About | Doggy Steps

About Us

Welcome To Doggy Steps

"Did someone say walkies?"

Family and professional life can be hectic and sadly we don't always have as much time as we would like to spend with our doggy friends.

Whether you're struggling to juggle everyday commitments, ever increasing workloads or simply don't like walking your dog in the bad weather, we are here to help.

Doggy Steps offer fun and varied walks around the island from cliffs to countryside and beaches, when permitted. All dogs are welcome, from puppies to older dogs.

We understand that all dogs are different and walks can be tailored accordingly to accommodate their requirements, but with the knowledge that your doggy will be cared for as if it were our own.

All our dogs are walked on the lead until we are confident of the dogs recall skills and the necessary consents have been signed by the owner.

Care will be taken to ensure your dog will be walked in a suitable group of 4 or less.

Individual one-to-one walks are also available on request.

We believe your dogs walk should be fun.

For our bookings we use Pet Sitter Plus which provides you with full access to manage you and your pets data and bookings online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I meet my dog walker first?

Yes! Every new customer will get the opportunity to book an initial meet & greet appointment, which is held face to face at your home with Doggy Steps owner Phil Trouteaud During this informal meet, Phil will explain how we operate and allow you the opportunity to discuss you and your dogs requirements. Like humans, not all dog personalities/preferences are compatible, so it's essential for us to know what makes your dog(s) feel the most comfortable.
How many dogs do you walk at any one time?

Group dog walking is a fantastic way for your furry friends to socialise and have fun with other dogs! At Doggy Steps we believe we can offer that home from home care by keeping our walking groups small. We will walk no more than 4 dogs at any one time.
Where will my dog be walked?

Doggy Steps offer fun and varied walks which include our beautiful cliffs, open spaces and the beaches. For increased stimulation, walking locations will vary daily and are totally dependent on the weather conditions. We are happy to discuss your dogs favourite places at our introductory meet and greet.
My dog is nervous around other dogs, can you still walk him?

A great benefit of group dog walking is how much it can improve your furry friends confidence over time around other dogs. So if you do have a nervous dog (but not aggressive) then we can start off their first walk with another friendly and relaxed dog. With the support and reassurance of our dog walkers, over time your furry friend can be gently encouraged to socialise with other like minded dogs, helping them gain confidence and to be at ease in the company of others. For familiarity we always try to keep the same dog walker for every dog. The exception being holidays, personal circumstances or illness.
Do you cater for all dog breeds?

We assess each dog on its own merit at the introductory meet and greet and not by the reputation of its breed. We will always meet all dogs before undertaking a walk with then and will undergo a trial period of 3 walks. All dogs are welcome from puppies to older dogs.
Do you take bitches in season?

No! Due to attracting unwanted attention with male dogs within and outside the Doggy Steps group, we are unable to walk a bitch which is in season. We look forward to welcoming back your furry princess, a week after the last sign.
What happens in bad weather, do you still walk?

Yes! Our van has a cleaning system called MUD DADDY, and we will do our best to clean and dry your dogs paws off as much as possible before returning them home to you. For those wetter days, your furry friend will be washed off and wrapped in a drying robe for their journey home.
Do you walk dogs off leads?

We will only let dogs off the lead once we have established a good relationship with them and are confident of a reliable recall. A dog walking application will be given to you during your meet and greet appointment to complete, included within this is the off lead consent authority. We must have written/signed consent before we can allow your dog off lead. If we do not feel confident with your furry friends recall during their trial period they will be walked on a lead.
What happens if my dog doesn't get on with another dog?

Your dogs safety and happiness is of utmost priority at Doggy Steps. We do our best to ensure all dogs get along by walking in smaller groups. We are able to better observe their interaction with each other and afford the individual attention it may require to resolve the situation and encourage harmony within the group.
Do you have any safety standards in place?

All our walkers are experienced, insured and have received full training in canine first aid, including CPR.
What happens in the event of an emergency?

We will call you immediately to discuss the situation. However, if we can't get in touch then we will take your dog to your nominated vet if the matter is urgent.
Can I choose a specific time for my dog to be walked?

Yes you can. We have multiple sessions available per day, Monday to Friday and one on a Saturday. One we have completed the meet and greet can book either online or by phone. We ensure that all dogs are walked for a full hour, please consider that your furry friend may be with us for longer which will include an time either side for pick up and drop off service. These times may vary depending on the dogs locations, traffic or weather.
Can I book occasional walks or do they need to be regular?

Following your introductory meet and greet appointment you will be given access to our online booking system. You are free to book your slots as little or as often as required. There is no requirement to book regularly.
Do you offer walks evenings and weekends?

Unfortunately we don’t offer evening walks at present. We do have one walking group on a Saturday
Will I be charged if I cancel my booking?

We like to be flexible with all of our doggy parents, we offer free cancellations providing 24 hours notice has been given.
Do I have to pay upfront when booking a walk?

Yes, you will be able to make payment within our booking system. We accept payment by credit or debit card.
Do I need to be at home when you collect or drop off my dog?

Not at all! All staff at Doggy Steps are DBS checked and fully insured to hold your keys enabling us to pick up and drop off your dog while you're away. We will always keep keys in a safe place and they will never be marked with your address only your dog's name. If you prefer you can let us know a safe place where your keys will be left.
How is my dog transported?

We take the safety and comfort of your dog during transportation very seriously. The Doggy Steps van is fitted with custom made, professionally fitted secure steel dog cages with front locking and rear access doors for additional safety, providing each dog with their own calm and secure space. Full ventilation from the drivers cabin provides both air conditioning and heat allowing good air circulation keeping the dogs comfortable throughout their journey.
Do you charge for travel?

We make no charge for travelling. Pick up and drop off from your home or place of work is covered in the price of the dog walk.