Question 1

Will I meet my dog walker first?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

How many dogs do you walk at any one time?

Accepted Answer

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 5 doggy clients at any one time.

Question 3

Where will my dog be walked?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

My dog is nervous around other dogs, can you still walk him?

Accepted Answer

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 the dog walker, 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.

Question 5

Do you cater for all dog breeds?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Do you take bitches in season?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What happens in bad weather, do you still walk?

Accepted Answer

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 towel dried for their journey home.

Question 8

Do you walk dogs off leads?

Accepted Answer

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 completed during your initial meet and greet appointment, included within this is the off lead consent authority. We must have your 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.

Question 9

What happens if my dog doesn't get on with another dog?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Do you have any safety standards in place?

Accepted Answer

Im experienced, insured and have received full training in canine first aid, including CPR.

Question 11

What happens in the event of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

Can I choose a specific time for my dog to be walked?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. We have multiple sessions available per day, Monday to Friday and at the weekend by special request. One we have completed the meet and greet you can book either online, by WhatsApp 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.

Question 13

Can I book occasional walks or do they need to be regular?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

Do you offer walks evenings and weekends?

Accepted Answer

Evening and weekend walks are by special request only.

Question 15

Will I be charged if I cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

We like to be flexible with all of our doggy parents, we offer free cancellations providing 24 hours notice has been given.

Question 16

Do I have to pay upfront when booking a walk?

Accepted Answer

No, walks are invoiced at the end of the week and payment is expected within 7 days

Question 17

Do I need to be at home when you collect or drop off my dog?

Accepted Answer

Not at all!  Phil @ Doggy Steps is 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.

Question 18

How is my dog transported?

Accepted Answer

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.

Ventilation from the roof vent and both air conditioning and heat from the drivers cabin provides good air circulation keeping the dogs comfortable throughout their journey.

Question 19

Do you charge for travel?

Accepted Answer

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.

Prices

£20

Group Walks (One dog)

£50

A nights boarding in our home (per dog)

Frequently Asked Questions