Pet Hotel Contract: What to Watch For

Before signing any pet hotel agreement, understand these key clauses.

Standard Contract Elements

1. Liability Limitation

Most contracts include phrases like:

  • "We are not responsible for illness or injury"
  • "Maximum liability is limited to X TRY"
  • "We are not liable for pre-existing conditions"

Your rights: In Turkey, you can still claim negligence damages even with limitation clauses. Complete waivers of liability are not enforceable under Turkish Consumer Law.

2. Cancellation Policy

Common policies:

  • Free cancellation: 48-72 hours before
  • Summer/holiday: 7-14 days notice required
  • No-show: Full charge

Tip: Always get cancellation policy in writing.

3. Emergency Authorization

Should include:

  • Authorization for emergency vet treatment
  • Who pays emergency vet costs (YOU, always)
  • Which vet they will use
  • Spending limit before they must contact you

4. Vaccination Requirements

Look for:

  • Which vaccines are required
  • How they verify (certificate required?)
  • What happens if your dog gets sick from another guest

5. Medication Administration

If relevant:

  • Confirmation they will administer medication
  • Liability if medication is missed
  • Who witnesses medication given

Red Flag Clauses

  • "No refunds under any circumstances"
  • "We are not responsible for any death"
  • Vague emergency contact procedures
  • No mention of vet access

Missing Clauses (Also Red Flags)

Absence of:

  • Feeding schedule agreement
  • Exercise commitment
  • Health monitoring protocol
  • Photo update frequency