Why have a dog walker?

Yes! I hold many keys for pets houses. You can also have a key box fitted and provide a code if you prefer.

Firstly if there is anywhere specific you want your dog to go or not go that will be honoured. I strive to walk dogs in the environment most appropriate and fulfilling for their personality. That may be residential areas and quiet private lanes where dogs are to be kept on lead for more reactive dogs that need a controlled environment; It could be woodland walks for dogs that love to explore; Parks and busy woodland walk sections for dogs that love to play with other dogs. Whatever will benefit your dog the most with your approval. 

Some Step Pets go off lead and others don't. If you require your pet to remain on lead due to recall ability or for your peace of mind then rest assured your dog will be kept on lead. I will allow Step Pets off lead only with signed consent from the owners and after a period of building a strong relationship with the dog. These can be reviewed at any time if your dogs recall ability improves or worsens. 

In most cases, yes. I do walk dogs that are reactive. I conduct meet and greets partly for the purpose of ensuring my own ability to walk your dog on a regular basis. All dogs deserve to have access to outdoor enrichment. Please bare in mind, I won't be able to walk your dog if regular walking is likely to result in injury to me as I need to be healthy enough to walk 6+ hours per day.

Just your dogs usual harness/collar and lead. It is also helpful to know where treats etc. are kept if you are working on training. I will have poop bags, water, basic first aid equipment, spare lead etc. Please note due to my training style I will not use correction collars of any kind. 

I generally walk step pets one household at a time. This is because there are lots of uncontrollable factors when walking in a public place and so I prefer to have my full attention on your dog. However, I may at times offer a playdate opportunity if I feel your dogs walking style or playstyle matches well with another. If both pawrents are consenting and the dogs enjoy themselves I'd be happy to consider a pairing request to allow your dog a friend to walk with!