Why Dog-Walking Prices Depend On The Services Offered

Modern lifestyles dictate that dog owners have to spend an extended period of their day away from their beloved best friends. Leaving a dog alone is never ideal; however, there sometimes is simply no way of getting around it. Dog-walking services are a great solution that ensures a dog doesn’t get worried, anxious, or lonely while waiting for their owner to come home. Because dog-walking services are so effective and popular, companies are now offering more and more service options. If you’re looking to hire a dog-walking service, here are some of the things that will affect the total price you pay.

Duration, length, and frequency

Duration, length, and frequency play a huge role in the overall cost of a dog-walking service. Most companies will break the service options down as follows:

Duration. The length of time your dog is walked. Typically, 30-, 45-, and 60-minute options are available.
Length. The distance your dog is walked. Younger energetic dogs usually need to be taken for longer walks than older dogs.
Frequency. The number of times a dog is taken out a day and week. Most dogs only need to be taken out once a day, resulting in four to five times a week.

Of course, additional services are offered to meet special needs. These services include extended, afternoon, and weekend walks. In most cases, a walk consists of exercise and a potty break. The best dog-walking services offer a GPS time-stamped map, journal updates, and dog photos.

Training and professionalism

The training and professionalism of dog walkers also factor into the total cost of a dog-walking service. Friends, neighbors, and students oftentimes take dogs for walks to earn extra money. Dog walkers that work for a professional company walk dogs for a living. Such dog walkers are trained and experienced. They know how to handle dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. They also know exactly what to do when dogs are confronted by other dogs or put in a dangerous situation. If you want the very best for your dog, a trained professional is undoubtedly the best way to go.

Liability coverage

A dog walker that is not covered by workman’s compensation or legally insured can sue you if they get injured walking your dog. You will also be responsible for your dog’s medical bills in the unfortunate event that your dog gets injured. Believe it or not, many dog owners have had to settle with uninsured dog walkers for large sums of money. Dog walkers who are covered may cost a bit more, but the personal assurance that comes with insurance coverage is certainly worth the extra cost. Knowing that you and your dog will be covered no matter what happens is a benefit that should never be overlooked while making your decision to use a dog-walking service.

How to choose a dog-walking service

You should take the following three things into account when choosing a dog-walking service:

Your schedule. How long will you be away from home? What time of the day will you need a dog walker?
Your dog. Is your dog independent? Does your dog require a lot of attention? Is your dog energetic?
The company you’re interested in hiring. Is the company insured? Do they have references? Are the people friendly and nice?

Only you know what’s best for you and your dog. Hiring a reliable and professional dog-walking service can be an incredible move if you take the time to make an educated decision. If you need any help or advice, you can contact the professionals at Trusty Tails. We’re always happy to help!