Professional Standards & Legal Compliance
I am qualified with NC, HNC, and HND in Animal Care from SRUC Aberdeen, giving me extensive training & education in animal behaviour, husbandry, health monitoring, nutrition, and species-specific welfare. While I am not a Veterinary Surgeon (MRCVS) or Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN), my advice and care are based on accredited education and professional experience within the scope of UK & Scotland law and regulations.
Any health concerns beyond general welfare observations are always referred to a licensed veterinary professional.
I am insured for dog walking and pet sitting, and I hold a Level 1 Disclosure Scotland certificate, confirming I have no criminal convictions. This helps provide peace of mind to all clients that I meet the standards of trust, safety, and professionalism expected in the animal care industry.
As a pet owner myself I pride myself on being as professional and knowledgeable as I can be when working with your pets. At Paws and Claws Pet Care, animal welfare and professionalism are at the heart of everything I do.
All services are carried out in accordance with Scottish and UK animal welfare legislation, including:
Animal Health & Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006
Ensuring every animal in my care is protected from unnecessary suffering and their welfare needs are met. I work in line with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which guide all responsible animal care in the UK:
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Freedom from hunger and thirst
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Freedom from discomfort
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Freedom from pain, injury or disease
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Freedom to express normal behaviour
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Freedom from fear and distress
Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021
I adhere to the same high welfare standards expected of licensed animal establishments such as boarding and day care establishments. Even though my services don’t require a formal licence, I voluntarily meet those same standards - ensuring every pet receives safe, ethical, and compassionate care.
Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010
As a professional dog walker and pet carer, I operate in full compliance with the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010, ensuring that all dogs in my care are kept under effective and consistent control at all times. Every dog is assessed prior to walks for temperament and recall, and all handling methods are based on positive reinforcement and welfare-centred techniques. At this moment I do not offer mixed household/group walks.
Because at Paws and Claws, we focus on providing owners with peace of mind.