09/07/2023
Hello lovely pet owners.
A bit of a long post. With the summer school holidays fast approaching there may be more young people looking to earn a bit of extra cash.
This was copied and pasted from a Dog Walking group here on FB and have permission to share.
Whilst this isn’t a ‘dig’ at young people, I’m all for them showing a bit of enterprise, it’s worth pointing out some very valid issues with regards to liability, safeguarding and insurance.
‘Professional Dog Walkers Under 18
Subject: Advisory Note on Young Adults Under 18 Providing Dog Walking Services
Dear Fellow Pro,
We hope you and your furry friends are keeping well.
The world we live in today is quite different to the one when I was brought up 452 years ago. The rules seem greater, society as a whole is potentially less understanding, when it suits it, and we are increasingly more litigious with penalties for transgression.
This note is intended to provide guidance and awareness around the involvement of young adults under 18 in professional dog walking activities.
Whilst many teenagers may be eager to contribute to their local communities by providing such a service, or more likely, supplement their own income, it is vital to consider the potential legal implications, responsibilities, and liabilities that might arise.
* Public Liability: Any professional dog walker, regardless of age, should have adequate public liability insurance. This insurance is crucial to cover costs that might arise from potential accidents or damages caused by the dogs under their care. For individuals under 18, it's worth noting that they may not be able to enter into insurance contracts on their own. An adult may need to take out a policy on their behalf. And most of the usual pet care insurance companies will not cover anyone under 18. Equally, the young person’s parents are responsible, morally and financially if things go pear shaped. Connecting any young person to a potentially lean, mean fighting machine could be a recipe for disaster.
* Care, Custody, and Control: This refers to the responsibility that a dog walker assumes when they take control of a dog. Regardless of age, the dog walker is responsible for the dog's actions, health, and welfare during their walk. As teenagers can sometimes be less experienced or unprepared for unexpected situations, it is important to ensure they are fully trained and aware of their responsibilities before commencing dog walking. Walking a worldly, placid 10 year old pooch is very different to an 18 months old bully breed type.
* Legal Responsibility: The legal age to own a dog in the UK is not strictly defined by law. However, some organisations recommend that individuals be at least 16 years old before taking on full responsibility for a dog. Younger individuals should have the support and guidance of a responsible adult when caring for a dog.
* The minimum age required to enter into a legal contract for dog ownership may vary depending on the organisation, some may require individuals to be at least 18 years old. Younger individuals should have the support and guidance of a responsible adult when caring for a dog.
* The minimum age requirement for unsupervised dog walking may vary depending on local regulations and the policies of the specific area or park where you plan to walk the dog. Some areas may have age restrictions, while others may not have specific regulations but emphasise the importance of the person being capable of controlling the dog and ensuring its safety.
* It is always a good idea to consult your local council or relevant authorities for specific guidelines or restrictions related to dog ownership in your area.
* Legally, individuals under the age of 18 are often considered minors and may not be held to the same standard of responsibility as adults. However, in the event of an incident, parents or guardians of the young adult will most likely be held accountable. Thus, it's important that parents understand this and consent to their child's involvement in dog walking and at the very least screen the dogs nature and likely risks.
* Parental Responsibility: Parental consent is absolutely necessary for minors undertaking professional dog walking. Parents should understand the potential risks and liabilities associated with the activity, including the chance of their child being injured during a walk or the possibility of legal claims against them as parents if the dog causes harm or damage.
In light of the above points, we advise the following:
* Ensure the young dog walker is adequately trained and prepared for all scenarios.
* Obtain parental consent and ensure they understand potential liabilities.
* Check the ability to get public liability insurance that covers the minor.
* Create a contingency plan to handle any emergencies.
* Consider a written agreement between the dog owner, the young dog walker, and their parents to ensure all parties understand the responsibilities involved.
While young adults under 18 can make enthusiastic and caring dog walkers, it is critical to understand and manage the potential risks involved. With the right preparation and understanding, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of both our young community members and our four-legged friends.
I’m sorry to rain on anyone’s parade, but forewarned is forearmed.
Thank you for your attention on this important topic.’
When I was a young ‘un many many years ago 😝 things were very different. I also think in todays society there may be a safeguarding issue with younger people going to the addresses of people they don’t know. Heck! I’ve felt uncomfortable visiting some homes in the past. I wouldn’t want my kids to be in the same situation.
Keep them safe 🥰.