Dog Walking 

Dog Walking Standards, Services, Expectations, and Safety

At PetPals, we don't want to just say we are professional dog walkers without showing what standards need to be met first. Our services prioritize your pet’s comfort, safety, and enrichment every step of the way. Our dedicated team follows rigorous standards and protocols to ensure each walk meets the highest care expectations based on our years of experience in the field. Here’s an overview of our dog-walking standards, available services, expectations, and the safety measures we implement to guarantee that your pet enjoys a safe, enriching experience with us.

Our Standards of Care

Our standards focus on a holistic, pet-centered approach, grounded in respect, attention, and a commitment to each pet’s well-being.

Routine and Structure
Dogs are most comfortable when they follow a predictable routine. Our walkers are dedicated to upholding consistency by arriving within scheduled windows and adapting to each pet's specific needs and personality. We respect each dog’s temperament, energy levels, and comfort requirements to reduce stress and create a pleasant experience. By aligning with PetPals' structured arrival windows (typically 1-3 hours), our team ensures pets receive care at times that suit their daily enrichment and socialization needs consistently each day.

Enrichment - Goal Oriented Services
Enrichment is at the core of our walking sessions. Each walk is customized with activities to keep pets mentally and physically stimulated, whether through structured play, varied walking routes, or time for curiosity-led sniffing. We offer “sniff walks,” structured “work walks,” and “potty walks,” adapting to the preferences and needs of each dog. To do so, we must learn what motivates each dog and tailor our walking experiences to their presenting needs - with boundaries of course.

Transparency and Communication
Transparency with pet owners is paramount. We provide real-time updates via our app, including photos, notes on your dog’s mood, and any relevant observations. You will receive a GPS route tracking where in the neighborhood we walked and what areas of the neighborhood we saw dangers such as squirrels. Our goal is to keep you informed and engaged, so you always know how your pet is doing during our visits.

Our Services

PetPals offers a variety of dog-walking options to suit different lifestyles, routines, and pet needs. Each service starts when we enter the door and stops when we are locking up. Please keep this in mind when booking our services to accommodate harnessing or added medication services.

Quick Relief (20 Minutes)
Designed for a fast bathroom break and supply refresh, this option is ideal for older dogs, dogs with a backyard, or those who don’t require extensive exercise. It’s a quick and focused visit to meet essential needs.

Standard Walks (30, 45, 60min)
These walks provide exercise and engagement tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and energy levels. Our walkers focus on activities that engage your dog’s senses and physical needs, from brisk walks to relaxed, exploration-driven sessions. We ensure the dog’s attention remains on the walker to maintain control and safety.

Extended Care and Walk Extensions

Services may run over expected. We build up in 15-minute increments. After an hour “extended care” fees may apply. These extensions accommodate pets with higher energy levels, specialized needs, medication observations, or home-cleaning issues.

Puppy and Senior Dog Plans
Puppies often need special care. We provide shorter, more frequent visits for puppies that include playtime, potty breaks, and basic training reinforcement.

Our Safety Standards

Ensuring your pet’s safety is our top priority, and we have a comprehensive safety protocol that every walker follows.

Environmental Awareness
Walkers remain vigilant about environmental risks, including traffic, community activity, and hazards like broken glass or harmful plants. Walks are planned along safe, pet-friendly routes that allow for a stress-free experience.

Defensive dog walking

Defensive dog walking involves active prevention of interactions with unknown dogs and restricts the off-leash time for maximum safety. We do not approach dogs on or off leash without explicit permission from the owners. We do not allow interactions with other animals whenever possible

Our defensive walking policy includes minimizing dangers, not allowing dogs to eat anything off the ground, and maintaining a respectful distance from other dogs and people. We encourage all walkers to lead with confidence, and we offer training on how to manage difficult situations calmly and professionally.

Proper Equipment Use
Each walker uses the appropriate tools and leashes to maintain control, ensuring safety while allowing dogs freedom to explore within set boundaries. Our team works with various dogs of various breeds and with various behaviors. We may make harness and leash recommendations to help minimize pulling and keep dogs close and focused.

Health and Wellness
Health and comfort are key during each walk. Walkers are encouraged to carry water on extended walks, frequently check on the dog's well-being, and adapt the pace to prevent overheating. Walks are rescheduled or adjusted as needed based on temperature and weather conditions from heat to snow. We practice mindfulness around proper treat usage and align with dietary needs.

Expectations for Owners

We strive to make every walk a seamless experience for you and yours what we ask from pet owners to help us provide the best service possible:

• Updated Contact Information: Ensure your emergency contact details are up-to-date and accessible.

• Pet Care Instructions: Share any specific needs or behavioral quirks with our team so we can tailor our approach.

• Home Access and Security: Confirm that lockboxes or keys are accessible for walkers, as entry arrangements impact the quality and timeliness of service.

• Health Information: Notify us of any recent health changes or special requirements, so we can take extra precautions.