FAQs
Are we right for you?
Finding the right dog-hiker is SUPER important! So, if you're considering enrolling your dog into a group hiking program please read on and see if we are the right fit for each other!
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Your dog already has off-leash recall (comes immediately when called). Through the nature of what I offer I help to strengthen your dog's recall but I do not start from ground zero.
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Your dog understands body language/communication of other dogs and has good trail etiquette (this includes not running straight up to stranger dogs, moving out of the way of other trail users, etc.)
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You're looking for regular hikes during the weekday. Yes, I do offer weekend hikes--and do invite your dog to sign up for weekend hikes--but only once in a while, not every single weekend. I need days off too :)
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You're serious about your dog going on these excursions and are communicative!
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I don't tailor my hike times around your schedule. Please understand that I have other dogs who need picked up and, depending who I'm picking up for the day, times will vary. Though I do try to stick to time slots each day.
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I am looking for clients who want a dog-hiker who will keep their dogs accountable and safe on the trail. Example: I ensure commands are followed-through every time. This isn't about being "mean" it's about respect for each other--and in the face of danger it's important that your dog listens to me!
Safety stuff...
On Trail
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Carried on every excursion: slip leashes, first aid kit, water, treats, bear spray, small knife, dog whistle, specialized insurance
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No phone use unless necessary and no headphones or music
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I select certain trails based on their tolerance of dogs off leash. I never go places dogs cannot be or trails that require dogs to be on-leash
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I also select appropriate trails for the season--like choosing trails that have bodies of water for cooling off.
In the Car
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Hard-bottomed car seat (when I have fewer dogs in my care), otherwise, backseat down and hatchback access
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Remote car start for hot or cold days when picking up
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Specialized seat belts (if necessary)
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Barrier between front and back seat
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No music during travel with dogs
Other
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Dogs are always leashed in parking lots and will be until we make it to the trailhead
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Nearest emergency vet hospitals are pre-mapped
All Things Schedule Related
Daily Schedule
Weekday Summer pick-up times: between 9:30a-10:30a Weekday Spring, Fall, and Winter pick-up times: 10a-11:30a In times of inclement weather or extreme temperatures I may pick up dogs earlier or later than the above listed times As you may notice I do not do early morning hikes. When I first started my business I tailored my schedule to those who needed me slightly later in the day (like folks in the healthcare industry) and that's what ended up sticking
It's important that your dog(s) complete their full Foundations Program within 2 weeks. I do not like it to stretch to 3+ weeks because your dog is learning valuable skills that I do not want lapsed During this time your dog will be scheduled with minimal members of my group while they are on-boarding. This means that pick-up times could vary from the norm.
Daily Schedule
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Foundations Program
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It's important that your dog(s) complete their full Foundations Program within 2 weeks. I do not like it to stretch to 3+ weeks because your dog is learning valuable skills that I do not want lapsed
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During this time your dog will be scheduled with minimal members of my group while they are on-boarding. This means that pick-up times could vary from the norm.