COVID-19 & SICKNESS POLICY

Good health and welfare protocols are required in any pet business to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases which now includes that of COVID-19. This policy outlines the processes we will carry out in the event of COVID-19 in the case of the client or the sitter.

Illness

While in most cases, the sitter will be able to attend the sit while ill, it is important to note that there are times when this is not possible. For example, if there is a positive COVID-19 case.

• Both client and sitter will notify the other at the earliest convenience if they have COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test.
• Back up care should be planned to ensure care for the cat/s remains during the booking. A neighbour with a spare key is the best option with details provided on the Meet & Greet document.
• Digital Meet & Greet and contactless key collection/drop-off can be arranged.
• Each individual situation will be considered to safeguard both client, sitter, cat/s and property. Any concerns should be voiced at the earliest convenience.

Hygiene

Sarah and SK8 Cat Sitting take hygiene and cleanliness very seriously. In the case of illness/COVID-19 extra provisions and protocol will be employed to safeguard client, sitter, cat/s and property.

• A mask will be worn throughout the visit.
• Sitter will wash hands thoroughly before and after each visit.
• The sitter will regularly wash hands during the visit with soap and water, or with self-supplied hand sanitiser.
• Sitter will only touch necessary surfaces for the care and support of the cat/s in their care.
• Sitter will disinfect all surfaces, door handles etc on the final visit of the booking.

Concerns

Any concerns should be discussed during the Meet & Greet so that they can be mitigated at the earliest opportunity.

Cancellations

The cancellation policy remains the same as that in the Terms & Conditions document, although consideration will be given to special circumstances and on a case-by-case basis.

SK8 Cat Sitting understands that situations change and sometimes booking need to be cancelled. However, it is asked that the client provides as much notice as possible (minimum 72 hours) so that they are not required to pay a cancellation fee as listed below:

• Cancellations made more than 72 hours before the first visit – NO Cancellation Fee
• Cancellations made within 72 hours before the first visit – 50% Cancellation Fee
• Cancellations made within 42 hours before the first visit – 75% Cancellation Fee
• Cancellations made within 24 hours before the first visit – 100% Cancellation Fee

Risks – COVID-19 and Illness

While all care and attention will be made to contain the spread of viruses, bacteria, and COVID-19, both client and sitter are aware that they might still contract something following the booking. Both client and sitter agree to take on this risk when making the booking and will alert the other as soon as possible should a positive COVID-19 test be taken.

SK8 Cat Sitting will review their Risk Assessment in accordance with government advice. If you have any concerns about any of the information in this policy, please get in touch.

What to do if you have COVID-19 (NHS Advice)

Living safely with respiratory infections including COVID-19 (UK Gov Advice)