How to Interview a Dog Walker: Must-Ask Questions & Red Flags
Have you ever come home to those big, pleading puppy-dog eyes that say, “Why did you leave me alone all day?” Whether you live in beautiful East Lyme, scenic Mystic, or lively Groton, finding the right dog walker can make all the difference in your pup’s day (not to mention your peace of mind!). But how do you determine if a person is a true animal lover that will always act in the best interest of you and your pets🥰, versus someone doing it just to make some extra money🤑 but not truly invested? You’ll know when you interview a dog walker! So lets chat about what to ask and what red🚩 flags to watch out for!
Why a Great Dog Walker Matters
A dog walker isn’t just someone who “checks in” on your pup; they’re part of your pet’s extended family👪, or as we like to call ourselves, their Back-Up-Besties. A high-quality dog walker will ensure your fur baby gets the exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization they need to stay healthy and happy, whether you’re off at work in Norwich or running errands around Montville.
Pawsome Tip: As you begin your search, remember to trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it probably is. The right dog walker will treat your pet like family from day one.
1. “Are You Insured and Bonded?”
Must-Ask Question when you interview a dog walker: “Are you insured and bonded?”
When you interview a dog walker, insurance and bonding are essential. This coverage not only protects your furry friend but also provides peace of mind if an accident occurs. Don’t be fooled by claims of being covered by one of the tech companies (rover & wag) insurance, they have all sor
ts of loop holes and a with a little research you’ll find many horrible stories about injured and lost pets with little support from those companies. (there are lots of wonderful people offering services on those platforms, but know what you are getting into!)
💚Green Flag: They confidently share details of their insurance and bonding status.
🚩Red Flag: A hesitancy to discuss or outright lack of insurance. That’s a sign to keep looking.
2. “Do You Have References or Reviews?”
Must-Ask Question: “Can I see or speak to a few references?”
A trustworthy dog walker should have references from happy clients or an online portfolio of reviews and they should be excited to share with you! Checking out reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook groups in southeastern CT (like “The Barks Community”!) can also reveal how they interact with other pet owners. You want someone who consistently leaves tails wagging.
💚Green Flag: They provide multiple, verifiable references or can direct you to enthusiastic online testimonials.
🚩Red Flag: Avoids or deflects the reference question. This might be a clue to dig deeper (or walk away👣👣).
3. “What Kind of Training and Experience Do You Have?”
Must-Ask Question: “What’s your background in caring for pets?”
Years of experience, formal pet care training, or certification in Pet First Aid & CPR demonstrate a commitment to top-notch pet care. For example, we use ProPetHero, a well-known pet CPR & First Aid certification program for our entire team and we also use FetchFind for education about canine body language, what to do in emergencies and much more – all the better for our team to handle unexpected situations.
💚Green Flag: They have hands-on experience, official training, and can calmly describe past scenarios they’ve handled.
🚩Red Flag: Vague answers like “I’ve always loved dogs!” without any solid training or background.
4. “What’s Your Communication Style?”
Must-Ask Question when you interview a dog walker: “How do you keep clients updated about walks and visits?”
Communication is key—especially when your beloved four-legged buddy is involved. You want to know about each day’s adventure: Did they explore a new trail in
North Stonington? Make friends with a playful pup in Niantic? A good dog walker uses apps like Time To Pet (our personal favorite at Barks & Recreation!) which include adorable photos, notes about how your pets visit went, you’ll know who went potty & got a treat, and that the house is secure before we leave. You’ll use this free software on the computer, or download a convenient app to your phone to stay connected.
💚Green Flag: They have a reliable system in place and encourage frequent check-ins.
🚩Red Flag: You never know if a walk actually happened or how it went because they rarely communicate.
5. “What Services Do You Offer Besides Standard Walks?”
Must-Ask Question: “Do you offer care outside of dog walking?”
You and your pets might need help outside of mid-day dog walking, and dog walkers who offer additional services—such as pack hikes for the adventurous souls, breakfast and bedtime visits, or cat care for your feline friends—often show they truly understand the various social and physical needs of different pets. At Barks & Recreation, we also offer limited overnights and pet taxi services, tailoring each visit to your pet’s preferences.
💚Green Flag: A range of services that could fit your evolving pet care needs.
🚩Red Flag: Little to no flexibility in scheduling or extra services, making you and your pet feel like just another number.
6. “What Does a Typical Walk Look Like?”
Must-Ask Question: “Describe a normal walk from start to finish.”
The more detail they provide, the better. Ask about route choices, length of walks, playtime vs. exercise, and whether they incorporate training techniques (like practicing “sit” at crosswalks). Some walkers explore scenic areas in Noank or Pawcatuck; others prefer neighborhood strolls for routine and familiarity.
💚Green Flag: They adapt walks to your dog’s energy level, age, and personality.
🚩Red Flag: They do the same short loop every time or seem dismissive of your dog’s individual needs.
7. “What Are Your Emergency Procedures?”
Must-Ask Question: “How do you handle emergencies like sudden weather changes or a pet injury?”
From scorching summer days in Stonington to unexpected downpours in Waterford, the outdoors can be unpredictable. Also, accidents happen—dogs can sprain a paw, or cats can slip out the door. A reputable dog walker will have a clear plan for contacting vets, using a pet first aid kit, and keeping you informed.
💚Green Flag: They can walk you through a step-by-step emergency plan, referencing past scenarios if they have them.
🚩Red Flag: A blank stare or a shrug—big yikes.
8. What is the Back-up Plan?
A back-up plan is important, a flat tire on the way to your pet shouldn’t mean your pet is waiting hours longer than they should/can. If your dog walker doesn’t have a plan B, that could be a problem. Everyone gets sick, has car trouble, a family emergency, kids, their own pets – there is an endless stream of things that could prevent a person from getting to your house. As a team based company, there is always a plan B and a plan C – we’ve never missed a visit because there is always someone ready to step in, even in time sensitive emergency situations.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Refusal to provide references or answer questions about experience.
- Lack of professional certifications or reluctance to discuss insurance.
- Poor communication or unclear policies on scheduling, cancellations, and emergencies.
- Rigid approach that doesn’t adapt to your pet’s unique needs or personality.
- Sketchy business practices, like only accepting cash under the table or not having a system for communication.
Remember, you want someone who treats your pet like the superstar they are—no exceptions! If anything feels off or they gloss over important details, trust your gut. Your fur family deserves the best.
How Barks & Recreation Can Help
If you’re looking for a resourceful team of problem-solvers who can delight pets and pet parents in southeastern Connecticut, check out Barks & Recreation. We’re insured, bonded, and certified in Pet First Aid & CPR. Our services go beyond standard dog walking:
- Doggy PlayDating: Perfect for pups who love a play buddy but aren’t fans of large daycare groups.
- Pack Hikes: For the adventurous spirit who enjoys exploring local trails in a small group.
- Cat Care: Because our feline friends deserve top-quality care, too.
- Overnights & Pet Taxi: Making it easy to keep your routine running smoothly, day or night.
We focus on creating fun, safe experiences for every pet across Southeastern CT. Best of all, our clients can manage scheduling, updates, and communications through our free Time To Pet app.
Join Our Community Hikes & Facebook Group
Every third Saturday at 10 a.m., we host a free monthly community hike, available for all dog lovers—a paw-some chance to explore local trails with other dog-lovers and their furry companions. Head on over to The Barks Community on Facebook to stay connected, share your pet’s latest antics, and get updates on meetups, training tips, and more. Who knows—your dog could find its next best friend on our monthly hike!
Ready to Sign Up?
Think your pup (or kitty!) could benefit from our services? We offer a free consultation—either virtually or in-person—to ensure your pet feels comfortable with our Pet Care Specialists. Whether you live in a cozy corner of Uncasville or near the shore in Niantic, we’ll swing by to introduce ourselves and learn all about your furry family member’s likes, dislikes, and favorite belly-rub spots.
Schedule your consultation here
At Barks & Recreation, we make sure your pet gets the tail-wagging adventures they deserve, and you get the peace of mind you need.
Final Paw-Thoughts
Interviewing a dog walker doesn’t have to be ruff (couldn’t resist the pun!). With these tips, you’ll be able to spot true pet-care pros who share your passion for happy, healthy four-legged friends. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and keep a lookout for red flags. Before you know it, you’ll have a reliable partner in pet care—one who makes your dog’s day (and yours) a whole lot brighter.
Ready to embark on a new dog-walking journey together? Sniff us out at Barks & Recreation or join our Facebook community to get the latest scoop on events, training tips, and more. We can’t wait to wag along with you!
