Rules for pool use:

• Please ensure your dog does not eat up to 2 hours before or after swimming.
• If it is your first session, please arrive 5 minutes before your start time to meet us and go through the pool use so we can make it the best experience for your dog. 
• Your 45-minute session includes time taken entering and exiting the pool. You and your dog must exit the pool swiftly at the end of your session to allow for access to the pool for the next clients.
• You MUST inform us if your dog has a history of biting, is reactive, or unsociable. This does not preclude you from coming, it is simply to ensure the safety of staff and other customers who may be arriving or leaving, and so we can make sure the whole experience is positive for your dog. Please ensure laws around Bully breeds are followed while on the premises. 
• If you choose to enter the pool with your dog, you do so at your own risk.... we recommend wet suit rather than regular swimwear; however, this is your personal choice. 
• Dogs must not be pushed, shoved or thrown into the pool. Anyone doing so will be asked to leave.
• All dogs must be fully vaccinated or titre tested.
• All dogs MUST have their claws clipped short to prevent punctures to the pool liner. Entry may be refused if your dog has sharp claws.
• You are responsible for your dog at all times and we request a minimum support of 1 adult to 2 dogs. 
• We advise you use one of our swim harnesses/buoyancy aids if your dog is not a strong swimmer or is a novice. We can help you fit this. 
• Cancellations can be made up to 48 hours before the session. Cancellations made after this will still be charged at the full rate. On block bookings or lessons, if less than 24 hours notice is given, this session cannot be rescheduled. 

Canine wellbeing:

• Dogs with injuries, health problems or recovering from surgery must have permission to swim from your own vet. We are not hydro-therapists, physiotherapists or veterinarians and cannot give medical advice. 
• Dogs with infectious or contagious conditions, such as ear, eye, skin infections, gastric upset, kennel cough etc. cannot use the pool until fully recovered. 
• A 1-minute swim equates to a 1 mile walk for your dog, therefore they will not and should not be encouraged to swim for more than a maximum of 20 minutes. We also recommend you encourage your dog to take short breaks on the in-pool ramp. 

Facilities:

• We cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to vehicles or personal property, howsoever caused, whilst on our premises. 
• We cannot be held responsible for any loss or injury to any person or animal, howsoever caused, whilst on our premises. 
• Please ensure you have appropriate footwear and clothing for walking around the pool and while in it. 
• We do not currently have drying facilities so please ensure you bring a towel or drying coat for your dog. 
• We have a curtained off area for you to change if you wish to go into the pool with your dog..

NOTE: for swim lessons, Jodie is in the pool with your dog however you must remain present in the pool area during this time. Please ensure you inform us of your dog/puppies past with water/swimming when you arrive so we can approach the first session appropriately. 

HOW WE BEGAN
Phin and Paddle was started after our own dog, Phineas injured his leg resulting in metal pins and a plate being placed in his knee joint. He received intense hydrotherapy for just over a year, and we knew swimming was the best way for him to continue exercising and building muscle, while not risking further injury as a working dog. This is when we decided to open our small business, with the advice from his hydrotherapist as to where to start! With a background in being a qualified (human) nurse specialist, Jodie completed a canine hydrotherapy diploma and canine first aid course to start up Phin and Paddle and understand Phineas (and Hetty's) needs and health. Our aim with Phin and Paddle is for all dogs to have a safe environment to enjoy water, learn to swim and exercise. 

Alongside opening the pool, we also wanted to provide a shop for swimmers and non-swimmers to access - known as Hetty's Treat Corner. In the shop we ONLY sell 100% natural treats so you don't have to worry about any nasties being in anything you purchase. 
We also sell VOM  raw dog food that is used by some of the worlds top sporting dogs to keep dogs healthy and well. This is the only raw food we trust to feed Phineas and Hetty as it is 100% animal derived complete food that focuses on taste, energy and good quality meat. 

As well as all the food, we have lots of gifts and accessories for dogs and their owners. As much as possible, we only stock items from other local small businesses and as we continue to grow, we hope to fill our shelves more and more. Currently we have local small businesses including Rhubarb and Co, and Bicester Candles, as well as bigger brands including Doodlebone, Ruff and Tumble and Ancol!