Code Of Conduct
CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL DOG WALKERS
Clean up after the dogs in their charge, showing respect for the community, its parks and residents, disposing of waste in appropriate receptacles.
Keep dogs on leash outside of designated off-leash areas.
Proactively monitor dogs if in an off-leash area.
Understand and abide by regional laws and bylaws relating to dogs.
Purchase and maintain a minimum of $1M in general liability insurance and valid licenses, if required.
Complete training in pet first aid & CPR within 3 months of certification and re-train every two years at minimum.
Transport dogs in their charge in a safe vehicle with adequate containment and ventilation.
Never tether a dog and leave it unattended for any length of time.
Behave in a proactive manner, screening all clients and their dogs carefully to ensure the safety of themselves, the public, and other dogs in their care.
Exclusively use positive reinforcement and the least invasive, minimally aversive methods with the dogs in their care.
Avoid the use of aversive tools and techniques, including but not limited to shock collars, spray collars, pinch/prong collars, choke chains, slip leads, leash corrections, alpha-rolling, and physical reprimands.
Exercise their right to refuse to provide service to dog with bite history or history of aggressive behaviour.
Refer clients to a qualified professional for advise relating to health, training, and nutrition.
Immediately transport any injured or ill dog to the nearest veterinary clinic and notify the legal guardians.
Discontinue providing services for dogs displaying aggressive behaviour toward dogs or people.
Uphold ethical responsibilities in the industry by avoiding plagiarism, bullying, slander, and defamation of other professionals, behaving in a respectful manner when engaging with the public and other professionals, in person and online.
continue to expand on their pet-related education through courses, reading, video, seminars, webinars, shadowing, assisting, volunteering, and interviewing.