FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
The area in which I do most of my work has until recently arrived at a common scale for dog walks: $20 minimum for 30 minutes, $25 per hour for each dog. Of course, as one gets known in a neighborhood, one adjusts to certain clients &/or conditions so flexibility is necessary. Re sitting/visit fees, length of stay or number of visits needed over extensive periods usually dictate a discounted rate.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When possible, I set up a complimentary visit to the client's home as a way of introducing myself to the pet(s) while the pet sees its owner accept me into home turf and we together play/walk/discuss the pet's needs. All involved thus know whether I'm a good fit. While starting work, I either leave notes re pet's behavior, etc or text daily to the owners, for each day's peace of mind.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
When I began walking/sitting dogs & cats about 22 years ago, the field was much less crowded & more informal. I learned day by day, having been given one basic essential instruction from a more seasoned pro: Pay Attention. I learned & still do learn how deeply one can absorb and read animal behaviors and also those of humans around them. How acutely an animal responds or reacts to those human or animal while influenced by the handler—a real & affecting responsibility as integral as attention.