Welcome pack

Welcoming a new dog, cat or small pet into professional care can feel like a big step. You want to be sure they’re safe, well looked after, and treated with respect. You also want clarity about how things work, what’s expected of you, and what you can expect in return.

I’ve put this Welcome Pack together to guide you through everything in a clear, simple way. Think of it as a step-by-step onboarding guide. It covers the essentials from registering as a client to what happens if plans change. Along the way you’ll find links to key policies so you can dig deeper whenever you need to.

I’ll also share practical advice I’ve learned over the years as a trusted dog walker, house sitter and pet sitter in Finchley, Muswell Hill and the surrounding areas. Some of it may surprise you. For example, did you know that dogs and pain often go unnoticed because many hide discomfort? It’s a reminder of why professional care, observation and communication matter so much.

Derek "Del" Chambers owner of Finchley Dog Walker

Step 1: Meet Del and Understand the Service

I’m Del, the owner of Finchley Dog Walker. Since 2011, I’ve specialised in one-to-one walks for dogs that don’t thrive in groups.

In addition to dog walking and training walks, I also offer the following services: cat sitting, small animal visits, Rabbit care, and house sitting to keep pets relaxed at home while you’re away.

What sets my service apart:

  • Solo walks only. No vans, no pack walking.
  • Enrichment is built into every walk or visit.
  • Flexible care that adapts to health, behaviour or weather.
  • First aid-trained dog walker with ongoing learning.
  • Fully insured with Protectivity Insurance.

This is about more than exercise. It’s about safety, trust and wellbeing.

I also specialise in working with rescue dogs, having welcomed and cared for rescues myself for over 30 years. I understand that rescue dogs often come with their own unique backgrounds and challenges, and I approach each one with patience, empathy, and a tailored approach that supports their individual needs. To help make the transition easier and build confidence at their own pace, I’ve put together a dedicated training and socialising walks package specifically designed for rescue dogs and their new families.

Step 2: Complete Your Registration Forms

Before we start, there are a few forms to complete. These help me learn about your pet and ensure we’re prepared for any situation.

Have you filled in details about your pet’s health, behaviour and favourite things? These small details help me spot changes. For example, if a usually lively dog slows down, it may indicate illness or pain.

Step 3: Read the Key Policies

Policies are there to protect you, your pets, and me. They also show you exactly what to expect.

Do you know what happens if a walk is cancelled due to heat or ice? Have you checked how keys are stored? These policies answer questions before they arise.

Step 4: Emergencies and Veterinary Care

What if your dog hurts a paw, or your cat shows signs of illness while you’re away?

  • I’ll contact you straight away.
  • If you’re unavailable, I’ll call your emergency contact.
  • Pets will be taken to your vet where possible.
  • If that’s not an option, another local vet will be used.
  • Veterinary costs remain your responsibility.

Because I’m a first aid trained dog walker, I can provide basic care until we reach a professional. This is vital for dogs and pain. Many pets mask discomfort, so having someone alert to minor signs makes a real difference.

Step 5: Understand Cancellations and Refunds

Plans change, and that’s fine. However, as a small business, I need clear boundaries to maintain fairness.

Quick summary:

  • Walks and single visits: 48 hours’ notice. Less than that = full fee.
  • Pet sitting: 7 days’ notice. Less than that = 50% fee.
  • House sitting: deposits are non-refundable, and staged fees apply for late cancellations.
  • Early returns: no refunds once a booking has started.

How often do you plan ahead for your pet’s care? Having clear notice periods helps both of us.

Step 6: Insurance That Protects You

I hold full cover with Protectivity Insurance.

At a glance:

  • Public Liability: £1m
  • Care, Custody & Control of Animals
  • Key and Lock Cover
  • House Sitting Cover
  • Personal Accident (for me as the operator)

This means your pets, property and keys are protected while in my care. You should also keep your own home and pet insurance up to date.

Step 7: Learn About My Approach to Pet Safety

Every pet is unique. Some are anxious, some are excitable, and some are recovering from illness. My approach always puts safety first and is always tailored to the dog/cat needs

I never use prong collars, choke chains or shock collars. Only flat collars or harnesses are acceptable. Dogs must wear a legal ID tag and be microchipped. Cats must also be microchipped, as required by law.

I also follow strict routines for:

  • Checking gates and doors
  • Using secure leads and harnesses – no check collars or adverse methods
  • Avoiding unsafe routes in extreme weather.
  • Watching for signs of stress, illness or pain.

Have you noticed how subtle dogs can be when hiding pain? A quiet refusal to jump into the car, or licking paws more than usual. These signs are easy to miss, but they matter.

Step 8: Payment and Next Steps

Payment is due in advance unless we’ve agreed otherwise. Once your forms are complete and policies read, we can confirm your booking.

Checklist:

  • ✅ Complete forms
  • ✅ Read key policies
  • ✅ Provide vet and emergency contacts
  • ✅ Check ID tag and microchip details
  • ✅ Confirm payment

Once that’s done, your onboarding is complete and your pet’s care is secured.

FAQs

Do you offer group walks?
No. All walks are solo unless agreed otherwise. This makes them safer and more enjoyable, especially for shy or reactive dogs.

Do you offer cat sitting and small animal visits?
Yes. I provide cat sitting and small animal pet sitting, including Rabbit care, in Finchley, Muswell Hill, and the surrounding areas. Services include feeding, water changes, cleaning, and play.

What if my pet has special medical needs?
That’s fine. Medication can be given as instructed in writing. Always keep me updated about changes in health or treatment.

Final Thoughts

This Welcome Pack is here to guide you step by step. From completing forms to understanding cancellations, everything is designed to protect your pets and give you peace of mind.

When you trust me with your pets, you’re not just hiring a walker or sitter. You’re working with someone who knows how to spot subtle signs, whether it’s dogs and pain or cats hiding stress. You’re choosing an experienced first aid-trained dog walker who values safety and enrichment and has undertaken training in body language, t-touch and more

If you’re ready to begin, please complete the forms and confirm your booking. If you have questions, get in touch.