Frequently Asked Questions
What sets you apart from other dog walking companies?
Where do you walk the dogs?
Will it be the same dog walker every day?
What type of insurance coverage do you have?
How many dogs do you walk at one time?
How are dogs screened for group walks?
Will my dog be allowed off leash?
How do you transport the dogs?
How will you store my key and other confidential information?
What days are walks available?
Will you cancel walks if the weather is poor?
When is payment due? What type of payment do you accept?
What is your cancellation policy?
What sets you apart from other dog walking companies?
That’s simple - structure. You will never see me at the dog park with a huge group of dogs off leash, running around and going crazy. My group walks consist of several well mannered dogs, doing just that, walking! I keep my groups moving quickly. The dogs enjoy being in each other’s presence, sniffing together and having a good time, all in a safe and stable pack environment. My goal is to drop all the dogs off after the walk, tired and content.
Where do you walk the dogs?
For private walks, I walk the dog(s) in your neighbourhood or neighbouring parks.
Group walks take place in South Surrey’s local parks and trails, although which one we walk at depends on which dogs are on the schedule that day, and who I have to pick up. For more information on the specific parks I walk at, please contact me.
What type of insurance coverage do you have?
My insurance policy is specialized for pet sitters and dog walkers. My plan includes:
$2,000,000 Commercial General Liability, including in client's home
Pet Coverage $50,000 each for pets in your care (up to $500,000 per occurrence)
$500 Lost Key coverage
$20,000 Dishonesty Endorsement (Bonded – named insured as well as employees if over 18 and no criminal record)
I will bring along a copy of my policy for you to look over at our first meeting.
How many dogs do you walk at one time?
Although there is no bylaw stating how many dogs you can walk at one time in the city of Surrey, I prefer to keep my group walks small (4-6 dogs). That being said, each group is built based on each of the dogs’ personalities, temperament and energy levels, and so that number may change with different groups.
What are the requirements for group walks?
I require that all group walk dogs be up to date on their vaccinations (or provide proof of titer testing), spayed or neutered if over 6 months of age, and free of all parasites (fleas/ticks/mites, worms, any contagious skin conditions), as well as any other infectious illnesses (kennel cough, giardia, etc).
Please note that if your dog comes down with any infection or illness, I can continue walking them and switch them over to private walks.
How are new dogs introduced to group walks?
Adventure Hounds always maintains a balanced, positive and safe group dynamic. The groups are built based on each dog’s personality, temperament and energy level.
My process for adding a new dog to group walks consists of 3 steps: Step 1 - I will walk them on their own for at least one walk, while I get to know them and build my relationship with them. Step 2 - I will introduce them to my two dogs, and take them on a small group walk with them to see how they interact with other dogs. Step 3 - After I have had a chance to get to know your dog, I will match them with a group that best fits their personality and they can begin group walks!
Will my dog be allowed off leash?
Yes, if you would like your dog to be walked off leash I will do so in off leash permitted areas. However, each and every dog will be assessed for off-leash readiness by using a step by step approach.
Beginning on leash, your dog will gradually earn freedom as they demonstrate reliable recall and good behaviour at each stage. Throughout this whole process, I will keep you informed and updated on their progress, and their off leash readiness!
Step 1: On-Leash
Regardless of your dog's previous off-leash experience and sociability, the first walk with Adventure Hounds is always on leash. Dogs stay on leash until they are focused, responding consistently to their name, and are at ease with their new surroundings. This could be just one walk, or it could be more, it differs for each dog.
Step 2: Dragging leash
When dogs have successfully passed step 1, they will be switched to a 20 foot training lead, which I will drop and let them drag behind them. This gives them more freedom to play and explore, but I still have quick access to their leash if I need to grab it for any reason. During this stage I will look for dogs to come when called, watch me for which direction or path I am going, and follow along with me and the other dogs.
Step 3: Off-Leash
When dogs have successfully completed the first two stages, the leash comes off and they are free to run and play to their hearts content! From this point on, your dog will just need to wear their usual collar with their ID tags on it. I will continue to maintain recall and good behaviour on each walk, and place them back on leash if at any point I feel their recall is slipping.
How do you transport the dogs?
The dogs are transported in a well maintained minivan that is specially equipped for dog safety and comfort. I have a barrier that divides the space behind the driver and passenger seats into middle and rear sections, and both sections have several layers of blankets on top of waterproof rubber mats. I have carabiners set up in each section to attach leashes to, as well as water dishes. My van is also equipped with dual climate control, and air conditioning in the front and back.
How will you store my key and other confidential information?
All keys are stored in a secure location, in a locked safe. Each key is labelled only with the pet's name, and the client address list is kept in a completely separate location to maintain confidentiality.
What days are walks available?
Walks are available Monday-Friday, excluding statutory holidays. Private walks may be available on statutory holidays and weekends if requested.
Will you cancel walks if the weather is poor?
No - I walk rain or shine (or snow!). In cases of extreme weather, your dog’s walk time may be slightly different than usual as driving conditions may be affected, but I guarantee that I will never leave your dog without his or her walk. I will consistently monitor your dog’s comfort level on the walks, and give you feedback on how your dog does in different weather conditions.
When is payment due? What type of payment do you accept?
Invoices are sent at the end of each month, once an invoice is received the client has two weeks from that date to pay. If you would prefer to pay more frequently, you are welcome to pay at the end of the week for all of that week’s walks.
I accept Cash, Cheque or Interac E-transfer as payment methods. Please make cheques payable to Adventure Hounds Dog Walking Services
*Dishonoured cheques and late payments will be subject to a $25 service charge
What is your cancellation policy?
If it is possible to make cancellations by 5:00 pm on Sunday for the following week, that really helps me plan out my week. However, if the cancellation is made with at least 24 hours notice, you will not be billed for the walk. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will be billed at full price. If I arrive to pick up your dog for a walk and they are not there or are unable to join the walk for any reason, you will also be billed at full price.