FAQ'S 

Booking a dog walk or pet sitting session with Golden Tails is easy and convenient! You can book directly through our website or mobile app by selecting the service you need, along with your preferred date and time. Alternatively, if you prefer a more personal touch, feel free to contact us via phone or email. Once we receive your booking request, we will confirm the details and reach out to discuss your pet’s specific needs. This allows us to tailor the service to ensure your pet receives the best care possible. Whether it’s a regular dog walk, a one-time pet sitting session, or a special request, we’re here to accommodate your pet’s routine and requirements!

At Golden Tails, we understand that plans can change, and sometimes cancellations are unavoidable. To ensure we can continue offering the best possible service to all of our clients, we require at least 48 hours' notice for any cancellations. This allows us to adjust our schedule and accommodate other pets who may need our services.

Cancellation fees are as follows:

• Less than 48 hours' notice: A 50% cancellation fee will apply. This helps cover the time and resources we've already set aside for your pet’s care.

• Less than 24 hours' notice: A 100% cancellation fee will apply. As this is a last-minute cancellation, we are unable to fill the spot on short notice, so the full amount will be charged.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible to avoid any fees and to help us serve all of our clients effectively. 

PLEASE SEE OUR OTHER POLICIES BELOW

Yes, we understand that sometimes life doesn’t go as planned, and emergencies can arise. We strive to accommodate last-minute bookings whenever possible, although availability may be limited, especially during peak times or holidays. To ensure we can provide the best care for your pet, we recommend contacting us as soon as you know you need our services, even for last-minute requests. While we can't always guarantee immediate availability, we’ll do our best to fit your pet into our schedule and ensure they receive the attention they need. For urgent situations, please reach out directly by phone for a quicker response.

Yes, absolutely! The safety and well-being of your pet are our top priorities. All of our pet sitters and dog walkers are fully insured, providing you with peace of mind knowing that your pet is in safe hands. In addition to being insured, our team is also highly trained in animal care, including pet safety, first aid, and handling pets with different personalities and needs. We take every precaution to ensure that your pet is well cared for, whether they're enjoying a walk in the park or being looked after while you're away. Rest assured, your pet’s safety and security are always our responsibility.

Definitely! We believe in building trust and ensuring that both you and your pet feel comfortable with the person who will be caring for them. That’s why we offer a free meet-and-greet session before any service begins. During this meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know the dog walker or pet sitter, ask any questions you may have about their experience and approach to pet care, and discuss your pet's specific needs and routines. It’s also a great chance for your pet to become familiar with the sitter or walker, ensuring a smoother, more relaxed experience when the service begins. Your peace of mind is important to us, so we want to make sure you're fully confident in the care your pet will receive.

Yes, we are happy to accommodate pets with special needs or medical conditions. Our team is experienced in providing extra care for pets that require special attention, whether it’s administering medication, following a specific routine, or assisting with mobility. When booking, simply provide us with details about your pet's condition, any necessary instructions, and how we can best support their needs. Our goal is to ensure every pet feels safe, comfortable, and well-cared for, no matter their requirements.

Our dog walking sessions are flexible to suit the needs of your pet. Walks typically last between 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on your dog’s age, energy level, and preferences. For example, younger or more active dogs may enjoy longer walks of up to 1–2 hours, while older or less active dogs might prefer shorter, more leisurely strolls. We can tailor the walk length to fit your dog's routine, ensuring they get the right amount of exercise and stimulation. If your dog has specific needs, such as a slower pace or special care during the walk, just let us know, and we’ll make sure their walk is a positive and enjoyable experience.

We offer both group and solo dog walks, allowing us to accommodate your pet’s individual preferences and temperament. If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs and thrives in a social environment, they can join one of our carefully supervised group walks. Group walks provide great opportunities for your dog to socialise, engage in play, and interact with other dogs in a safe and controlled setting. However, if your dog prefers to be the centre of attention or feels more comfortable walking alone, we also offer solo walks. Solo walks are ideal for dogs who may be shy, anxious, or simply prefer a quieter, more focused walk. Whether you choose a group or solo walk, we ensure that your dog receives the right level of care, attention, and exercise suited to their needs.

We provide our dog walking and pet sitting services in and around the Chesterfield area. Whether you're in the town centre or the surrounding villages, we aim to accommodate as many local pet owners as possible. To ensure we're able to serve your specific location, we recommend contacting us directly to confirm whether we cover your area. Our team is happy to discuss your needs and check if we can provide the care your pet requires, even if you're located on the outskirts or in a nearby area. We're always looking to expand our service coverage, so don't hesitate to get in touch!

At Golden Tails, the safety and well-being of your pet are our top priorities. We take several important steps to ensure that your pet is always safe and secure while in our care. First, we use your leashes  or we can use our secure, high-quality leashes and harnesses designed to prevent escapes and ensure your pet remains under control during walks. Our team closely supervises all interactions, whether your pet is socialising with other dogs or being cared for individually, to prevent any accidents or uncomfortable situations. Additionally, we carefully follow your pet's specific care instructions, including any medical requirements, dietary preferences, or behavioural considerations, to make sure they are comfortable and safe at all times. Whether it's taking extra precautions for an anxious pet or ensuring proper hydration and rest during a longer walk, we tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of your furry companion. You can trust that every step will be taken to keep your pet safe, happy, and well cared for.

To ensure your pet receives the best care while you're away, we ask that you provide a few essential supplies. These include items such as leashes, harnesses, towels, and food if your pet requires specific meals or treats. If your dog takes medication or has special health needs, please make sure to provide these along with clear instructions on how and when to administer them. Additionally, we encourage you to share your pet’s daily routine, including feeding times, walk preferences, and any other habits or behaviours that will help us tailor our care to their needs. If your pet has specific comfort items, such as a favourite toy or blanket, feel free to provide those too, as they can help create a familiar and soothing environment. We’re committed to making sure your pet feels safe, comfortable, and well-cared-for, so we’ll always ask for any special instructions to ensure the best experience for your pet.

Yes, we are happy to assist with transportation for your dog’s vet or grooming appointments. We understand that busy schedules or emergencies may prevent you from being available, and we’re here to help ensure your pet receives the care they need. Simply provide us with the details of the appointment, including the time, location, and any specific instructions, and we’ll arrange the transport accordingly. Whether it’s a routine check-up, vaccination, or grooming session, you can trust us to get your pet there safely and on time. After the appointment, we’ll make sure your pet returns home comfortably, ensuring their well-being every step of the way.

At Golden Tails, we take the safety and well-being of your pet very seriously, and we are fully prepared to handle emergencies with the utmost care and attention. If your pet experiences any emergency or health issue during our time together, we will contact you immediately to inform you of the situation and follow your instructions to ensure your pet receives the appropriate care. In the event that we are unable to reach you or if the situation requires urgent medical attention, we will take your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic as quickly as possible. We always carry your pet’s details and any medical instructions provided to ensure that the vet has the necessary information to treat them. Rest assured, we will stay in communication with you throughout the process and keep you updated on your pet’s condition. Your pet’s health and safety are our top priority, and we’ll do everything necessary to ensure they receive the best care in an emergency.

Yes, we offer overnight pet sitting services to ensure that your pet feels safe and comfortable while you're away. We believe that staying in the familiar surroundings of your pet’s own home helps reduce stress and anxiety, especially if your pet has a specific routine they rely on. Our experienced pet sitters will stay overnight at your home, providing companionship, care, and attention throughout the night. This includes feeding, administering medications if required, taking your pet out for a final walk, and offering plenty of love and reassurance. Your pet can enjoy the comfort of their own bed and familiar environment, while you can relax knowing they are in trusted hands. If your pet needs extra care, such as managing separation anxiety or sticking to a special bedtime routine, we will follow your specific instructions to make sure they feel at ease.

Yes, all of our dog walkers and pet sitters are fully trained in pet care, behaviour management, and safety protocols to ensure your pet receives the highest standard of care. Our team undergoes comprehensive training that includes understanding animal behaviour, recognising signs of stress or discomfort, and knowing how to address any medical or behavioural issues that may arise. We also provide training on proper pet handling, how to safely walk dogs of different sizes and temperaments, and emergency procedures in case of accidents or health issues. Additionally, we follow strict safety protocols to protect both your pet and our team, ensuring that all interactions are positive and stress-free. With our well-trained professionals, you can be confident that your pet is in safe, knowledgeable hands at all times.

How do I book a meet-and-greet?
Booking a meet-and-greet with us is simple and convenient! You can easily schedule a meet-and-greet through our website by selecting your preferred date and time, or you can contact us directly by phone or email to arrange a time that works best for you. During this initial meeting, you’ll have the chance to meet the dog walker or pet sitter who will be caring for your pet, discuss your pet’s specific needs and routines, and ask any questions you may have about our services. It’s also an opportunity for your pet to get familiar with their new caregiver, helping to ensure they feel comfortable and at ease when the service begins. We recommend booking a meet-and-greet ahead of time to ensure we can provide the best care for your pet and give you peace of mind knowing you’ve made the right choice.

We have custom-built, crash-resistant crates designed to accommodate dogs up to XXL sizes, including breeds like Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and XL Bullies. During the summer, our crates are equipped with air conditioning and an airflow system to keep your dog cool, along with cool mats, fans, and spill-proof water bowls for hydration. In winter, we ensure your pet stays warm and comfortable with heating, cosy vet bedding, and soft towels in each crate. This setup is designed to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and content throughout the year.

Yes, we are fully equipped and trained to administer medication to your pet as needed. Whether your pet requires daily medication, supplements, or an occasional treatment, we can ensure they receive it at the right time and in the proper manner. When booking your service, please provide us with clear instructions on the type of medication, dosage, frequency, and any special administration requirements (e.g., mixing with food, oral tablets, injections). If your pet has any medical conditions or requires extra care, we’ll follow your instructions closely to ensure their well-being. We understand that some pets can be sensitive or tricky when it comes to medication, so we’re committed to making the process as stress-free as possible for them. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with us, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your pet’s specific needs.

At Golden Tails, we welcome dogs of all breeds and sizes! Whether your dog is a small breed like a Chihuahua or a larger breed like a Rottweiler, German Shepherd, or XL Bully, we’re equipped to provide the care and attention they need. Our experienced team is familiar with the unique characteristics and needs of various breeds, ensuring that your dog receives personalised care, exercise, and attention. If you have any specific concerns or requirements for your dog’s breed, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, and we’ll ensure their needs are met!

At Golden Tails, we take the security of your personal information, keys, and online data very seriously. Your details, including contact information, pet care instructions, and any booking history, are stored securely in our encrypted system, and only authorised staff have access to them.

We use the latest security measures to protect your data from unauthorised access, including secure encryption methods for both online transactions and communication.

When it comes to your keys, they are securely stored in a locked key safe, with each key clearly labelled using a unique identifier — but never with your personal address or identifiable information.

We also take care to ensure that any online data or communication shared through our website or app is kept private and secure.

We regularly update our security protocols to ensure your information remains safe. You can have peace of mind knowing that both your pet’s care and your personal information are handled with the utmost security and confidentiality.