Tailblazers.ca : Toronto Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters News

Q. Ok, so I need a dog walker/cat sitter—how do I set this up?

A. Please refer to the cat sitting or dog walking section of the website (under Services) for full details. But the first thing you need to do is fill out the New Client Form, which will provide a little background and insight into your pet’s personality and history, and help us determine whether or not we can help you. Then, we will contact you to set up a free preliminary interview at your convenience so that we can discuss your needs, concerns, schedule, etc.

Q. Does my dog or cat need to meet any requirements?

A. Yes, click here to view requirements.

Q. How does payment work?

A. For dog walking, payment is accepted in advance or on the last day of the week on which your dog is walked. For new cat sitting clients, payment must be made in advance, at the initial meeting, in order to book your dates. For existing clients, dates can be booked without any deposit, and payment can be left in your home when you leave. You can pay in cash or cheque payable to Tail Blazers. Simply leave it by the door, on a counter, fridge, or any other obvious place where your pet won't eat it!

Q. Do you keep my key?

A. Yes, we do. And we would hope that if you trust us with your beloved pet, you will trust us with a key to your home! But if you would like your key back, you are welcome to pick it up at your convenience.

Q. How will I know how my dog is doing on his walks?

A. Time permitting, we are happy to provide you with a quick note (you can leave a little notepad for daily entries, if you like) either daily or weekly to let you know what your pooch has been up to. Of course, we will notify you immediately if we have any concerns (loose stools, behavior problems, etc.).

Q. What if my dog pulls on leash?

A. Since we walk several dogs at a time, we cannot take on a dog that does not walk well on leash. And remember, even if you find it manageable, try adding 3 or 4 more dogs to the mix! It's very exciting for your dog, but potentially very difficult for us, and we need to retain control at all times in order to keep our charges safe & secure. If your dog pulls, consider trying a Halti or Gentle Leader-style head harness to prevent pulling. And nothing works like obedience classes!

Q. How much notice do I need to give to add or cancel a walk?

A. You can book a walk at the last minute, and if we can accommodate your dog, we will. As far as cancellations go, two days would be appreciated, but 12 hours is mandatory. Please remember that if we show up and your dog's not there, you will be charged for the walk!

Q. What if it’s raining? What if my dog gets dirty?

A. Inclement weather is just part of the job; your dog will be walked rain or shine. On really wet days we naturally try our best to keep them out of the mud, but dogs will be dogs (they love to get dirty!), so please keep a towel handy so that we can dry him off if necessary. top

Q. Do you work on weekends or holidays?

A. For dog walking, we do not work on weekends (except for the odd special request from existing clients) or on statutory holidays. We do, however, cat sit pretty much every day of the year! Meow!

Q. Do you ever go on vacation?

A. From time to time, ( and we will give you lots of notice) we do require a day or two off. You are welcome to suspend your dog's walks or find your own replacement walker. OR, we can make arrangements on your behalf for another trusted dog walker colleague to fill in for me. It will likely be someone whom you dog has met, and who has filled in for me in the past. In that case, we take care of the key exchange, instructions, contact information, etc.

Q. Are you hiring dog walkers or pet sitters?

A. We are not hiring at this time, and to be honest, Tail Blazers does not hire strangers; only trusted friends with whom we have a long-standing relationship.

Q. Are you bonded & insured?

A. We sure are. We use Verge Insurance.