Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How do I get started?
A: The first step is for you to call or email me using the contact information on this website to schedule an appointment for me to come over and meet with you and your dog. During this short meeting we can go over things like knowing how to get into the house, any specific things that I might need to do that are part of your normal routine (if your pet goes in a crate at the end of the walk, if they get a treat, etc.). This time will also give you a chance to go over any questions you may have about how the service works and for me to understand what you and your pet need from the service. This meeting is a very important time for your dog to meet me so they will feel comfortable when I come back for the walk.
Q: How do you get into the house?
A: There are several ways I can access your house. If you have a door code or lock box for a key, you can provide the code for me to access. You can provide a copy of your key which will only be accessible by me. Alternatively, if you have a key hidden on your property you can share the location of the key with me and I can use it to enter for your pet's walk.
Q: What happens if a hidden key is not where it's supposed to be?
A: I will contact you to see if there is a place that you think the key might be or if there is another way into the house.
Q: Do you use an app to track your walks? (How do i know my dog went on a walk?)
A: I use Time To Pet for all of our walks. Time to Pet uses GPS to track every walk from beginning to end. Once the walk is complete, you will receive an email report on how the walk went as well as at least one picture of your dog on the walk.
Q: Are harnesses required?
A: Harnesses are required for safety. You choose to provide your own or I can provide a harness for your dog.
Q: Do I need a leash at home for you to use?
A: You do not need to provide a leash, I have many available to use during walks.
Q: What happens if my dog gets dirty on the walk?
A: I will try my best to keep off of dirt paths when it's muddy but if your pet gets muddy or wet, I will use my towels to get them as clean and dry as possible before leaving.
Q: What if you have concerns on the walk?
A: If I have time sensitive concerns, I will contact you right away by call or text. If our concerns are less pressing (i.e. your dog's poop isn't normal, they have a limp, they are shaking their head a lot, ect.) the Time To Pet app has the option to communicate via the walking notes or the conversation function.
Q: What happens if my dog gets injured on the walk?
A: In the very rare case that your dog gets hurt I will call you and decide on what the next course of action will be.
Q: What if I notice before the walk that your dog is hurt:
A: If I notice an injury that I was not aware of or that I have not seen before, I will text or call you and discuss how to proceed.
Q: Does my dog have to be neutered/spayed?
A: I am happy to walk any dog that is compatible with the group. As with any dog, if there are any safety concerns, I would be unable to invite them into the group. For safety reasons I am unable to walk female dogs that are in heat.
Q: Does my dog need shots or medications? If so, what do they need?
A: For everyone's safety, all dogs need to be current with DHLPP, Rabies , and Bordetella vaccines. I also request that your dog is on a monthly flea medication.
Q: What happens if my dog has fleas?
A: If you know your dog has fleas, please contact me and let me know as I am unable to walk dogs with fleas for health reasons.
Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: I will notify you via text or phone call if I think the conditions are too dangerous to walk. If it's safe to drive and be outside, I will offer a 10 minute "potty break" option so your dog can get out and go potty.
Q: What happens if I want a walk on a holiday?
A: I do not offer walks on Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, or New Year's eve. Other holidays that land on Monday through Friday will go on as planned.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: You can cancel at any time. If I am on the way to your house or at your house there is a 50% charge.
Q: Do I need a schedule for my dog to get walked?
A: Because I walk a maximum of 3 dogs, I highly recommend a schedule. If you don't have a schedule, I am still happy to accomodate your request if there is an opening.