Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Passionate Pet Care been in business?
Since 2002
Are references available?
Yes. We would be happy to provide references upon request.
Are you insured?
Yes. We are bonded and insured.
Will my dog be walked in a pack?
No. We typically walk two dogs at the most, and always strive to ensure that they are properly matched with respect to exercise requirements and behavior.
Do you only do semi-private walks?
No. We also offer private walks.
How will I know if my dog is a suitable for a walk?
We will start with a consultation and test walk to cover the basics, such as your pet’s physical and psychological health. Then, if necessary, we will implement a training period where the walker, dog and owner are given more time to get acquainted better and develop a relationship that all feel safe with. Typically, we find that dogs of all breeds and temperaments benefit from the socialization and exercise received during one of our walk options.
Do you only take well-behaved dogs and those that get along with others?
No. In fact, many of our dog’s have a wide variety of “socially challenging” behaviors that are greatly mitigated or corrected under the care of our services. Many of our clients find that our walkers are a great resource, helping them implement a consistent course of action, such as the use of specific commands or positive reinforcement, frequently in conjunction with a trainer.
How long will my dog walk for?
That depends upon the needs and schedule of your best friend. We offer a short ‘relief walk’, which averages roughly 10 to 15 minutes, or long enough for them to do their business. Our standard walks are for 30 minutes or an hour depending on your dogs individual needs and the goal of the walk, be it socialization, exercise or just a potty break.
Where will my dog be walked?
The bulk of our territory (see area served) is adjacent Riverside Park and 2 different dog-runs. We do our best to keep our walks fresh and engaging. Depending on where you live, typically, a thirty-minute walk will provide ample time for a visit to the park and an hour can be trip to the run, if desirable.
How will I know who will be walking my dog and will this change or remain consistent?
The relationship between you and your dog and his or her walker is of the utmost importance in our overall philosophy. After we have met you and your pet and assed your pet’s needs, we will work to provide the best fit possible within the scheduling parameters to ensure that the same walkers care for your dog on a regular basis, allowing for a strong and trusting bond to form. Each dog will have two walkers assigned to them to allow for sick days, vacations and overall greater flexibility to you. If a change in walker ever becomes necessary, you would be notified and given the opportunity to meet and approve of a walkers replacement.
Will my dog be safe and constantly attended to while on its walk or in the dog run?
Given the cast array of potential dangers in the city, our walkers are trained to keep continual attention on your pet’s well being, proactively ensuring the optimal conditions for a safe, and healthy experience. At no point would your dog ever be un-supervised, and in the case of dog-runs, our walkers will do their best to keep your beloved family member away from aggressive dogs that they might have trouble with.
What about inclement weather or if my pet is elderly or ill?
In extreme conditions, such as summer days, our walkers will carry water and use common sense with respect to taking breaks and slowing the pace or duration of the walk according to your dog’s needs. Clearly, some breeds are at their best during the winter months, while others prefer the heat. No matter where your pet might be along this spectrum, we will do our best to make sure that, no matter what mother-nature might bring, your dog continues to get the exercise and healthy stimulation they are accustomed to. Our walkers have an extensive history working with older, less mobile dogs, as well as those with limiting medical conditions. In such cases, your walk can be tailored to include any specific instructions.
Does Passionate Pet Care provide services for puppies?
Yes. Our staff can help in crate-training as well as shorter focused walks, or just spending time indoors if the puppy is too young to go out.
Do you offer boarding?
Yes. Many of our clients board their dogs at our place in Hel'ls Kitchen (see Services and Areas Served for more details). In addition, our walkers are open to staying with your per at your home, and in some cases, taking them to theirs.
What happens if my dog gets into an altercation?
Very rarely does this occur, as we are extremely careful about who and how we introduce dogs. In our experience, most “dog fights” are verbal posturing for supremacy. It is our belief that when the walker is the “top dog”, these outbursts are short lived and the two often become great friends. In the case of an altercation with an outside dog, our walkers are trained how to carefully separate the dogs and inspect for any injuries. You would of course be notified immediately and the other owner’s information taken. If the injury were serious, we would take your pet to the nearest vet. Our policy is to automatically cover any medical expenses, regardless of blame or circumstance. It is the owner’s responsibility to fully disclose any temperament issues in their pet that can trigger aggressiveness towards other animals or humans.
Do I have to pay for a minimum number of walks per week?
No. Clients may have a regular schedule with us or may just schedule walks occasionally.
Do you handle last minute changes, like an additional walk or even a sudden cancellation?
We can usually accommodate additional or last minute walks, but it is not guaranteed it may be the walker of your choice. Cancellations are accepted with out penalty, as long as you notify us at least 3 hours prior to the walk. Within the 3-hour notification window, you will be charged full price for the cancelled walk.
What makes your dog walking service special?
Because we are a small family-run operation we are able to provide personal one on one attention that an independent walker would give, but retain the flexibility and range of services that larger companies offer.
What would my dog do while on a walk with you?
Whether your dog needs a walk that is geared towards socialization, exercise, or an opportunity to relieve themselves, we strive to meet your dogs’ needs and will discuss your preferences at our intake.
Do you care for cats?
Yes. Please call for further details.
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Passionate Pet Care - Where your pet is family
Bridget Leighton • 917.774.3990
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