Years back, I was a full-time dog-walker for our little town. I started out just wanting some part-time work as my kids were still at home but it wasn't long before the 'part-time' turned to 'full-time'. There were plenty of people in our town who worked long hours and were delighted to have me drop in during the day and take 'Fido' out for a quick romp. A good walk and a few biscuits would help the dog get through the long afternoon waiting for its' owner to return. Life got very busy and I loved every minute of it.
Now, the odd thing was that I had never lived with a dog before I started this business. Never!
I knew people who owned dogs and I loved to be around them but I didn't know the first thing about living with a dog. I did have a course on Animal Behaviour under my belt which I took on-line with St. Lawrence College but it was 'hands on experience' I was lacking in.
The owners were well aware of this and were happy just to try out my service and see how it went. I only had one incident where I was faced with a dog becoming aggressive. It was a young dog and his play turned into something else very quickly. He was un-trained and he wanted his way so he grabbed my hand with his teeth and would not let go. I was of the presence of mind to grab his collar with my other hand, twist it tight and get control of him that way. I returned him to his house where he immediately found his ball and brought it to me. He was not an aggressive dog by nature. I called his owners and told them they would have to get some training for him before I could take him out again. He was a large dog which made this a frightening experience.
Dog-walking was not only fun but it was a very healthy way to spend your day.
I shed 16 lbs within the first year and felt in top shape. I learned to love many dogs and soon found myself looking on-line at home-less dogs in our local shelters. It was then that I discovered
Kane which is a story unto itself.
If you are thinking about becoming a dog-walker I have nothing but good things to pass on to you. It was a wonderful four years and I look back on it with fond memories.
Spring is the best time to be out with your dog. So, whether you are a dog-walker or just love to walk your own dog, get out there and enjoy the sun.
hugs, Deb
