How long are typical dog walking sessions?
Professional dog walking services usually offer several time options:
- 15-20 minute potty breaks
- 30-minute standard walks
- 45-minute extended walks
- 60-minute premium walks or adventures
- Custom duration for special needs dogs
What services are included in professional dog walking?
A professional dog walker typically provides:
- Leashed neighborhood walks
- Fresh water refills
- Basic command reinforcement
- Feeding if requested
- Waste cleanup and disposal
- Brief play or training time
- Walk report and photos
- Home security check
How much do dog walking services cost?
Professional dog walking rates typically vary based on:
- 15-20 minute visits: $15-20
- 30-minute walks: $20-30
- 60-minute walks: $35-50
- Additional dogs: $5-15 extra per dog
- Weekend or holiday rates: Additional $5-10
- Last-minute booking fees may apply
What qualifications should I look for in a dog walker?
When hiring a professional dog walker, check for:
- Pet first aid certification
- Insurance and bonding
- Background checks
- Client references
- Experience with different breeds
- Professional association memberships
- Clear communication skills
How do I prepare for my first dog walking service?
Before starting with a professional dog walker, prepare:
- Updated vaccination records
- Spare house key or entry instructions
- Leash and collar/harness
- Emergency contact information
- Veterinarian details
- Special instructions or preferences
- Feeding schedule if applicable
What happens during bad weather?
Professional dog walkers typically handle weather conditions by:
- Having a rain/snow policy
- Offering indoor play alternatives
- Adjusting walk duration if needed
- Using protective gear
- Communicating schedule changes
- Having backup plans for extreme weather
Can dog walkers handle multiple dogs at once?
Professional dog walking policies for multiple dogs typically include:
- Maximum number of dogs per walker
- Temperament assessment requirements
- Size and energy level matching
- Individual attention guarantees
- Special rates for multiple dogs
- Safety protocols for group walks
How do I know my dog is getting proper exercise?
Professional dog walkers ensure proper exercise through:
- GPS tracking of walks
- Photo or video updates
- Detailed walk reports
- Activity level monitoring
- Regular feedback on your dog's progress
- Customized exercise plans
What emergency procedures do dog walkers have?
Professional dog walkers maintain safety through:
- Pet first aid knowledge
- Emergency vet contact information
- Backup support system
- Detailed incident protocols
- Transportation plans
- Regular safety training
- Insurance coverage
What's the cancellation policy for dog walking services?
Common policies for professional dog walking services include:
- 24-hour cancellation notice required
- Holiday scheduling deadlines
- Emergency cancellation procedures
- Credit or rebooking options
- Substitute walker availability
- Inclement weather policies