13/01/2025
I absolutely hate having to do this, but I have been encouraged to do so by my family, friends and some of my clients.
Today a post was put on FB about me hitting a dog that I was walking at Mayfield Park. This post has left me feeling devastated as I have nothing but love for animals, all animals and would never hurt any of them.
Today, I will leave out names for the sake of my clients, I had one dog that was getting rather frisky with another that I was walking. I tried to distract this dog with my voice and treats however it didn't work. Anyone that knows dogs will know how determined a male dog can be when he is like that. So I had to put him back on the lead for his sake and more importantly the sake of the dog that was the target of his affection. Unfortunately, he continue this behavior and I had to physically remove him by pulling at his lead or lifting him off by his harness. I never once struck him or any other animal for that matter.
I pride myself in the transparency of the service I provide to my clients, hence why I send them videos and pictures of the walks so they know their pets are in safe hands and having a great time. I don't even look upon them as clients, they animals and their owner I consider friends i work so hard to build that relationship with them. As an owner of animals myself I know how important that trust is. I wear normally wear branded clothing so people know who I am. I'm afraid to even leave a poo incase someone sees it and reports me.
The post also mentioned that I had them all on leads and therefore they had no room to move. This is because I was coming to the end of the walk and I was calming them down and making it easier to put those that need to, into the van.
It was also mentioned my van wasn't big enough for that many dogs. I have crates, a bench seat with doggie seat belts and a front seat with seat belts also. I always ask the clients how they prefer to have their pet transported and I stick to that.
It was also stated I was breaking the law by walking 6 dogs. That is not correct, I'm insured to walk upto 6 dogs.
This took place after a walk in Mayfield Park. I'm well know around there, as I walk many of my dogs there. I have a great reputation for the service I provide but also going above and beyond to help clients with issues they may be having with their pet. I've even given up my own time to attend a meeting with a behaviourist as I wanted to ensure I was doing everything I could to make my clients life easier with her dog.
I will not be responding to any negative comments on this post. I've had my say now, and thankfully so have so many of my clients. I can't thank you all enough for your posts, messages and calls. It was really overwhelming and as I keep saying on my posts, I'm extremely lucky to have such amazing cats and dogs, but also supportive owners. Thank you.