1
Dog Eligibility
- Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations and on flea/tick prevention.
- Dogs must be non-aggressive toward humans.
- Dogs under 12 months old are not accepted unless they have prior experience completing multi-mile hikes and are approved.
- Any history of reactivity, aggression, or behavioral concerns must be disclosed.
2
Household Group Hikes
- Maximum of 3 dogs from the same household per group hike.
- Dogs that are reactive, not dog-social, or require special handling must book private hikes.
- We reserve the right to remove a dog from the group hike if safety requires.
3
Transportation
- Dogs will be transported safely via crate or secured restraint system.
- Owners must provide a properly fitted harness or collar and a standard leash (no retractable leashes).
- Pickup/drop-off windows will be provided, not exact times unless otherwise agreed.
4
Hike Structure & Safety
- Most hikes are typically 3 miles or less, depending on dog fitness level, weather conditions, terrain, and time.
- The duration, distance, and structure of each hike are at our sole discretion based on safety and the dog's condition.
- We reserve the right to shorten, modify, or cancel a hike at any time for safety reasons.
5
Off-Leash Policy
- Dogs remain leashed at all times.
6
Weather Policy
- Hikes may be shortened, modified, or canceled due to extreme heat or cold, or severe weather conditions.
- Alternate services may be offered when appropriate.
7
Behavior & Safety
- Dogs displaying aggression or unsafe/disruptive behavior may be removed from group hikes immediately.
- Continued issues may result in service suspension or a requirement to book private hikes.
8
Emergency Care
- We are pet first aid certified and carry pet first aid supplies at all times.
- In the event of illness or injury, we will seek veterinary care immediately if necessary and make every effort to contact the owner prior to treatment.
- If the owner's primary veterinarian is unavailable, we are authorized to transport the dog to the nearest available emergency veterinary clinic.
- The owner is responsible for all veterinary costs incurred.
- By agreeing to our terms, the owner authorizes emergency medical treatment.
9
Communication & Updates
After each hike, owners will receive:
- Photos from the trail
- GPS tracking summary
- Brief report covering behavior, distance, and notes
10
Home Access
- When authorized to pick up with no owner present, the owner agrees to provide safe access via key, lockbox, or instructions.
- We are not responsible for issues arising from faulty entry instructions.
11
Cleanliness
- Dogs may return dirty or wet due to trail conditions.
- If a hose is available at the home, we will rinse off mud and debris and reduce excessive wetness before returning the dog inside.
- Dogs may still be slightly damp upon return.
12
Payment & Cancellation
- Payment is due at time of booking.
- Full refund available up to 24 hours prior to appointment.
- 50% refund for cancellations less than 24 hours from appointment.
13
Liability Waiver
Hiking is an inherently risky activity that may involve uneven terrain, wildlife encounters, weather-related risks, and potential injury.
By booking our services, you acknowledge and accept these risks, release The Barkside Trail from liability for incidents outside of reasonable control, and confirm that all information provided is accurate.