Things to look for when you’re hiring a dog walker
What do dogs do when their owners are at work? Many families take great comfort knowing their dogs are out on walks with a professional dog walker. Instead of spending long hours home alone, they benefit from exercise and enrichment.
Entrusting a treasured companion into the care of a stranger is no easy task. Prominent news stories, such as the January sentencing of a B.C. dog walker who pleaded guilty to animal cruelty in the deaths of six dogs are rare, but concerning. Screening a potential walker is a daunting and stressful task. Safety is the No. 1 priority.
Finding the right professional is difficult. Dog walking, like many other areas of the pet industry, has few regulations. Some urban areas, such as the city of Toronto, require permits for commercial dog walkers. Not all cities do and regulations do not necessarily apply to all walkers. The Toronto permit requirements apply to those who walk between four to six dogs. Regulations also specify liability insurance requirements. Owners who choose to use a casual walker instead should do their homework and confirm that a policy is in place.
Walkers usually have access to the home, possibly even to home security codes. There are no industry regulations preventing someone with a criminal record from walking dogs. Keep this in mind when hiring a service and giving someone access to your home.
For most families, choosing a walker is not about insurance or bylaw regulations. It’s about trust and care. Start by obtaining quality referrals.