How many dogs in each group trail walk?
Up to six dogs in each group.
How would you describe your walking style?
We migrate as a pack, with purpose, for a complete hour. One of our incredible staff members are the pack leader, and fully present and engaged as we hike the trail. We are never stagnant or just hanging out.
How many walks a day do you do?
Our walkers take out two groups a day (Monday - Friday). The first walk is in the morning. The second walk is in the afternoon.
Where do you go on the weekly group trail hikes?
We mainly utilize the East Bay Regional Park system. Sibley Regional Preserve and Anthony Chabot Regional Park are both common destinations, in a list of many beautiful and scenic parks and trails our area has to offer.
How long is each walk?
We are walking on the trail for one full hour. The dogs are typically out of the house for one and a half to three hours, including the pick-ups and the drop-offs.
Do you let the dogs go off-leash right away?
No, we go through a series of steps with each dog to get to that point. Step by step, the dog and the walker gain trust, understanding, and a connection with each other, until we’re confident that they will consistently come when called, and will behave safely within the framework of the hike. When the walker feels confident about the dog staying with the group, and being under voice command, they will be allowed to be off-leash. Safety is always our number priority. About 90% of the dogs are able to make the transition to off-leash hikes. The few that aren’t just stay on-leash the whole hike, and still get an hour of good exercise.
Are all dogs allowed to come out on the walks?
We don’t accept dogs with aggressive behavior or social issues. Dogs must have good social etiquette with other dogs and people. Also, dogs with physical limitations, senior dogs, or slow paced dogs that may hold up the natural pace of the group, may not be suitable for our style of hour-long walks. All dogs must also be current on their shots, and also on a preventative regimen of flea and tick prevention.
How old must my puppy be before they can start with the weekly group trail walks?
6 months
Do you walk in the rain?
Yes, for the most part, walks will go on rain or shine. We walk in light to medium rain, and find that most dogs love to hike in the rain. However, we don’t walk in heavy rain, and walks would be cancelled that day.
What are some reasons to use your walking service?
- If you’re away all day at work (more time than the pooch can hold his bathroom breaks)
- If you having a hard time meeting your dogs exercise needs
- If your dog is youthful and energetic
- If you’d like your dog to learn more social skills and have more social interaction with other dogs and people
- If you’d like your dog more relaxed in the evening. Many times, unwanted behavior at home can be a result of insufficient exercise during the day.
- If you’d just like your dog to have some extra fun and exercise with other dogs, and supplement your regular neighborhood solo, leash walks
