Tips for choosing dog walkers

Darren
Jan 24
2 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Tips for Choosing Dog Walkers and Pet Sitting Services

Finding a reliable dog walking or pet sitting service in West London is about far more than convenience or price. Your pet’s safety, wellbeing, and daily routine depend on choosing a professional, trustworthy service — not just the first name on a listing app.

If you’re searching for a dog walker in West London or pet sitting in Little Venice or Maida Vale, here are the most important things to consider before making your choice in our tips for choosing dog walking services.

1. Tips for Choosing Dog Walking, Choose a Professional and Insured Dog Walking Service

A reputable dog walking and pet sitting company should always carry appropriate insurance, including public liability insurance and care, custody and control cover.

When choosing a professional dog walking service, always ask about insurance, a legitimate business will be happy to explain their cover.

2. Consistency Matters More Than Convenience

One of the biggest differences between a professional company and an app-based listing is consistency.

A professional service will:

Aim to provide the same walker regularly

Keep group sizes small and manageable

Avoid rotating unfamiliar walkers

Consistent, local dog walking in West London helps pets feel relaxed and secure.

3. A Meet & Greet Should Always Be Offered

Any high-quality pet sitting or dog walking service should arrange a meet and greet before care begins.

A relaxed meet and greet gives everyone confidence before services begin.

4. Ask About Safety Procedures & Policies

Professional pet care businesses operate with clear systems in place, such as:

Secure key handling

Emergency and veterinary procedures

Written service agreements

These safety systems are a key part of professional pet sitting services.

5. GPS Tracking, First-Aid and Visit Updates Add Transparency and Duty of Care

Many modern dog walking services now use GPS tracking, carry a specialised pet First-Aid Kit and provide digital visit reports.

GPS-tracked dog walking services provide transparency and reassurance for owners as well as check-in/out reports providing a sense of security and trust.

6. Look for Genuine Reviews & Local Reputation

When choosing a dog walker, local reputation matters.

A strong reputation for reliable pet care is built over time.

7. Clear Pricing & Honest Policies

A professional service will always be upfront about pricing, cancellations, and what’s included.

This is especially important for regular pet visits while owners are at work or away.

8. Personalised Care, Not One-Size-Fits-All

Every pet is different, and care should be tailored accordingly. These days professional pet care providers utilise software and offer a client App which enables clients to request services, manage schedules, send messages, pay invoices, update pet information and much more.

Quality pet sitting in West London focuses on routine, familiarity and individual needs while putting you in control.