Animal Welfare Policy

Urban Pet Play Ltd

Effective Date: April 2026
Website: www.urbanpetplay.com / www.urbanpetplay.co.uk


1. Introduction

Urban Pet Play Ltd is committed to the highest standards of animal welfare across all services and products. The wellbeing, safety, and happiness of every pet in our care is our top priority.

This policy outlines how we ensure all animals are treated with respect, compassion, and professionalism at all times.


2. Our Welfare Commitment

We are guided by the internationally recognised principles of animal welfare, ensuring that every pet:

  • Lives in a safe and comfortable environment
  • Has access to fresh water and appropriate nutrition
  • Is protected from pain, injury, and disease
  • Can express natural behaviours
  • Is treated with care, patience, and respect

3. Scope of Policy

This policy applies to:

  • Dog walking services
  • Grooming services
  • Daycare services
  • Training sessions
  • Any interaction with animals under our care

4. Standards of Care

🐕 Safe Handling

  • All pets are handled gently and responsibly
  • Appropriate equipment (leads, harnesses, grooming tools) is used
  • Staff are trained in safe animal handling techniques

🧘 Stress Reduction

  • We monitor pets for signs of stress, anxiety, or discomfort
  • Services are adapted or paused if a pet shows distress
  • Calm, positive environments are maintained

5. Health & Wellbeing

  • Pets must be in good health to participate in services
  • Vaccinations and parasite control should be up to date
  • Any signs of illness or injury are addressed immediately

If a concern arises:

  • Owners are contacted promptly
  • Veterinary care is sought if necessary

6. Nutrition & Hydration

  • Pets are provided with access to fresh water during services where appropriate
  • Feeding routines are followed according to owner instructions

7. Behaviour & Socialisation

  • Pets are assessed for compatibility before group activities
  • Aggressive or unsafe behaviour is managed carefully
  • We promote positive interactions and socialisation

8. Ethical Training Practices

  • Only positive reinforcement methods are used
  • No harsh, harmful, or fear-based techniques are permitted
  • Training is tailored to each pet’s needs and ability

9. Grooming Welfare

  • Grooming is carried out with care and patience
  • Breaks are provided where needed
  • Grooming may be stopped if it causes distress or discomfort

Special attention is given to:

  • Senior pets
  • Nervous or reactive animals

10. Daycare Welfare

  • Pets are supervised at all times
  • Clean, hygienic environments are maintained
  • Adequate rest periods are provided
  • Group sizes are managed for safety and comfort

11. Environmental Standards

We maintain environments that are:

  • Clean and hygienic
  • Safe and hazard-free
  • Suitable for the type and number of pets

12. Staff Training & Responsibility

Our team is trained to:

  • Recognise signs of stress, illness, or injury
  • Handle pets safely and responsibly
  • Respond to emergencies effectively

All staff share responsibility for maintaining high welfare standards.


13. Emergency Care

In the event of illness or injury:

  • Immediate action will be taken
  • Owners will be contacted as soon as possible
  • Veterinary care will be arranged if required

14. Refusal of Service

We reserve the right to refuse or stop services if:

  • A pet’s welfare may be compromised
  • A pet poses a risk to itself, other animals, or staff
  • Required health or behavioural information has not been disclosed

15. Continuous Improvement

We regularly review our practices to:

  • Improve animal welfare standards
  • Stay aligned with industry best practices
  • Ensure the highest level of care

16. Compliance

We aim to operate in line with UK animal welfare legislation and best practice guidance.


17. Changes to This Policy

Urban Pet Play Ltd reserves the right to update this policy at any time. The latest version will always be available on our website.


🐾 Contact Us

Urban Pet Play Ltd
Email: info@urbanpetplay.com
Phone: 0203 916 6118