[gemy]

Oh I forgot to add, that I paid $60 an hour, for a very experienced person to walk Magic. I needed some-one with a working dog training background, who would always keep him under control, and work his obedience commands during the walks.

From the consumer side of things: I wanted him insured. I did go out with him on two walks to see how he handled Magic. Which by the way I paid for,and was glad to do. He was also assessed by my trainer, and coached in how to handle this big boy. BTW if my trainer said, umm no, not experienced enough, or competent enough, he wouldn't be walking my boy.

I would expect the person to show up on time, and to give a full hour's worth of exercise. If the person was going to be "late", I would expect a phone message or a text message to let me know.

I also expected and "paid" for Magic to be walked alone. That is only him on the lead with the walker. After a time, when I became very confident with the person, he was allowed to take Magic to our leashfree Cherry Beach for swimming. On those days this happened I paid for more than 1hr-travel time to and fro the beach.

I provided the vet phone number and address. Also the location of all "vet emergency hospitals" in our area. Clear instructions on what to do. Don't wait to reach me; just get to closest emergency hospital or my vet.

I expected to be told, if Magic had diarehea or anything unusual with his elimination.
In summer, I expected the dog walker to carry water, and always an extra lead and collar.

At any time of year, I expected Magic's pads to be checked. Heavy dogs, chasing toys, can often literally sheer off the skin of the pad. Also he was walking in parks and conservation areas so burrs can attach to the paw and hair on the foot.

Anyhow these were some of the things I expected.