Dog Welfare Policy

At A Good Lead, the welfare of every dog is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing safe, professional and compassionate care while treating every dog as an individual.

Our Welfare Commitment

We will:
• Treat every dog with kindness, patience and respect
• Use positive reinforcement methods only
• Never use physical punishment, intimidation or harsh handling
• Consider each dog's age, health, fitness and temperament when providing services
• Ensure dogs have access to water and rest where required
• Adapt walks and services where necessary to support a dog's wellbeing

Safety During Walks

All dogs will be walked using suitable leads, collars or harnesses unless permission has been provided for off-lead exercise.

Walks may be modified, shortened or cancelled where necessary to protect the welfare of the dog.

Dogs displaying behaviour that presents a risk to themselves, other animals or members of the public may require alternative arrangements or may be unsuitable for our services.

Weather Policy

At A Good Lead, the safety and wellbeing of every dog is our highest priority. Weather conditions are carefully monitored before and during every walk, and services may be adjusted where necessary to protect the health and welfare of the dogs in our care.

During periods of hot weather, walks may be:
• Shortened
• Moved to cooler times of the day
• Relocated to shaded areas
• Replaced with a pop-in visit, garden visit or enrichment session where appropriate

Dogs will have access to fresh water and regular rest periods. Walks may be cancelled if temperatures are considered unsafe.

In cases of severe weather, including snow, ice, storms or high winds, walks may be amended, postponed or cancelled where conditions are considered unsafe.

A Good Lead reserves the right to modify or cancel any service where weather conditions present a risk to the safety or welfare of the dog, the walker or the general public.

Where possible, alternative arrangements will be offered.

Our priority will always be the health, safety and wellbeing of the dogs in our care.

Insurance

A Good Lead maintains appropriate insurance for the services provided.

All franchise owners operating under the A Good Lead brand are required to maintain their own valid public liability insurance to ensure continued protection for clients, dogs and the business.

Qualifications and Standards

All A Good Lead franchise owners are required to:
• Hold a valid DBS check
• Complete canine first aid training
• Follow A Good Lead policies and procedures
• Maintain high standards of professionalism and animal welfare

Our Promise

We believe every dog deserves safe, enjoyable and enriching experiences. Every decision made by A Good Lead will prioritise the welfare, safety and happiness of the dogs entrusted to our care.