6 Things to Look for in a Dog Walker

We all love our dogs, and caring for them is a top priority for many of us. When you go on vacation, work long hours, or are out of town for a few days, it can be difficult to find someone to look after your pets. Boarding your dog can also be expensive and inconvenient. One of the best options for people looking to have pet care while they are out of town is a dog walker. 

Dog walkers are a wonderful option for pet care. You can use a professional company like Four Paws Pet Services or even an individual with past experience. No matter which option you choose to use, here are 6 things to look for in a dog walker.

1. Dog Walking Experience

One of the key things to look for in a dog walker is past experience. Whether the person you are looking to hire has a dog or has walked dogs in the past, this experience is important.

Someone without experience may not know how to ensure your dog is properly cared for.

A person with a dog will understand the importance of feeding your dog, walking your dog, playing with your dog, and loving your dog.

Ask for past experience and even references before you hire a person to take care of your dog.

2. Compassion

Another factor that you should always look for is compassion. If the potential dog walker has compassion, they will ultimately take better care of your dog.

While compassion is not something that you can experience, you should trust your gut instinct.

Trust your dog as well.

Before hiring a dog walker to care for your dog, bring your dog and the dog walker together.

If your dog seems to like the dog walker, it should be okay. Dogs have great instincts when it comes to people and situations.

3. Reliability

Another key component of a great dog walker is reliability. You cannot leave your dog without any care for a 24-hour period.

Make sure your dog walker has a plan if something unforeseen should arise. 

For example, if your dog walker is supposed to watch your dog for the weekend, but they have a family emergency come up, they should have a plan B to provide care for your dog.

Ask them about options for care.

In addition, try to secure a list of references that can all speak to the reliability of your potential dog walker.

4. Flexible Schedule

All dogs are different, and every family has a different schedule and routine. Your dog may be upset and confused without you there, so it's key that you stick to a routine if possible.

Your dog walker should have a flexible schedule for multiple walks throughout the day.

In an optimal situation, your dog walker should be available to walk and care for your dog up to three times a day. Check to ensure that their schedule is flexible and will work for you.

5. Communication

Regular updates, such as delightful photos and informative texts after their stroll, offer a reassuring glimpse into your furry friend's adventures.

These updates not only foster a sense of connection but also provide peace of mind, affirming your pet's safety and well-being.

Equally vital is the ease of reaching your walker.

Whether it's a quick phone call, simple text, or an email, accessibility means prompt responses to questions, schedule changes, or unexpected situations.

Rapid replies reflect attentiveness and reliability, bolstering trust and ensuring unwavering excellence in care.

6. Honesty

While all pet owners have the option to check on the care that their dog receives by using cameras and in-home monitoring, this is not ideal.

The ability to trust your potential dog walker is key.

If you do not have a reliable friend or family member who can care for your dog, you must find an honest person or company with a good reputation.

Conclusion

Again, your instincts and your dog's instincts will play a vital role in testing the honesty of your potential dog walker.

If you are looking to leave town for a few days and cannot take your dog with you, you will need to find a dog walker to help take care of your most prized possession, your dog.  

For the best dog walking service, contact Four Paws Pet Services now!

We’ll treat your furry friend like royalty while you’re away.