This policy outlines the terms under which Strawberry Paws provides pet sitting services for
small mammals. This policy includes animals such as rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats, gerbils,
chinchillas and hamsters, that may display aggressive, defensive, territorial, or stress-related
behaviour. The safety and welfare of the animals, the pet sitter, household members, and others
are our highest priority.
Legal and Welfare Compliance
All services are provided in accordance with UK animal welfare legislation, including:
- Animal Welfare Act 2006
- Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018
- Relevant local authority guidance
Owners always remain legally responsible for the welfare and behaviour of their animals.
Definition of Aggressive Behaviour
For the purposes of this policy, an “aggressive” or “high-risk” small mammal includes any animal
that:
- Bites, scratches, lunges, or charges
- Displays fear-based or territorial aggression
- Has a history of unprovoked attacks
- Cannot be safely handled
- Exhibits stress-related behaviours such as excessive nipping or defensive posturing
Mandatory Behaviour Disclosure
Clients must disclose any known behavioural issues, including aggression, biting, fear
responses, or previous incidents, prior to booking. Failure to disclose behavioural concerns may
result in:
- Immediate termination of services
- No refund of fees
- Client liability for any resulting injury, damage, or loss
Handling and Care Restrictions
For animals displaying aggressive or defensive behaviour, [Business Name] may limit care to
hands-off or minimal-contact services, which may include:
- Feeding and water changes
- Spot-cleaning only
- Visual health checks
- Enrichment provided without direct handling
The pet sitter will not:
- Attempt to restrain aggressive animals
- Force handling or social interaction
- Administer medication requiring restraint unless agreed in writing
- Separate bonded animals during care
Housing and Safety Requirements
Clients must ensure:
- Hutches, cages, and enclosures are secure and escape-proof
- Animals are housed in appropriate environments with adequate space
- Protective equipment (e.g. gloves, carriers) is provided where necessary
- No children or unauthorised individuals access the animals during visits
If housing or safety conditions are deemed unsuitable, services may be refused or discontinued.
Right to Refuse or Terminate Services
Strawberry Paws reserves the right to:
- Refuse care for animals deemed unsafe
- Suspend or terminate services if behaviour escalates
- Withdraw immediately if there is a risk to health, safety, or welfare
- In such circumstances, fees are non-refundable.
Emergency Situations
In the event of:
- An escape
- Injury to the animal or pet sitter
- Sudden or extreme aggression
- Environmental hazards affecting welfare
The pet sitter will prioritise personal safety, then animal welfare, and may contact:
- The client
- A veterinary professional
- Emergency services where necessary
Liability
By booking services, the client agrees that:
- Strawberry Paws is not liable for injuries caused by aggressive or defensive animals
- The client remains responsible for the animal’s behaviour
- Any injury, damage, or loss resulting from undisclosed aggression is the client’s responsibility
Booking pet sitting services with Strawberry Paws constitutes full acceptance of this Aggressive Mammal Policy.