Policies & Procedures for Dove Release

 

At Divine Doves of SugarLand Farm, we are dedicated to providing a memorable and safe dove release experience for your special event.

 

Our doves are highly trained and come from pure white pigeon stock, also known as Rock Doves. To ensure their safety and well-being, we have established the following policies and procedures.

Release Limitations

  • Outdoor Events Only: We will not release our doves indoors.
  • Weather Conditions: Doves will not be released in adverse weather conditions such as rain, fog, strong winds, or excessive heat. We reserve the right to cancel a release in unsafe conditions and will issue a full refund in such cases.
  • Timing: Doves will not be released later than 2 hours before sunset to allow them ample time to return home safely.
  • Supervised Releases: A trained handler will always be present for any dove release. We do not rent out our doves for self-release or unsupervised events.

Event Delays

  • We understand that delays can happen. We will be prepared to release up to 15 minutes after the scheduled time. If additional waiting time is needed, a fee of $25 for every extra 15 minutes (or portion thereof) will apply.
  • If an event is significantly delayed and impacts the safety of the doves or our ability to attend another scheduled event, we reserve the right to withhold the release, and no refunds will be issued.

Service Areas and Travel Fees

  • Divine Doves of SugarLand Farm services several areas. Depending on your location, additional travel fees may apply:
    • Zone A (+$0): Fresno, Kerman
    • Zone B (+$40): Tranquility, Selma, Sanger, Fowler, Clovis, Madera, and nearby areas
    • Zone C (+$80): Kingsburg, Hanford, Mendota, and others
    • Zone D (+$100): Merced, Visalia, Tulare, and surrounding regions
  • Unfortunately, we do not provide services in Oakhurst, Bass Lake, North Fork, or Shaver Lake.

Cancellations and Rescheduling

  • Client Cancellations: You may cancel up to 7 days before your event without penalty. Cancellations made within 7 days of the event will incur a 30% fee. Cancellations within 3 days will result in a 50% charge.
  • Rescheduling: You may reschedule your event up to 7 days prior at no extra cost. Within 72 hours, rescheduling will incur a 30% rebooking fee plus any applicable travel surcharges.
  • Divine Doves Cancellations: If Divine Doves of SugarLand Farm cancels for any reason other than weather (see below), a full refund will be issued.

Refunds

  • Weather-Related Cancellations: If poor weather conditions prevent a release, you will receive a refund of 90% if canceled before we depart the loft. If we arrive and the release cannot happen, 75% will be refunded to cover travel expenses.
  • Non-Release Due to Delays: If your event runs too late and we cannot release the doves, no refund will be given. The safety of our birds is our top priority.

Additional Policies

  • Diet and Cleanliness: Our doves follow a special diet before events to reduce the likelihood of “messing up” during the release. While we cannot guarantee, doves rarely defecate while in flight, so the risk is minimal.
  • Display Option: If weather prevents a release, we can provide a display of up to 4 doves in an ornate cage for $250. This can be set up indoors or under cover as an alternative.

Booking and Payment

  • You can book a dove release by texting or calling Marilea at 559-260-9304 for a personalized quote and to confirm your reservation.
  • Alternatively, you may fill out our booking form, and we will contact you directly.
  • A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your date. For check payments, full payment is due 7 days prior to the event. For cash, Venmo, Zelle, or Apple Pay, full payment must be made at least 24 hours before the event.

At Divine Doves of SugarLand Farm, we take pride in our services and strive to provide a flawless dove release. Please communicate your wishes clearly so we can meet your expectations.