In the realm of professional dog walking, ensuring the safety of both animals and the public is paramount. The 2018 case of Smith v Worth serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with the profession.
The Incident
Melissa Smith, an experienced equestrian, was riding her horse along a bridleway on a common during daylight hours. As she approached a junction, she noticed a professional dog walker, Ms. Worth, managing four dogs off-lead. Recognizing the potential risk, Ms. Smith halted to allow the dog walker time to leash the dogs. While two dogs were successfully leashed, the remaining two eluded capture despite the walker’s efforts.
As Ms. Smith cautiously proceeded, one dog darted from the undergrowth behind her horse, while the other ran in front. Startled, the horse reared and fell backward, causing Ms. Smith to suffer severe pelvic injuries.
Legal Findings
The court found Ms. Worth negligent, emphasizing that the risk of dogs spooking horses is foreseeable, especially when multiple dogs are off-lead. The judge noted, “The risk of not having complete control of a dog if it is off the lead is increased four-fold if there are four dogs… More than one dog presents a much greater risk as the horse has more than one to track if they are not in control.”
Importantly, the court dismissed allegations of contributory negligence against Ms. Smith, underscoring the primary responsibility of the dog walker in managing her charges.
Implications for Professional Dog Walkers
This case underscores the critical importance of maintaining control over dogs, particularly in environments shared with other animals and the public. Professional dog walkers must recognize that even well-behaved dogs can act unpredictably, especially in groups or unfamiliar settings.
Implementing Safeguards in Your Dog Walking Business
To prevent similar incidents and uphold the highest standards of safety, consider the following measures:
- Limit Group Sizes: Manage a maximum of four dogs at a time, as larger groups can be challenging to control and increase the risk of unforeseen incidents.
- Use Leads Appropriately: Keep dogs on leads in areas frequented by horses, livestock, or heavy foot traffic. Only allow off-lead time in secure, designated areas where you can maintain full control.
- Conduct Route Assessments: Familiarize yourself with your walking routes, identifying potential hazards or shared spaces with equestrians and other animals. Adjust your routes accordingly to minimize risks.
- Enhance Recall Training: Ensure all dogs in your care have reliable recall abilities. Regularly train and reinforce this command to maintain control in various situations.
- Communicate with Clients: Discuss each dog’s behavior and suitability for group walks with their owners. Be transparent about any limitations or concerns.
- Obtain Proper Insurance: Secure comprehensive public liability insurance to protect your business and clients in the event of accidents.
- Pursue Ongoing Education: Stay informed about best practices, legal responsibilities, and animal behavior through continuous professional development.
By implementing these safeguards, professional dog walkers can significantly reduce the risk of incidents, ensuring the safety of their canine clients, the public, and themselves. The Smith v Worth case serves as a poignant reminder of the profound responsibilities inherent in the profession.