Consistent, one-to-one care for dogs, cats, and small animals in North London
Whether you’re working late, heading away for a few days, or need a bit of extra help, it’s not always easy to find the proper support for your pet. You want someone you can trust—someone who’ll show up on time, understand your pet’s needs, and treat them with the care and respect they deserve.
That’s what I offer.
I’m Derek, also known as Del. I run Finchley Dog Walker, a small, local business built on personal and reliable service. I’ve worked with nervous rescue dogs, confident city pups, shy cats, and small pets who need calm, consistent care.
If you’re based in Finchley, Muswell Hill, or nearby North London areas, I’d be happy to help.
Dog Walking Services
Every walk is done on a one-to-one basis. That means I walk just your dog—or your dogs if you have more than one from the same household. No groups. No noisy pack walks. Just calm, structured time focused on your dog.
Walks are tailored to suit:
- Older dogs who need to go at a gentler pace
- Dogs in training
- Rescue dogs who need confidence-building
- Puppies are starting to explore the world
- Dogs who prefer quiet, predictable routes
Popular walking locations include Coldfall Woods, Cherry Tree Wood, Parkland Walk and quiet residential roads. I stick to areas your dog knows and enjoys.
Dog walking prices:
- 15 minutes: £10
- 30 minutes: £15
- 45 minutes: £20
- 60 minutes: £25
After each walk, I’ll send you a quick update. You can also receive photos via WhatsApp or Dropbox, whichever you prefer.
Aided Walks for Elderly or Post-Op Dogs
Some dogs need a slower pace or extra care. I offer aided walks for:
- Elderly dogs
- Dogs recovering from surgery
- Dogs with joint or mobility issues
- Dogs who need supervised movement in the garden
These walks focus on comfort rather than distance. I’m happy to help with harnesses, lifting, or medication reminders.
Puppy Care Services
Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it can also be exhausting. I offer puppy visits and short training walks to support you during those first few weeks and months.
Visits can include:
- Toilet breaks
- Feeding
- Basic training (sit, stay, name recognition)
- Lead confidence (on safe paths or in your garden)
- Calm socialisation with traffic, noises, and handling
Each puppy is different. Some need a quiet visit and a cuddle. Others benefit from gentle play and boundary-setting. I’ll work with you to create a routine that suits your puppy and supports your training at home. T
Training Services
I offer calm, structured training walks and behaviour support for dogs that need extra help. This isn’t formal obedience training. Instead, it’s about building confidence and creating safer, more enjoyable walks.
Lead Walking & Focus Training
For dogs who pull, lunge, or lose focus.
We work on:
- Loose lead walking
- Engagement games (getting your dog to check in with you)
- Calmness around distractions
- Building structure into walks
Reactive Dog Support
For dogs who bark, growl, or panic around triggers (dogs, bikes, traffic, etc.).
We focus on:
- Trigger distance and recovery
- Quiet walking routes
- Handlers’ confidence
- Safety and stress reduction
These sessions are one-to-one and take place in your local area. I’ll always check in with you before and after to review progress and address any questions you may have.
Training Walks: £30 per 45-minute session
Cat Sitting Services
Most cats dislike being moved or staying in unfamiliar places. My cat sitting service allows your cat to stay at home while you’re away.
Each visit can include:
- Feeding and water refresh
- Litter tray cleaning
- Companionship and play (if your cat is social)
- Medication if required
- Photo and message updates
Whether your cat likes to be fussed over or wants to be left in peace, I respect their space and routine.
Cat sitting prices:
- One visit per day – £15
- Two visits per day – £25
- Bank Holidays – £20 per visit
Small Animal Care
I’ve cared for rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, and even chickens. Small pets often get overlooked when it comes to care, but they’re just as important.
I offer drop-in visits tailored to your animal’s species, needs, and handling preferences.
Services include:
- Feeding and water top-ups
- Hutch or cage cleaning
- Daily welfare checks
- Gentle handling (if appropriate)
- Routine updates and photos
These visits are beneficial during holidays or heatwaves, when small animals need more careful monitoring.
Pet Sitting and Overnight Care
If you’re going away and your dog or pet needs company overnight, I offer house sitting in your own home.
This service helps maintain your pet’s routine without the stress of moving them to a new environment. It also provides an extra layer of home security while you’re away.
Each stay includes:
- Walks, feeding, play, and medication
- Lights, curtains, bins and post
- 24-hour care or full-time presence (for dogs who can’t be left)
Prices:
- 24-hour care (can be left for short periods): £60 per day
- Full-time presence (no time alone): £120 per day
I stay in your home, care for your pets, and keep everything running as usual. It’s ideal for dogs with separation anxiety or cats that prefer a routine.
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Areas I Cover
I’m based in Finchley and work across:
- Muswell Hill
- East Finchley
- North Finchley
- Finchley Central
- Friern Barnet
- Other nearby areas in North London
If you’re slightly outside this area, feel free to ask. If I can help, I’ll be happy to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you insured and DBS checked?
Yes. I hold full pet business insurance and a current Enhanced DBS check, obtained through the Scouts.
Do you walk dogs in groups?
No. All walks are solo unless you have two or more dogs from the same household.
Can you give my pet medication?
Yes, including oral tablets, ear drops, and some injections (with instructions).
What happens if it rains or snows?
I’ll still walk your dog unless it’s unsafe. In extreme weather, we may do a short walk followed by enrichment indoors.
Do you charge extra on bank holidays?
Yes. Cat sitting visits on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are charged at £20 per visit.
Can I meet you before booking?
Absolutely. I offer a free introductory visit for all new clients.
Ready to Book?
If you’re looking for calm, experienced pet care in Finchley, Muswell Hill, or surrounding areas, I’d love to hear from you.
📞 WhatsApp 077 077 6 33 44
📧 Email: info@finchleydogwalker.co.uk
Let’s schedule a complimentary visit so I can meet your pet, discuss their routine, and determine the best service for your needs.
You get peace of mind. Your pet gets care they know and trust.
