Checking your Dog Walker

As some of us start getting back to work, and many of us have new dog family members, we may be looking for our four-legged friends to be walked while we’re unable too. But choosing a dog walker needs to be a well-informed decision. As a veterinary nurse and leader of the ‘Respect the Lead Campaign’ I have come across dogs who need more care and attention when exercised. Puppies, new to the world unaccustomed to other dogs, elderly dogs, or dogs who find being outdoors difficult need an experienced and well-trained walker who can see hazards ahead and understand dog behaviour. So here are some things to think about when deciding on a dog walker.

Canine First Aid

If your dog is injured while out on its walk, will your dog walker know what to do? It sounds simple, but a cut, a bite or perhaps being caught up in something could give your dog a minor or serious injury. In those first few minutes knowing what to do can help prevent further pain. An experienced and qualified dog walker will know how to treat ailments and how to administer canine first aid. You should also give them your veterinary details as well as your own ICE details (In Case of an Emergency) should anything happen.

Relationships, no two dogs are the same

Have some time with your dog and dog walker so they can get to know one another. This will also allow you to see the dog walker and your dog interact. Do they understand what your dog breed may require, ie. a 30-minute hike for those with energetic breeds or calm flat wander for those older dogs. Discuss exercise, your dog’s personality and any needs or goals you have for your dog’s health. Get them up to speed with any health issues, allergies or concerns you have.

Entrust the safety of your dog

Your best friend’s son who needs some pocket money maybe not be the best fit for your furry best friend. Professional dog walkers with have the proper insurance which will cover such things as travelling with dogs, custody of your dog and the control of dogs. Their insurance should state how many dogs they are allowed to be in charge of at any one time.

Transportation

If your dog walker is taking your dog in a vehicle for exercise The Road Traffic Act 1988 says ‘Dogs travelling in vehicles should not be a nuisance or distract the driver and are suitably restrained’ so ensure they have a properly equipped vehicle fitted with crates, carriers or travel harnesses. It needs to be comfortable and safe for your dog. Ideally with a window and ventilation, first-aid kit, access to water, airflow and ability to face forward can help to stop any travel sickness.

Animal welfare law

In the UK we have various laws covering the welfare and control of dogs. Having your dog microchipped, dog fouling, insurance and the control of dogs are all UK legislation but ultimately lead back to you as the responsibility of the dog lies with the owner. Check your dog walker has insurance, knows the Countryside code, has doggy poo bags, leads and is aware of how dogs interact with one another.

How many Dogs?

Not every dog is used to being walked as a group. By law, local authorities say dog walkers can have a maximum of six, however, the Dogs Trust state this should be no more than four per person. Walking in groups can increase the risk of sharing infections and diseases. Of course, your dog may be a nervous type and may not wish to be walked in a group. Check with your dog walker that their insurance covers the number of dogs in a group and if they understand dog behaviour and pack mentality.

A helpful guide to dog law can be downloaded from the Kennel Club and the Dogs Trust.

Best Practices

It’s important dogs interact in a safe and happy way. Read some simple Do’s and Don’ts of walking dogs on leads on the Respect The Lead website, such as the three-second rule. You can also watch the Respect The Lead video here. Your dog should love going for walks and you should feel comfortable knowing your dog is in good hands remembering to Respect The Lead we can ensure a safe and happy environment for everyone!

Recommendations

Follow the Respect the Lead campaign and find information to share with your friends on my Facebook page.

‘The responsibilities of dog walking’ has some helpful tips from the Finchley dog walker.

I can personally recommend local Horsham dog walker Ben and JOGS with Dogs. Ben can offer services with solo walkers and jogging with more active breeds, find his website: https://jogswithdogs.co.uk/

Images courtesy of Löschner / Pixabay and Jost / Mclean / Unsplash