💛 XL BULLIES 💛
Dogs in the government definition & related mixed breeds are welcome in our private spaces, submit this form for approval.
Website bookings will automatically be cancelled without refunds. View rules here.
Doggy Pond • Sandpit • Enrichments • People Lounge Area
About the size of a football pitch, this is a fully enclosed private forest getaway. With its own doggy dipping pond, sandpit, enrichments, custom agility equipment & pawrent lounge area - it's ideal for regular exercise sessions or for pup socials with friends.
*personal use only, no commercial walkers
(For +5 dogs per session, please fill out this form)
❤️XL BULLIES & RELATED DOGS❤️
⚠️ Contact us directly to make bookings.
Website bookings will automatically be cancelled without refunds. View rules here.
why visit?
Private Pond
Forest Experience for Both Pups & People
Human Hangout Area & Seating
Fully Fenced
2M high stock fence
Added Enrichments & Agility
Exclusive
Located on a private gated country estate
Designated Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty
Access to The Main Safari
Within your 50mins session (unless it's privately hired)
Picnics Allowed
Bring food & non-alcoholic drinks (Strictly no alcohol)
Extra Security Latch
An external coded lock, in addition to an internal latch for your peace of mind during your session.
Fully Staffed
We have the loveliest most helpful team on standby to assist you for the duration of your visit.
VS
Perfect for Play & Fun
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Perfect for Sensory Exploration & Training
Private Forest with Agility & Dipping Pond
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Private Forest with Agility
Adventure Ground for Short or Longer Stays
(book consecutive sessions)
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Adventure Grounds for 50min Sessions
Both Dog & Human Focused Experience
4
Dog Focused Experience
Flexibility to host larger events, parties & gatherings
5
Flexibility to host events, parties & gatherings
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Are there dog toys available?We have a few dog essentials available to purchase from the Safari 'General Store' (located by the Safari driveway) - balls, throwers and 💩 bags. These are available during peak hours.
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Can other animals enter the Safari?This is a natural forest field fenced in by us. However, if you live in the countryside you know creatures (deer, muntjacs etc) like to hop fences sometimes. We don't let in animals but there may be the occasional wildlife sighting. This normally happens when no one is around and if wildlife spot you they will run away immediately.
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How deep is the pond?The pond is approximately 1 meter deep.
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Can I bring food into the private spaces?We currently allow outside food & non-alcoholic beverages to be brought into the private spaces. We have a 'no trace' policy meaning we require you to clean up leaving the space as you found it. Please note alcohol and chewing gum (as it's dangerous to dogs) is strictly not allowed.
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Can I bring food into the main safari area?Food is not allowed in the Main Safari to avoid creating issues between dogs. Note that chewing gum is also banned as it's dangerous for dogs to ingest (you're free to bring your non-alcoholic beverages in).
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What activities are there?Our Safari is mapped out here with different themes for each section. We have agility structures in Adventure Land, The Treasure Trails has tunnels and hidden treats and toys to be discovered, The Peaceful Pond is our natural pond to be enjoyed, and we have other fun enrichments to be discovered such as boomer balls and bungee cords.
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Is there a pond in the Safari?Yes! We have a natural pond where your pups can swim and cool off on hot days.
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Can dogs in heat visit the Safari?Dogs in heat are not allowed in the main Safari, however we do allow them in the private field and private Sniffari though owners must take full responsibility of their dogs.
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Are commercial dog walkers allowed?Personal use only, no commercial dog walkers.
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Can we rent the entire Safari for private use?We offer private hire on a case by case basis, and it’s usually for corporate events or training. Prices depend on peak/off peak times. Contact us at hello@rossandfriends.uk if you're interested.
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What is the height of the fence?The fence ranges between 4.5ft and 6.5ft (2 meters) depending on the boundary line. We're actively working to increase the fence height to all be 6.5ft.
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Are there any seating areas in the Safari?Yes, we have seating near the pond, and we're planning on adding more.
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Will there be other dogs present during our session?The main 30 acres area is a shared space, so other people will be able to book the same time as you. We do offer private hire of a separate 3 acre field and a 2 acre Sniffari within the Safari, and on a case-by-case basis exclusive hire of the whole Safari.
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Is the pond fenced off from the rest of the Safari?No it’s not as we’re attempting to keep the Safari as natural as possible to retain its beauty and natural enrichments. However, we are creating routes and paths within the Safari which will indicate where you should walk to avoid the pond if that’s what you prefer!
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Can I walk in on the same day?Yes you can! You will need to book on the website, and a gate access code will be sent to you 1 hour prior to your visit.
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How many dogs can visit the Safari per booking?A single booking can accommodate up to 3 dogs. If you have 6 or more dogs, please contact us.
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Is the pond tested or treated?This is a completely natural pond, not created by us. Ross is happy to jump in and drink, but it would be at your discretion if you're comfortable with your fur babe doing that!
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Are there water stations?Yes! We have a doggy bar & shower by the car park and we're working on putting watering stations throughout the Safari.
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Is there a gate system to keep our furry friends from running out?Yes! Our carpark is fenced in from the main Safari and dogs are to be on the leash in the car park.
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What is the Package Offer?A limited-time promotion where you can either choose the Private Field, Private Sniffari, Private Escape Crate, Invisible Fairytail Forest or Pay-As-You-Go 1hr experiences, you buy 2 and get 1 free sessions, 5 and get 3 free sessions or 10 and get 8 free sessions.
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How will I receive the free session?Once you purchase the package, you will receive three or eight or eighteen unique codes. Each code represents one session. These codes can be redeemed at the checkout when booking your sessions. Once a code is redeemed, it will become invalid.
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When is the offer valid until?It's valid until December 31st, 2024.
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Can I book sessions for dates after March 2024?Yes, you can book sessions for dates after March 2024, as long as the booking is made before the end of March 2024.
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Can I get a refund for the sessions or reschedule them?Unfortunately, no refunds or rescheduling will be allowed for sessions purchased under this offer.
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How do I check if my app is up-to-date?Follow these steps: For iPhone users: Go to the Apple App Store. For Android users: Go to Google Play. Search 'Ross & Friends' in the app store. If an "Update" button is visible next to the app, it means there is a newer version available.
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How to key in the gate code?Upon your arrival, proceed to the intercom. Press the pound (#) key, and then enter the gate code you received through email and SMS.
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Can I set my apps to update automatically?Yes, both iOS (iPhone) and Android devices allow you to enable automatic app updates. To do this: On iPhone: Go to Settings > App Store > App Updates, and toggle on "Automatic Updates." On Android: Open Google Play Store, tap on the three-line menu icon in the top-left corner, go to Settings > Auto-update apps, and choose the desired option.
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Why does the app show the message "technical problem"?It could be due to a few possible reasons. 1. Ensure your app is up-to-date: Check you have the latest version of the app installed. If not, visit your app store (e.g., Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and update the app to the latest version. 2. Verify your device compatibility: Make sure you are using a supported device. The app is compatible with the following operating systems: iPhone: iOS 11 and above Android: 6.0 and above 3. Log out and log back in: Try logging out of your profile and then logging back in. (If the issue isn't resolved) Restart your mobile device. 4. Uninstall and re-download the app: Try completely uninstalling and then downloading your app again. If you've followed these steps and the "Technical Problem" message still appears, please reach out to our support team for further assistance!
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Haven't received the gate code via email and SMS?SMS and Email will be sent 30 minutes prior to the session. Make sure to provide the correct email address during the booking process. Double-check your email inbox, junk and spam folder. Make sure to provide the correct phone number during the booking process. The gate code has been sent via SMS. It's possible there may have been a typo or mistake when entering your email address or phone number during the booking process. Review your booking details to ensure the information is accurate.
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How high are the fences?All the fences are 2 meters high.
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Are dogs in their season allowed?Pups in their season are allowed in our private areas, however we require you to take full responsibility for your dog during the entirety of your visit.
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Are there any enrichments?There are! We've added balls and bungee cords, with hay bales and other enrichments. Please keep in mind this is a private field, not a mini Safari, most suitable for dogs with no recall, reactive dogs, or for training sessions. If you are wanting the full 'Safari Experience' please book the main Safari.
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What are the benefits of a Sniffari/scent walk?Allowing your dog to direct this activity gives them a feeling of autonomy. Everyone including dogs, benefits from being free to make choices about what they do. Life becomes less stressful! When we think about our dog’s daily exercise, we often just think of it as being a physical thing – but when you’ve got a dog’s nose, it is very much more. Experts have said just 20 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour's walk in terms of enrichment for your dog. Understanding how fundamental scent is to your pup will bring a whole new dimension to our dog’s walks. You get to relax as you explore the world together! Our Sniffari is located in a private and peaceful woodland with towering trees. You’ll get to experience it with your dog rather than just exercising your dog. Sniffing really engages your dog’s brain, which can help take the edge off their energy levels. By showing your dog that you’re willing to stop and ‘smell the roses’, you may find that your dog is actually more engaged with you than if you were simply rambling around the neighborhood. It’s also an amazing time to level up your training games - hide and seek in the woods, circling around trees, or recall/stay while yummy distracting scents wharf around.
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How high are the fences?All the fences are 2 meters high.
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What happens at the Sniffari?Rather than walking in a straight line from point to point, a Sniffari is more meandering. Dogs are allowed to explore the environment with their noses, sniffing out scents and following their instincts. Even though a sniffing session is slower than the average dog walk, it's about quality, not quantity. Dogs sniffing is amazing mental stimulation and it increases their respiration rate, so it's a tiring activity. You may stop and start quite a bit, but that’s because your dog is filling their imagination with scents of the world. Scent is incredibly important to dogs – as much, if not more so, as sight and sound – and it tells them far more about their environment than we can ever begin to imagine. When they sniff the grass or a tree, it’s like reading (we)e-mails. They can tell who has been there and when, if they know them, whether they were male or female, entire or neutered, how old, what mood they were in… all from a single sniff.
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What is a Sniffari?A 'sniffari' (sniffing safari) is a scent walk where your pup's nose takes the lead! This way of walking mentally stimulates and enriches your dog as your dog “sees” the world through their nose. Using their sense of smell is incredibly enriching as they're using a lot of brainpower to sniff through all the information they find, which makes this activity a great option for mental exercise. These adventures in smelling leave dogs more content (and possibly even more tired) than after a walk when they are moving but don’t have the opportunity to take it all in through their nose. Our Sniffari is a private fenced and gated forest (about the size of a football pitch) that allows your dog to use their sense of smell to explore and interact with their surroundings. Normally on a scent walk you’d need to keep your pup on a long leash, but as it’s a private session your dog can be off lead to explore.
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Who is it for?For owners who want to take their relationship with their dog to the next level as slow sniffy walks are a great time to connect with your dog as it’s a chance to look at the world from your dog’s point of view. Because we don’t smell our way through the world, we’re often missing an entire way to interact and stimulate our pups. If your dog is bored and you're looking for new and fun ways to burn off some of their excess energy. Your dog will enjoy the freedom of getting to explore at their own pace and sniff all the wonderful smells they encounter. The Sniffari is also a great opportunity for training around distractions.
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What about bad weather?When it’s raining, the forest is actually a great option as the trees provide some cover. When there are winds above 40mph we close our forests to create the safest experience possible. If you’ve booked during this time, we will contact you to make alternate arrangements.
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Are dogs in their season allowed?Pups in their season are allowed in our private areas, however we require you to take full responsibility for your dog during the entirety of your visit.
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What about bad weather?When it’s raining, the forest is actually a great option as the trees provide some cover. When there are winds above 40mph we close our forests to create the safest experience possible. If you’ve booked during this time, we will contact you to make alternate arrangements.
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What happens at The Crate Escape?Dogs can play freely, explore and swim while pawrents interact with their dog and also kick back and relax in the lounge area.
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Who is it for?It's ideal for a normal 50min exercise session, for pup socials with friends, or longer stays using it as a base to explore all the doggy activities & pup friendly pubs in the local area.
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How do I enter The Crate Escape?The Crate Escape is secured by a digital lock that requires an up-to-date code. If you have booked, an entrance code will be texted and emailed to you 30min before your sessions. Please note, if you did not provide an accurate email or mobile number, you won’t receive the code.
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What is The Crate Escape?A Private Forest retreat about the size of a football pitch, fully fenced & filled with adventure for your dog. A private doggy dipping pond, sandpit, enrichments, custom agility equipment & a lounging area for pawrents…it’s one of a kind experience!
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What are the enrichments?Custom built tower, A frame, jumping beams, a pond & more.
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Is there parking inside Water Woodland?Yes! All our invisible spaces allow you to drive directly inside the play area to park.
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What is an 'Invisible' space?It's our category of private spaces allowing you to visit with your dog completely 'invisibly'. You park inside your play space and have your own private doggie shower. All fencing is either wooden panels or stock fencing with a hedge, to prevent clear sight of other dogs or people. We also offer 'room service' where you can order from the Tuck Truck from your play space and we will deliver to you.
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What is the Invisible Water Woodland?A private woodland designed for dogs who love water, exploring and play.
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What happens at the Water Woodland?Dogs enjoy a pond, woodland creek, and other added enrichments and agility areas.
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What about bad weather?When it’s raining, the woodland is actually a great option as the trees provide some cover. When there are winds above 40mph we close our forests to create the safest experience possible. If you’ve booked during this time, we will contact you to make alternate arrangements.
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What are the enrichments?A woodland creek, pond, secret seating spaces and more!
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Who is it for?Every single dog will love it but it's especially ideal for very reactive dogs. It's tucked away from other spaces and fenced with solid wooden panels, stock fencing with a thick hedge and being one of our 'invisible' spaces it has private parking inside as well as its own doggie shower.
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Are dogs in their season allowed?Pups in their season are allowed in our private and invisible areas, however we require you to take full responsibility for your dog during the entirety of your visit.
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What are the enrichments?A doggie castle, custom tree house, sandpit, A-frames, jumping beams, and more!
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What is an 'Invisible' space?It's our category of private spaces allowing you to visit with your dog completely 'invisibly'. You park inside your play space and have your own private doggie shower. All fencing is either wooden panels or stock fencing with a hedge, to prevent clear sight of other dogs or people. We also offer 'room service' where you can order from the Tuck Truck from your play space and we will deliver to you.
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Is there parking inside Fairytail Forest?Yes! All our invisible spaces allow you to drive directly inside the play area to park.
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What happens at the Fairytail Forest?Dogs have a blast climbing our tree house castle, digging in the sandpit, and leaping over hurdles, while pawrents can relax stress free.
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What about bad weather?When it’s raining, the forest is actually a great option as the trees provide some cover. When there are winds above 40mph we close our forests to create the safest experience possible. If you’ve booked during this time, we will contact you to make alternate arrangements.
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Who is it for?Every single dog will love it but it's especially ideal for very reactive dogs. It's tucked away from other spaces and fenced with solid wooden panels, stock fencing with a thick hedge and being one of our 'invisible' spaces it has private parking inside as well as it's own doggie shower.
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Are dogs in their season allowed?Pups in their season are allowed in our private areas, however we require you to take full responsibility for your dog during the entirety of your visit.
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What is the Invisible Fairytail Forest?A completely private and exclusive, magical forest haven. It's a hidden gem where dogs can roam and play freely in an engaging environment, hidden away from all other dogs and people.
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How high are the fences?All the fences are 2 meters high.
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What happens at the Playland?Your pup can swim in the pond, dive into the ball pit, explore the forest or practice their agility with our enrichments!
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How high are the fences?All fences are close to 2 meters high, providing a secure environment.
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What happens during bad weather?The playland provides quite good natural cover when it rains due to the trees. We also have a tent canopy so humans can stay dry while their dogs play. However, we close the forests if winds exceed 40mph to maintain safety. Should this affect your booking, we will reach out to arrange an alternative.
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Are dogs in season allowed?Yes, dogs in season are welcome in our private and invisible areas. We ask that you take full responsibility for your dog during the visit to ensure safety.
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What are the enrichments at Playland?There’s a pond for splashing, giant toy structures for climbing, a sandpit for digging, and a ball pit for extra fun. You’ll also find comfy seating areas for you to relax. It's also located in a private forest, so lots of trees and forest floor to sniff out.
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Who is Playland for?Playland is ideal for all dogs and especially perfect for reactive dogs as it's sole use only and has wooden panel fencing to obscures the view of other people or dogs.
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What is the Private Playland?The ultimate playground for dogs who love to run wild and explore! Imagine a playground just for dogs full of exciting activities.
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Can I bring food and drinks to the Main Safari?We don't allow food in the Main Safari to avoid potential issues amongst dogs, you can bring food & drinks if you've hired a private or invisible space.
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Is there seating?Yes, we can a very cute outdoor cafe with picnic benches and chairs around a firepit (for the cold days).
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What do you sell?Bean to cup coffee, cold drinks, hot food, snacks with a full doggie menu including treats, chews, and doggie essentials.
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Is it possible to pre-order?Yes, it's available on our website and app.
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What payment method does the tuck shop accept?Card payments only.
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Where is the tuck shop located?In our outdoor cafe, outside the Main Safari.
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Are there special treats for dogs available at the Tuck Truck?Yes! We have puppuccinos, popcorn, ice cream, premium all natural chews and more.
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What time does the tuck shop open?Daily 8:30am - 5.30pm.
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Where is Ross’s Ball Lagoon located?In the Main Safari, immediately to your left as you enter.
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What is Ross's Ball Lagoon?Our Winter Safari attraction! Replacing the Summer Splash Lagoon is a fun-filled ball pit for dogs of all breeds and sizes to play and socialise.
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Is there seating nearby?Yes, there's seating so you can relax while your dog plays.
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What’s the cost?£1.50 per session, payable by scanning the QR code on entry or at the Tuck Truck Cafe on check in.
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How deep is the ball lagoon?It slopes down and is approximately 0.2 meters in depth.
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Is it fenced?Yes, fully fenced in.
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What are the balls made of?Non-toxic, durable plastic that’s EN Certified for safety.
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What is Ross’s Splash Lagoon?Our premier water feature designed exclusively for dogs. It’s a refreshing and fun environment where dogs of all breeds and sizes can cool off, play, and socialise.
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Is there seating area near the lagoon?Yes! Especially in warm days you can sit back and relax while the pup's enjoy!
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How deep is the lagoon?It slopes down and is approximately 0.2 meters deep.
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Is the lagoon fenced?Yes.
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Where is Ross’s Splash Lagoon located?In the Main Safari, immediately to your left as you enter.
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What is the validity period of the E-Gift Card?12 months from the date of purchase.
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Can I transfer the Dog Safari eGift Card to someone else?Yes, the E-Gift Card can be transferred to someone else before it is redeemed. If you have received the E-Gift Card but wish to gift it to another person, you can share the unique code with them. However, once the E-Gift Card has been redeemed, it becomes non-transferable.
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Can I use the code for different types of private spaces?No, the unique codes can only be used depending on the package purchased.
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How can I purchase an E-Gift Card?You can purchase here on our website.
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Is the E-Gift Card a one-time use card?Yes, the E-Gift Card is designed for single use. Once the recipient redeems the card the E-Gift Card code becomes inactive and can't be used again.
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Are E-Gift Cards refundable or returnable?E-Gift Card are not refundable or returnable.
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Are purchases made using the E-Gift Card refundable or returnable?All purchases made using the E-Gift Card are not refundable or returnable.
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What services can the eGift Card be used for?Currently it can be used for one session in the Main Safari PAYG 1 Hour service.
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What is the E-Gift Card?A single use digital gift card for entrance to the Main Safari at Ross & Friends.
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Can the E-Gift Card be exchanged for cash?No, the E-Gift Card can't be exchanged for cash or any other form of monetary compensation. It can only be redeemed for the Main Safari PAYG 1 Hour service.
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How does the E-Gift Card work?When you purchase one, your recipient will receive a digital code via email. The recipient can then apply this code during checkout when booking the Main Safari PAYG 1 Hour service.
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How can I make a booking for my XL Bullies?Submit the XL Bullies booking request below. Bookings will be confirmed after verification and approval of all required documents.
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What is the new policy on XL Bullies in the United Kingdom?Starting Jan 1 2024 it's a criminal offence to own an XL Bully dog (or dog that falls under its classification) unless a Certificate of Exemption has been issued.
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How can I contact you for further enquiry?Yes please! Feel free to contact us via email or telephone.
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Can I submit the required documents at a later date?All necessary documents such as Certificate of Exemption and Insurance Liability must be submitted with the form. However, proof of neutering can be submitted before June 2024.
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Why are you so strict about muzzling?We need to be confident guests are adhering to rules from the beginning of their visit to the Estate, in order to proceed with bookings. We are required to follow government guidelines and to the best of our ability, ensure they’re followed on the Estate.
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What are your muzzling requirements?All XL Bullies must be muzzled at all times while on the Estate and Ross & Friends park till you are inside your private space. This includes inside your vehicle. Please note if you arrive without your dog muzzled in the car, your booking will automatically be cancelled and no refund will be provided in line with our short notice refund policy.
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What booking options are available?All private spaces.
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Can I make bookings for XL Bullies?Yes you can for any of the private spaces. Please note we're required to follow government guidelines on muzzling and seeing the necessary documentation.
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What document do I need to show?You'll need to submit an Insurance Policy, Proof of Neutering, and a Certificate of Exemption.
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Is there an age requirement to make a booking?Yes, you must be 16 years old and above.
Compare spaces
MAIN SAFARI
PRIVATE FIELD
PRIVATE SNIFFARI
PRIVATE
CRATE ESCAPE
2M Fencing (Fully Enclosed)
Shared Use
Sole Use
Natural & Added Enrichments
Pond
Agility Equipment
Seating
Fire Pit
Human Food Allowed
Drinks Allowed (Non-Alcoholic)
Shared Water & Shower Station
Main Safari