Group Walking pick ups Epsom/Ashtead 

About me:

Hello! My name is Em and I love working with dogs. Hoppes Hounds is simply me, doing my best to works to the standards I believe dogs deserve. I combine my years of handling experience, training, courses, education to offer canine care, that really and truly puts canine welfare and care first.

During my years working with dogs, I have experienced working with both pet dogs and working dogs, as well as a huge range of behavioural issues, unusual breeds/breed specific behaviours/breed specific behaviour issues training/lack of training issues, rescues/decompression/bond development, canine sports canicross, bikejor, scooter and more. I currently have over 20 courses completed, including a level 3 in Canine Behaviour, Canine First Aid, and many many more, I am also fully insured. 

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All dogs are treated with the same care and attention I show my own dogs, as I believe having a good relationship with each dog is vital, using FF techniques, understanding of behaviours/body language and breed specifics, to create a environment that sets the dogs up for success. I don't believe in using adverse tools to manage behaviours. Each dog is treated, managed, and assessed as individuals, as well as part of the group as a whole should they be in group walks. 

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If you are looking for a walker for groups or solo walks please do get in touch to see if I can help. 

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FAQs about my dog walking services:

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Do you accept any dog?

I don't think I've yet met a dog I didn't actually fall in love with if im honest, regardless of breed and type. But in order to do my role safely I do have risk assesments and policies/protocols to follow. Dogs require a minimum set of behaviours and social skills in order to be able be walked in group settings for example. Each client has assessments made from meet and greets, owner/handler assessments and a trial period. Not all dogs are want to be in a group or are group suitable so 1-1 walks are perfect for them. 

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How do you keep dogs safe in your care?

There are many steps and protocol in place, here are some examples, walk locations, dogs, pick up/drop offs and all handling situations are risk assessed, with protocols in place to ensure all dogs are set up for success from hot weather protocols onwards. Any incidents are logged, owners notified, and any changes needed are made.  I also maintain my canine first aid certifications and CPD. 

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How many dogs do you walk at once?

Group sizes vary depending on the day and range from 3-5. 

My insurance coverage and local guidance and regulations, permit me to walk groups of up to 6 maximum.

 

Worth noting there are several areas in Surrey who have specific number regulations and these are adhered too should I walk in these areas.

When walking dogs, I stick to the Surrey Code of Conduct laid out for Professional Dog Walkers, whilst ensuring I leave the area better than when I arrived by litter picking or reporting fly tipping etc.

Link to the SCC Code of Conduct for Dog Walkers: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/culture-and-leisure/countryside/what-can-you-do/walking/dog-walking#professional

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Do you walk entire dogs?

Each dog is assessed on their individual merit if they suit group walks they are welcome if not I am happy to offer 1-1s if i have space.

However bitches will not be walked when in season. 

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My dog has no recall can they still have group walks?

It depends entirely on the dog in question, if they are happy on lead, and won't struggle in group situations being on lead then absolutely. Not all dogs have the skills needed to be off lead they are more than welcome. ❤️

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