HIGHER RISK CUSTOMERS

MEDICALLY

HTDS does not discriminate against dogs based on their breed or for any other reason. We do understand though, that some types of dogs are more at risk than others to become injured and/or experience potentially life-threatening conditions. These include: highly anxious, flat-faced and large/overweight dogs.

Some common risk factors include but are not limited to: heat stroke and/or respiratory distress, severe anxiety, hip dysplasia, and severe allergies. Breeds that commonly experience these issues include but are not limited to: Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Australian Cattle Dogs, American and English Staffordshire Terriers.

Any dog may be considered by HTDS to be high risk and may require extra documentation for HTDS to commence services. If your dog has ever been to the vet for any reason other than vaccinations and general check ups, HTDS may consider your dog to be of high risk and you agree to provide a medical history of your dog from your vet (with a letterhead).

You must disclose ALL relevant information to HTDS about your dog’s care and/or health requirements.

Additionally, dogs who are considered high risk by HTDS will be required to have a minimum of one (1) walk for one (1) hour per week for a minimum of three (3) weeks prior to any minding services commencing. This is to ensure a rapport is built between HTDS and your dog and to help lessen the likelihood of any anxiety based issues occurring while your dog is in HTDS care. More walks may be needed before HTDS may approve any future minding services, these will be added at HTDS discretion.

BEHAVIOURALLY

Not all dogs are friendly while others are too friendly - both can potentially become risky. Many dogs can be well behaved most of the time, but some things trigger them, like other dogs being around their food or toys, or in their face too much. Other dogs are overly excited and friendly, some to the point where they annoy or trigger other dogs. Whatever quirks, triggers or behaviours your dog has, we need to get to know them and their personality and how their socialisation works.

This is another important part of why we ask for FULL DISCLOSURE of your dogs BEHAVIOUR and MEDICAL RECORD.²

You agree to ensure all information about your dog’s behaviour is communicated clearly to HTDS. Some of the questions you may be asked at any time while a client of HTDS are: has your dog been involved in any fights, if they are likely to wander from our group or scavange, how they have been interacting with other dogs, how their training and obedience is, particularly their recall, if they have ever bitten you, and more.