Frequently asked questions...
Is my dog suitable for group walks?
Generally yes, dogs are social animals capable of multiple and complex relationships, even dogs that are not great players generally feel more comfortable in a group.
Also bear in mind that I do not walk 8, 10 12 or 15 dogs at a time, smaller groups make new introductions easier and also ensure more personal care and attention for all dogs.
To enjoy group walks your dog must: be friendly, be up to date with vaccinations and wear a collar that carries an i.d tag with your contact details.
I will come and meet you and your dog free of charge to check suitability and to answer any questions you may have.
Solo walks are available if your dog has social issues or if you would simply prefer your dog to have one on one attention.
Are shorter walks available?
Yes, I am able to provide 15, 30 and 45 minute walks for senior dogs, puppies still developing their muscles/stamina and of course those dogs who simply have tiny legs. Get in touch to discuss your dogs requirements.
And longer walks?
If you have a working breed or anyother high energy dog with stamina they can come for a two walk or even three. Get in contact and we can talk about your needs.
How many dogs are walked at one time?
Absolute maximum of five dogs though normally walks are of three or four dogs. We meet plenty of other dogs over the Heath to socialise with.
Smaller groups ensure that each dog gets more attention from each other and from me.
Do you collect in a van?
Generally no. If weather is extremely nasty I may use the van that day but at the moment I feel there are too many concerns and potentially negative situations caused by van use.
Theft of dogs from dogwalkers vans is a worrying issue and such thefts are on the increase around London. Heat stroke and fights in vans are also issues of concern.
I only collect dogs that live a short walk from the Heath, the on lead pavement walk is also a great time to bond and work on a little training.
Will my dog be tracked with GPS?
I use high quality satellite based GPS trackers on all of the dogs as a safety measure and to provide extra peace of mind. I am also currently testing a new tracker in association with the manufacturer, these devices will hopefully allow you to log in and see where your dog is, where we have been, for how long and distance covered. I would like the process to be as transparent and accessible as possible, we're just waiting for technology to catch up.
Are dogs allowed off-lead?
Yes absolutely though this is ultimately your choice. Being off lead allows your dog to play, sniff, explore and importantly run off their energy in a positive way.
Any new dogs and puppies are initially kept on a long line (leashes of 8 to 25 feet) while they acclimatise to the new environment and their new friends.
During this time we build the all important bond and practice their recall.
Can I see photos of my dog on its walk?
Yes via our Facebook page and instagram feeds.
Search for @walkwithjames on instagram and walk with james on Facebook.
Photos are generally updated a few times each week. See the contact page for all relevant links.
Are you insured?
Yes, you dog is fully insured when in my care including travel to and from the park.
Your house keys are also covered.
I have a new puppy can it come on walks?
Lots of walkers will take new puppies out on walks, it is not the best idea.
If a puppy is over exercised it can effect its bone and muscle development for the rest of its life.
Puppy visits (clean up, playtime, feeding, short walk and toilet breaks) are available, in addition they can come on the occasional walk to get used to socialising but they will be carried for parts of it to ensure they are not over doing it.
What happens in case of bad weather?
We get wet.
If there is thunder or lightening dogs are walked on lead until it passes.
Will my dog come home clean?
Hm, mostly, it is a dog after all. I take them on real walks, there is mud, there is water and they do love it.
Should your little darling ever roll in anything unspeakable then I will give them a rinse in the pond.
If you leave out a towel then they will be dried off and muddy paws wiped when I drop them off.
What is the cancellation policy?
Just let me know. that's it. Give me as much notice as possible of off days or holidays.
If I get all the way to your door and then find out the walk is not required then I do charge a cancellation fee of 50% of the normal walk rate. I hope you will agree that that is fair.
Do you scoop the poop?
We scoop the poop, the poop gets scooped, we scoop a lot of poop.
Parks are beautiful places for all so we must be committed to keeping them clean.
We use bio-degradable poo bags and dispose of them all properly.
Anything I've missed? Get in touch at any time, there is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your dogs well being.
Your dog will be walked by an experienced professional dog walker who WANTS to spend their time with dogs, your family member is in very safe hands.
Join us on social media to see what the dogs are getting up to, images updated throughout the working week.
