Polices & procedures

Setting the standard in safe, respectful dog care.

Escapee Management Policy

Paws & Peaks staff must follow these protocols to manage the risk of dog escapees:

  • Routine checks of all equipment, as detailed under the Equipment Maintenance Policy.
  • When entering the bus, staff must ensure that the controlled exit door door is securely latched before opening the kennel door.
  • Staff must attach the leash to their personal harness (waist leash or over-the-shoulder, per staff preference) before handling the dog.
  • The dog must be secured with a slip leash, ensuring proper fit with the stopper pushed down.
  • Staff must check that all other kennel doors are securely latched before exiting the bus via the controlled exit door door.
  • During walks, staff must routinely check that the slip leash stopper remains in place, particularly after the dog has been in water.

Bus Hygiene Policy

To ensure hygiene & cleanliness, Paws & Peaks staff must:
Conduct a weekly deep clean of the bus, which includes:

  • Removing & cleaning all equipment, storage areas, cages, & mats.
  • Cleaning the front cabin & washing the exterior of the bus.

Perform a regular spot clean after each use, which includes:

  • Removing rubbish from the front cabin.
  • Cleaning any dirty mats/kennels, equipment, & misplaced personal belongings.

Use the following cleaning agents:

  • F10 disinfectant for the weekly deep clean of the bus interior.
  • General multipurpose cleaner for regular spot cleaning.
  • General car wash for the bus exterior.

Safe Handling Protocol

Paws & Peaks must follow these protocols to ensure safe handling for both dogs & staff.

  • This protocol is designed for managing more difficult dogs, including large breeds, escape risks, extreme reactivity & bite risks.
  • Safe handling skills will be applied to ensure these dogs can safely enjoy their day.
  • Two staff members will be assigned to walk the dog in these cases.
  • Two handlers allow for better management of risks, such as approaching dogs & escape prevention. In such cases, both staff members will have a leash attached to the dog.
  • The second staff member will provide additional support by monitoring the environment, assisting with distractions, & intervening if necessary to prevent incidents.
  • If the dog poses a risk of injury to itself or staff, the second staff member will assist in preventing incidents.
  • For strong dogs, both staff members will hold have a leash to ensure full control.

Equipment Maintenance Policy

Paws & Peaks staff must adhere to these protocols to ensure safety from equipment failure:

Leash Maintenance:
During weekly bus cleaning, all leashes must be disinfected & inspected. Inspections must check:

  • Latch functionality on clip leashes; they should open & close smoothly.
  • If a latch jams, it may be cleaned or lubricated with WD-40; if the issue persists, the leash must be replaced.
  • Slip leash stoppers must be checked to ensure they remain secure. Loose stoppers must be tightened or the leash replaced.
  • Any frayed or damaged leashes must be replaced immediately.

Kennel Maintenance:

  • Kennels must be inspected for damage during designated cleaning times.
  • Inspections must include:
    • Checking that kennel latches function properly.
    • Assessing for any damage caused by dogs, including to floor mats, walls, or kennel roofs.
  • Any damages found must be repaired by Paws & Peaks maintenance before the kennel is used again.

Dog Assessment Policy

Paws & Peaks staff must follow these procedures when assessing a dog for social pack walks:

  • Review the dog’s history provided by the owner to determine initial suitability for socialisation.
  • If deemed safe, conduct an introduction using a neutral dog owned by Paws & Peaks management:
    • Begin at a safe distance to observe reactions.
    • If safe, allow a closely supervised interaction between the dogs.
  • If the dog is deemed unsuitable for close contact but could benefit from exposure to other dogs, they may:
    • Be walked alongside another calm dog with a second staff member.
  • If the dog displays aggression or extreme reactivity, alternative arrangements must be discussed with the owner before proceeding with pack walks.

These policies are in place to ensure the safety, well-being, & proper management of all dogs in Paws & Peaks’ care.

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