Last Updated: [22/02/2025]
By using our services, you agree to these terms. Read carefully – they affect your legal rights.
1. Key Summary for Pet Owners
- ✅ Max 5 Pets per Trip: No overcrowding. Individual care guaranteed.
- ✅ Direct Routes: Faster journeys (no multi-day delays to cut costs).
- ✅ Calming Aids: Notify drivers in advance if administered.
- ✅ 3-Hour Drop-Off Window: 2 hours before/4 hours after ETA.
- ✅ Strict Safe Driving: No speeding – your pet’s safety is non-negotiable.
- ❌ No Liability: We are not liable for illness, injury, or death (except gross negligence).
2. Definitions
- “Company”: Shire Investment Group Pty Ltd Operating as Pawtage.
- “Driver”: Employees or contractors transporting your pet.
- “Customer”: You, the pet owner or authorised representative.
3. Pet Welfare & Transport Policies
3.1 Capacity & Care
- Small Groups: Vehicles carry no more than 5 pets per trip.
- Breaks & Monitoring:
- Dogs receive toilet breaks/walks on long trips (e.g., Sydney to Brisbane).
- Cats remain crated but are monitored for stress.
- Calming Aids: You must notify the Driver in writing if your pet is administered calming treats, sprays, or medication. Sedatives are discouraged unless prescribed by a vet.
3.2 Communication
- Updates: Drivers send SMS at key milestones (departure, breaks).
- Blackspots: No updates in areas with poor reception (e.g., regional NSW/QLD). No news = safe progress.
3.3 Departure Protocol
- 5–10 Minute Goodbyes: Prolonged farewells stress pets. Drivers may depart after 10 minutes.
4. Customer Obligations
4.1 Accuracy of Information
- Provide truthful details about your pet’s health, behaviour, and vaccination records (C5/F3 certificates).
- False Information: We may refuse service without refund.
4.2 Availability
- Drop-Off Window: Be available 2 hours before/4 hours after the agreed ETA.
- Late arrivals incur $150/hour (after 15-minute grace period).
- Pick-Up: 15-minute grace period; after this, service may be cancelled.
4.3 Prohibited Pets
We refuse transport if your pet:
- Displays aggression (e.g., biting, uncontrolled barking).
- Has untreated contagious illnesses (e.g., kennel cough).
- Exceeds crate size/weight limits.
5. Liability Waiver
5.1 Assumption of Risk
- No Liability: The Customer irrevocably waives the right to hold the Company, Drivers, or agentsliable for:
- Injury, illness, or death of the pet (except proven gross negligence).
- Delays due to traffic, weather, or third parties (e.g., vet delays).
- Veterinary Costs: You are solely responsible for vet bills, including post-transport care.
5.2 Third-Party Services
- We are not liable for acts/omissions by airlines, vets, or government authorities.
6. Fees & Cancellations
6.1 Cancellation Policy
- >24 Hours Notice: Full refund.
- <24 Hours Notice: 50% cancellation fee.
- After Departure: No refunds.
6.2 Late Fees
- Drop-Off: $150/hour after 15-minute grace period.
- Payment: Outstanding fees must be paid before future bookings.
7. Force Majeure
We are not liable for delays/cancellations due to:
- Extreme weather, pandemics, accidents.
- Road closures, government restrictions.
8. Governing Law & Disputes
- Jurisdiction: Governed by Queensland law.
- Disputes: Resolved via arbitration in QLD. Each party covers own legal fees.
9. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify the Company and Drivers against claims arising from:
- Breach of this agreement.
- Inaccurate information or pet behaviour (e.g., bites, property damage).
10. Amendments
- We may update these terms at any time. Continued use = acceptance.
Acceptance
By booking our services, you confirm you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms.
Need help? Contact us at [[email protected]]
