Finchley Dog Walker

20/11/2025

Winter’s Here… and So Are the Gritters!
If you spotted the gritters out last night, you’ll know we’re officially heading into the colder months. And with that comes rock salt, grit, and ice on the pavements.

It keeps the roads safe for us, but it can be tough on your dog’s paws.

Rock salt can cause:
• Soreness
• Dry, cracked pads
• Redness between toes
• Stomach upset if your dog licks it off

That’s why I always give paws a quick check after every walk.
A simple wipe-down makes a big difference.

My quick tip:
Use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to clean away salt, grit, and ice when you get home. It keeps paws comfortable and helps avoid irritation.

Winter walks can still be fun and safe with a little extra care.

This is part of my Winter Safety Series, simple tips to help keep your dog happy, healthy, and protected through the colder weather.

Stay warm, stay safe, and give your dog an extra cuddle from me.

Del
Finchley Dog Walker 🐾

18/11/2025

Have you ever struggled to find someone you truly trust to look after your dog?

That’s precisely how Amy felt before getting in touch with me to care for Enzo. Since having him, she’d never felt comfortable leaving him with anyone – until now.

Hearing that she was finally able to go away and fully realise Enzo was safe and happy means everything. I understand how important it is to leave your dog with someone who genuinely cares and takes the time to get to know them. Building that trust is at the heart of what I do.

If you’re planning time away or need extra support with your dog, I’d love to help.

Let’s chat – send me a message or drop me a WhatsApp on 077 077 6 33 44

17/11/2025

A question I get asked on a regular basis

Wondering what breeds of dog get on well with cats ? Read our article in the comments below 👇👇🙀🐶🐾

16/11/2025

. Dog owners: Feed them, love them, and they’ll worship you like a god.

Cat owners: Well, good luck with that!

12/11/2025

A lot of truth

12/11/2025

Love a cosy candle? Your dog might not and a waggy tail can knock one over in a second.

Strong scents can irritate pets’ noses, and real flames add risk. Curious cats and enthusiastic tails can tip candles or potpourri bowls, causing burns, spilt wax, broken glass, or even a fire.

Try this:

* Pick unscented soy or beeswax candles, or go flameless with LED.
* Avoid strong essential oils (tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint).
* Place candles high, in sturdy holders, away from edges and draughts.
* Use enclosed lanterns; never leave a lit candle unattended.
* Keep melts, oils, matches, and lighters out of reach.
* Ventilate rooms and wash pet bedding regularly.

A home that smells like dogs is a home that smells like love

Let's here your tips on keeping your home feeling cosy but safe

11/11/2025

Today we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of all who served in times of conflict - men, women, and the animals who stood beside them.

11/11/2025

⚠️6 SIGNS YOUR DOG ISN’T GETTING ENOUGH EXERCISE⚠️

🔹WEIGHT GAIN 🔹
If your dog has been getting a bit plump lately, it may be an indication that more exercise is needed. Chat with your vet about what diet tweaks you might want to consider while you are also increasing daily walks, play breaks, and general activity.

🔹DESTROYING THE HOUSE🔹
Behavioral problems, and especially destructive behavior, are commonly a result of not getting enough exercise. Many dogs become bored & frustrated if they don’t get enough outdoor exercise and mental stimulation. Letting your pup release that pent-up energy with a long walk with lots of sniff breaks at least once a day may be the only treatment needed.

🔹WITHDRAWN BEHAVIOUR🔹
Some dogs will become very withdrawn and depressed when they are lacking in mental and physical stimulation. However, this can also be a sign of illness, so consult your veterinarian if you are seeing this as a symptom.

🔹HYPERACTIVITY🔹
Dogs that are hyperactive are often exercise-deficient. This is commonly seen in young dogs and energetic breeds. If their energy is not used in a productive way, it will be used for naughtiness. These pooches are begging for interactive exercise time.

🔹EXCESSIVE BARKING🔹
Some dogs that are restless and bark or whine a lot are the vocal versions of hyperactivity—they are just telling you that they need more exercise. Regular outdoor play periods are often the cure to this behavior issue.

🔹STIFFNESS🔹
Just like with people, a sedentary lifestyle—especially in older dogs—leads to muscle loss and stiff and painful joints. Daily exercise helps to maintain muscle tone. Do touch base with your veterinarian to see if a health problem such as arthritis is involved. But even if it is, a daily exercise plan will go a very long way to keeping your dog more limber and able to get around.

10/11/2025

This is a very important video to watch as this time of year digs get spooked by fireworks etc

MORE DOGS ARE LOST ON A WALK in November and December than any other time of the year.

This is down to dog owners changing their routines to allow for the shorter days and many people will also change where they walk their dogs.

This can cause problems for dogs who rely upon scent to find their way around their usual route and many become separated from their owners during their walk.

We released a new video earlier this year explaining exactly how a dog will behave if it loses sight of it's owner and also provide professional advice on WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR DOG during a walk.

There is a link to the video in the comments below and if is worth watching so as you know exactkly what you should do if you become sepearted from your dog during your daily walk.

The video is only 7 minutes long surely your dog is worth it?

The Pet Detectives.

10/11/2025

Do you ask the dog first?

Quick reminder for friendly greetings on walks.

Ask the owner and the dog. The dog’s choice matters most.
* Look for a “yes”: soft eyes, loose body, moves towards you.
* Look for a “no”: turns away, lip licking, yawning, tail tucked.
* If you’re not sure, give space. Ask. Pause. Observe.

Let’s keep every hello safe and happy for dogs and people.

Please share this with family and friends, especially children. Comment with a sign you’ve seen that says “no thanks”. If you need help with a shy or reactive dog, send me a message for calm, one-to-one walks in the local area.

08/11/2025

I got over 50 reactions on my posts last week! Thanks everyone for your support! 🎉