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5 Ways to Feel Confident of a Dog Walking Service

Finding the perfect dog walking service is essential for your pet’s well-being. At OLI+FETCH, we understand the importance of choosing a service that aligns with your needs, ensuring your pet stays safe, happy, and healthy. Whether you're a busy owner or looking to add more fun and exercise to your dog’s day, there are key factors to consider.


Exercise and socialization are crucial to your dog’s mental and physical health, so it’s important to choose a professional dog walker who knows how to cater to these needs. Safety measures, such as pet first aid and CPR training, are equally important in ensuring your pet is in good hands. Additionally, experience with different breeds and a variety of walking styles shows that a dog walker is well-versed in handling all types of dogs.


Availability and flexibility are also factors to keep in mind. A good dog walking service offers regular and occasional walks to fit both your schedule and your dog’s needs. With this guide, we'll walk you through the essential tips to help you find a reliable, caring dog walking service that puts your pet first.

Ensure Safety Measures and Protocols


When picking a dog walking service, make sure they have the right safety steps in place. This gives you peace of mind. Look for certified training and clear emergency plans to know your pet is well cared for. Here are key safety points to think about:

Pet First Aid Training


A top-notch dog walker should be pet first aid certified. This shows they know how to handle health issues like minor injuries or sudden illnesses on walks. Being skilled in pet first aid is crucial and a top safety tip. They learn about CPR for pets, wound care, and handling poisoning incidents.

Emergency Procedures from Your Dog Walking Service


It's also vital for a dog walker to know how to handle emergencies. A good walker will have solid emergency plans for things like bad weather, lost dogs, or car accidents. Always ask about their emergency steps to keep your pet safe. Knowing these plans can ease your worries, knowing your pet is in good hands.


By looking at these safety tips, you can find a pro who cares for your pet's safety and well-being.

Look for Personalized Attention


Personalized attention is key in a top-notch dog walking service. It's more than just walking; it's about meeting each dog's unique needs and likes. This ensures your pet's happiness and health come first.

Tailored Walking Plans


Customized walking plans are crucial for personalized dog walking. They take into account your dog's diet, behaviour, and how much exercise it needs.


Each walker is carefully selected. They go through a detailed interview, police check, and get trained in dog walking and Pet First Aid & CPR. This means every walk is made just right for your dog's personality and health.

Dietary and Behavioural Considerations


Pay attention to your dog's diet and behaviour when choosing a walking service. Some dogs need special diets or behave in certain ways. A service that cares about these details shows it really values your pet's overall health.


At OLI+FETCH make scheduling easy and keep you updated with journals after each visit. These journals share your dog's behaviour, diet, photos, and even GPS maps. This level of care shows what a good dog walker should do, making sure your dog's needs are always met.


Open communication with a dog walking service is crucial to your comfort, and your dogs.

Transparent and Open Communication


It's crucial to have clear communication with your dog walking business. This ensures you know what your pet is up to and how they're doing.

Regular Updates


Getting regular updates is a big part of clear communication. Your dog walker should share details about each walk, like what they did, how long it lasted, and any interesting things they noticed. Many services use apps or online platforms to send updates, photos, and even maps of the walk. This keeps you in the loop and connected to your pet's day.

Special Requests Handling


It's also important that the dog walking business can manage special requests. If your pet needs medicine at certain times, follows a special diet, or has unique behaviour, talking openly with your dog walker is key. This way, they can take good care of your pet's needs. It also makes you feel secure knowing your pet is with someone who cares and pays attention.

Consider Trial Walks or Meet-and-Greets


Finding the right dog walking service is key to your pet's happiness and health. Trial dog walks are a great first step before starting a regular schedule. They let you see how the walker interacts with your dog and help your dog get used to the new routine.


They also help check if your dog listens well, which is important for safe off-leash walks.


Meet-and-greets are just as crucial, offering a first meeting for you and your pet. In these sessions, you can talk about your dog's needs like special diets or medicines. Bringing treats without any food allergies can help your dog feel more at ease with the new person.


Some services now offer virtual meet-and-greets because of COVID-19. This way, you can still get to know each other safely.


Good pet care services have clear steps for meeting new clients. You might need to fill out forms and agree to terms before meeting. Bringing business cards or a presentation booklet can also make a good impression and share important info about the service.


Experts at the Humane Society and PetMD say professional dog walkers customize walks for your dog's needs. Regular walks do more than exercise your dog. They also keep their senses sharp and help their brain stay healthy. So, having a meet-and-greet or trial walk makes sure your dog is happy and well cared for.

Trust Your Instincts and Gut Feelings


Choosing the right dog walker means trusting your gut. See how the walker connects with your dog. Does the walker understand your dog’s needs and habits? This can tell you a lot about their care for pets.


Look at the walker's skills and certifications. Check if they know about different breeds and have first aid training. Good reviews from other pet owners in Canada also help. But, watch how your dog acts during a trial walk to see if it's a good match.


Make sure the walker uses safe gear and has insurance. They should also adjust walks to fit your dog’s style. Clear pricing and various packages show they care about different needs.


As a pet owner, it's okay to trust your instincts. Putting your dog's safety and joy first is key. So, trust your instincts to pick the best dog walking service. This choice will make sure your pet gets the best care, leading to happy walks together.

Another Walk in the Park...

Choosing the right dog walker involves paying close attention to details and doing a little homework. It’s important to seek recommendations, assess their professionalism, and ensure they prioritize safety and personalized care. In Canada, there are many trusted pet care services, but finding the one that’s right for your dog requires evaluating factors like experience, breed knowledge, and walking styles.


Flexibility and clear communication are also vital qualities in a dog walker. A strong safety plan, including pet first aid and emergency protocols, signals a serious commitment to your pet’s well-being. By arranging trial walks and trusting your instincts, you can see how your dog connects with the walker and feel confident in your decision. Ultimately, a trustworthy and skilled dog walker will enhance your pet’s life, ensuring they get the care and attention they deserve.


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