Dog Fight and Aggressive Behaviour Policy

Introduction

As a council-licensed home boarding business, we are required to have procedures in place to manage incidents involving aggression or conflict between dogs. This policy outlines the action that will be taken should a dog fight or aggressive incident occur whilst dogs are in our care.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to minimise the risk of dog fights, ensure the safety of all dogs and people, and provide a clear procedure should an incident occur.

Prevention Measures

TLC Dog Walking & Home Boarding takes the following preventative measures:

• Behavioural assessments are carried out before accepting dogs for boarding.

• Dogs are introduced carefully and under supervision.

• Dogs are grouped according to temperament, size and play style.

• Food, treats and high-value toys are managed appropriately.

• Dogs are supervised during social interactions.

• Dogs displaying signs of stress or discomfort are separated where necessary.

  
  

Procedure in the Event of a Dog Fight

Should a fight occur:

Immediate Action

• Remain calm and act quickly.

• Dogs will be separated as safely as possible.

• Physical intervention will only be undertaken if it is safe to do so.

• The safety of people involved will be prioritised at all times.

  
  

After Separation

• Dogs will be placed in separate secure areas.

• All dogs involved will be checked for injuries.

• First aid will be administered where appropriate.

• Veterinary treatment will be sought if required.

Owner Notification

Owners of all dogs involved will be informed as soon as practicable.

Information provided will include:

• The circumstances of the incident.

• Any injuries sustained.

• Any veterinary treatment provided.

• Measures being taken to prevent further incidents.

  
  

Investigation and Future Management

Following any incident:

• A written incident report will be completed.

• Contributing factors will be reviewed.

• Risk assessments will be updated.

• Decisions will be made regarding the dog's suitability for future group boarding.

Where deemed necessary, dogs may be boarded separately for the remainder of their stay or owners may be asked to make alternative arrangements.

Documentation

Records will include:

• Date and time of incident.

• Dogs involved.

• Circumstances leading to the incident.

• Injuries sustained.

• Veterinary treatment sought.

• Corrective actions taken.

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Responsibility

TLC Dog Walking & Home Boarding is committed to providing a safe environment for all dogs in its care. Whilst every precaution is taken to prevent conflict, any aggressive incident will be managed promptly, professionally and with the welfare of all dogs as the primary consideration.