Using A Team Based Dog Walking Company

As a dog owner, ensuring our furry family member gets the exercise, socialization and attention they deserve is a top priority! But with busy work schedules and daily commitments, finding the time for regular walks can be challenging. That is where a professional dog walking service comes in! While there are many options available, choosing a team based dog walking company offers PAWsome advantages. Here is why a team based approach is the best choice for you and your pup.

Reliability & Consistency. Once of the biggest concerns for pet owners is ensuing their dog gets their scheduled walks, rain or shine. With a non-team based dog walker, unexpected circumstances like illness or emergencies can leave your pup without their much needed exercise. A team based dog walking company eliminates this issue by having multiple walkers available to step in when needed. This means your dog will never miss a walk, providing you with peace of mind and your pet with a consistent routine!

Increased Availability & Flexibility. Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you need last minute schedule changes. A team based dog walking service offers greater flexibility, accommodating changes more easily than an individual walker. Bonus with team based, is they are more likely to accommodate same day and on demand walks! So whether your pup needs an early morning walk, a late night stroll or a midday walk, a team can ensure someone is available to meet your needs.

Enhanced Safety for Your Dog. Safety is a top priority when it comes to dog walking. A team based company has protocols in place to handle emergencies, whether it is an injury, an aggressive encounter with another dog, or inclement weather. With a team backing them up, walkers are better prepared to handle unexpected situations, ensuring the safety of your dog at all times.

Socialization Opportunities. Dogs thrive on social interaction! Using a team based dog walking company ensures your pup gets used to different people. This can be beneficial for their behavior, confidence and overall well being!

Professionalism & Training. Reputable team based dog walking companies invest in training and certifications for their staff. This means walkers are knowledgeable about dog body language & behavior, first aid & CPR and handling different breeds and temperaments. With a team approach, there is also ongoing communication and shared expertise, ensuring the best possible care for your pup!

Better Communication & Customer Service. A team based dog walking company typically has a dedicated support system, such as software, making it easier to communicate with walkers, schedule services and receive updates about your dog’s walk. Many companies offer apps or online portals where you can track your dog’s activity, get pictures from their walks and stay informed about their progress!

Peace of Mind for Pet Parents. Knowing your dog is in good hands allows you to focus on your daily responsibilities without stress! With a team based dog walking company, you do not have to worry about cancellations, unreliable service or inexperienced walkers. You can trust that your pet is receiving top-notch care from a dedicated and professional team.

Choosing a dog walking service is an important decision and opting for a team based company ensures your dog gets the best care possible. With reliability, flexibility, safety and socialization benefits, a team based approach offers unparalleled advantages for both pets and their owners.

If you are looking for a trustworthy and professional dog walking service, consider The Pet Lady - it is a decision that will keep tails wagging! Contact us today to get started! Is your dog ready for their walkies?

Why Using a Dog Walker Can Be A Game-Changer for You And Your Pup

As pet parents, we all want the very best for our furry family members. But let’s be honest—between work, errands, family obligations, and the occasional need for a little self-care, it can be challenging to make sure our dogs are getting the exercise and attention they need every single day. That’s where hiring a professional dog walker can be an absolute game-changer!

Benefits for Your Dog

1. Regular Exercise for a Healthier Pup
Just like humans, dogs thrive with regular physical activity. Daily walks help keep their weight in check, improve their health, and maintain strong muscles and joints. A dog who exercises consistently is also less prone to behavioral issues caused by pent-up energy.

2. Mental Stimulation and Socialization
A change of scenery, the chance to sniff new smells, and the opportunity to interact with the world all contribute to a well-rounded, happy pup. Walks aren’t just about physical exercise—they’re about mental engagement too!

3. Relief from Boredom and Anxiety
Dogs left alone for extended periods can become anxious or destructive due to boredom. A midday walk breaks up their day, reduces separation anxiety, and provides comfort (for both your dog and you) in knowing they’re not alone for too long.

Benefits for You

1. Peace of Mind
Knowing that your dog is getting the care and exercise they need while you’re at work or away from home allows you to focus on your tasks without worry. A happy, well-exercised dog is a calmer dog when you return home!

2. Improved Behavior at Home
A tired dog is a good dog! When your pup gets the right amount of exercise, they’re less likely to engage in excessive barking, chewing, or other unwanted behaviors. Instead, they’ll be more relaxed and ready to snuggle up with you at the end of the day.

3. Flexibility and Convenience
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you just can’t squeeze in that long afternoon walk. A professional dog walker ensures that your pup’s routine remains consistent, no matter how busy your schedule gets.

Why Choose a Professional Dog Walker?

Not all dog walks are created equal! Hiring a professional dog walker means your pup is in the hands of someone who understands dog behavior, can recognize signs of stress or discomfort, and is prepared to handle unexpected situations. Plus, it provides a great way for your dog to develop trust with new people while receiving personalized care.

At The Pet Lady, Ltd., we treat every pup like family, offering reliable, loving, and professional dog-walking services that cater to your pet’s unique needs. Whether your dog needs a quick potty break, a leisurely stroll, or an energy-burning adventure, we’re here to help!

So, give your pup the gift of movement, stimulation, and companionship—and give yourself the gift of peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make life easier and happier for both you and your furry best friend!

Choosing the Best Leash for Your Dog Walks

Walking your dog is one of the best ways to bond, exercise, and reinforce skills and good behavior. However, choosing the right leash is just as important as the walk itself. The right leash ensures safety, comfort, and control, making the experience enjoyable for both you and your pup. We’ll explore the best leashes for dog walks and discuss why some options, like retractable leashes, may not be the safest choice.

Standard Leashes - The Reliable Choice

Standard leashes are typically made from nylon, leather, or rope and range from 4 to 6 feet in length. These leashes offer excellent control, making them ideal for daily dog walks and training.

Pros:

• Provides steady control over your dog

• Durable and long-lasting

• Available in various materials and styles

Cons:

• May not offer enough freedom for dogs who prefer to roam

Retractable Leashes - Why They Can Be Unsafe

Retractable leashes feature a thin cord that extends up to 30 feet, allowing dogs more freedom. However, they come with several risks that can make walks dangerous.

Why Retractable Leashes Are Unsafe:

• Limited Control: A dog can quickly run too far ahead, making it difficult to pull them back in emergencies.

• Injury Risk: The thin cord can cause burns or cuts if it wraps around fingers, legs, or even your dog’s limbs.

• Entanglement Hazard: These leashes can easily get tangled around people, pets, or objects, leading to accidents.

• Breakage Risk: The locking mechanism or cord may snap if a strong dog pulls suddenly.

For these reasons, many dog walkers, trainers and veterinarians recommend against using retractable leashes, especially in high traffic areas and with high energy dogs.

Training Leashes - The Best for Learning

Training leashes, also called long lines, range from 10 to 50 feet and are excellent for recall training and off-leash preparation. These are best used in controlled environments like fenced areas or open fields.

Pros:

• Helps reinforce recall commands

• Allows controlled freedom during training

• Ideal for obedience practice

Cons:

• Not suitable for everyday walks in busy areas

• Requires handling experience to prevent tangling

Hands-Free Leashes - Great for Active Owners

For those who enjoy jogging or multitasking, hands-free leashes worn around the waist provide a convenient option.

Pros:

• Allows hands-free movement

• Ideal for running or hiking

• Distributes pulling force more evenly

Cons:

• Requires training to ensure the dog doesn’t pull excessively

• Not ideal for strong pullers

Slip Leads - Useful but Requires Proper Use

Slip leads function as both a leash and collar, tightening when the dog pulls. They are often used for training or in shelters.

Pros:

• Quick and easy to slip on and off

• Helpful for training purposes

Cons:

• Can cause discomfort or injury if used improperly

• Not recommended for dogs prone to pulling

Choosing the Right Leash for Your Dog

The best leash depends on your dog’s size, behavior, and walking environment. Standard leashes offer reliability, while training leashes help with recall practice. Hands-free options work well for active owners, but retractable leashes pose risks that outweigh their benefits.

For safe and enjoyable walks, choose a leash that provides control, comfort, and durability. Happy walking!

At The Pet Lady, Ltd., we understand the importance of regular exercise and enrichment for your pets, even during the winter months. Our professional dog walk and adventure walk services are designed to provide safe, enjoyable, and stimulating experiences for your furry companions year-round. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and your pet this winter season.

Winter Dog Walk Benefits

As the temperature drops and snowflakes fall, it's tempting to stay cozy indoors with your furry friend. However, at The Pet Lady, Ltd., we believe that winter dog walks offer unique advantages that can enhance both your and your dog's well-being. Let's explore the benefits of embracing the winter wonderland with your furry companion.

Physical Health and Fitness

Regular walks are essential for maintaining your dog's physical health, regardless of the season. Winter walks help prevent weight gain and keep muscles toned, reducing the risk of obesity and related health issues. The varied terrain of snowy paths can also provide a gentle workout, improving balance and coordination. 

Mental Stimulation

The winter environment presents new scents, sights, and sounds, offering mental enrichment for your dog. Exploring snowy landscapes can prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of destructive and unwanted behaviors at home. The winter season keeps your dog's mind active and engaged. 

Strengthening Your Bond

Shared experiences, such as navigating winter trails together, strengthen the bond between you and your dog. These walks provide quality time, fostering trust and deepening your companionship.

Mood Enhancement and Beating the Winter Blues

Exposure to natural light during winter walks can boost serotonin levels, improving mood and combating seasonal affective disorder for both you and your pet. Physical activity stimulates endorphin production, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being. 

Routine and Behavioral Benefits

Maintaining a consistent walking schedule, even in winter, provides structure that can alleviate stress and anxiety in dogs. A regular routine helps manage energy levels and promotes better behavior at home. 

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Winter Walks

• Proper Attire: Ensure your dog is equipped with appropriate winter gear, such as a well-fitted coat and booties, to protect against the cold and salt-treated roads.

• Paw Care: After walks, check and clean your dog's paws to remove ice, snow, and salt, preventing irritation or injury.

• Stay Visible: Shorter daylight hours mean it's often dark during winter walks. Use reflective gear and carry a flashlight to increase visibility.

• Monitor Health: Watch for signs of discomfort or hypothermia, such as shivering or lethargy, and adjust the length and intensity of walks accordingly.
  
  
  

At The Pet Lady, Ltd., we understand the importance of regular exercise and enrichment for your pets, even during the winter months. Our professional dog walk and adventure walk services are designed to provide safe, enjoyable, and stimulating experiences for your furry companions year-round. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and your pet this winter season.

Adventure Walks

At The Pet Lady, Ltd., we believe every dog deserves more than just a walk around the block. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our Adventure Walks—a unique, invigorating experience designed to engage your dog’s senses, provide time for your pup to decompress, provide exceptional exercise, and offer priceless socialization in the great outdoors.

What Are Adventure Walks?

Our Adventure Walks are 90-minute excursions through scenic forest preserves, lush park district trails, and other pet-friendly natural spaces. Tailored to fit the needs of your pup, these walks focus on giving your dog the chance to explore, play, and thrive in a rich, sensory environment providing mental and physical stimulation and exercise.

Whether it's the wooded paths of Elmhurst, the winding trails in Villa Park, the Lilac lined paths of Lombard, or the open green spaces of Naperville, your dog will enjoy a fresh perspective on their daily walk while staying active and happy!

Why Choose Adventure Walks for Your Dog?

1. Exercise
Dogs of all sizes and breeds need regular exercise, but a short walk around the block isn’t always enough. Our extended, high-energy Adventure Walks help your pup burn off energy, maintain a healthy weight, and improve cardiovascular fitness—all while having fun.

2. Mental Stimulation
The natural world is full of intriguing sights, sounds, and smells that provide the mental engagement dogs crave. Adventure Walks expose your furry friend to constantly changing environments, fostering curiosity and sharpening their instincts.

3. Bonding with the Experts
Led by our professional, caring team, each walk is a chance for your pet to bond with compassionate, skilled handlers who treat them like their own pets. Your dog's happiness and safety are always our top priorities.

What Makes The Pet Lady’s Walks Unique?

Our Adventure Walks stand out because of our personalized approach. We understand that each dog has a unique personality, energy level, and set of preferences. That’s why we tailor every walk to suit your pup’s needs. Whether they’re an energetic explorer or a more relaxed wanderer, we ensure their experience is enriching and safe.

We also offer updates and photos during the walks, so you can share in your pup’s journey and see the joy in their wagging tail!

Is Your Dog Ready for an Adventure?!

Whether your dog is a seasoned explorer or new to big adventures, our walks offer the perfect mix of excitement and care. Let your pup roam, sniff, and play their way to happiness and health. Sign up today and give your furry friend the adventure they’ve been dreaming of! 🐾

How to Get Started

Joining the Adventure Walks is easy! Simply click HERE to get started and book your first walk. Our team is happy to answer any questions and help you find the perfect schedule for your pup.

Best Places to Walk Your Dog in Elmhurst

At The Pet Lady, we take dog walks seriously! We are happy to share some of the best places to walk your dog right here in Elmhurst, Illinois. Whether you have a playful pup or a seasoned senior, Elmhurst has something special for every pooch. So, grab your leash, a handful of treats, and let’s explore these fabulous canine-friendly spots!

Eldridge Park

Eldridge Park is a true gem in south Elmhurst. With its sprawling 43 acres of open space, it’s perfect for a fast paced walk or a leisurely stroll. The park has well-maintained, paved trails that wind around serene ponds and lush, green fields. It’s a fantastic place for your dog to stretch their legs and explore. The park also features a picnic area, so you can bring a snack and enjoy some quality time with your furry family member.

Illinois Prairie Path

For those who crave a bit more adventure, the Illinois Prairie Path is a must. This trail stretches through multiple suburbs, including Elmhurst, and offers a delightful mix of landscapes. From wooded areas to open fields, the Prairie Path provides a variety of sight and smells for your dog. It’s an ideal spot for longer walks and gives your pup plenty of new scents to investigate.

Wilder Park

Wilder Park is another fantastic destination for dog walking. This beautifully park is located near the Elmhurst Public Library and the Elmhurst Art Museum. It features paved walkways that wind through maintained gardens, making it a pleasant and picturesque walk. The park is also home to several events throughout the year, adding a bit of excitement to your regular walking routine. When walking though Wilder Park, be sure to check out the Wilder Park Conservatory and give you and your pup time to smell the beautiful gardens.

Berens Park

Berens Park is perfect for those looking for a variety of activities. In addition to its walking paths, the park features wide open spaces where your dog can romp and play, leashed of course! The park’s lawns are great for a game of fetch, and there are plenty of shaded areas to cool off on a hot day. Berens Park also has a playground and a splash pad, so it’s a wonderful place for families with children and dogs.

Salt Creek Greenway Trail

The Salt Creek Greenway Trail offers a quiet retreat for dog walkers. This scenic trail follows the Salt Creek, providing lovely water views and lots of smells for your pup to enjoy. The trail is mostly shaded, making it a great choice for warmer days. It’s a wonderful spot for a relaxing walk and gives your dog ample opportunities to explore the natural surroundings.

Crestview Park

Crestview Park is a quieter, less known park in Elmhurst, making it perfect for dogs who prefer a quieter environment. The park offers a nice mix of open spaces and wooded areas, with well maintained trails that are perfect for walking. It’s a hidden gem that provides a peaceful escape for you and your pup!

Elmhurst truly has something for every dog and their owner. These parks and trails not only offer excellent exercise opportunities but also provide beautiful settings for you and your furry family member to bond. So, put on those walking shoes, leash up your pup, and explore the wonderful spots to walk your dog in Elmhurst!

If you are in need of a dog walker, The Pet Lady is here to help! We are always ready to hit the pavement with your dog and would love to meet them! To get started click HERE!

Loose Leash Walking

Have you ever seen someone walking their dog and thought “I wish my dog would behave like that!”?

 How do you teach a dog to walk on a leash?  The struggle is real my friends.  But Can Do is here to help!   Here’s a simple exercise to help you and your pup start walking like pros.

 Start in a Low Distraction Environment & Keep it Simple

  Our natural instinct as humans is to take our dog outside and expect him to behave.  But, we forget how distracting the outside world can be to our dog.  There are so many smells, sights, and sounds that it’s easy for our dog to tune us out.

   The best way to teach your dog to walk on a loose leash is to start in an area that isn’t so distracting.  Start inside your home.  Put your dog on leash, face your dog then say “Come” and move backwards.  Facing your dog helps her engage with you and WANT to follow you.  After you move backwards a few feet say “Yes” to let her know she’s done a good job. Then, reward her with a treat.  Once your dog has come to you, turn the other way and face her again saying “Come!” while you do.  When she reaches you, say “Yes” and reward her with a treat.

   Once your dog understands to follow you when you face him and move backwards it’s time to move on to the next step.  Now, you’re going to have your dog at your side and will be walking in the same direction.  Before you start walking say “Let’s Go.”  This time only travel a short distance, about 1 to 2 feet and stop. When you stop ask your dog to “Sit” this will help him understand that it’s time to stop walking. Once your dog sits say “Yes” and give him a treat.

   As your dog starts to understand this exercise you will gradually start to walk further and further…first 1 foot, then 2 feet, then 3 and so on.

 Taking it Outside

  After your dog is following you inside with ease it’s time to move outside.  Now, we’re NOT going to ask our dog to go on an entire walk without pulling.  That would be like teaching someone to dribble and tell them they are ready to play and actual basketball game.  We haven’t taught the person to shoot, move while dribbling, or deal with other players trying to block him.

  You’re going to make time for “Training Walks.”  For now, when you’re on your dog’s regular walk you aren’t going to expect good manners just yet.  Instead, pick random times when you normally wouldn’t be taking your pup for a walk, these will be your “Training Walks.”

  During your Training Walks it’s important to only work in a small area.  This may initially be as little as 5 feet.  You’re going to start from the beginning steps.  Again, you’ll start by facing your dog, saying “Come” and then moving backwards.  You’re going to move back only a couple of feet just like when you began working inside.  This is a new scenario for our pups and we need to teach them to listen in the presence of more distraction.  That being said, start from the beginning and run your repetitions of facing your dog and moving backwards.  Next, you will start to have your dog follow at your side just like before.  Remembering to keep it as easy as it was when you started inside.

  As your dog improves you will increase the distance you move with her outside, gradually building to the point where you can take her on an entire walk on a loose leash.

If you need help teaching your dog proper leash manners and are in the Naperville, Elmhurst, Villa Park, or Lombard communitites please reach out to us to schedule a free evaluation here or call us at 847.802.9534

4 Great Places to Hike With Your Pup in the Chicagoland Area

If you are like me, you want to spend as much time with your dog as you can.  I love to hike and Sassy, my Beagle/Jack Russel mix, loves to smell and combining them makes for a fun outing the both of us can enjoy.  Here is a list of some places near the Chicagoland Area you can hike with your dog.

Starved Rock State Park
Ogelsby, IL

Starved Rock State Park is located in LaSalle County along the Illinois River.  There are thirteen miles of hiking trails within the park and all are well marked and most are out and back so you can turn around at any time.  All paths are accessible for dogs and there are places for your pup to splash in the canyon pools.  While hiking within the state parks all dogs must be leashed at all times.  Starved Rock can get busy during the warmer months, so if you are available for mid-week trips I would highly suggest doing so. Access to park and trails is free!

https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/StarvedRock.aspx

Waterfall Glen
Darien, IL

Waterfall Glen is located in southern DuPage Country.  With 11 miles of trails with waterfalls and bluffs, Waterfall Glen offers a hilly terrain great for hiking, biking or selfies with your pup! This is also a favorite spot in the winter for cross country skiers and winter walks.  There are 4 trails mapped out at the preserve, but there are lots of other trails that veer off the beaten path, but are not mapped. Best part, no entry fees!

https://www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/waterfall-glen

Schweitzer Woods
West Dundee, IL

Schweitzer Woods has over 5 acres of trails.  This is also an approved off leash preserve, there are rules that must be followed, but within the boundaries your pup can explore! The property has oak forests, crop land, hay meadows and marshes. A beautiful Edwardian house and matching dog kennel are situated in the southeast corner of the property.

https://kaneforest.com/location/schweitzer-woods

Buffalo Creek
Long Grove, IL

This preserve offers 5.5 miles of gravel trails for walking, biking and cross-country skiing. Trails run through open areas within the preserve, crossing several creeks, great view of the reservoir and through a restored prairie.  Dogs must be leashed along all trails but there is an off-leash area for you pup.  Permits are required for the off-leash dog park, but if you want to take your pup on a nice leashed walk, there are no fees to visit this preserve.

https://www.lcfpd.org/buffalo-creek/

We know getting out in nature with your dog is important to all dog owners! We also understand it can be tough with work and responsibilities - that is where The Pet Lady can help! We would love to hit the pavement with your pup and explore our neighborhood! If you live in Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard or Naperville - CLICK HERE to get started with dog walks from The Pet Lady.

Giving Your Dog the Best Walk

Originally Published on 2/9/2021

We all know we should be walking our dogs on a regular basis so they get the exercise they need to be healthy. I know a lot of people also exercise for themselves by walking their dog and that is a great thing and your pup thanks you too! While walking your dog, I believe, the walk should be for them and there are simple, easy things we can be doing to make sure you and your pup get the most out of your walks together.

Allow Your Dog to Pick Which Side They Walk On
Training your dog to walk next to you is, I think, important to a lot of dog owners. This can be a good thing, but there is no correct side your dog should walk on. It is best to let your dog pick which side is the most interesting. There may be a side with more grass or maybe better smells and markings from other dogs. It is also important for us to allow our dogs to make decisions. It is good for their emotional and mental health and honestly, allowing this will not create an unbalanced relationship with your dog.

Give Your Dog Time to Sniff
We, as humans, are not always the most patient of beings, but we should be when it comes to allowing your dog to sniff while on a walk. Sniffing is extremely enriching for dogs and is good for mental stimulation. Your pup will thank you for giving them the time they want to sniff. You can always teach a "let's go" command if you do want to move your pup along.

Use the Correct Equipment
Making sure you and your pup have the correct equipment can help your dog enjoy their walk. If your dog is a puller, refrain from using a collar for walks. This puts strain on their neck and can cause more anxiety than help slow your dog down. Harnesses are the best thing to use with pullers. It takes the strain off their neck and gives you as the owner a bit more control to slow your dog down.

Use a straight leash for walks whenever possible, especially over a retractable leash. We all love our retractables; I know I do! But these types of leashes can be dangerous to you and your dog as they do not give you as much control as a straight leash.

Your Dog May Not Want to Say Hi...
It is very important we never force our dogs to interact with any dog or person they do not want to. This can create fear and anxiety for your pup. If your dog does want to say hi, and you and the other owner are okay with it, then go for it! Some dogs will only want to say a quick hi before moving on, while others may want to spend more time meeting a new friend. Pay attention to your dog's body language to gauge whether they have said enough hellos. Good tip is to always keep slack in your dog's leash while they are greeting another dog; any pressure on a leash, harness or collar may increase your dog's anxiety about the situation.

If you would like to learn more on this topic and get a few more tips from a pet sitter, check out Pet PawCast's Episode 4- Whose Walk Is It Anyway

As a dog parent, we know you want to give nothing but the best for your furry family member. One of the best things you can get do for your dog is to TREAT them to dog walks from The Pet Lady! If you live in Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard or Naperville, CLICK HERE to get started! We would love to meet your dog!