FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I have always loved dogs but didn't know that I could make a living unless I was a vet or became a famous trainer! Seriously, though, I worked for many years in HR, and early in my career I could afford the time to do volunteer work. I learned to be a dog socializer first at SVHS, and then at Peninsula Humane Society. Then I learned about dog*tec and that there was actually an academy for dog walkers, and I got certified. A blessing in disguise came in being laid off from my tech job, which allowed me the time to complete a certificate in Behavior Consultation and Training. The rest, as they say, is history.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Don't be afraid to ask questions about credentials, how the packs are created (temperament, size, etc.), how are the dogs exercised and how much interaction there is between the walker and the dogs, how an injury gets handled. Be flexible (within reason) about pick up and drop off times as there are a number uncontrollable factors that can impact the schedule. Be clear about how you want communications and how often (is it email, text, etc.) and have an emergency protocol.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Perhaps that it is more challenging than it appears to be. Creating the right pack composition so you place dogs together that are compatible - and adjusting them as you go. Dogs are sentient beings who, like humans, have good and not-so-good days, and change with time. And then making sure that when they are out in the real world, they have a positive experience, with safety as the top priority. Often I run into well-meaning people who approach my packs thinking "hey, I and my dog are friendly," without really knowing if my dogs are welcoming. And then the aspects of running a business. Dog walking is a bona fide profession, and there are accountabilities, bookkeeping, scheduling, etc. that must be attended to.