Pet Care Policy

At Rhys & Paws, our top priority is ensuring your pet feels comfortable, happy, and remains in excellent health during their stay. To achieve this, we ask all boarders to bring their own food. This is especially important for small animals, as their delicate digestive systems can be sensitive to sudden dietary changes. Sticking to their usual food helps keep your pet healthy and content. We also encourage you to bring familiar items, such as toys, beds, or even favourite treats, to make their stay as stress-free as possible.

Your pet will be closely monitored throughout the day to ensure they are safe and well. Each pet is kept separate from others unless they are part of a bonded pair or group brought in together, as directed by you.

  • Bonded pets will always be housed together, except in cases of illness (please refer to our terms and conditions).
  • Fresh bedding and hay will be provided daily for rabbits and guinea pigs.
  • Outdoor time will be offered, weather permitting, for rabbits and guinea pigs.

 

Drop Off & Collection

We aim to be flexible with drop-off and pick-up times for your pets. However, it is very important that you arrive at the time you have booked. Arriving outside your scheduled time may mean we are unavailable, and we cannot be held responsible in such cases. Please note, if you drop off your pet late, charges will still apply from the agreed booking time unless you notify us at least 24 hours in advance. This is because the reserved space has been set aside for you.

When planning your booking, carefully consider the dates you’ll need. If you plan to drop off your pet on the same day you’re leaving, it can sometimes feel rushed. Dropping off your pet a day earlier allows you extra time to go over your pet’s needs with us without unnecessary stress.

Similarly, plan your collection date thoughtfully. Many people assume they’ll collect their pet the day after they return, but unexpected delays, unpacking, or other errands can make this challenging. Proper planning ensures one less thing to worry about. If you need to add extra days, especially during peak times, please contact us as early as possible. Space may be limited, so advance planning is essential.

Parking is available on the road outside our premises. However, please be mindful of our neighbours and park considerately. Thank you for your cooperation.

 

Terms & Conditions

Health

 

For the safety and well-being of all pets in our care, it is essential that any pet boarding with us is in good health. Please ensure all medical conditions and treatments are disclosed to us prior to boarding. If your pet shows signs of illness or injury on arrival that we are not aware of, we may need to refuse boarding. This policy is in place to protect your pet and others in our care.

Rabbits are required to be vaccinated against Myxomatosis and Rabbit (Viral) Haemorrhagic Disease (R(V)HD), as these illnesses can cause severe suffering. Most vets now offer a combined annual vaccine to protect against both diseases. Proof of vaccination must be provided when your rabbit arrives for boarding.

Exceptions to this rule may apply, such as for house rabbits that do not go outdoors. If this applies to your rabbit, please contact us to discuss your specific situation and any requirements that may need to be met.

If you are unsure about vaccinations or your pet's health requirements, we recommend consulting your veterinary surgeon for guidance.

Should your pet become unwell while in our care, we will make every effort to contact you immediately and consult with your preferred vet. A £5.00 fee will apply for each visit to the vet, and any veterinary costs incurred will be the owner's responsibility.

If bonded pets need to be separated due to illness, we will provide additional accommodation, which will incur extra charges. Any additional costs will need to be settled upon collection of your pet.

In the rare and unfortunate event that your pet passes away while in our care, we will contact you immediately and follow your instructions regarding next steps.

Please note that while we provide dedicated care and attention to all boarded pets, we cannot accept liability in the unlikely event of illness or death during their stay. All pets boarded at Rhys & Paws are left entirely at the owner's risk.

 

Payments

 

Payment is required at the time of booking. Once your reservation is made, you will receive an email with a payment link, which also serves as your booking confirmation.

Cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance will qualify for a full refund. For cancellations made between 24 and 72 hours prior to the booking, a 50% refund will be issued. Unfortunately, cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice are non-refundable.

Prices are charged per day and include both the arrival and departure days, regardless of the time of day your pet is dropped off or picked up.

All bookings are specifically reserved for you. If you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible to allow for adjustments.

 

 

Late Collections

If you need to pick up your pet after the agreed date, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance to ensure we can accommodate your pet's housing needs.

 

Abandoned pets

If you fail to collect your pet on the agreed date and we are unable to contact you using the details you provided within seven days, we will take steps to find your pet a new home.