Frequently asked questions.
How many dogs do you walk at any one time?
I will never walk more than 4 dogs at any one time. I will also ensure that temperamentally, as well as geographically suitable dogs are walked together.
Group dog walks are a fantastic way to socialise your dog and build their confidence.
Are there any requirements for my dog to be walked by you?
Just a few!
I ask that all dogs must have a free initial consultation before starting
Your dog needs to be vaccinated, wormed, and treated for fleas and ticks.
Your dog must be microchipped.
Your dog must wear a collar and a tag with your contact details on.
You must provide me with emergency contact details and instructions.
Do you walk my dog on or off the lead?
As a general rule, I will walk all dogs on-lead unless I am given written consent from the owner to allow the dog off-lead. Being off the lead is an rewarding way for your dog to move freely at their natural pace. A dog can develop more confidence when they feel they have more choice in how they explore. However, I understand not every dog is able to be off the lead, and on lead exercise is just as effective and fun for your dog as they are still able to enjoy mental stimulation through territorial investigation.
Please note: I lead-walk all dogs for the first 4 sessions before allowing them off-lead in order to build a relationship.
Can I specify a particular time for my dog to be walked?
I will always try to walk your dog as near to any requested time as possible, but I am unable to give exact timings due to factors beyond my control. My daily walking schedule is as follows (timings include pick-up, hour walk, and drop-off):
Morning Solo Walk: 8:30 am-10:30 am
Morning Group Walk: 10:30 am-1:00 pm
Afternoon Group Walk: 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Do I need to be at home when you collect or drop off my dog?
No, the most common way is for me to be left a key to your property, this allows me to collect and drop-off your dog(s) whilst you’re not at home. Alternatively, some clients leave their key in a combination key lock box. All keys held by myself are kept in a secure location and will only be taken out when your dog is being walked. Alongside this, it will never be marked with anything other than the name of your dog.
Can my dog just have occasional walks?
Of course! I am happy to offer ad-hoc walks, subject to availability.
Do you still walk dogs in extreme weather?
In extreme periods of hot weather in the summer months, I will only walk your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement. This may mean a change in business operating hours but any details will be given in advance.
It will also be up to my discretion to walks dogs in other extreme weather such as high winds and storms. I will always aim to let clients know as early as possible if walks are not going ahead/or are going to be at a different time that day due to weather.
What happens if there is an emergency with my dog?
In the unlikely event of some medical emergency happening to your pet whilst I am with them, I will endeavor to do whatever I can to help them.
I am trained in canine first aid and I will do everything in my power to stabilise them.
I will call you as soon as possible to let you know the situation.
Wherever there is an immediate need, I will take your pet to a vet. If it is not possible to visit your registered vet then I will take them to the nearest available practice for treatment.
How should I pay for walks?
I send invoices on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. I accept payment via bank transfer and direct debit.
What happens if I need to cancel?
I completely understand that life happens and schedules change. I typically give everyone a free pass once. My official policies for cancellations are as follows:
Cancellations that are confirmed with over 24 hours notice will incur no charge. Any cancellations inside of 24 hours will be subject to 50% of the fee charge.