Printing Policy 11.23: Animal Handling Policy on its own.
Policy 11.23 — Eddie's Doggy Daycare, Paddock Farm, Harlow, Essex CM17 9HP
Animal Handling Policy
Document Control
Document Ref: EDDC-POL-029 | Category: Dog Welfare | Version: 1.0 Effective Date: October 2025 | Review Date: October 2026 | Owner: Edward Kirwan
Animal Handling Policy
Purpose
At Eddie's, as a daycare, we must always handle our dogs in a warm, loving, humane, and appropriate manner to minimise fear, stress, pain, and distress. Daycare should be a fun environment for every dog that attends and we must exclude any negative experiences. This policy sets out the principles, practices, and equipment used when handling dogs at Eddie's Doggy Daycare.
1. Handling Philosophy
Dogs must never be punished so that they are frightened or exhibit aversive behaviour. Every experience must be a positive one.
Our daycare has the ability to separate dogs into various groups. We have a puppy area and we are also able to divide groups into areas appropriate to compatible social groups based on age, size, and behavioural differences. Doing so minimises the risk of potential disagreements and injuries.
As a daycare, we only take on social dogs with good temperaments. Dogs are assessed via a customer questionnaire and on their first day (see EDDC-POL-030). Dogs are then continually monitored throughout their time at daycare. However, it is important to remember that dogs are animals and they are unpredictable. Staff must be well trained in dog behaviour and in recognising signs that may result in an aggressive incident or indicate fear, stress, pain, or distress.
2. Routine Handling
Staff should handle each dog regularly throughout the day, in line with the welfare of each individual dog's needs. We encourage cuddles and groom time for dogs that will allow this, bearing in mind that not all dogs love a cuddle from everyone. Other forms of engagement include play time, ball throwing, tug-of-war, agility training, or basic command training.
Welfare checks are completed regularly throughout the day and any unusual behaviours should be documented. Engagement with each dog is very important to us at Eddie's.
3. Assessing the Situation
At Eddie's we should always opt for the least invasive, quiet, and calm approach first (where appropriate and safe to do so). While this is not always possible, it should always be the starting point.
The individual animal and circumstances must be assessed (as part of an ongoing risk assessment) before any piece of equipment is used. The objective should always be to control the dog without causing harm to the handler or the dog, and minimising any distress caused to the animal.
We recommend a minimum of two people attending any incident to provide assistance if needed. When working in separate areas, use the radio and whistles to attract attention.
4. Dos and Don'ts When Handling Dogs
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Take your time — there is normally no need to rush and you will be safer | Make sudden or jerky movements (unless necessary) |
| Watch the dog's body language at all times | Grab the dog — especially by the scruff or the collar |
| Talk to the dog — it's the way you say it that matters most | Lean over the dog |
| Talk in a light but calm voice, much as you would with a child | Pull or push the dog — encourage them to come to you |
| Use treats for positive reinforcement training | Offer your hand for the dog to sniff — allow the dog to approach you with your hands by your sides |
| Work from the dog's side — keeping your body side-on | Approach a dog face-on — angle your body away from the dog |
| Remember that a dog may be scared, especially on their first day | Ignore appeasement signals — if a dog is telling you they are uncomfortable, listen |
| Remember that a rescue dog may have been mistreated | Force socialisation — some dogs are naturally less social and this must be accommodated for |
5. Understanding Canine Signals
Understanding a dog's body language is the most important tool a handler has. Dogs will almost always give warning signs before escalating to aggression.
Appeasement behaviours (dog feels threatened — back off):
- Turning their head away or trying to walk away
- Licking their lips or yawning
- Lowered body posture and flattened or back-turned ears
- Rolling onto their back to expose their belly
If these behaviours are observed and the dog still feels threatened, it may feel it has to resort to aggression. Stop, back off, and think about what adjustments can be made to calm the dog down.
Pre-aggression signals (take action immediately):
- Slight stiffening of posture
- Raised hair on neck and back
- Growling, snarling, showing teeth, or barking
- Fixed stare with rigid body
Important
A wagging tail does not mean a dog is in a friendly mood. A wagging tail can mean many things, including that a dog is about to bite. Always read the whole body, not just the tail.
6. Equipment
Handlers must only use equipment that they are competent in using. Your own body language and tone of voice are the most important "tools" you have.
Other team members / dog owner. A dog showing signs of aggression or distress may respond positively to a different member of staff. Some dogs may have a fear of certain genders — try another staff member if a dog is showing uncomfortable signs. If a dog is severely distressed, it is always an option to contact the owner for collection.
Treats. Treats are a positive method of reward to encourage a dog to come with you or to get in/out of a crate. Always have a small bag of treats with you at daycare and on pick-up/drop-off routes. Throw food between you and the dog if the dog is too scared to approach. Do not offer food with an outstretched hand.
Leashes & Long Lines. A lead must always be used to walk a dog to and from their home when outside of daycare. A lead can also be used to calm a hyperactive situation. Long-line leads can be attached to a dog as a "time out" method at daycare to avoid isolation, keeping the dog engaged with staff while preventing inappropriate interaction with others.
Whistles. Handlers should be equipped with a whistle whilst on the field. A short sharp blast can diffuse a building situation, distract dogs from adverse behaviour, or break up a fight. Whistles can also be used to alert other staff members to a situation where more help is needed.
Time Out / Isolation. Separate areas within the daycare can be used as a "time out" area. These sessions should be used as a last resort and should not last longer than 10 minutes. Dogs must be supervised in these areas and other forms of stimulation should be available, such as basic command training or toys.
7. Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following any serious incident involving animal handling.
Authorised By
Edward Kirwan — Owner & Company Director, Eddie's Doggy Daycare Limited Document Ref: EDDC-POL-029
Read and understood — staff name & signature
Date