

If the Service Provider is unable to fulfil their duties due to reasons beyond their control, including personal illness or unforeseen emergencies, the Service Provider will notify the Client immediately and make reasonable efforts to either reschedule services or arrange for a suitable replacement. In such cases, the Client will not be charged for services not rendered.

 

8.2 Breach of Contract

A breach of contract occurs when either party fails to perform their obligations as outlined in this Agreement. If the Client or Service Provider believes there has been a breach, the following procedures shall be followed:

 

Notice of Breach

The party alleging the breach must provide written notice to the other party, detailing the nature of the breach and the remedy sought.

Upon receipt of a notice of breach, the alleged party has 7 days to respond in writing, either resolving the issue or providing a satisfactory explanation for the breach.

 

Resolution Period

After notice of breach has been given, both parties will engage in good faith efforts to resolve the dispute amicably. This includes meeting or corresponding to discuss the situation and attempt to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. If the breach is related to the Client’s actions or non-performance, the Service Provider may impose certain conditions to remedy the breach, such as requiring immediate payment of overdue fees or rectification of issues relating to the pet’s care.

In the event that the breach is not rectified within 7 days of notice, the party alleging the breach may terminate the Agreement in accordance with Section 8.1 (Termination of Agreement).

 

8.3 Dispute Resolution Process

In the event that a dispute arises between the Client and the Service Provider that cannot be resolved through informal negotiations, both parties agree to the following dispute resolution procedures:

 

Mediation

Before initiating any formal legal action, both parties agree to attempt mediation through a neutral third-party mediator. The mediator’s role is to facilitate discussions between the parties and help them reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

The mediator must be selected by mutual consent, and both parties will equally share the costs of mediation. Mediation will take place within 14 days of either party requesting it, unless both parties agree to extend the period.

If mediation results in a resolution, the parties will sign a written Settlement Agreement, which will be legally binding.

Arbitration

If mediation fails or is deemed inappropriate by either party, both parties agree to resolve any remaining disputes through arbitration.

The arbitration will be conducted in accordance with the Arbitration Act 1996, with a qualified arbitrator selected by both parties. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, the arbitrator will be appointed by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

The arbitration will be held at a location agreed upon by both parties, or, if no such agreement can be reached, at a location decided by the arbitrator. The decision of the arbitrator will be final and binding.

Costs of Dispute Resolution

In the event that a dispute requires mediation or arbitration, each party will bear their own legal costs unless the arbitrator or mediator determines otherwise. If the arbitration results in a decision in favour of one party, the arbitrator may order the losing party to pay the winner’s legal costs, including mediation or arbitration fees.

 

8.4 Court Action

If the dispute is not resolved through mediation or arbitration, either party may bring a legal claim in a court of competent jurisdiction in the United Kingdom.

The Client acknowledges that any legal action related to this Agreement will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

The Client agrees that they will be liable for any legal fees incurred by the Service Provider in the event that legal action is necessary to collect unpaid fees or resolve a dispute related to this Agreement.

 

8.5 Limitation of Liability

The Service Provider will not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damage to the Client’s property, pets, or any third parties during the provision of services unless it is determined that such loss, injury, or damage was the direct result of the Service Provider’s negligence or wilful misconduct.

The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Service Provider from any claims, losses, or damages resulting from the Client’s breach of contract, inaccurate information provided, or failure to perform their obligations under this Agreement.

 

8.6 Consequences of Breach

In the event of a serious breach (for example, non-payment, refusal of access to property, or failure to fulfil the Client’s obligations), the Service Provider reserves the right to:

Immediately terminate this Agreement and cease providing services.

Pursue legal action to recover the owed amounts, including any damages caused by the breach (e.g., costs incurred due to last-minute cancellation, failure to pay for services rendered, etc.).

The Client will be liable for all reasonable costs, including solicitor fees, court costs, and any associated collection fees.

 

8.7 Right to Suspend Services

The Service Provider reserves the right to suspend services if:

The Client has not paid fees according to the terms of this Agreement.

The Client refuses or delays access to the property for any reason or denies the Service Provider the ability to care for the pet(s).

The Client’s behaviour, actions, or omissions place the Service Provider in a position where they believe their health, safety, or wellbeing is at risk.

During a suspension of services, the full-service fee remains payable, and the Service Provider may choose to either resume services when appropriate or terminate the Agreement entirely.

 

9. AGREEMENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Confidentiality and Discretion

The Service Provider agrees to handle all information and interactions related to the pet care services in the strictest confidence. Any personal, medical, or other sensitive information about the Client or their pet(s) will not be disclosed to any third party without the Client’s prior consent, except where required by law or in the event of an emergency situation. The Service Provider takes the privacy and security of the Client’s information seriously and will act with the utmost discretion in all matters pertaining to the service.

 

Marketing and Photography

From time to time, the Service Provider may take photographs or videos of the Client's pet(s) as part of the business's marketing materials, including but not limited to social media, website content, and promotional materials. The Client acknowledges and agrees that their pet(s) may be included in such content. However, should the Client prefer that their pet(s) not be photographed, filmed, or featured in any marketing material, they must notify the Service Provider in writing, in advance, of their wishes. The Service Provider will respect this request and will ensure no photos, videos, or other content featuring the Client’s pet(s) will be used for promotional purposes without explicit consent.

 

Right to Report Pet Safety and Welfare Concerns

The Service Provider reserves the right to report any concerns regarding the safety, welfare, or living conditions of the Client’s pet(s) to the appropriate authorities, including local animal welfare organisations, veterinary professionals, or law enforcement, should the Service Provider have any reason to believe that the pet(s) is being mistreated, neglected, or not being cared for in accordance with relevant UK animal welfare laws. This includes, but is not limited to, the welfare of wild animals, which are protected under UK law and subject to specific regulations regarding their care and treatment. The Service Provider is legally obligated to act in the best interests of the pet’s wellbeing and to take appropriate action if there are any concerns about the pet’s safety or welfare. This may include, where necessary, contacting the relevant authorities to ensure the pet receives the care and protection it requires.

Both the Client and the Service Provider acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to the terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement.