Finchley Dog Walker

19/09/2024

🐾 Why It's Important to Get Your Dog Used to a Pet Sitter 🐾

Are you planning a holiday or need some help when life gets busy? Getting your dog used to a pet sitter is super important for their well-being—and it can make life easier for you, too!

Here’s why:
When your dog is comfortable with their pet sitter, it reduces stress and anxiety. They’ll see the sitter as a friendly, familiar face rather than a stranger taking over when you’re away. The more relaxed your dog is, the happier everyone is! 😊

Starting early is key! Arrange a few short visits or walks with the sitter before long stays. This helps build trust and allows your dog to get familiar with them in a positive, low-pressure way.

Plus, your sitter will get to know your dog’s personality, routines, and favourite toys (and maybe even their cheeky habits 🐶). That means when it’s time to go, you can relax knowing your dog’s in safe, caring hands.

So, if you’re considering using a pet sitter, start the process early! Your dog will feel at ease, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re in a happy, familiar environment.

Happy dog = happy owner! 🐕💛

17/09/2024

15/09/2024

So come on own up. Who found themselves singing along

13/09/2024

It's that time again—get ready to show off your favourite photos, whether quick snaps or gallery-worthy masterpieces! One of you has captured an incredible moment—funny, messy, or just downright proud.

Welcome to 'Fun Fabulous Foto Friday'! Could you share your pics in the comments? (Let's keep the fun to Fridays and this post.) Thanks!

13/09/2024

🚨 Safety First! 🚨
Before you head out on your next dog walk, take a moment to check your gear! Whether it's a lead, collar, harness, or muzzle, ensuring everything is in top condition is super important, especially if you've got a reactive or nervous dog.
We all trust our equipment when we first buy it (from good sources, of course!), but how often do you inspect it? Over time, stitching can fray, clips can weaken, and buckles might not be as secure as they once were.

🔍 Here's what I always check before any walk with my clients

- Are the clips and buckles fully closing and staying secure?
- Are any fraying or worn areas on leads, collars, or harnesses?
- Do all the straps fit snugly and securely?

It might sound small, but regular checks can prevent accidents and keep you and your dog safe. 🐾

12/09/2024

Seasonal Advice - Keep your dogs away from Acorns (from the Oak Tree) & Conkers (from the Horse Chestnut Tree)

Conkers: Signs of poisoning usually appear within one to six hours. Clinical signs are drooling, excessive drinking, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, difficulty breathing.
Seek immediate veterinary advice should you have any worries.

Acorns: Acorns are highly toxic for pets and can easily be eaten. They are most dangerous before they ripen, when they are still green. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and lethargy.

Seek immediate veterinary advice should you have any worries.

10/09/2024

one of many satisfied doggy clients

09/09/2024

Helpful guide 🐝

09/09/2024

**Meet Del, the Heart Behind Finchley Dog Walker**

2011, I founded Finchley Dog Walker with a mission from the heart. After adopting his rescue dog, Roxy—a shy, nervous dog with her fair share of issues—I realised that many dog walkers focused on group or pack walks, leaving dogs like Roxy behind. These dogs needed special care, attention, and understanding, often unavailable in a group setting. That's why I decided to offer something different: one-to-one dog walks tailored to each dog's unique needs.

My love of dogs started when I was just 10 years old. Growing up with dogs who needed more patience and care, This experience inspired me to create a service where no dog would feel overlooked or stressed.

But here's something to consider if you use a dog walker —do you know who's walking your dog? Dog walking is an unregulated service, which means anyone can set up shop as a dog walker. However, not everyone has the experience, training, or insurance to protect your dog. At Finchley Dog Walker, I believe in transparency and professionalism. I am fully insured, have undergone first-aid training, and have years of hands-on experience with many dogs.

So, the next time you are looking for someone to walk your dog, ask yourself: Is your dog walker insured? Have they completed first aid training? What experience do they have with different types of dogs? With Finchley Dog Walker, you can rest easy knowing your dog is in caring, capable hands.

Is it time for a walk? Why not contact us today to learn more about our one-to-one dog walking service? 🐾

08/09/2024

Happy National Dog Walker Appreciation Day!

Let's give a massive shoutout to all the fantastic dog walkers who improve our dogs' lives daily! Whether sunny or pouring rain, they ensure our dogs get the exercise, fresh air, and adventures they need. It's not just about walking—it's about creating new experiences, building friendships, and ensuring each dog is happy and healthy.

At Finchley Dog Walker, we're proud to be part of this fantastic community and 9fger one to one bespoke walks We're constantly updating our skills and knowledge to provide top-notch care. With limited availability, we focus on giving every dog the attention and love they deserve.

If you use Finchley Dog Walker or another fantastic dog walker, please take a moment to show your appreciation.

Leave a thank you in the comments below, and share the love for those who keep our dogs smiling!

Testimonial: "Old man Kylo (shown in photo) has been walking with his trusted pal Derek (Finchley Dog Walker) for over four years. I know he's in good hands with such a confident, caring dog carer!"

07/09/2024

Let’s Settle This—Is Your Dog a Bed Hog? 🛏️🐶**

Do you share your bed with your dog? Are they perfect snugglers, or do they somehow manage to take up the whole bed?

We want to hear your funniest bed-sharing stories!

Tell us in the comments—who really owns the bed in your house?

06/09/2024

05/09/2024

🐾 **Mental Enrichment: What Does Your Dog Love?** 🧠✨

Did you know that, besides physical exercise, all dogs benefit from mental enrichment, too? This could be as simple as:

- 🍽️ Ditching the food bowl at mealtimes
- 🐾 Using snuffle mats
- 🌳 Hiding treats during walks

We’d love to hear from you! What are your dog’s favourite enrichment activities? Share your tips, ideas, or even photos in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other to keep those canine brains busy and happy! 🐶💡

05/09/2024

Did you know that September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month?

It's the perfect time to reflect on how we can all be better owners for our dogs. Start by ensuring your dog’s identification is up to date—this could be the difference in reuniting with them quickly if they get lost. Regular vet check-ups are essential, too, not just for vaccinations but to catch any potential health issues early. Don’t forget to keep your dog’s mind and body active with daily exercise and mental stimulation, which can help prevent behavioural problems.
Let's commit this month to go the extra mile for our dogs! Please share your tips for being a responsible dog owner or tell us what you’ll be doing differently. 🐾

04/09/2024

**Do You Use a Flexi Lead? Here’s What You Need to Know for Safety!**

If you prefer using a flexi lead for your dog, choosing the right one is crucial for both your safety and your dog’s well-being. Always opt for the thicker, ribbon-style leads instead of the thin cord versions. The cords can easily wrap around your or your dog’s legs, causing painful cuts or grazes. The thicker leads are safer, offering better control and reducing the risk of injury.

Also, remember to keep the lead short when walking near roads or when another dog is nearby. If the lead is fully extended and not locked, you lose control, which can be risky. A sudden stop can be particularly dangerous if your dog is wearing a collar instead of a harness.

Let’s keep our walks safe and enjoyable for everyone! Next time you're out, take a moment to review your lead choice and handling technique. Your dog will thank you! 🐾

03/09/2024

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Luisa Myers Nobbs, Georgina Lambert

03/09/2024

Just one of our many testimonials

02/09/2024

First aid course Sunday 22nd Sept still has spaces available

I have done Rachel Bean and course and can highly recommend

We have a pet first aid course being held 22nd September.

The Scout Hut,
Sheldon Avenue,
Highgate,
London,
N6 4ND

This Course is taught by Qualified Veterinary Nurse Rachel Bean RVN

Not your average Canine First Aid Course, its very comprehensive, interactive, emotional and thought provoking.

No PowerPoint
Real Dogs

The OFQUAL Level 3 Qualification is £140pp

The Workshop is 9.30am til approx 4.30pm hours.

iPET Network are proud to have developed the ONLY regulated Qualification in Canine Emergency First Aid in the Canine and Feline Sector

The qualification is an excellent balance of theoretical and practical learning to ensure Candidates have the knowledge required should they ever be faced with an emergency first aid situation.

You can attend without gaining the Qualification, this is £60pp

Numbers are limited to 20 so please message me directly if you’re interested. Ofqual is usually for pet professionals but not limited to them only.

Only demonstration dogs are allowed to attend.

Please message me your email address for more. Details

02/09/2024

-As autumn sets in, it's important to be mindful of the seasonal hazards that can pose a risk to our dogs. Acorns, mushrooms, and conkers are all common this time of year, but they can be harmful if ingested. Acorns and conkers contain toxins that can cause serious digestive issues, and some mushrooms are highly toxic to dogs, leading to severe illness.

While enjoying your walks through the fallen leaves, keep an eye out for these autumnal dangers and steer your dog clear. If your dog does happen to eat something suspicious, contact your vet immediately. Let’s keep our dogs safe this season!

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to get in touch.