What sets me apart from other dog walking companies is my commitment to your dogs as individuals. I understand that a young healthy Border Collie needs a different type of walk then an elderly Dachshund and I make sure they get it!
Some dogs love to play with others of their own kind and my group walks are great for this. Walking in a group can also be beneficial to very young dogs who are learning how to interact with each other and for nervous dogs to begin rebuilding their confidence. I limit a “group” to a maximum of six dogs, including my own. I do this, not because I believe large groups of dogs are a danger, but simply to limit the amount of time any dog has to spend travelling in the car. This is also why the area I cover is much smaller than most companies.
Some dogs, however hard their owners will have tried, cannot relax and enjoy a walk with other furry friends. So I also offer individual walks at no extra cost. Making your dog’s walk as safe and as much fun for them as possible is my top priority.
I’m happy to offer a free introductory consultation with no obligation and no pressure to hire me. I want you and your dogs to be totally happy with me before you decide if I am right for you. In return, I will not accept a position if I am not confident that I am the right person for you and your dogs.
Having lived and worked with rescue dogs, I understand that some animals require more time to accept a stranger and if more than one visit is necessary for this acceptance there will be no charge for such visits until that trust is reached and your dog is able to happily leave your home with me. Walks together with you can often help with this.
Before setting up Mucky Paws back in 1995, my experience with dogs included two years working at an animal rescue centre, volunteer work with wolves, a National Diploma in animal care at the Berkshire College of Agriculture and part time work at Oakwood Park Boarding Kennels.
At my initial visit we will have a chance to discuss your dogs and hopefully allay any concerns you have about leaving them in the hands of someone you have only just met! I will ask you to complete a very basic form stating your name, address and phone number as well as the same details for your vet. You will also be given a form to fill out about each of your dogs. This will ask questions about your dog’s health, temperament and any training you are doing with them that will help me to tailor my service to your dog’s needs whilst I am getting to know them. If you are able, I also ask that you allow time during my visit for us to go on your usual walk so I can see how your dogs are with you while they are out and where they like to go.
Forms for download (click and save onto your computer)
1. Client Information
2. Dog Information
