Dog Running & Walking Services

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. Ask about your provider's background and experience. Many people get into this business because they love dogs, but may not have a good foundation in dog behavior and training. Hiring a professional who has a background in dog behavior and training will give you the confidence to know that your dog is in good hands.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. Any good pet service provider should offer you a free, no-obligation consultation in your home. This not only gives the professional a chance to meet you and see how your pet acts in his or her natural environment, but it gives you an opportunity to "feel" out your prospective pet professional. Watch how the provider interacts with your pet, and how your pet responds to the provider. Most importantly, go with your gut feeling... if something doesn't feel right, don't be pressured into signing up for something you may regret later.

Q. What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?

A. Ask about your provider's experience and training. Feel free to ask for references, and ask if the provider is insured and bonded. While being insured and bonded doesn't make the provider any more reliable or trustworthy, it does show that he or she has made a serious commitment to becoming a professional in the pet service industry.

Q. What important information should buyers have thought through before seeking you out?

A. Buyers should think about what their goals are in hiring a dog walker or runner. Is it for your dog to lose weight, burn off excess energy, or simply to have some companionship during the day while you're gone? Being able to express these goals to your provider during your initial meeting will allow the provider to tailor their services specifically to your dog.

Q. Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?

A. There are many dog walkers out there, but very few people who specialize in dog running. Running is a great way for your dog to burn off excess energy and get a great workout. But just like people, dogs need to start out slowly when beginning a new exercise program. My experience as an athlete and my background as a dog trainer allows me to gauge your dog's fitness level on our runs, and tailor each run to his or her abilities. Your dog's health and safety is of utmost importance to me.