Rustic Paws Kennels
Proprietor: Kirsty Maree Shonis | Southern River, Western Australia
Terms & Conditions of Boarding — Legally Binding Agreement
Dangerous Dogs & Restricted Breeds
If your dog has been previously declared or is currently declared a Dangerous Dog or Restricted Breed, you must disclose this prior to boarding. Failure to do so may place you in breach of the Dangerous Dog Act and may result in penalties imposed by governing authorities. Rustic Paws Kennels reserves the right to refuse or terminate boarding where disclosure obligations are not met.
Assumption of Risk & Limitation of Responsibility
All dogs are boarded entirely at the owner’s risk. While reasonable care is taken to provide food, water, exercise and supervision, Rustic Paws Kennels accepts no responsibility for loss, injury, sickness or death of any animal while in care, except where required by law.
Behaviour-Related Risks & Owner Responsibility
Rustic Paws Kennels cannot be responsible for injuries or illness arising from a dog’s own behaviour, including dehydration from repeatedly emptying water, intestinal blockages from chewing bedding, dental injury from chewing fencing, heat stress from pacing or inability to rest, or incidents involving escape or attacks on other animals. Any incident caused by a dog is the owner’s responsibility.
Undisclosed Behaviour
Owners must disclose all known or previous behaviour issues. Failure to disclose may result in immediate termination of boarding with no refund. All resulting costs and veterinary expenses remain the owner’s responsibility.
Stress, Kennel Environment & First-Time Boarders
Boarding is a stimulating environment. Dogs unfamiliar with kennels may experience stress, anxiety or difficulty settling. Owners are encouraged to discuss concerns prior to boarding and pre-boarding visits are welcomed.
Elderly & Brachycephalic Breeds
Elderly dogs and brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds may be more susceptible to stress, heat intolerance and breathing difficulties. Boarding of these dogs is undertaken entirely at the owner’s risk.
Environmental & Snake Risk
Rustic Paws Kennels is located near bushland and snakes may be present. Rustic Paws Kennels accepts no responsibility for snake bite. Owners must advise preferred veterinary action should a snake bite be suspected.
Illness Risk
Dogs housed in close proximity may be exposed to illness, including colds, viruses or infections. Some dogs may carry illness without showing symptoms.
Personal Property
Rustic Paws Kennels is not responsible for loss or damage to collars, leads, bedding, containers or other personal items.
Fees, Payment & Minimum Stay
Boarding is charged per day with a minimum two-day charge. Full payment is required no later than the date of admission.
Veterinary Treatment & Costs
Owners authorise Rustic Paws Kennels to seek veterinary treatment if deemed necessary and accept full responsibility for all veterinary expenses incurred.
Cancellations & Peak Periods
When a booking is made, the owner is responsible for payment of the entire reservation. Cancellations with less than 15 days’ notice may incur full charges. Peak periods, including WA school holidays, require 45 days’ notice. Deposits during peak periods are non-refundable.
Right of Refusal
Rustic Paws Kennels reserves the right to refuse entry or terminate boarding if a dog presents unwell, displays unsafe behaviour, or if abusive or threatening behaviour occurs toward staff or animals.
Non-Payment & Abandonment
If accommodation or veterinary fees remain unpaid for seven (7) days, the owner authorises appropriate action as permitted by law and releases Rustic Paws Kennels from liability.
Veterinary Records
By signing, the owner authorises Rustic Paws Kennels to contact their veterinarian regarding vaccination and medical history if required.
Owner Responsibility Acknowledgement
The owner accepts full responsibility for their dog’s actions toward itself, other animals, people and surrounding property during its stay.
Owner Acceptance & Signature
This document is a legally binding agreement between the owner and Rustic Paws Kennels. I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to the Terms & Conditions of Boarding. I acknowledge that boarding is undertaken at my own risk.