I could hear breathing coming from behind. It was a steep climb and Nellie stopped to smell the roses, looking for a place to poop. I turned to encounter a guy with his old man Marvin, huffing up the incline. "Nellie's great with others," I encourage.
"I'm just the Dog Walker so I don't know what Marvin'll do." I shrug, noting the old fart probably can't do too much harm. Besides, he looks tuckered-out and ready for a nap, fighting cancer bumps scattered all over his body.
I step into the grass, holding Nellie's leash taut and allow the reluctant man to pass with his new ward. I understand his hesitation to allow the dogs to meet, nose-to-nose, although I find myself a bit perturbed.
Why doesn't he know about the dog's potential behavior? And more importantly, why didn't he ASK the question of the owner?
Dog Walkers are an integral part of the family. We're the caregiver's of the pet(s,) acting on the owner's behalf when in charge.
On a daily basis, I make sure Rover is a Happy Pup, running him like there's no tomorrow so he can be relaxed and happy when Molly and Jeff make it home from work. I've got up to eleven walks a day, with multiple dogs.
Dog Walkers should know their dog clients:
watch their behavior in a new situation
manage their output (scooping poop into a biodegradable bag without getting your hands soiled is a talent) is it gushing, solid, have blood, contain foreign objects
noticing any new signs of trouble with their coat, tongue, skin, stance
are they limping
do they uncharacteristically whine
notice if can't jump in or out of the car comfortably
do they react badly with others at the park
or tear after the neighbor's cat
are they tender in spots
does their head droop
are they more reactive to white dogs, small dogs
kid friendly?
prefer not to be touched
love to chase something (ball, frisbee, stick, or other dogs)
are gluten-intollerant and can't have random treats
jump up on people
do they have a history of running off
have they attacked anyone or another dog
and so much more!!
We're responsible with the house key, the garage code, the security alarm, sometimes shoveling the walk or driveway to get in and out. We sometimes bring in the mail and newspaper out of courtesy. We've gotta pay attention so Freida, the cat doesn't get out.
We play an important role in the lives of many animals and their owners (I refuse to call them parents.) They rely on our skills to keep their dear ones safe, healthy, happy, and secure. We're professionals and worthy of a livable wage, as any other job. We don't get sick pay, healthcare benefits, vacation pay, or time off unless we plan it. We typically work seven days a week, holidays, and many overnights in a strange bed.
It is a choice. We decide to be Dog Walkers and deserve the respect it implies. Just like the domestic help, the nanny, pest control service, gardener, and window washer - we're an integral part of a household. We make a difference!!
So, when you see a Dog Walker at the park, on the street (those multiple dogs usually aren't theirs) or playing in the field - thank them for their service...as we all deserve that acknowledgment!
Thank you!