Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Walking

What type of training is for you?

Here's some very basic information to give you an idea:

a) POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING – reward/food based only and is in line with the latest research in dog behaviour.

This method is good for people who are interested in developing a strong bond with their pet dog and are happy to work together as a team. As well as basic obedience a good class or trainer will work on - emotional self control, manners, focus under distraction and will teach the dog to make the right decisions.

Unwanted behaviours are either ignored, redirected or incompitable behaviours taught.

Reward based training doesn’t require physical strength to achieve results just consistency and a desire to learn and connect with your dog. To truly adopt this philosophy and teach your dog with positive reinforcement corrections aren't used. Very solid skills are achieved in this way but it can be hard for some people to grasp.

All dogs love learning this way as do their humans.

b) TRADITIONAL TRAINING – this method uses corrections and may also be combined with positive reinforcement. Many prefer not to use food (although more are starting to) but prefer to praise for good behaviour, and punishment/corrections for unwanted behaviour.

This method is good for people who are prepared to be physical with their dog if required.

Unwanted behaviours are corrected or punished.

Dogs don't enjoy this method like they do the positive methods. Using corrections to suppress behaviours can cause dogs to shut down ( worried about being wrong some dogs stop trying) but it can be alot easier and quicker to learn for the humans.

c) DOG WHISPERER/DOG LISTENER AND OTHERS - these aren't really training methods but have been known to help dogs who are lacking consistency and guidance. They believe if a pet owner can be a strong "pack leader" then all problems will be solved. They do have some success but are quite limited with their one size fits all approach.

All these methods can work but they’re not for everyone. Before you enrol in a course or employ the services of an in-home training consultant or dog listener etc ask which method they use - it can save money and time.

All trainers believe you need to be consistent and a good teacher/leader/parent/coach for a happy dog.

If you are still not sure or would like a recommendation feel free to email or call her on 0410 418 372

FAQs

How long are the dogs walked?

We allow up to two hours for each group outing, up to an hour for premium and solo walks including pick up and drop off, towel down if needed, drinks etc

Do you ever need to cancel walks?

Yes if it's over 35 degrees (even cooler for some other dogs), if there's an electrical storm or if it's raining and you'd prefer your dog didn't get wet

Where are the dogs walked?

GROUPS - We use local parks and beaches that are dog friendly and safe opting for parks we can drive into.

SOLOS - We vary it as much as possible using parks, streets and beaches in the local area. It also depends on what the dog enjoys, or doesn't enjoy

How many dogs are walked in a group?

This depends on the dogs in the group and what they're comfortable with but we like to keep them to a comfortable size of between 3 & 5

Why are group walks good for dogs lacking confidence?

Our walkers are trained in reading dog body language and are constantly looking for any signs of stress. If we feel there's an issue with a dog this is addressed immediately in conjunction with the owner, the walker and Nicole. We mix our dogs so they are at their most comfortable giving them room to shine and be the best they can be. If we feel a dog isn't ready for a group walk we will recommend solo or premium sessions until they're feeling more confident - some dogs prefer solo walks

Do you have insurance?

Yes we have pet industry specific public liability insurance

What about security, what steps do you take to keep our place secure?

We will never allow anyone into your home unless we have your written or verbal permission. Your keys are kept in a locked safe and never with your personal information or details. The only information your key tag will have is your dog's name.

How do I pay?

There are a few options, for convenience we invoice most clients each fortnight via email for direct bank deposit over the internet but we also accept cash and cheque

9. Do you offer Daycare

If one of our regular clients needs help with daycare we'll do our best to help out however on a regular basis we think it's important for dogs to have time out and rest at home. It's too much stimulation for dogs to be out and about all day, they need some down time as we all do.

10. What type of car do you transport the dogs in?

We have a van ensuring comfort and space for the dogs. Like us dogs don't like to be crammed into a small space so we like to give them as much room as possible so they can travel in comfort to the park