Professional dog walkers need the right setup
Running a dog walking or pet sitting business brings its fair share of excitement and challenges. One of the most thrilling yet tricky parts is managing the “take-off” and “landing” phases of a group walk. Picture this: youโve got a van or car packed with eager dogs, tails wagging and barks echoing as you pull up to their favorite trail or park. But as you arrive at a busy car park or the side of a country road, the challenge begins. How do you ensure every dog gets out safely without chaos?
After years of managing group walks, Iโve experimented with different techniques to keep both the dogs and myself safe. Let me save you from the learning curve I went through (letโs not mention the time I used a retractable lead for a cockapoo alongside four larger dogs โ trust me, that didnโt end well). Eventually, I discovered that using Halti double-ended training leads was the game-changer I needed.
Why Halti Leads were beneficial for Group Dog Walking
Halti leads offer exceptional control and versatility, making them the perfect solution for managing multiple dogs. With the Halti training lead, I could comfortably handle two dogs per lead โ one in each hand. This allowed me to maintain order during the crucial moments when exiting the vehicle or gathering the group at the end of a walk.
Depending on the size of the group, Iโd typically use two or three Halti double-ended leads, giving me full confidence in high-traffic areas. The design of Halti leads provides better distribution of force, preventing sudden pulls and giving me greater steering power, which is essential for energetic groups.
Managing Larger Groups with Hands-Free Gear
For larger groups (up to 6 dogs), I relied on a hands-free dog walking harness. As shown by my trusty companion, Shiloh, the harness lets me secure additional dogs without sacrificing control. Pairing Halti leads with a sturdy harness meant I could distribute the weight evenly, leaving my hands free to manage any surprises during the walk. This setup allowed me to confidently lead the group from the van to the trailhead and back again without unnecessary stress.
Key Benefits of Using Halti Leads for Dog Walking and Pet Sitting
- Enhanced Safety: The dual-clip design of Halti leads offers better control, reducing the risk of sudden lunges or tangled leads.
- Versatility: Whether walking two dogs or six, Halti leads adjust to fit your needs.
- Comfort: Halti leads help distribute force evenly, making walks smoother for both dogs and handlers.
- Professionalism: Clients value seeing their pet walker equipped with the right gear, reinforcing trust in your pet sitting or dog walking services.
Wrapping Up: The Post-Walk Calm
The beauty of this setup is that the return trip is almost always easier. By the end of the adventure, most dogs are tired out, making the “landing” process far smoother than the initial take-off. If you’re running a dog walking or pet sitting business, investing in Halti leads and a hands-free harness could be the key to safer, more organised group outings.
By perfecting your group walk routine, you’ll not only improve safety but also enhance your reputation as a professional dog walker who prioritises care and control. Happy walking!
There are many different ways in which professional dog walkers handle take and landing how do you handle yours?
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