Charleston Dog Walker Terms & Conditions of Service
Terms and Conditions
This electronically signed Agreement is entered into between Charleston Dog Walker Inc. and the Client for the purpose of providing professional pet care services.
"Client Portal" refers to the Charleston Dog Walker Inc. secure online scheduling system where Clients manage their account, request and schedule services, and access service details, invoices, and related information.
By signing, the Client acknowledges and agrees to the following terms:
1. Scheduling
Visit requests are made through the Client Portal, by emailing info@charlestondogwalker.com, or by calling 843-580-2212. Requests made with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a Late Booking Fee.
2. Visit Updates
We provide detailed visit journals, photos, and time tracking for each completed visit through the Client Portal so you can feel informed and connected while you're away. Updates are typically delivered shortly after each visit, though real-time delivery is not guaranteed.
3. Consistency of Care
Charleston Dog Walker Inc. provides care through a trained and reliable team. While we strive for consistency, we do not guarantee the same team member for each visit. Our systems ensure that every team member follows your pet's routine with care and attention, providing a consistent experience every time.
4. Arrival Windows
Services are scheduled within designated time windows rather than exact arrival times. We make every effort to arrive within the selected window; however, exact arrival times cannot be guaranteed.
5. Home Access
To ensure seamless and reliable service, Clients provide home access via a lock box with two working keys or an electronic door code. Access details must be kept up to date within the Client Portal.
For gated communities or secured buildings, any necessary entry instructions should also be provided. Charleston Dog Walker Inc. does not utilize key cards or fobs.
Clients are responsible for ensuring all access methods are accurate and functional for scheduled visits.
6. Security
While we take great care in every visit, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. cannot be responsible for the security of the premises if other individuals have access to the home during the service period. All services are performed by trained Charleston Dog Walker Inc. team members.
7. Service Limitations
Charleston Dog Walker Inc. reserves the right to refuse, cancel, or modify services if conditions are deemed unsafe or if necessary information or access is not provided. Every effort will be made to communicate with the Client should a situation arise.
8. Locksmith
If access to the home cannot be obtained due to a malfunction or lack of proper access, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. may arrange for a locksmith as needed. Any associated costs will be the responsibility of the Client. We will always make every reasonable effort to contact the Client before taking this step.
9. Payment
Fees are earned upon acceptance of scheduled services. Invoices are issued twice monthly and are due by the listed due date. All payments are made by credit card and must be kept on file.
For any overdue balances, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. reserves the right to charge the card on file.
10. Payment Policies
Clients agree to pay in full for all scheduled services, including any applicable additional fees. Current pricing and service details are outlined on the Charleston Dog Walker Inc. website and within the Client Portal.
If collection efforts become necessary, the Client is responsible for all associated costs, including reasonable attorney's fees.
11. Pet Supplies
Clients are responsible for providing all necessary supplies for their pet's care, including food, medications, leashes, litter, and cleaning supplies.
If essential supplies are not available, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. may purchase necessary items and apply a Client Errand Fee.
12. Pet Errands and Purchases
From time to time, we may need to pick up items to support your pet's care. Clients agree to reimburse Charleston Dog Walker Inc. for any such expenses, along with any applicable errand fees.
13. Parking Fees
For services in areas where parking is limited or paid parking is commonly utilized, a flat parking fee of $5 per visit hour will be applied. This allows our team to park efficiently and provide timely, reliable service.
14. Non-Holiday Cancellations
We ask that cancellations be made at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled visit. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will be charged in full.
15. Holiday Services & Fees
Holiday fees apply to services scheduled during designated holiday time frames, as outlined on the Charleston Dog Walker Inc. website and within the Client Portal. Services are invoiced according to our standard billing schedule.
16. Holiday Cancellations
Holiday cancellations should be made at least 14 days prior to the start of scheduled services to avoid charges.
Cancellations made less than 14 days before the start date will be charged 50% of the total scheduled services.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start date will be charged in full.
If the Client returns home early, all originally scheduled services will still be charged.
17. Wedding Pet Care
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve wedding pet care services. These services are billed at an hourly rate.
18. Inclement Weather and Natural Disasters
In the event of inclement weather or natural disaster, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. will use best judgment in caring for your pet and home. If conditions are unsafe for travel or services, visits may be delayed, shortened, or canceled.
Clients are asked to provide a nearby emergency contact who may assist if needed.
19. Emergency Contact
Clients agree to provide a local emergency contact authorized to make decisions on their behalf. If neither the Client nor the Emergency Contact can be reached, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. may make decisions at its discretion in the best interest of the pet.
20. Emergency Care
If a pet requires medical attention, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. is authorized to seek veterinary care as needed. We will always make every effort to contact the Client or Emergency Contact first.
The Client accepts full responsibility for all related costs. Charleston Dog Walker Inc. may approve treatment, excluding euthanasia, and may utilize an alternate veterinarian or emergency facility if necessary.
21. Emergency Care Authorization and Release
If Charleston Dog Walker Inc. is unable to reach the Client or Emergency Contact in a timely manner, the Client authorizes Charleston Dog Walker Inc. to transport the pet to a veterinary provider and approve necessary care.
The Client agrees to reimburse all associated costs, including transportation, care, and supervision, within 14 days.
22. Pet Policies
Pets can be unpredictable, and while we take every precaution, Charleston Dog Walker Inc. cannot accept responsibility for extraordinary or unusual incidents, including injury, damage, or complications related to care or medications.
The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Charleston Dog Walker Inc. in the event of a claim caused by their pet. Charleston Dog Walker Inc. is not liable for pets with unsupervised outdoor access.
23. Vaccinations and Diseases
All pets must be currently vaccinated and flea-free. The Client is responsible for any medical expenses or damages resulting from injury or disease caused by their pet.
24. Disclosure of All Pets
Clients agree to disclose all animals residing in the home or on the property. All pets may be included in services provided by Charleston Dog Walker Inc.
25. Aggressive Pets and Care Concerns
Charleston Dog Walker Inc. reserves the right to pause or discontinue services if safety concerns arise. Clients must disclose any history of aggressive behavior.
If necessary and no contact can be reached, the Client authorizes placement of the pet in a boarding facility at the Client's expense.
26. Pet Care Services
Charleston Dog Walker Inc. provides care in a reliable, attentive, and professional manner. The Client agrees to notify Charleston Dog Walker Inc. of any concerns within 24 hours of returning home.
The Client waives any claims except those arising from negligence or willful misconduct on the part of Charleston Dog Walker Inc.
27. Photography
Clients grant permission for Charleston Dog Walker Inc. to use photos or videos of their pet for promotional purposes.
If you prefer that your pet not be featured, simply let us know and we will honor that request.
28. Future Services
This Agreement remains valid for all future services. The Client authorizes Charleston Dog Walker Inc. to accept service requests and access the home without additional signed agreements.
Agreement Acknowledgment
By electronically signing this Agreement, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions set forth by Charleston Dog Walker Inc.
