Adverse Weather Policy
At Dave’s Dogs, your dog’s safety and wellbeing always come first. This policy explains how extreme weather, including heat, storms, ice and cold, is managed to ensure all dogs are cared for responsibly.
While I always aim to accommodate your preferences, final decisions regarding walks during adverse weather are made by Dave’s Dogs. Decisions are based on a careful risk assessment of weather conditions, ground conditions, transport safety and the individual needs of the dogs in my care.
Weather conditions can change quickly. I reserve the right to amend, shorten, replace or cancel walks at short notice if conditions become unsafe.
Temperature guidance is not absolute. Humidity, wind chill, pavement temperature, shade availability and individual tolerance will always be considered.
Weather Related Adjustments & Fees
Where a walk is shortened, rescheduled, replaced with a drop in visit, or otherwise modified due to adverse weather, the full agreed walk fee will still apply.
The booking time is reserved exclusively for your dog, and transport, planning, travel time and care are still provided regardless of duration. No partial refunds or reductions will be offered where adjustments are made in the interest of safety.
Hot Weather
Walk Time Adjustments
When warm weather is forecast, walks may be rescheduled to earlier in the day to avoid peak temperatures. You will be notified in advance where possible. These walks may be earlier than your preference, but the health and safety of every dog in my care is the priority.
Shaded Routes & Safe Transport
Walks take place in shaded or wooded countryside locations wherever possible. Pavement temperatures are checked where relevant to protect paws.
Dogs travel in a climate controlled van and are never left unattended. Temperature and ventilation are monitored at all times.
Heat Sensitive Dogs
Dogs who are more vulnerable to heat, including flat faced breeds, older dogs, heavily coated dogs or those with medical conditions, may have shorter walks or be offered a drop in visit instead.
Alternative Visits
On particularly hot days, walks may be replaced with a welfare visit. These include a toilet break, fresh water and calm enrichment indoors or in shaded garden areas where appropriate. Dogs left home alone will be prioritised.
Due to the number of dogs normally joining group walks, I cannot guarantee a specific time for alternative visits on these days.
Group Walk Adjustments
In warm weather, group walks may be shortened to ensure dogs are not exposed to heat for longer than is safe. If any dog shows signs of overheating or distress, the walk will be ended early. Group safety overrides individual exercise duration.
Water & Recovery
All dogs are offered fresh water and returned to a cool, shaded resting space. I will contact you if I observe any signs of heat related distress.
Dogs can develop heatstroke rapidly and without obvious warning signs. Preventative decisions may be made even if a dog appears comfortable beforehand.
Temperature Guidance
As a general guide:
Adjustments may be made from 18°C for heat sensitive dogs.
Walks are often reduced, replaced or significantly modified from 23°C and above.
Cold, Ice & Storms
Icy or Freezing Conditions
When paths are icy or temperatures are extremely low, walks may be shortened or adapted for safety. Drop in visits may be offered as an alternative.
If safe access to your property is not possible due to snow or ice, the walk or visit may be cancelled.
Please provide appropriate coats or paw protection where needed.
Storms & High Winds
Walks may be cancelled or replaced with a welfare visit if storms, thunder, lightning or strong winds pose a safety risk. Dogs will not be walked during lightning or where falling debris is a concern.
Dogs Home Environment
Guardians are responsible for ensuring their dog has:
Access to fresh water
A safe and appropriate cool or warm resting space
Adequate ventilation in hot weather
Safe access to the property in snow or icy conditions
I cannot be held responsible for internal home temperatures or environmental conditions within the property.
In Case of Emergency
If a dog shows signs of weather related distress, I will act immediately in their best interests. This may include cooling or warming measures, contacting you and seeking veterinary care if required. Any emergency action will be taken to prioritise the dog’s welfare.
Thank you for supporting this policy - it helps me keep every dog happy, safe and comfortable year-round.