What does a Certified Dog Trainer Do?
My Dog Trainer Certification was earned from the Animal Behavior College, an internationally recognized school. It is approved by the Bureau for Private Post-secondary and Vocational Education. This program provided me with formal education in canine obedience training using positive reinforcement methods, and how to understand behavior and its motivations. As a certified dog trainer, I provide basic obedience, advanced obedience, and problem-solving training. Working with a certified dog trainer ensures that you’ll be working with someone who has the skills to effectively teach you and train your dog.
What does a Professional Dog Walker do?
Responsible dog owners sometimes have demanding schedules and long commutes to and from work that keep them from coming home at lunch or after work at a reasonable time to let a dog out. Puppies, young dogs, dogs with small bladders, and high-energy breeds benefit greatly from a mid-day walk and/or bathroom break. When owners are gone for longer periods of time most dogs adjust better to their owner’s absence and experience less anxiety and stress when they can remain in their familiar, secure home environments free from exposure to illnesses of strange animals. Dog walkers make this possible with daily visits to your home.
Why should I use your services, when I might be able to get a friend, neighbor or relative to do it?
You won’t have to impose on a friend, neighbor or relative to care for your dogs while you are away if you hire a professional dog walker. In addition, I am insured, bonded, and certified by the American Red Cross in PET FIRST Aid, which provides even greater peace of mind when you have to leave your pets at home.
How much does a visit cost?
Prices are based on the number of visits scheduled, the number of dogs served, the types of services provided, the distance traveled, and holiday charges, if applicable.
How do I get started with All About Canine Care?
Please call me at 412-559-6610 as soon as you confirm your travel plans. I will contact you to set up an introductory meeting with you and your dogs.
What is covered during the Introductory Meeting?
You and your dogs will meet with me. We’ll discuss the dog and the required care, as well as the service period desired. If I feel a trial visit needs to be done due to a fearful or aggressive animal then a visit charge will be assessed for that trial visit.
How many visits a day do you provide for dogs?
I recommend a minimum of three (3) visits per day. However, it really depends on your dog’s needs.
What areas do you provide dog walking services?
We serve the North Hills of Pittsburgh, PA, including: Bakerstown, Cranberry Township, Gibsonia, Mars, Seven Fields, and Valencia.
How long is each visit?
During each 30 minute visit I will take your dog(s) out to relieve themselves and for a walk; give them food and water; and provide them with all the attention and care they desire! A note will be left with a status of my visit with your dog(s) as well.
Do you take “last-minute” reservations?
Yes! I will make every effort to accommodate you if time permits provided you are a current client and I have already been introduced to you and your dog(s).
What kind of animals do you care for?
Dogs of all breeds, shapes, color and sizes so long as they do not pose a danger to the pet care provider’s safety.
Are you bonded and insured?
Yes! I am insured for care, custody and control of your pets, and bonded for greater peace of mind.
Do you administer medication to pets?
Yes, but with your veterinarian’s consent only.
How and when is payment accepted?
Payment must be made in advance or during each visit. For your convenience you can pay online with a credit card or PayPal account. In addition, I will accept personal checks, but they cannot be post-dated.
If you would like the convenience of online paying with PayPal or credit cards please contact me and I will send you an online invoice at which time you can make your payment. I do add a 4.5% processing fee to all invoices paying by PayPal or credit cards.
What happens if my dog becomes ill or injured?
Your Emergency Contact and Vet Information is vitally important to us and your pet. In case of illness or injury, we will contact you and transport your dog to the vet with your permission.
What do you do with my keys when I join the Ready Key program?
Your home’s security is important to me! You are protected from break-ins because I utilize a special system of coding for your keys: your name and address are never kept with your keys and the second key is locked up in a safe. All keys are insured as well. If you do not have two keys ready to hand to me during our introductory meeting, then a visit charge will be incurred for me to return to your house to pick up those items. If you have only one key for me, I will make another key for a $10 fee.