Operating Procedure

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New Dog Intake
Introducing Dogs
Feeding Medication
Walk Safety
Off Leash
Client Communication
Emergency & Vet Care
Data Handling Confidentiality
Lost Dog Procedure
Overnight Care Procedure
Cleaning Sanitation
Bite or Injury Incidents

These procedures describe how Cammino Canino ensures the safety, well being and comfort of every dog in our care. They also explain the standards we follow during walks, overnight stays and all services we provide.

Our goal is to offer a responsible, transparent and professional pet care service that respects each dog’s individual needs.

New Dog Intake

Before accepting a new dog, they attend an in person meet and greet where we assess temperament, sociability and suitability for group activities, off leash time or overnight stays. We also complete a full intake process to ensure the dog is safe to handle and that the requested service is appropriate.

We require:

• completed Intake Form and Contracts

• vaccination and parasite prevention status

• microchip registration

• information on medical conditions, medications and allergies

• disclosure of behavioral history, including reactivity or aggression

Introducing Dogs

When introducing dogs, we prioritize calm, controlled environments.

We:

• start introductions on neutral ground

• use leads at first and monitor body language

• allow brief interactions followed by separation

• discontinue introductions if any dog shows signs of stress or tension

• introduce dogs gradually based on comfort and behavior

Feeding and Medication

We follow each dog’s personalized feeding plan exactly as instructed by the owner.

Our procedures include:

• feeding dogs individually when needed to prevent guarding

• cleaning bowls after each meal

• giving medications only with the owner’s written instructions and veterinary label

• documenting each dose given

• immediately reporting missed doses, vomit, or refusal of medication

Walk Safety

Walks are structured to ensure safety in all environments. Any concerns observed during walks are communicated to the owner.

We:

• check all equipment before each walk

• use only safe, secure harnesses and leads

• avoid retractable leashes

• bring treats, poop bags and a charged phone

• choose routes according to each dog’s ability, weather and behavior

• avoid situations that may trigger reactivity

• monitor for heat stress, cold stress or fatigue

Weather Policy

Cammino Canino walks dogs in most weather conditions, as long as the dog still enjoys their walk. At our discretion, walks may be canceled, postponed, or shortened in cases of

heavy rain or storm/extreme heat or cold/heavy snow, ice, or unsafe conditions/weather advisories or emergencies issued by local authorities.

We will contact you as soon as possible via a Whatsapp message or phone call if weather conditions require a change to your scheduled service. If you feel the weather is unsuitable for your dog, you may request a cancellation or modification. Weather-related cancellations initiated by Cammino Canino for safety reasons will not be charged. Owner-requested cancellations follow our standard cancellation policy unless otherwise agreed.

These are the extra precautions we take in hot or cold weather: In hot weather, we walk during cooler times of day, avoid hot pavement and ensure access to water and shade In cold weather, we limit exposure time, avoid icy areas and respect individual dog tolerance levels.

Off Leash

Off leash activities are allowed only when the owner has signed the Off Leash Consent Form and the dog has demonstrated reliable recall.

We follow these rules:

• use only approved parks and safe open areas

• keep high value treats ready for recall

• immediately leash the dog if recall fails or if the environment becomes unsafe

• end off leash time if behavior changes or stress appears

• report any incidents or injuries to the owner

Emergency and Vet Care

If a dog becomes injured or shows signs of illness, we take immediate action. The owner receives a full written report after the incident.

Steps include:

• assessing the situation calmly and keeping the dog safe

• contacting the owner, secondary contact and emergency contact

• seeking veterinary care as authorized in the signed Veterinarian Release Form

• documenting symptoms, timeline and treatments

• keeping copies of all veterinary invoices and notes

Bite or Injury Incidents

In the rare event of a bite or injury, we follow strict safety guidelines.

We:

• separate dogs calmly and safely

• examine all dogs for injuries

• photograph any wounds

• contact the owner right away

• prepare a written incident report with full details

• follow all legal requirements for bite reporting if a person is injured

• review the dog’s suitability for future services

Cleaning and Sanitation

Hygiene is essential to maintaining a safe environment.

We:

• wash food and water bowls after each use

• clean and disinfect surfaces as soon as mess occurs

• vacuum and mop high traffic areas regularly

• wash bedding frequently or whenever soiled

• dispose of waste according to local regulations

Overnight Care Procedure

During overnight stays, we maintain a calm, supervised and safe environment.

We:

• follow the dog’s normal home routine as closely as possible

• maintain a hazard free space

• monitor appetite, sleep, toileting and behavior

• give daily updates to the owner with photos and videos

• supervise interactions with any other dogs present

• ensure clean bedding, water and comfort throughout the stay

Lost Dog Procedure

If a dog becomes separated or escapes, we act immediately.

We:

• remain in the last seen area and avoid chasing

• call the dog using familiar cues

• notify the owner and emergency contacts

• contact local vets and animal services

• use location devices such as AirTags (when applicable)

• continue searching until the dog is found or the owner takes over

• document the full incident

Client Communication

Professional and clear communication is central to our service.

We:

• confirm bookings and changes in writing

• send regular updates during services

• notify owners promptly about concerns, injuries or unusual behavior

• maintain respectful and transparent communication at all times

• store communication securely and confidentially

Data Handling and Confidentiality

We protect client information responsibly and in line with our Privacy Policy.

We:

• store documents on encrypted iCloud storage

• use two factor authentication on email accounts

• communicate through end to end encrypted platforms such as WhatsApp

• protect all devices with strong passwords

• delete documents when they are no longer needed

• never share client information without permission except when required by law