FAQ
What is the Meet & Greet Session?
Before taking on your dog as a client we like to have a brief free introduction session. This is a good chance to have you and your dogs get to know us, see our qualifications, and our insurance details. We also like to know your dog’s quirks and preferences, and complete our client form.
How is picking up and dropping off dogs arranged?
We transport the dogs in a fully equipped air conditioned vehicle with independently crash tested DT boxes for comfort and safety. Due to travel time and picking up the rest of the pack, we will pick up and drop off your dog up to 30 mins before and after the allotted time. Your dog will always receive its full walk regardless of travel times
Do I need to be home when you collect my dog?
No you don’t. Clients can give us spare keys so we can access the property or keys left in a safe place. We will keep your keys safe with no identifying personal information linking them to your home. Should your keys be lost or stolen, we will inform you immediately. Replacement of keys, and a lock change is covered by our insurance. We have completed a Police Scotland criminal disclosure check which you can see during our introduction session
Where do you walk?
We walk your dog in variety of parks, nature walks, woodland trails, and our favourite Pentland Hills walks! Locations are chosen based on safety, security and the weather conditions.
To be a part of Group Walks dogs should:
-
Get on well with other dogs of varying breeds, ages and temperaments
-
Walk well on a lead.
-
Ideally be able to enjoy their walk off lead. We are happy to work with young dogs towards this goal and can use long lines for dogs who cannot be let off lead.
-
Not become overly-stimulated or over-aroused in the company of other dogs
-
Not be in season (females)
-
Unneutered males are welcome on our Group Walks, but will be subject to individual assessment
-
Travel well in a vehicle
Do you walk dogs off the lead?
Yes this is our preferred way of walking our dogs as it gives the dogs far more exercise and enjoyment. We do require you to sign a written consent form beforehand. Generally for the first few walks we will keep your dog on a long training lead so we can test recall and it’s response to our commands. After we are confident in your dogs recall we will let your dogs off the lead on a regular basis. For new or unpredictable pets we use this neat little trackers from Tractive which is worn on the collar and allows us to locate your dog at any time and monitor them on a smartphone, should they stray a little from sight.
How many dogs are walked at any one time?
I walk a maximum of 4 dogs at a time. A larger group will mean that your dog doesn’t get the attention that it deserves.
My Dog is aggressive or reactive. Will you still walk him?
We are unable to have reactive dogs in our group as our walks are in public places, and as such we cannot guarantee we won’t meet strangers, and unfamiliar dogs when out and about.
Does my dog need to be vaccinated?
Yes please. Your dog will be in contact with other dogs that they meet whilst out on walks.
For general wellbeing, it is important that your dog should always have its annual vaccinations to protect it against infections and disease.
Does my dog need to be wormed and treated for flea prevention?
Yes, for the same reasons that vaccinations are necessary. Your dog will be in contact with other dogs that they meet whilst out on walks, which means that flea treatment is particularly important.It is your responsibility to ensure your pet is free of fleas.
Do you take bitches in season?
Only by specific arrangement. We do not generally walk bitches in season as we cannot take them in our vehicle. We can walk your dog but only: solo, on the lead, and in your local neighbourhood. We take no responsibility for any pregnancies, as there is always a risk walking a dog in heat in being out in public
Are there any breeds of dog you won’t walk?
No, We will accept any dog on the content of their character rather than a breeds reputation. But we do have a special love for the gun dog breeds such as Labradors , Spaniels, Retrievers, and Pointers etc. All dogs are individually assessed to what would be suitable as in group walks or individual walks may be required for certain temperaments or abilities of dogs.
What happens if my dog is injured or there is a emergency?
We have completed a Dog first aid course and keep a first aid kit in the vehicle and thus are prepared for minor bumps and scrapes.I will first call you to discuss the situation and agree a plan of action. If you cannot be reached and your dog requires urgent medical attention, I will take your dog to the vet designated by you, or the nearest to my current location.Please note that it is your responsibility to settle or reimburse charges for any treatment or veterinary care when I return your dog.
What is your cancellation Policy?
We understand the unexpected may happen and you may need to cancel walks. There is no charge for this if 48hr advance notice is given.
Do you do walking outside of normal hours?
Yes please contact us to discuss your requirements. There may be price increases for weekend/ holidays.
What happens in bad weather?
We go out anyway! Rain or shine your dog will get his walk. Should he get muddy or wet we will give him/ her a towel off.
Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home’s Dog First Aid courses provide an ITC certification and are SQA accredited. They are endorsed by both Braid Vets and Abercorn Vets.
Fully Insured with Pet Business Insurance
Disclosure Scotland checked
Registered with Edinburgh Council as a Professional Dog Walker
Tractive dog trackers used
Crash tested safety boxes used for transporting dogs from DT boxes
