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?

[divegirl]

Another suggestion would be to ask on your Facebook wall, assuming you're on FB. That way they could make the introductions if they know anyone.

Lisa x

[jules77]

I wont even let my husband walk mine, let alone a dog walker LOL, but I am just a bit obsessive. I do know people that use them, and people that do it for money too.

[albaqwerty]

Just to be on the cautious side, make sure the folk have a dog and won't hijack you.

Advert sounds fine to me, but I'd go with the friends and colleagues route first.

[lankeela]

Start by putting an ad in the local vets and pet shops. If you want insurance it is not too expensive - about £100 per year but it covers you if you go into someone's house and leave the door unlocked and they get broken into, or if you knock over their ming vase. I would see what response you get from the ads first and start making a few contacts. I am sure you will find some grateful owners. Some of mine would go with you willingly, but the others would sit down and refuse to budge!

[rockyracoon]

Sorry ladybird, that was rude of me, thanks for the link. I did have a read, it as very interesting, don't know if I could be that frugal though, just shows you can do it when you have to.

Sorry evi x

[jules77]

How about the local dogs home or breed rescue, I am sure they have plenty of dogs that need walking? What area are you in?

[linedancer16]

Why not not volunteer to walk the dogs at a local rescue centre. They are usually only too glad of the help. I walk the dogs at my local RSPCA home and really enjoy it.

[EvianBaby]

Thanks all.

I've looked at the local dog charities and couldn't see any vacancies. I imagine a lot of trainee vets and things do that. I've put a little ad up so I'll see if I get any response from that.

I don't know why it didn't occur to me earlier but if I fell over outside my front door I would land at the vet practice so I might pop in and see if they know anyone who would want me to walk their dog or if they'd let me put a little ad up.

[ladybirder]

I also volunteered down here in Brighton at the local dog's home and was told they were full plus had a waiting list. Glad there are plenty of people so willing to help.
rocky, no probs, glad you read it.X

[FredPuli43]

Good luck. You could walk any of my nine. Only worry would be that the Dandie Dinmont bitch would prefer you to me. She's a right tart with strangers! You might try old peoples' charities or organisations. Lots of old people have a companion dog, often one they acquired when they themselves were more mobile, and would appreciate someone walking it.

[lankeela]

Dog Friendly members and friends - we need your help. Many of you I am sure will have heard of the Cinnamon Trust - a wonderful charity that supports the elderly and the terminally ill and their pets. The trust is always looking for help and support and one of our members has particularly asked for help walking dogs for people who find it difficult to get out in the Flixton, Urmston and Davyhulme areas of Manchester. If you can help, please email [email protected] or to find out more about the trust, go to www.cinnamon.org.uk Thanks!

[johnbjohn1961]

I have 2 dogs that i get a dog walker to take out every day (Mon - Fri), one hour a day and she charges £15 for the two dogs. If you can get more than that in a day you can have a nice earning coming in and a job you will love doing.

[johnbjohn1961]

That is a daily price i pay the dog walker