Getting Ready for Your Dog Walker’s First Visit
The first visit with a new dog walker is a big deal for your dog—and for you. A little preparation makes it easier to keep their day familiar while you are away.
Show us the everyday routine
At your meet-and-greet, walk through how your dog likes to be approached, where the leash and harness are stored, and what happens at the door. Demonstrate how the gear fits and share any escape risks, leash reactivity, or routes you prefer to avoid.
Explain the usual potty cues, where fresh water is kept, and whether treats are allowed. If your dog is shy or needs a slower introduction, tell us what helps them feel secure. A meet-and-greet lets us discuss the plan before visits begin.
Make access and contacts clear
Confirm your agreed access method and test it before the first visit. Share private entry instructions only through the portal’s protected entry section or another agreed secure method, not in an ordinary email. Let us know about cameras, other people expected at home, and doors or gates that need special attention.
Keep your phone number, emergency contact, veterinarian, and care instructions current. Tell us about medication or health changes before the visit and provide clear written instructions for any care we have agreed to provide.
Decide what a good update looks like
Would you like to know about the potty break, the route, or how your dog settled back in? We send a photo and note after visits, and knowing what matters to you helps us make that update useful.
Ready to arrange weekday dog walking near Hughesville or Waldorf? Send your address and schedule; we serve homes within 20 miles of Hughesville, subject to availability.
Further reading: CDC: emergency planning for pets ↗