Feeding Regime
To comply with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities involving Animals) Regulations 2018, we have policies and procedures in place to ensure all dogs are fed a suitable diet, properly hydrated and their feeding and drinking is monitored. All care is taken to ensure food, water and feeding and drinking vessels are clean and free from contamination
At Holmes for Paws Ltd we provide fresh water for each dog on a daily basis in separate water bowls. Water will be changed once daily or sooner if visibly soiled/contaminated.
Water bowls are kept separate from food bowls and positioned in several areas around the kitchen to allow all dogs to access water. When dogs are confined to their designated rooms a water bowl will be provided in that room. All dogs will be fed separately unless the owner has given permission for them to be fed together with other dogs.
Dogs that show signs of aggression when fed shall be fed separately. All dogs will be fed at least one meal per day, unless advised differently by their owner or Vet. We will work with the owner to ensure their dog’s dietary requirements and eating habits are met. Food intake will be monitored on a daily basis and veterinary advice sought if a dog has not eaten for 24 hours
Ensuring suitable diet
| Action | Procedure |
| Feeding and drinking receptacles | These are non-porous, non-slip and stainless steel. |
| Feeding and drinking receptacles – cleaning | Cleaned daily and disinfected at least once a week and when dog using them changes. |
| Feeding – dry food | No dry food is left out for more than 24 hours. |
| Feeding – wet food | Uneaten wet food is removed before next feeding time. |
| Storage temperature / refrigeration | All dry and wet food and treats stored according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Refrigerator available if required. |
| Storage – protection from vermin | All food stored inside premises in cupboards or refrigerator out of reach of dogs. |
Feeding hygiene
| Action | Procedure |
| Agreeing feeding regime with owners | The booking form and Owner’s Consent Form will prescribe feeding regimes for each dog. |
| Monitoring of food and water intake | A separate food and water monitoring intake form will be completed for each dog during its stay. |
| Availability of water | Clean water will be provided daily and renewed when necessary throughout the day. A bowl of fresh water for each dog will be provided, including inside and outdoors. |
| Procedure for consulting vet if dietary concerns arise | The owner (or if unavailable, the owner’s emergency contact) will be contacted. A consent form will be signed by the dog owner for the Service Provider to contact the registered Vet or prescribed Vet for advice and/or treatment. |
| Following veterinary advice | Details of the Vet advice and/or treatment will be recorded and supplied to the owner. |
Water
| Action | Procedure |
| Water availability | At least one water bowl per dog. |
| Water provision | Fresh water is provided daily and refilled to ensure it is always available. |
Food preparation – For food prepared on the premises
| Action | Procedure |
| Food preparation | Clean, dry surfaces and utensils used. |
| Staff hygiene | Hot and cold water, soap and hygienic hand drying facilities are in place and there is suitable drainage. |