I do my best to insure a safe and happy hike for all involved. I put satellite GPS trackers on all dogs. I keep groups small and stick to a strict 5 dog maximum. I put high visibility vests and bells on all dogs. Smaller dogs wear a coyote vest provided by me. I take dogs off leash in only off leash legal areas. I am insured and licensed to walk dogs. I check weather daily and do not hike in unsafe weather. I personally train all my dogs to have safe hiking skills. I do not allow dogs off leash until they have shown proficient behavior with their hiking skills. I dismiss dogs who have shown flight risk behavior. All dogs wear ID tags with contact information. I carry a break stick, slip lead, air horn, knife, spray shield, emergency sling, and a first aid kit on all hikes. I leash dogs in parking lots walking to and from the trail head.

​

However, there is always risk involved with off leash hiking. A dog may get spooked and run off, chase an animal, get attacked by an animal, get an illness from a tick bite, hurt themselves in the environment, etc. Injury or death is a risk in off leash hiking.

 

I strongly believe that freedom of movement in nature is an inherent need for all dogs. That dogs live happier and more fulfilled lives with regular time off leash in nature. To me, the risk of off leash hiking is worth the benefits. I want my dog to live their best life, so he gets time to be a dog, and goes off leash regularly. But, I understand that there is no way to completely prevent all risk. 

​

As a client or potential client you must be aware and willing to take these risks. I write this not to scare you, but because honestly and transparency is incredibly important to me. All clients sign a liability waiver upon creating a Time to Pet account with Zoomies Dog Care LLC.