Walking
a service for those living in the Cockenzie area, providing an hour of physical, mental & social stimulation for your dog
The basics
I accept clients who wish to use my service for dog walking alone from the Cockenzie area only.
I will collect your dog(s) from your premises on foot & walk them (on lead) to a nearby location in the Cockenzie area, where we will spend the majority of our time walking (on or off lead, as you wish). The walk will last approximately 1 hour (please click here for rates), after which I will return your dog(s) safely to your house. Your dog will be walked in a small group with up to 5 other dogs, matched to your own dog’s temperament & exercise needs.
at Seton Sands
Safety
The welfare of your dog will be paramount at all times during our walks. All dogs will be walked on lead initially. However, once I feel I have built up sufficient a relationship with your dog & feel it is appropriate, I am happy to walk your dog(s) off lead should you wish.
All dogs must be able to walk sensibly on a lead. Flexi leads are not appropriate for group walking & will not be used. Dogs who are to be exercised off lead must have good recall. I do not walk bitches in heat, & recommend that adult dogs be neutered unless there is a particular reason why not.
I am a competent canine first aider & will always have first aid supplies to hand at my house. I am covered by an insurance policy for Public Liability & Third Party Risks up to £2 million any one claim, including cover for pets in my care up to £5000. (However, it is still advisable that you provide Pet Insurance for your own dogs.)
The environment
In general, I do not use a vehicle to transport your dogs - they will be collected & dropped off on foot, so will spend 100% of their time with me outside in the fresh air getting exercise. I will always clean up after your dog(s) whilst they are in my care & have taken the Green Dog Walkers pledge to leave only pawprints.
muddy Molly
Security
I strive to leave your house as I find it & ask that you leave out a towel so that I can dry off your dog, ensuring that no muddy paw prints are left (regardless of how much fun your dog had roaming in the mud!). I am happy to replenish food & water for your dog whilst at your premises, & will always leave a note detailing where & with whom your dog has been walked.
If I am holding your house keys in order to take your dog out for a walk in your absence, I will make sure that they are kept secure & are not identifiable. My insurance covers costs incurred due to loss of any keys entrusted to me (up to £2000).
The benefits
Exercise is essential for the maintenance of a healthy body weight in dogs. Being overweight or obese reduces both a dog’s life expectancy & their quality of life, & is associated with an increased risk of medical conditions including osteoarthritis, cardiovascular & respiratory diseases, diabetes & infections.
Over & above the obvious physical benefits, the provision of regular walks helps dogs to achieve normal energy levels & a healthy, balanced state of mind. Many common canine behavioural problems such as hyperactivity, anxiety & aggression can stem from lack of appropriate exercise.
To be happy & fulfilled, all dogs need to walk. Dogs have an inborn need to be active, with the need to ‘migrate’ being hardwired into their brains. Walking is about so much more than getting fresh air & a chance to relieve themselves. Walks provide not only physical exercise, but also mental stimulation. They allow your dog to explore their environment & interact with the other animals & humans in it.
By walking your dog(s) in safe yet stimulating environments, I strive to fulfil these needs & return your dog to you in a happy, healthy state.
Fidra & Ziggy
