Walking the Dog

By Megan Blake

To hire a dog walker or not to hire a dog walker — that is the question, and why even consider such a luxury? Because it’s good for your dog.

ADVANTAGES
Veterinarians and trainers agree that, with the exception of geriatric, ill and extremely small dogs, most dogs should be walked an hour a day. It keeps them fit and helps overweight dogs lose those extra pounds. Burning excess energy makes them easier to manage, more focused during training, and can eliminate, perhaps prevent, behavior problems resulting from hyperactivity or boredom.

Walking increases the bond between human and dog. Excursions to new places provide novel stimuli and challenges that increase the dog’s confidence and wisdom, and group outings allow them to practice appropriate social behavior as they would in natural packs.

Katie Luckerman of Wag Wag Walk in Los Angeles has been a professional dog walker since 1995 and says, “The mission of a good dog walker is to enrich the lives of dogs.” Being such a veteran has allowed her to grow with her clients’ dogs from puppyhood, to the geriatric stage and finally when they move on. Luckerman develops a deep bond with “her” dogs and their human families.

THE BEST FIT
Dog walking isn’t just about walking. Many services are available including play groups, trips to dog parks, mountain hikes and runs. There are also many specifications you should consider. Do you want your dog kept on leash or is off leash OK? Do you want your dog walked solo or with other dogs? Do you want him kept near home or transported to a new location?

If you choose to have your dog walked in a group, are the other dogs friendly and does the walker have experience handling aggressive outbreaks? If your dog is transported with other dogs, will they be in crates? If not, are they all 100 percent nonaggressive and will your dog’s safety be guaranteed? Is the vehicle safe and dog appropriate? Does the walker clean up after your dog? Are they comfortable using your equipment and agree to not “enhance” with a choke or pinch collar if you ask them not to?

Shami Dooman of Queen of the Pack in Los Angeles says walkers should have a working knowledge of pack structure, and very importantly, should give you feedback on stool condition, grass eating, socialization, energy level, etc. “Paying attention to such details can even save a dog’s life,” says Dooman.

Once you decide what you want, get references and make sure the walker is bonded and insured. Through a background check, a bond guarantees that the walker has no criminal record, and their insurance should cover all requested activities. Written contracts should specify what will be done with your dog. Think of every detail.

Most importantly in selecting a dog walker, Luckerman says, “It’s a personal relationship, almost like the dog walker becomes a new family member and, likewise, the walker is bringing a new dog into her pack.” So look for this relationship and trust what your dog tells you about your walker. Observing the interaction between your dog and the potential walker is key.

THE EXTRA MILE
If you would like to give your dog more than a walk a day, consider hiring a dog runner. Runs quickly exhaust excess energy and keep dog’s fit and trim. Jessa Baxter of Pooch Pacers, a Los Angeles-based dog running company, is a dog runner and stresses the importance of physical exercise.

“Healthy dogs are active creatures and even small dogs like to get out and move their little legs. I jog with a Pug that runs as fast as my Boxer!” says Baxter.

Optimum running schedules depend upon the energy level of the dog with some dogs running six days a week. Runs are individually customized so they are always one on one. If your dog is overweight (and your vet approves), this can be the ideal program.

Finally, the secret to finding the right dog walker for your pet is to find a gifted handler who is truly there to serve your dog. Do this by knowing what you want, asking the right questions, finding an experienced and well-referenced walker who fills all of your needs, and trusting your dog to help make the choice.

REQUIREMENTS TO LOOK FOR IN A DOG WALKER
Rebecca Mandell of Dog’s Best Friend Dog Walking and Training offers the following requirements to look for in a professional dog walker:
» Be a full-time dog professional.
» Be bonded and insured with coverage that includes all specific requests, like transportation.
» Know pet CPR and have a Pet First Aid Certificate from a reputable organization like The Red Cross or a respected local group in your area.
» Supply a contract that specifies all services needed.
» Be willing to work within your specifications, use your equipment and not add more severe collars.
» Own a dog or have volunteered for and worked with many dogs.
» Be prompt and professional.
» Be someone your dog likes and who likes your dog.

Megan Blake is a pet spokesperson and expert, columnist, author, and host of Animal Attractions TV. She lives in Malibu, Calif., with two dogs, two cats and two horses. Visit her website, www.meganblake.com.