Dog Walker Registry
Register as a Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
You want to be a dog walker because you love dogs, you might even have one as a family pet and you are responsible and ready to develop a caring relationship with someone else’s beloved pet. It also gives you flexibility with your schedule and if you are good at it, you could create a lucrative business for yourself.
Being a dog walker or pet sitter is just like any other job— it requires skills and a strong work ethic — dog walking or pet sitting comes with and added responsibility for the safety and care of someone’s beloved pet.
Here are some important tips to being successful as a professional dog walker.
- Be punctual and ready for your job. Put away your cell phone.
- Maintain open and clear communication with the dog’s owner. Discuss the dog’s specific needs, any medical conditions, dietary restrictions, preferred walking routes, and favorite activities or toys.
- Dog walking can be physically demanding, especially if you’re dealing with energetic or large dogs. Make sure you’re physically fit and capable of handling the demands of the job.
- Ask the owner about their dog’s behavior, body language, and signs of distress. Understanding how their dog communicates can help you prevent accidents and ensure a positive experience for the dogs you walk.
- You should know how to control a dog on a leash and basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “heel.” This can help you manage the dogs you walk more effectively.
- Be aware of safety measures, such as using proper leash and collar/harness, securing gates and house doors, and avoiding hazards during walks.
- Know what to do in case of emergencies, such as dog fights, accidents, or a lost dog. Have a plan and carry contact information for the dog’s owner.
- Be prepared for different weather conditions. Dress appropriately and have supplies like water for both you and the dog, and always carry poop bags.
- Agree on rates, timing and payment terms with the dog’s owner in advance. Make sure you’re both on the same page about fees, scheduling, and payment methods.
- Always have emergency contacts on hand, including the dog owner’s contact information, as well as a trusted adult or guardian’s contact information.
- Consider taking a pet first aid and do some research online before you take your first job.
Most importantly, enjoy the time you spend with the animals. Building a positive bond with them will make the job more rewarding. Being a dog walker is not just about taking dogs for a walk; it’s about providing care, attention, and a positive experience for the animals you’re responsible for. Responsible and informed dog walkers are more likely to build a good reputation and have happy clients.
Register using the form below
Complete the form below to introduce yourself and let us know your availability so we can match you with potential clients.
