berwickboardingkennels@gmail.com   Kennels - 01554556551
 

Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD – Terms and Conditions Agreement

1. Acceptance of Terms

By boarding your dog with Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD (the "Kennel"), you (the "Owner") agree to the following terms and conditions. These terms ensure the safety, health, and well-being of all dogs in our care and comply with the licensing requirements set forth by the Carmarthenshire Animal Health Board.

2. Dog Breed Life Expectancy and Age Restrictions

We do not accept dogs within four years of their breed's average lifespan unless accompanied by a fitness certificate from a qualified veterinarian.

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Breed

Life Expectancy

Affenpinscher

12-15 years

Afghan Hound

12-14 years

Airedale Terrier

10-13 years

Akita

10-13 years

Alaskan Malamute

10-14 years

American Bulldog

10-15 years

American Cocker Spaniel

12-15 years

American Eskimo Dog

12-15 years

American Pit Bull Terrier

12-16 years

American Staffordshire Terrier

12-16 years

Australian Cattle Dog

12-16 years

Australian Shepherd

12-15 years

Basenji

12-16 years

Basset Hound

10-12 years

Beagle

12-15 years

Bernese Mountain Dog

6-9 years

Bichon Frise

12-15 years

Border Collie

12-15 years

Boxer

10-12 years

Bulldog

8-10 years

Bullmastiff

7-9 years

Cane Corso

9-12 years

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

12-15 years

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

10-13 years

Chihuahua

14-17 years

Chinese Crested

13-18 years

Chow Chow

9-15 years

Cocker Spaniel

12-15 years

Dachshund

12-16 years

Dalmatian

11-13 years

Doberman Pinscher

10-13 years

English Bulldog

8-10 years

English Cocker Spaniel

12-15 years

English Setter

10-12 years

French Bulldog

10-12 years

German Shepherd

9-13 years

Golden Retriever

10-12 years

Great Dane

7-10 years

Great Pyrenees

10-12 years

Greyhound

10-14 years

Havanese

14-16 years

Irish Setter

12-15 years

Irish Wolfhound

6-8 years

Jack Russell Terrier

13-16 years

Keeshond

12-15 years

Labrador Retriever

10-12 years

Lhasa Apso

12-15 years

Maltese

12-15 years

Mastiff

6-12 years

Miniature Pinscher

12-16 years

Miniature Schnauzer

12-15 years

Newfoundland

8-10 years

Papillon

12-16 years

Pekingese

12-14 years

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

12-15 years

Pomeranian

12-16 years

Poodle (Standard)

12-15 years

Pug

12-15 years

Rottweiler

9-12 years

Saint Bernard

8-10 years

Samoyed

12-14 years

Scottish Terrier

12-15 years

Shetland Sheepdog

12-14 years

Shih Tzu

12-16 years

Siberian Husky

12-15 years

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

12-16 years

Tibetan Mastiff

12-15 years

Weimaraner

10-13 years

West Highland White Terrier

12-16 years

Whippet

12-15 years

Yorkshire Terrier

13-16 years

3. Health and Behaviour Requirements

• Health: We do not accept sick dogs or those showing signs of illness.

• Behaviour: Aggressive dogs that pose a threat to staff or other animals will not be accepted.

• Weight: Underweight dogs, as determined by our staff, will not be accepted for boarding.

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4. Booking and Customer Responsibility

• Online Booking Form: Owners must ensure that all details are filled in correctly.

• Medical & Special Requirements: Owners must disclose any medical concerns, behavioural issues, or specific care needs when booking.

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5. Veterinary Authorization

Owners provide consent for Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD staff to contact their dog's registered veterinary surgery in case of health concerns or complaints.

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6. Complaints Procedure

All complaints must be sent to berwickboardingkennels@gmail.com before being discussed publicly.

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7. Communication and Public Dispute Resolution

• Owners must address complaints directly with Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD before making public statements, including on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Google Reviews, Spiral Media, etc.).

• If defamatory or misleading statements are made online without first contacting us, we will pursue legal action.

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8. Vaccination Records

Owners must present physical copies of up-to-date vaccination records upon drop-off.

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9. Operating Hours

• Morning: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM

• Afternoon: 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

• Dogs will not be released outside these hours.

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10. Authorized Pick-Up

If someone other than the Owner is collecting the dog, prior notification must be provided.

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11. Personal Items (Bedding & Food Policy)

• Owners may bring their own bedding and food for their dog’s stay.

• All personal items will be disposed of after the stay and will not be returned.

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12. Right of Refusal

Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to refuse entry on arrival if there are concerns about the dog's well-being, age, health, or behaviour.

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13. Payment Terms & Late Payments

• Full payment must be made upon arrival. No dog will be released until all outstanding fees have been settled.

• Any unpaid fees will be pursued through a debt collection agency, with all legal costs and collection fees added to the Owner’s balance.

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14. Injury Caused by the Dog

• Owners accept full responsibility for any damage or injury caused by their dog to other dogs, staff, or property.

• If a dog causes injury to another animal or staff member, the Owner is liable for all medical and veterinary costs resulting from the incident.

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15. Boarding Dogs with Existing Conditions or Disabilities

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not liable for pre-existing medical conditions or age-related health problems that worsen during boarding.

• Owners boarding dogs with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or special needs must provide written instructions from their veterinarian.

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16. Liability Waiver for Stress-Related Symptoms

• Owners acknowledge that boarding may cause temporary stress-related symptoms, including:

  • Weight loss

  • Diarrhea

  • Decreased appetite

  • Anxiety-related behaviours

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for any stress-related medical conditions.

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17. Fire & Emergency Evacuation Policy

• If it is not possible to safely remove dogs from the facility, Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to release dogs to prevent them from being trapped in the building.

• By boarding your dog at Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD, you acknowledge and accept this policy.

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18. Legal Costs & Debt Recovery Fees

• If legal action is required to recover unpaid fees, the Owner is responsible for all legal costs, court fees, and collection agency charges.

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19. Legal Waiver for Natural Death & Age-Related Health Decline

• Owners acknowledge that older dogs and those with pre-existing conditions may experience natural deterioration while in our care.

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not liable for a dog passing away due to age, chronic conditions, or sudden illness while boarding.

20. Breach of Contract & Customer Non-Compliance

• If an Owner fails to comply with any section of this agreement, Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to:

  • Terminate the booking immediately without a refund.

  • Refuse future boarding services to the Owner.

  • Pursue legal action if the breach causes financial loss, defamation, or damage to our reputation.

21. Right to Modify Services & Policies Without Prior Notice

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to:

  • Update pricing, services, and operational policies at any time.

  • Adjust kennel procedures to meet safety regulations and business needs.

• Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any updated terms.

22. Legal Jurisdiction & Agreement Enforcement

• These Terms & Conditions are legally binding under the laws of Wales and England.

• In the event of legal proceedings, both parties agree to resolve disputes within the jurisdiction of Welsh or English courts.

23. Final Legal Protections

• Owners assume all risks associated with boarding, including potential minor injuries, stress, or exposure to contagious diseases.

• Owners agree to hold Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD harmless for any legal action arising from:

  • Natural canine behaviors (biting, scratching, chewing).

  • Accidental injuries despite reasonable safety measures.

  • Veterinary costs for illness or pre-existing conditions.

24. No Guarantee of Specific Kennel Placement or Special Requests

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD does not guarantee:

  • A specific kennel or location within the facility.

  • Constant individual supervision.

  • Any special accommodations unless explicitly agreed upon in writing.

• Owners acknowledge that kennel placement is at the sole discretion of staff based on availability, safety, and operational needs.

25. No Liability for Personal Items Left with the Dog

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to personal items left with a dog, including:

  • Leashes, collars, harnesses, toys, beds, blankets, or food containers.

• All items are considered disposable and may be discarded after boarding.

26. Owner Responsibility for External Parasite Control

• Owners must ensure their dog is up to date on flea, tick, and worm treatments before boarding.

• If a dog is found to have fleas, ticks, or worms:

  • The kennel will administer immediate treatment at the Owner’s expense.

  • A deep cleaning fee will be charged to sanitize affected areas.

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for any flea, tick, or worm infestations that occur after the stay.

27. Limitation of Liability for Emergency Situations

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for any harm or death caused by:

  • Sudden canine medical emergencies, such as seizures or undiagnosed conditions.

  • Self-inflicted injuries, such as chewing, excessive scratching, or attempted escapes.

  • Canine aggression incidents, including injuries caused by another dog (if the Owner consented to group play).

• Owners agree not to hold Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD liable for any damages beyond the cost of boarding fees.

28. Photography, Video, & Social Media Policy

• Owners consent to Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD taking photographs or videos of their dog for:

  • Social media, marketing, and promotional materials.

  • Internal monitoring and staff training.

• If an Owner does not consent, they must notify the kennel in writing before boarding.

29. Owner’s Agreement to Legal Indemnification

• By signing this agreement, Owners waive the right to sue Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD for:

  • Any injury, illness, stress-related conditions, or unexpected death occurring during or after boarding.

  • Any financial loss, emotional distress, or veterinary costs associated with their dog’s stay.

• Owners agree to cover legal fees if they attempt to file a lawsuit that is dismissed or ruled in favor of Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD.

30. Right to Refuse Boarding Based on Staff Discretion

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to refuse service for any reason, including but not limited to:

  • Dogs showing signs of illness, aggression, or extreme anxiety.

  • Owners who have previously violated kennel policies.

  • Any situation where staff believes that boarding is not in the dog’s best interest.

31. Legal Waiver for Third-Party Transport or Dog Walking Services

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for incidents, injuries, or accidents that occur:

  • During transport by a third-party pet taxi, courier, or dog walker.

  • If a dog escapes or is injured while in the custody of an Owner’s representative.

32. Legal Waiver for Natural Canine Behaviours & Unpreventable Incidents

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for injuries or damages resulting from natural dog behaviours, including:

  • Barking, howling, or excessive vocalization.

  • Chewing, digging, fence-jumping, or destructive behaviour.

  • Dog fights or altercations (if Owner consented to group play).

• Owners agree not to hold the kennel liable for any consequences of their dog’s natural behaviour.

33. Owner’s Agreement to Veterinary Fees & Payment Terms

• If a dog requires non-emergency veterinary care, Owners must reimburse all veterinary costs before collecting their dog.

• If a dog requires emergency care and the Owner cannot be reached, Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD will act in the best interest of the dog and:

  • Approve treatment at a licensed veterinary practice.

  • Invoice the Owner for all costs incurred.

  • Owners must pay outstanding balances before the dog is released.

34. No Responsibility for Injuries from Harnesses, Collars, or Equipment Provided by Owners

• Owners who provide their own collars, harnesses, or accessories acknowledge that:

  • Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for injuries caused by these items (e.g., choking, rubbing, or skin irritation).

  • If equipment fails or breaks, the kennel is not liable for damages.

35. Owner’s Waiver of Emotional Distress Claims

• Owners waive the right to claim emotional distress, trauma, or anxiety damages related to:

  • Temporary separation from their dog.

  • Their dog exhibiting different behaviour after boarding.

  • The kennel’s enforcement of safety procedures, such as isolation for aggressive dogs.

36. Right to Refuse Service for Non-Payment or Disruptive Conduct

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to refuse future bookings to:

  • Owners with a history of non-payment, late collection, or chargebacks.

  • Owners who harass, threaten, or abuse staff members.

  • Dogs with a history of severe aggression or repeated escapes.

37. Full Financial Liability for Dog Damage to Property or People

• Owners accept full financial responsibility for:

  • Damage to fences, kennels, bedding, or other property caused by their dog.

  • Bites, scratches, or injuries caused by their dog to staff or other dogs.

  • Any damage to third-party property if the dog escapes.

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to charge repair or medical costs before releasing the dog.

38. No Guarantee of Exact Pick-Up & Drop-Off Times

• While we operate within scheduled hours, Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD does not guarantee:

  • Immediate release of dogs at exact appointment times.

  • Priority service for late arrivals outside designated hours.

• Owners acknowledge that delays may occur due to safety procedures, cleaning, or kennel operations.

39. Owner’s Responsibility to Provide Accurate Behavior & Medical History

• If an Owner fails to disclose:

  • A dog’s history of aggression, anxiety, or escape attempts.

  • A dog’s medical conditions, allergies, or required medications.

  • The dog’s reproductive status (e.g., in heat, pregnant, or recently neutered/spayed).

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not liable for any consequences arising from undisclosed issues.

40. Limitation of Kennel’s Financial Liability

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD’s total financial liability for any incident is strictly limited to the total cost of boarding fees paid.

• Owners agree not to claim compensation for:

  • Veterinary expenses beyond the cost of boarding.

  • Emotional distress or inconvenience.

  • Legal fees unless ruled otherwise in a court of law.

41. Customer Agreement to Arbitration & Mediation Before Any Legal Action

• Owners must attempt arbitration or mediation before filing a lawsuit against Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD.

• If an Owner fails to comply with this step, their lawsuit will be considered invalid.

• The Owner agrees that any disputes must be resolved through a neutral third-party arbitrator before proceeding to court.

• Owners are responsible for their own legal costs if they pursue unsuccessful claims.

42. No Class Action Lawsuits Clause

• Owners waive their right to participate in any class action lawsuit against Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD.

• Any disputes must be handled on an individual basis in arbitration or small claims court.

43. Time Limit for Legal Claims ("Statute of Limitations")

• Any legal claim against Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD must be filed within 60 days of the boarding stay ending.

• After 60 days, the Owner waives their right to file any claims related to:

  • Dog injuries, illnesses, or behavioural changes.

  • Alleged mistreatment, negligence, or service complaints.

44. Legal Indemnification Clause (Owner Covers Kennel’s Legal Costs if They Lose)

• If an Owner sues Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD and loses, they agree to reimburse:

  • All legal fees and court costs.

  • Business losses caused by their legal claim.

• This clause discourages frivolous lawsuits by shifting legal costs to the losing party.

45. Strict Burden of Proof for Negligence Claims

• If an Owner alleges negligence, they must provide clear, third-party evidence, such as:

  • A written veterinary report confirming the injury/illness was caused by the kennel.

  • Expert testimony from a licensed veterinarian or animal welfare officer.

• If an Owner fails to provide this evidence, their claim is automatically dismissed.

46. No Refunds or Compensation for Owner Negligence

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for issues caused by the Owner, including:

  • Dogs becoming ill due to lack of disclosed medical history.

  • Injuries or behavioural changes caused by prior abuse, neglect, or lack of training.

  • Stress, anxiety, or weight loss due to inadequate preparation for boarding.

47. Limited Damages Clause (No Large Compensation Claims)

• If a lawsuit against Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is successful, the maximum financial liability is:

  • The cost of boarding fees paid by the Owner.

  • No compensation will be granted for emotional distress, loss of companionship, or punitive damages.

• This prevents lawsuits demanding large payouts.

48. Right to Countersue for False Claims & Defamation

• If an Owner makes false or defamatory claims against Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD, including:

  • False accusations of abuse or neglect.

  • Fraudulent legal claims.

  • Negative online reviews based on lies.

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD reserves the right to countersue for damages, defamation, and loss of business.

49. Owner Assumes Full Responsibility for Behavioural Changes After Boarding

• Owners acknowledge that dogs may behave differently after boarding due to:

  • Temporary stress, excitement, or environmental changes.

  • Learning new behaviours from other dogs.

  • Changes in routine, diet, or sleeping habits.

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not liable for post-boarding behavioural issues.

50. Full Waiver for Third-Party Interference (No Blame for Vet, Transport, or Dog Walkers)

• Berwick Boarding Kennels LTD is not responsible for:

  • Veterinary mistakes or incorrect diagnoses.

  • Transport-related injuries if the dog is picked up or dropped off by a third party.

  • Dog walking injuries or accidents if an external dog walker is used.