Dog walkers/minders

[Oliver Hardy]

Anyone use them, how do I choose one.

Need to leave my dog from time to time and really need to find a dog walker/minder/sitter. Need one that is flexible.

[Challo]

Had a couple for ours. Used local recommendations for ones to choose from, make sure they are insured and have suitable transport. Also get them to pop round, see how they interact with the dog etc.

[scorcher]

Local Facebook groups will be full of them and people happy to recommend the ones they use. Check to see how they operate, whether it’s group walks or one to one etc. Make sure they’re insured, whether they have any doggy first aid qualifications and be sure they know what they need to do in an emergency.

[wax lyrical]

Search on the website: 'Pawshake.co.uk

[Muzzer79]

We moved house earlier in the year and have someone come in twice a week to walk. Just to give the boy a bit more exercise really as he's full of beans.

• Local Facebook groups are good for recommendations, but do not treat them as gospel

• Try and get someone word of mouth in addition to FB recommendations

• Ensure they come and meet your dog when you're there. You'll soon suss out if they're a dog person (which they obviously should be) and if they get on with your dog.

• If a walker, ensure to clarify if they're walking your dog solo or in a group. Ensure you are comfortable with the answer.

• Be very wary of someone who is just starting out. It seems that lots of people love the idea of quitting the rat race and walking dogs for a living, but for some the reality is different. We were ghosted by one new walker who was scheduled to cover our two week holiday, less than 2 weeks before we left. Cue lots of frantic calls and research to find someone else to fit him in, in the height of summer

[Boosted LS1]

In addition to the walker being insured you need to have your own insurance in case the dog needs urgent veterinary treatment. I'd also suggest you give the walker authority to contact a vet on your behalf should you be unavailable.