How we work Editorial standards

Helpful enough to use.
Honest enough to trust.

Head & Paws is built around practical decisions, careful sourcing and a clear distinction between general information and professional advice.

Who is responsible

Personally run by Luke Allan.

Head & Paws is an independent, non-commercial information resource based in Scotland. Luke Allan owns and runs the website. It is not a veterinary practice, a registered charity or an active limited company. The guidance is general information and does not replace professional advice.

People first

Every page should help an owner understand, decide or act. We do not publish filler simply to target a search phrase.

Sources before certainty

Health, welfare and legal claims should lead back to veterinary bodies, governments, established charities or other primary authorities where available.

Typical is not guaranteed

Breed, age and life stage can inform a decision, but they do not determine an individual dog’s temperament, healthy weight or suitability.

Limits made visible

We say when evidence is limited, information varies by place, or a question belongs with a vet or qualified behaviour professional.

Use the strongest source available.

We prioritise current legislation and government guidance, recognised veterinary and professional bodies, established animal-welfare organisations, peer-reviewed research and authoritative service providers. Lived experience can make guidance more practical, but it does not replace clinical or legal evidence.

Original guidance, not borrowed authority.

External material is summarised in our own words and linked clearly. A source supports a claim; it does not imply that the organisation has endorsed Head & Paws.

UK first, location made clear.

We use UK terminology by default and identify when law or guidance differs across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. International material is labelled so owners can distinguish general advice from country-specific requirements.

Corrections & review

Trust includes changing the record.

Guidance is reviewed when sources, legislation or professional recommendations change. If something appears inaccurate, unclear or overstated, tell us. We will check the point and correct it where required rather than defend wording that no longer serves dog owners well.

Suggest a correction

Editorial standards · Updated 15 September 2026

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