Statement of Care

🐾 Statement of Care

Bristol Dog‑Walking & Pet Support:

At the heart of my work is a simple promise: your dog is treated with the same care, respect, and attention I’d want for my own. Every walk, visit, and interaction is guided by safety, kindness, and a genuine commitment to your dog’s well-being.

I am MDWA-accredited and fully insured, with a limit of indemnity of £1,000,000.

My Approach:

  • Safety First: I follow clear, consistent protocols around equipment, group sizes, lead use, and route choices. I never take risks with roads, recall, or unfamiliar dogs.

  • Positive, Gentle Handling: I use reward‑based methods only—no force, fear, or punishment—ever.

  • Respect For Individuality: Every dog has their own pace, preferences, and personality. I adapt walks to suit their needs, whether that’s a slow, sniff‑heavy meander or a confidence‑building adventure.

  • Consistency & Reliability: You can count on punctuality, communication, and dependable routines. I know how much trust it takes to hand over your keys and your dog.

  • Cleanliness & Wellbeing: I ensure dogs return home settled, towelled if wet, and with fresh water. I monitor behaviour, energy levels, and any changes that might matter to you.

  • Community‑Minded Care: As a Bristol local, I prioritise routes that are safe, enriching, and respectful of shared spaces, wildlife, and other dog walkers.=

This means that your dog will be supported, understood, and genuinely enjoyed. They’ll be walked with intention, not rushed. They’ll be spoken to kindly, handled gently, and given space to be themselves.

HEAT SAFETY POLICY:

At Casey Walks Dogs, your dog’s wellbeing always comes first. During periods of warm or extreme heat, I operate a heat‑adapted service designed to keep dogs safe, comfortable, and protected from heat‑related risks. This policy explains how walks may be adjusted when temperatures rise.

Temperature Thresholds:

  • 23–25°C: Heat‑aware service begins. Walks may be moved earlier, shortened for heat‑sensitive dogs, or routed through shaded areas.

  • 26–28°C: Full heat plan activated. Pavement walking is avoided unless shaded; woodland, grass, and cooler routes are prioritised.

  • 29°C+ or official heat alert: Mid‑day walks may be cancelled and replaced with home visits, garden breaks, or enrichment sessions.

  • 30°C+ or red alert: Outdoor walks are suspended for safety

To avoid peak heat, walks may be rescheduled to earlier or later in the day. Mid‑day walks may be paused during high‑risk conditions.

Route & Activity Changes:

Walks will be adapted to:

  • Shaded woodland or grassy areas

  • Cooler routes with water access

  • Avoid hot pavements, open fields, and exposed routes

If outdoor walking becomes unsafe, I will offer heat‑safe alternatives such as enrichment activities, garden sniff‑aris, toilet breaks, or indoor stimulation (with owner approval).

Hydration & Cooling

I carry fresh water for every dog and offer regular hydration throughout the walk. Cooling aids (such as bandanas or ice packs) may be used if the dog tolerates them.

Monitoring & Welfare

I continuously monitor each dog for signs of heat stress. If a dog shows any concerning symptoms, the walk will stop immediately and the dog will be moved to shade, offered water, and owners will be contacted. Veterinary advice may be sought if needed.

Walker Safety

Heat affects humans too. I take steps to ensure my own safety so I can provide safe, reliable care for your dog.

Communication

Owners will be informed promptly of any changes to walk times, routes, or activities. During heatwaves, a service update may be sent to all clients explaining adjustments.

Commitment to Safety

This policy ensures that every decision made during warm weather prioritises your dog’s welfare. Thank you for your understanding and trust — keeping your dog safe, happy, and comfortable is always my top priority