Dog Walker

I want to support responsible dog walkers. I recommend to hire a dog walker, even if it’s just for a few days a week and even if you work from home, so their dog can build trust and be comfortable with them, and getting your dog into a pack walk can be beneficial to their socialization.

Recommended Questions to Ask:

  • Are they bonded and insured?

  • Do they offer pack walks, if so how many dogs are walked at the same time.

  • What education and training do the dog walkers receive, as in understanding dog body language, proper use of training tools, and leash communication?

  • Do they have any tool restrictions that they will not walk dogs on for example, a pinch/prong collar or head halter?

  • Do they understand how to fit and use all training collars and harnesses appropriately?

  • Will they follow any training/protocols set?

  • Will they use the same training collars/leashes that you currently use with your dog?

  • Do they bring dogs into other dogs home, if not where are they left?

  • Do they have a saftey/back up protocol for collars and leashes?

  • What are their protocols in case the dog gets lost?

If the walker asks you to change training collars/leashes please let me know.

Building a relationship with a dog walker can help you when you need to go away for a day or weekend and help you with pet sitting.

 

Daycare and Boarding Facilities

Choosing the the right daycare boarding facility can make a world of difference in helping your dog versus causing more issues.

Recommended Questions to Ask:

  • Do they separate the dogs by size and/or temperament?

  • Do they give the dogs structured breaks to rest in a crate, individual rooms, or beds?

  • Do they give all the dogs potty break walks or have a potty yard?

  • How do they proactively interrupt bad behaviors? (keyword "Proactively")

  • What education and training do the employees receive, as in understanding dog body language, how to interrupt unwanted behaviors, use of tools, dog management?

  • What methods are the employees trained to break up fights?

  • Do they allow toys, tugs and or balls? 

  • How many attendants are supervising in each group?

  • Are dogs ever left unattended?

  • What do they do with dogs that are not feeling well or having a bad day ?

  • What are their protocols if and when a dog gets lost. Has it ever happened?

  • Are they willing to send a written incident report if there are any issues that lead to the dog being kicked out or any fights. 

  • Are outside areas fully fenced and how high are they.

After you recieve the answers, I am happy to go through them with you.