Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most common questions I am asked. This list is not exhaustive
so please feel free to contact me should you have any further questions.

Are you licenced?

Yes I am fully licenced by Brentwood Council for Home Dog Boarding. 
​Licence Number: 24/00189/LIANI
Number of Dogs allowed to board: 6
Star Rating Award: 4 Stars

Are you insured?

Yes. Nicola’s Dog Walking & Pet Care is fully insured by Protectivity. I will provide you with a copy of my insurance certificate during your consultation.

Are you DBS checked?

Yes. I hold a current DBS certificate. This can be shown to you upon request. 

Are you first aid trained?

Yes. I am fully trained and qualified in Advanced First Aid for Dogs and Puppies.

Who will walk my dog?

I (Nicola) as the business owner will be walking your dog. Sometimes due to holidays or illness, I may need to change who walks your dog but you will be notified of this prior to your dogs walk. If I need someone else to walk your dog in my absence, I will ensure they are fully vetted and adequately insured.

Where will my dog be walked?

Primarily your dog(s) will be walked in my own secure field; ensuring the safety of your dog(s) at all times. Sometimes I may walk your dog(s) at one of the local parks in and around Brentwood; this is dependant on how many dogs I have and on their individual re-call.

What days and times will my dog be walked?

I run 2 group sessions per day; morning and afternoon.

The morning session runs between 9am - 1pm* and the afternoon session runs between 1pm - 5pm*. These times allow for your dog(s) to be picked up, walked and dropped home.
* Times are approximate and are dependant on what dogs I have on the day and travel etc.

I try my best to accommodate everyone’s requests for the times and days that they require for their dogs to be walked. Sometimes I may need to change the day or time of your dogs walk but I will notify you of this prior to your dogs walk.

How is my dog transported?

I have a fully insured, air conditioned van which has secure crates for dogs during transportation. Your dog will have its own crate and will not share a crate with another dog (except dogs from the same household).

How many dogs do you walk at once?

 My group walks typically have between 6 - 12 dogs so your dog will usually find a friend to play with! I always ensure that the dogs in the group walks are well matched and get along well.

Will my dog be walked in all weathers?

I aim to walk dogs in all weathers; however, in extreme circumstances (like severe heat/thunderstorms etc) I may have to change your dogs walking times or cut these short if necessary. I will use my judgment to determine if it safe to walk your dog and notify you of any changes should this arise.

What happens to my dog in case of an accident/emergency?

I will try to contact you or your emergency contact to advise of what has happened. If required I will take your dog to the vet. I will always try to take your dog to your preferred vet but in some circumstances, this isn’t always possible so I will take them to the nearest vet for medical treatment. I will always follow veterinary advice on what they deem the best treatment for your dog(s).

Where will my keys be stored when not in use?

On the days your dog is being walked, your keys will be kept with me at all times. On the days your dog is not being walked, your keys are stored in a secure safe at my home. For extra security, your key tag will only have your dogs name on it and not your address so should I misplace your keys, these are not traceable to your property.

How much do you charge?

You will be advised of my prices during your consultation. I reserve the right to increase prices but I will always give you 2 weeks notice for price increases. Please visit the “Services and Prices” page for my current prices.

What is your cancellation policy?

I politely ask for 24 hours notice if you wish to cancel your dogs walk. I reserve the right to charge you for your dogs walk if 24 hours notice isn’t given; even if I do not walk your dog.

What happens to my dogs walks when the walker is on holiday?

I aim to arrange my years holiday's by the end of February at the latest. A copy of this will be given to you either by the end of February or at the time of your consultation should you book my services mid year. I also send out reminder texts and social media posts for upcoming holidays.

I cannot arrange cover for your dogs walks in my absence but I can provide you with a list of other local reliable dog walkers for you to contact them directly.