Eliminating the Single Largest Risk of Day Care. Safe & SECURE

Dear DEFRA,

Subject: Urgent Need for Enhanced Doggy Daycare Transport Regulations

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As a committed member of the animal welfare and pet care community, I am writing to address a critical oversight in the current doggy daycare regulations, particularly concerning the transport of dogs by daycare services operating pet shuttles. The absence of specific guidance and standards for the transport of dogs not only compromises the safety and well-being of the animals in our care but also undermines the trust placed in us by pet owners and the broader community.

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The Necessity of Full-Size Vans with Double Door Systems

Our experience and observations have led us to conclude that full-size vans equipped with a double door entry and exit system are essential for the safe transport of dogs. Such a setup provides:

• Internal Space: A secure internal space that is at least 6 feet in height allows both the canine coach and dog to enter and exit the van securely, significantly reducing the risk of injury or escape.

• Double Doors: This system ensures that with the van cargo door closed, a dog can be carefully positioned into their crate and the leash detached in a controlled environment, away from external dangers.

• Leash-Free Ride: Removing leashes during transport eliminates the risk of choking or strangulation, ensuring a safer journey for all dogs.

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The Risks Posed by Smaller Vans

Conversely, smaller vans present numerous safety risks and logistical challenges, including:

• No Internal Space: The lack of internal space forces (un)loading to occur outside the van, often by the roadside, significantly increasing the risk of accidents or escapes.

• Leashes Can Kill: The necessity of keeping leashes on due to inadequate internal space introduces risks of choking and strangulation.

• Using The Road-Side: (Un)loading by the roadside exposes dogs, staff, and the public to unnecessary danger, especially in urban environments with heavy traffic.

• Dogs & Traffic: The proximity to traffic increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly if a dog is spooked or attempts to escape.

• 2 Dogs in 1 Crate: Double or triple crating dogs without direct supervision compromises their safety and well-being, making it impossible to prevent or quickly respond to negative interactions. When compounded by the lack of a double door it allows a dog to more easily push out and escape when the other is being either off-loaded or another is being placed into the crate. My best friend is getting out, why can't I? you've even opened the crate door? 

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Economic Compromises Over Safety

It is concerning that the choice of smaller vans is often driven by economic factors such as lower initial investment, reduced fuel consumption, and cheaper insurance. This cost-saving approach comes at the expense of animal safety and care quality.

The practice of cramming 2-3 dogs per crate in a transporter like van designed to carry significantly fewer animals is not only unethical but dangerous. Some market this as a "travel buddy" scheme but this is misleading and does a disservice to the trust placed in us by pet owners. Our investigation shows that multiple daycare centres are operating with 15-18 dogs per small van which may only have 7 or less individual seperate crates/cages.

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Call for Regulatory Action

We urge DEFRA to consider these points and introduce specific, stringent regulations for the transport of dogs by daycare services. These regulations should mandate the use of full-size vans with double door systems, prohibit the overcrowding of crates, and ensure that the safety and well-being of dogs are prioritized over economic considerations.

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In addressing the practicalities of implementing a double door system within doggy daycare transportation, it is vital to consider the spatial configuration inside the vehicle. Crates must be positioned away from the van's edge, ensuring there is an adequate internal safe space or corridor. This layout allows staff to enter and secure the cargo door before accessing the dog crate door, thereby creating a controlled and safe environment for both the dogs and the daycare staff. This adjustment may require daycares to either reduce crate capacity, to maintain this essential safe space, or to invest in upgrading their fleet to larger, full-sized vans capable of accommodating this system without compromising on animal welfare.

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Recognizing the potential financial and logistical challenges this transition may pose for some providers, we propose that the implementation of these regulations could be phased in over time. This phased approach would allow daycares sufficient time to plan for the necessary investments and operational adjustments. Support mechanisms, such as guidance materials, workshops, and potential financial incentives for those who proactively comply, could further facilitate this transition. By adopting a phased implementation strategy, we ensure that the focus remains firmly on enhancing safety and welfare standards in dog transportation, allowing daycares the opportunity to align with these new requirements in a manageable and sustainable manner.

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Implementing these standards will not only enhance the safety and quality of doggy daycare transport services but also reaffirm our collective commitment to animal welfare. We are prepared to assist in any way possible to develop and enforce these necessary changes. For more information on the steps we have already proactively taken and the safety protocols and van design we have formulated from first principles, please visit our website: www.84acres.co.uk/eliminating-the-single-largest-risk

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Thank you for considering this crucial matter. We look forward to your action and support in making doggy daycare transport safer for all.

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Sincerely,

Toby Roth
Director and Founder
84 Acres Canine Country Club