As a dog sitter, it's essential to have a comprehensive contract in place to protect yourself, the pet owner, and the furry friend in your care. A well-crafted contract can help prevent misunderstandings, ensure a smooth sitting experience, and provide a clear outline of responsibilities and expectations. In this article, we'll explore seven essential clauses to include in your dog sitting contract template.
1. Service Details and Description
A clear description of the services you'll provide is crucial to avoid misunderstandings. This clause should outline the specific services included, such as:
- Dog walking and exercise
- Feeding and administering medication
- Overnight stays or drop-in visits
- Providing fresh water and cleaning up after the dog
- Any additional services, such as administering injections or providing special care
Example: "The dog sitter will provide dog walking and exercise services for a minimum of 30 minutes, twice a day. The sitter will also provide fresh water, feeding, and administer medication as prescribed by the owner."
2. Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy
A well-defined payment terms and cancellation policy clause is essential to protect both parties. This clause should outline:
- The payment amount and method (e.g., credit card, bank transfer)
- The payment schedule (e.g., upfront, weekly, or upon completion of services)
- The cancellation policy, including notice periods and any fees associated with cancellation
Example: "The client will pay $X per visit, with a minimum of 2 visits per week. Payment is due upon booking, with a 50% cancellation fee applicable if cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled visit."
3. Client Responsibilities
To ensure a smooth and safe sitting experience, it's essential to outline the client's responsibilities. This clause should include:
- Providing accurate and up-to-date information about the dog's behavior, health, and medical conditions
- Ensuring the dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and preventatives
- Providing emergency contact information and a secondary contact person
- Ensuring the home is dog-proofed and safe for the sitter
Example: "The client is responsible for providing accurate information about the dog's behavior, health, and medical conditions. The client will also ensure the dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and preventatives."
4. Sitter's Responsibilities
This clause should outline the sitter's responsibilities, including:
- Providing a safe and healthy environment for the dog
- Following the client's instructions and routines
- Administering medication and providing special care as needed
- Maintaining communication with the client and providing updates
Example: "The sitter will provide a safe and healthy environment for the dog, following the client's instructions and routines. The sitter will also administer medication and provide special care as needed."
5. Liability and Insurance
This clause should outline the liability and insurance details, including:
- The sitter's liability for any accidents or injuries to the dog
- The client's liability for any accidents or injuries to the sitter
- The insurance coverage and policy details
Example: "The sitter is liable for any accidents or injuries to the dog, up to a maximum of $X. The client is also liable for any accidents or injuries to the sitter, up to a maximum of $X."
6. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure
As a dog sitter, you may have access to sensitive information about the client and their home. This clause should outline the confidentiality and non-disclosure terms, including:
- The sitter's obligation to maintain confidentiality
- The client's obligation to maintain confidentiality
- Any exceptions to confidentiality, such as in the event of an emergency
Example: "The sitter and client agree to maintain confidentiality and not disclose any sensitive information about each other or the dog."
7. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
This clause should outline the governing law and dispute resolution terms, including:
- The laws and regulations governing the contract
- The process for resolving disputes or disagreements
- Any arbitration or mediation procedures
Example: "This contract is governed by the laws of [State/Country]. Any disputes or disagreements will be resolved through mediation, with the goal of reaching a mutually agreeable solution."
Dog Sitting Contract Template Image Gallery
By including these seven essential clauses in your dog sitting contract template, you can ensure a smooth and safe sitting experience for both you and the client. Remember to tailor your contract to your specific needs and services, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice if needed. Happy sitting!