Dog walking FAQs

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Dog walking FAQs

Q: How many dogs do you walk at any one time?

A: When it comes to group dog walking, Happy Hounds & Cooler Cats will never walk more than 6 dogs at any one time and we ensure that temperamentally as well as geographically suitable dogs are walked together.  However, due to walking restrictions in certain areas, we often walk fewer dogs, groups of 4 or 5.  All walkers go through a thorough training process with us and are regularly assessed.  Only those walkers who feel comfortable and with whom we have agreed will walk larger groups.  However many of our walkers have worked with us for a long time and so  are very experienced and the dogs have a fab time.
Group dog walking are a fantastic way to socialise your dog and build their confidence and they gain greatly from this social aspect of their walks.

Q: Can I specify a particular time for my dog to be walked?

A: Our daily group dog walks are generally carried out between 11.00am and 2.30pm though pick ups may be earlier and drop offs may be later. Depends on the dogs on a particular day and traffic conditions and weather and so forth.  We can never pinpoint the exact time but we endeavour to walk as near to any requested time as possible. However, please contact us to discuss your particular requirements and we’ll do our best to fit in with your needs.

Q: How long are walks?

A: All our walks are for a minimum of 1 hour, not including pick up and drop off. If your dog requires longer or shorter walks we can tailor a solo walk to your specific requirements.

Q: Where will my dog be walked?

A: All our walks are carried out in parks and green spaces where it is safe and interesting for your dog. We vary the locations in order to provide variety for your dog and each of our dog walkers has their own favourite places which they would be happy to discuss with you at your introductory meeting.

Q: My dog is nervous around other dogs, will you be able to walk him?

A: Yes. If your dog is very nervous around other dogs then we can provide solo walks. However one of the biggest benefits of group dog walking is how much it can improve your dog’s socialisation. Therefore if your dog is nervous but non aggressive we can start off with solo walks and then slowly introduce him/ her to an appropriate group of friendly dogs, a little bit at a time. We are often amazed how quickly dogs can gain confidence and settle into a group dog walking with a little support from one of our lovely dog walkers.

Q: Do I need to be at home when you collect or drop off my dog?

A: No, the majority of our clients are happy for us to hold keys for them which enables us to collect and drop of your dog while you’re not at home. All keys are kept in a secure location and will never be marked with anything other than the name of your dog.

Q: What happens in an emergency?

A: In an emergency we will contact you immediately to discuss the situation. If we are unable to contact you and urgent veterinary attention is required we will take your dog to your nominated veterinary practice or alternatively the nearest vet depending on the circumstances.

Q: Can I just have occasional walks?

A: Absolutely. We are very happy to offer ad-hoc walks and we are very flexible when it comes to booking. A text, email or phone call the day before will ensure a walk is booked or cancelled.

Q: Can I meet the person who will be walking my dog?

A: Yes. We strongly recommend that you have an introductory meeting with your dog walker at your home to discuss your requirements prior to walks taking place. These can be arranged at short notice for a time that is convenient for you.

Q: Will my dog be walked by the same person each day?

A: Most of the time, yes. You will have a dedicated walker.  However there may be the odd occasion due to illness or annual leave where we will need to switch walkers The back up walker will be fully briefed on your dog’s specific requirements. All our team are very experienced and we communicate all the time so your dog will always be in excellent hands.

Q: Are the dog walkers insured?

A: Yes. All HH&CC staff are fully insured and CRB checked. They also all undergo an extensive in house training programme.

Q: Will I be charged if I cancel a walk at short notice?

A: We are very flexible when it comes to bookings and 24hrs notice will ensure there is no cancellation fee.

Q: Can you do evening and weekend walks?

A: Yes, we are happy to offer morning, evening or weekend walks. Please refer to our prices page for specific charges.

Q: Do I have to pay for walks upfront?

A: No. We invoice in arrears and send invoices at the end of the month for that months walks. We accept payment by credit or debit card, bank transfer and direct debit.

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