Instant dog walking service

[Karthick]

Hi All,

            As a dog owner like you all, i've sometimes had long days at work or had to come back home to catch up to some work and wondered if it would be nice for someone to walk my dog buzz on short request. Think something like uber or lyft for dog walking. If there was one, would you use it? Of course all the walkers in the service need to be verified, rated and even licensed based on the city etc and definitely not some random person. Please let me know if you would or not and would greatly appreciate it if you can give me reasons for either of those. 

-Karthick

Read more here: http://www.doodlekisses.com/profiles/blogs/instant-dog-walker#ixzz3...

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

I have used a dog walker/pet sitter on occasion but I, too, have met with the person, get to know them, see how they interact with Finn.  I either know them or get references. As much as I would love an impromptu service I could call for long workdays, I would not trust someone else to hire and verify.  I'm sure some people would do a great job but I want to know who is coming into my home and interacting with my dog. 

[Jill, Woody & Maxi]

I think, in theory it is a great idea, especially for dog owners who have to take call for work, unexpected events, etc.  I would just be leery with strangers in the house, and most importantly, strangers interacting with our dogs.  We had a dog walker to help get Maxi through house breaking while we were at work, and she came several times so that both dogs were comfortable with her. Also, another thing I would be leery of is the use of different collars. We use the training collar/ "choke chain"..but we know how to properly use it..I would not trust someone who does not know how to use it.

[Oliver & Elizabeth]

We have a regular dog walker. She works for a very small dog walking company in our area and is licensed, bonded, insured, and background checked (and happens to live a few blocks away). Recommendations were important. She accesses our house though a specifically programed door code. We are very grateful for her as she makes it possible for us to work longer hours without guilt (we are young and also trying grow our careers). Occasionally, we will need to add a walk on short notice, and typically she is able to accommodate--I work in health care so this is very important. One thing that I really appreciate is that she trains Oliver while walking him and doesn't let him get away with bad behavior.

[Karthick]

Thanks for the feedback people! This has given me a lot to think about. I am thinking of setting something like this up in my community and really value your feedback. Please keep it coming!