Would you let a stranger walk your dog?

[EvianBaby]

I'd love a dog but it's just not really an option at the moment so I was thinking of doing some dog walking. I've googled around my area and there are lots of companies that offer it (at a charge) but I can't find any charities looking for dog walkers.

I was thinking I could put an ad on Gumtree or Freecycle offering dog walking in the evenings and weekends but as it's more just a reason for me to get out and get a bit of exercise I wouldn't be asking for any money for it.

But, I wonder if people would be put off. Do you think people would be happy for a stranger to just show up and take their dog out for a couple of hours?

[ummmm]

My Dog would have went with you, Evian. He would have went with anyone who showed him his lead. He would run and run and run and wouldn't come back unless you sat down.

ps I took him to a nature reserve where running was fine.

[EvianBaby]

There's loads of great dog walking places like that round here Ummmm. I always feel a bit jealous when I'm around them without one. Lol.

I understand some dogs are timid and wouldn't go so I guess those owners wouldn't go for it but there must be loads like yours that just want to go for walkies, whoever might be holding the lead.

[smilingcrow]

when we wanted a dog walker we never wanted to see one. It was just an idea. If you can show you are resposible and friendly I cant imagine it as a problem.

[woofgang]

But its simple in another way
Would you let a total stranger vanish for several hours with one of the most precious things in your life?
Put like that can you see why "its not that simple"?

[EvianBaby]

Yeah I do get your point Woof. Its not like I'd let someone just borrow my baby for a couple of hours (if I had one). Maybe it's just that I know all my intentions are good so I'm befuddled why others wouldn't just believe me. Lol.

[ummmm]

Well my dog wasn't the most precious thing in my life. I have kids...

It's hard work looking after a dog, especially if circumstances change.

[joko]

there are a lot of animal thefts, so maybe people with expensive breeds would be wary...but you could take lots of ID etc to prove your identity, address etc to put them at their ease.

[sunny-dave]

Being boring for a moment (sorry, because it's a great idea) - if you accept any money for it then you are going to have to have some Public Liability insurance.

[EvianBaby]

Yeah, I think I might just post and ad. I have nothing lose.

If there are people who want specific things then they'll go to professional, etc. I'll make it clear that I have no training in anything or pretend to be anything more than just someone who wants a little walk in the countryside.

[craft1948]

I wouldn't mind a stranger walking my dog...............they'd soon bring him back!

[EvianBaby]

I won't accept any money Dave. If people felt they had to offer something I'll tell them they can pay me in chocolate cookies.

[firewatch]

If you where nearer i would let you take my two! they need a good 3 hour walk a day and as i dont drive they have to wait for my hubby to get in. Lucky runs for miles and sprite plods lolx

[EvianBaby]

So what about if I posted something along these lines?

"I’m offering a free dog walking service in the Aylesbury area.

I’m a full time worker so unable to have my own dog but would love the opportunity to help out with anyone who doesn’t have the time or energy to exercise their dogs as much as they’d like.

No payment is required but I would request you provide sufficient plastics bags, a lead and muzzle if necessary.

I’m available most evenings and weekends.

If you are interested and would like to discuss some options with me please get in touch.


N.B. I have no specific training to care for dogs, just an enthusiastic animal lover."

[ladybirder]

Evian I've been doing it for over 2 years now for a neighbour's dog. There must be a dog near you that could do with your help and if you are a neighbour then the owners will be less worried about you with their dog. Have a listen and tell me if you can hear some poor dog barking because it's left on its own all the time. That'll be the one for you:-)

[EvianBaby]

I've not long lived in my house Lady so don't really know the neighbours, although I haven't noticed any dogs barking. I'll keep an ear out though. :)

[chaptazbru]

I'm with woof, I personally wouldn't let my dog go for walks with a stranger and yes, he is the most precious thing in my life. He wouldn't want to go with a stranger either, but I think there are plenty of people out there who wouldn't mind.

[divegirl]

Where abouts are you Evian?

[rockyracoon]

I don't think you can get a CRB done on yourself, you'd have to go through some kind of agency, could be proved wrong though. Do you know anyone near where you live that could introduce you to dogs and owners, people are more trusting if they have mutual acquaintances.

[ladybirder]

That's a good idea rocky. One of Ev's friends are bound to know somebody.

Excuse me but rocky, I posted Chris's thread for you on the water meter thread, did you see it? It took me half an hour to find it. Sorry Evian.