Do I Need A Dog Walker?

This question comes up for many pet parents. Although I would love to immediately respond "YAS!" so I can spend some time with you all and your furry children, there is not a true science to answering this question. There is no right or wrong answer as each and every dog is an individual, unique and should be treated as such.

The puppy dog eyes you get before walking out of the door every morning or the overexcitement they display once you walk back through the doors is not a clear indication that your pup was a complete mess in your absence. Don't let them fool you! I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but for many of our well balanced canine companions, following your departure they've likely sniffed around a bit before nestling themselves into the uncovered and restricted zone of the house for the best 8 hours sleep of their lives (until the next day of course, when they get to do it all over again). Why not, you give them only the best and they deserve it because they love you so unconditionally, right? But as a pet parent, we find ourselves unable to shake the guilt we feel for leaving them and that's okay. This is where I can offer some assistance.

There are some factors to be considered to help you decide what is best for your dog and the situation you may face. The recommendation I give to help you decide is to ask yourself a few specific questions.

• How long will my dog be left alone?

• Is this a new puppy or rescue dog?

• Is my dog overweight or getting enough exercise?

• Is my dog displaying behavioral issues?

• What is my dogs age?

• Has my dog recently been diagnosed or started new medication?

• Did I just move or has there been any changes in the home dynamic?

These questions are crucial to whether to hire a dog walker because as much as we love our dogs we need to identify if all their needs are being met. It is generally not recommended to leave a dog alone for more than 8 hours, however, this time is lessened if they are being confined or crated. New puppies and rescue dogs require plenty of patience and training. Ensuring these dogs achieve well balance immensely decreases the number of dogs that make their way into and back at shelters. Okay, so you don't miss every opportunity to pick up Fido's favorite treats and you make sure he gets his chewy venison grillers or succulent duck every time he's being, "A good boy!"... However, if you can no longer see his waistline, be mindful that obesity is a nationwide epidemic for our pets and can shorten their lifespan. Regular exercise will not only help burn excess calories but also provides our pets with mental stimulation and keeps joints and muscles healthy. If you come home from work and Rufus again has destroyed your favorite pair of shoes or is having accidents all over your rugs, it isn't because he has poor taste in fashion or due to his dislike for the home decor. He's trying to tell you he's bored, is not getting the right amount of stimulus/exercise or this may be due to some illness. As dogs begin to age, their bodies change. They may develop disease, control issues or simply need to relieve themselves more frequently. Medications can also alter or trigger responses in a dogs behavior that had not previously existed. Changes in a dogs environment may also alter their disposition until they acclimate to the adjustment.

As pet parents we are responsible for the overall well being of our companions. Annual and regular veterinarian exams are always recommended. Awareness and identifying issues help us to make the right decisions to achieve balance.

As always, we want to keep all our pets happy, healthy and safe.

DISCLAIMER:

All data, information and/or content contained in this blog is for general informational purposes only. JoJo and KiKo Pet Services LLC. and Nancy Chan makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability or validity of any information contained on this blog and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, loss, injuries or damages arising from its display or use. Any reliance you place on the information contained in this blog is strictly at your own discretion. The blog post may contain topics or content related to health and safety. Any health, medical or safety matters should be discussed and consulted with your medical professional or professional trainer.