Dog Walkers? Cheltenham

[Dizzle]

Does anyone use a dog walker?

I’m thinking about getting one a couple of times a week for my Border Terrier as I worry about him being bored during the week, but I’m worried about relinquishing him to another person as he's my dog and I don't know what I'd do if something happened to him, ideally I’d want him walked off lead with other dogs for about an hour, there are a couple of local commons that I’d trust him on, his recall is ok not 100% but not bad for a terrier although I have no idea what he would be like for other people, he’s more people than prey orientated but can’t be off lead near tennis balls as you will NEVER catch him if he has a ball (ok, you can usually swap for a bit of sausage!).

Even if I could find someone with a nicely fenced dog proof field or garden where he could play with other dogs for an hour or two would be fantastic!

What sort of costs are we talking and how on earth do I go about finding a good one? Does anyone on here use one locally?

 

[Saneta]

Ask other dog owners you meet when out walking, if they can recommend someone. Ask at your local vets, they probably have a list of dog walkers. Google it and see what you come up with. Make sure DW is insured and preferably CRB checked if you are entrusting them with your house keys. Finally, meet up with them for a walk, be honest with them about your dogs little quirks etc, and see how you feel about them, how your dog interacts with them, and go with your instinct. You should probably have to enter into a contract with them, that confirms in writing as to whether or not you want your dog walked with other dogs, and off lead or not.

 

[Saneta]

Sorry, forgot to mention costs. They vary according to area it seems, but on average, anything between £10-15 for an hours walk, including collection and return...

 

[flurrydor]

I've used Pet Carers from Cheltenham............Sarah. She has always been exceptionally reliable and very good at dealing with my labs special needs, always heeding my requests. She doesn't walk in huge groups either which some of the local dog walkers do. I would thoroughly recommend her................ one hour group walk is £12 inc. transport in air conditioned, properly fitted van. She usually walks at Leckhampton I think.