Successful Dog Walks in Rainy Weather: A Guide for Columbus, Ohio Dog Walkers

A joyful dog wearing a raincoat on a rainy walk in Columbus, Ohio, showcasing the fun of dog walking services in local weather.

As the old adage goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” and our dog walkers in Columbus, Ohio are no strangers to the rainy season. For us, this means adapting our routines to ensure both our furry friends and their parents are happy. Rainy days don’t have to dampen the spirit of our walks; with the right preparation, they can be just as enjoyable and safe.

Here’s our best tips to help you make the most of dog walking duties when the clouds roll in.

4 Tips for Rainy-Day Dog Walks in Columbus, Ohio
Download this sheet for future reference!

1. Safety First: Avoid Stormy Weather

Your safety and that of the pupper should always be your top priority. Before heading out, check the local weather forecast. If it forecasts thunder and lightning, opt for a quick bathroom break and then play indoors. Severe weather not only poses a risk of frightening the dog, but also carries dangers like electrocution.

2. Essential Rain Gear for Both of You

Never underestimate the power of proper rain gear for making a wet walk comfortable. For you, a waterproof jacket, rain boots, and an umbrella are indispensable. For your furry friend, consider a well-fitting dog raincoat to keep them dry and cozy. Not all dogs might like the idea of wearing a coat or boots, but with enough patience and positive reinforcement training, they can learn to appreciate their rain gear.

Additionally, keeping your dog’s paws dry is crucial. So, if they tolerate it, rain boots can protect against cold, wet pavements and harmful substances. Otherwise, a quick towel dry, especially between the toes, after the walk can help keep their paws healthy.

3. Customize the Experience for Every Dog

Each dog has its own personality and response to rain, which can greatly affect their comfort during walks. It’s essential to be observant and recognize signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to proceed, shivering, or attempts to return home. For some dogs, a gentle nudge or encouragement might suffice, but if they remain visibly distressed despite your best efforts, it’s wiser to abbreviate the walk. Their well-being should always take precedence.

On the flip side, some dogs may display a surprising indifference or even enjoyment of the rainy weather. It’s important to assess each dog’s individual reaction and adapt your approach accordingly. If an alternative route or your reassuring presence at eye-level, speaking in soft yet firm tones and praising their bravery, doesn’t alleviate their unease, respect their limits. This personalized attention not only fosters trust, but also ensures that each walk is a positive experience, regardless of the weather conditions. Remember, recognizing and adapting to a dog’s unique comfort level with rain can turn a potentially challenging situation into an opportunity for bonding and fun.

4. Understanding Pet Parents’ Expectations

Clear communication is key to any successful Columbus dog walking service, especially when the weather is inclement. Be sure to check any notes from pet parents regarding their pet’s preferences on rainy-day walks. If there’s no information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pet parent. They might have specific instructions or preferences, such as shorter walks or playing indoors instead. Ensuring you meet their expectations is a major trust-builder.

Columbus Dog Walker FAQs for Rainy Days

Are there specific breeds that are more sensitive to rain?
Yes, some breeds are more sensitive to cold and wet weather than others, especially those with short coats or low body fat, like Greyhounds or Chihuahuas. Conversely, breeds with water-repellent coats, such as Labradors or Newfoundlands, may be more tolerant of rainy conditions. However, individual preferences can vary greatly. We suggest using the breed-size rule when determining your dog’s comfortability in cold weather.

Can walking in the rain make my dog sick?
While the rain itself isn’t likely to make your dog sick, being wet for prolonged periods can lead to discomfort and potential health issues like hypothermia, especially in super cold climates. Keeping your dog dry and warm is essential. You can accomplish this by make sure they’re wearing the right gear, if walking them in a downpour.

If I’m trying to get my dog to walk in the rain and they don’t wanna budge, when can I make that decision to play indoors?
The decision to switch from attempting outdoor walks to playing indoors can be made when you notice clear signs of distress or reluctance from your dog towards the rain. If after a few minutes of gentle encouragement and trying to coax them with treats or their favorite toy they still resist, it’s a sign to pivot to indoor activities. Prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being; forcing them into a situation that makes them uncomfortable can lead to negative associations or stress.

If you’re a Columbus dog walker, make sure to first get the pet parent’s approval if you’re unsure about the best approach to take.

Is playtime indoors instead of walking in the rain doing the dog justice?
Absolutely. While outdoor walks provide valuable stimuli and physical exercise, indoor playtime can also offer significant benefits, especially under adverse weather conditions. Engaging your dog in mentally stimulating games, obstacle courses, or training sessions indoors can effectively compensate for the lack of outdoor activity. It keeps their mind active, helps burn off energy, and strengthens your bond with them.

How can I keep my dog safe during rainy walks?
Ensure you and your dog are visible by wearing reflective gear and keep to well-lit, familiar paths. Avoid areas prone to flooding or slippery surfaces, and always check the weather forecast before heading out. Also, make sure to stay relatively close to home in case the weather worsens and you need to hurry back.

What should I carry with me on rainy-day walks?
There are many essential items to have on dog walks in Columbus, Ohio. To always be one step ahead in your preparation, keep the following items in your care at all times: a waterproof bag with essentials such as a water bottle, portable dog bowl, towel, and an extra leash. Include your phone and a flashlight should there be any pet emergencies, especially during darker days or evenings.

How do I dry a dog properly after a rainy walk?
It’s best to always have a towel ready at the entryway upon returning from rainy walks. Use the towel to thoroughly dry the dog, paying special attention to their paws, underbelly, and ears. For dogs with long fur, a hairdryer on a low, cool setting can help, but ensure the noise doesn’t frighten them. Keeping the dog dry and comfortable helps prevent any cold-related illnesses.

Fear Rainy-Day Dog Walks in Columbus No More!

As we wrap up this guide on navigating the challenges of rainy-day dog walks in Columbus, Ohio, it’s clear that with a bit of preparation and adaptability, these walks can be as fulfilling and enjoyable as those under sunny skies. From the crucial step of donning appropriate rain gear for both you and your furry friend to the importance of understanding and respecting each dog’s unique comfort level with wet weather, we’ve covered essential strategies to ensure positive experiences all around.

Benny

Benny

Hello! Thanks for visiting our blog. I'm the proud owner of Columbus's own Hands N Paws, started in 2018 to bring joy to pet parents. See you in the next post!

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The terms of this agreement are as follows: “Client” refers to you, “Company” refers to us (Hands N Paws), “Team Member” refers to the person from our team providing services for  your pets, and “Team Members” refers to the Hands N Paws team as a whole.

EMERGENCY VETERINARY TREATMENT & CLIENT RESPONSIBILITY POLICY

It is important to inform Hands N Paws of any specific emergency instructions or medical conditions related to Client’s pets. This will help ensure the safety and well-being of pets during emergencies.

In case any of Client’s pets need emergency veterinary treatment, Team Member will contact the designated vet on file and/or a local emergency vet. Team Member will also communicate with Client and/or emergency contacts regarding the situation.

Client gives permission to Team Member to transport the pet(s) to a veterinary clinic and/or make treatment decisions (except for euthanasia), especially if it’s a life-threatening emergency and/or Client cannot be immediately reached. Client is responsible for any veterinary fees incurred. 

Client releases Hands N Paws from any liability for any damage or harm to pets or property that occurs beyond the reasonable control of Team Member during the provision of emergency veterinary care. 

PET VACCINATION, LICENSING, AND IDENTIFICATION POLICY

To comply with local laws and ordinances, it is required that all pets have the appropriate vaccinations and licenses before Company begins services. For further information on these requirements, please visit the Ohio State Bar Association’s website at https://www.ohiobar.org/public-resources. Client should also check with his/her veterinarian to determine which vaccinations/shots the pet requires. 

For safety reasons, we encourage all dogs and cats to wear an ID tag or collar that includes name and contact number while Team Member is working with them.

SECURE ACCESS & LOCKBOX POLICY

To ensure access to Client’s home during scheduled services, Hands N Paws requires that Client purchases a lockbox and places a spare house key(s) inside of it for Team Member to use. Client can purchase the lockbox on Hands N Paws’ website by clicking Buy Your Lockbox. Once it arrives, the lockbox should be programmed with a unique four-digit code. The lockbox should then be placed on the main door handle or in another secure location, and the lockbox code and location information must be entered in the Client’s account on Precise Petcare.

Alternatively, Client may elect to provide a code for entry via a garage door or electronic keypad and if so, must enter all necessary codes in Precise Petcare. Client is strongly encouraged to purchase a lockbox, however, to ensure that Team Member can access pets at all times during scheduled services, especially in situations where the power goes out or batteries die and Team Member need alternative access to the home.

CLIENT COMMUNICATION & PRIVACY POLICY

All Team Members have access to Clients phone number, but are instructed to only use them when necessary or for urgent purposes during services with pets. Hands N Paws prioritizes the privacy and confidentiality of phone numbers as personal information.

All correspondence between Client and Team Member should be centered around Client’s pets and the services provided. If Client has inquiries regarding scheduling, cancellations, app-related matters, or any company-related concerns, these are to be directed to the Company via the office number: (614) 636-6644. The Company’s client support team is available during office hours, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays. The Company will make contact with Client outside of office hours should there be any urgent need for communication.

PET INFORMATION ACCURACY & ACCESSIBILITY POLICY

In order to provide the best possible service to pets, it is crucial that Client provides Team Member with detailed and up-to-date information regarding their pets. This information should be accurate, complete, and accessible through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Team Members can only work on the basis of the information that is available to them through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Likewise, Client acknowledges that the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information they provide directly impacts the quality of the services delivered. Client, therefore, takes full responsibility for any consequences that arise from inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated account information.

FLEXIBLE SERVICE ARRIVAL TIME POLICY

Arrival times for services occur within a two-hour period. Team Members are unable to guarantee exact arrival times due to various factors that may affect scheduling and travel times. To accommodate these considerations, we use time blocks rather than specific times. Client will see this in the dropdown menu when Client selects Arrival Time in the request service form within their Client account.

While Team Members understands that Client may have preferences regarding arrival times, it is essential to acknowledge that Team Members cannot guarantee meeting those specific requests. Flexibility is needed in order for Team Members to accommodate for needs of other Clients on schedule.

SERVICES & PRICING

For the most up-to-date and detailed descriptions on service offerings, please visit our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com.

SERVICE SURCHARGE POLICY

The following service surcharges may apply under certain conditions:

Last Minute Service: A fee of $15 per service will be charged for bookings made with less than 24 hours’ notice.

Holiday Service: A fee of $20 per service will be applied for services provided on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve.

Additional Pets: Base pricing for services includes up to 2 pets. For each additional pet beyond the initial two, an additional fee of $7 per pet will be added.

*Additional fees may apply, as discussed/negotiated between Company and Client. 

SERVICE REQUEST APPROVAL & AVAILABILITY POLICY

Hands N Paws strives to accommodate as many service requests as possible. However, the approval of service requests is subject to the availability of Team Members. Upon submitting a service request, Client will receive a confirmation or declination email/notification indicating whether Hands N Paws can fulfill the requested work. Sometimes, this may take up to 48 hours or more.

If a service request is declined, we encourage Client to explore alternative options or contact our dedicated client support team for further assistance. Company is here to help and find the best solution for all pet care needs.

MEET N GREET POLICY

To ensure a personalized experience for new Clients, Hands N Paws requires a virtual or in-person Meet N Greet before getting started with pet services. These meetings allow us to connect with and onboard Clients and discuss their pet care needs.

All virtual Meet N Greets are free of charge. All in-person Meet N Greets come at a $50 cost. Meet N Greets are no more than 30 minutes in length.

New Clients can book their Meet N Greet on our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com. Existing Clients can book their Meet N Greet in their designated client account in Precise Petcare.

PAYMENT & BILLING POLICY

Payment Method: All services with Hands N Paws are to be paid for using a credit or debit card. All major cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover are acceptable. Client can securely add and store card information within their Client account. Adding and keeping a valid credit card on file is a requirement for requesting any services with Hands N Paws.

Ongoing Services: For services scheduled as ongoing, Client will be automatically charged every Friday for the previous 7 days’ worth of completed, canceled, and in-progress services.

Non-Ongoing Services: For services not scheduled as ongoing, a 50% down-payment will be charged on the day the services are accepted and confirmed. An invoice will be sent immediately. Client has until the date of the last confirmed service to manually pay the remaining balance on the invoice. If manual payment is not made, the remaining total will be automatically charged to the card on file on the date of the last service day on that invoice.

Declined Payments: In the event of a declined auto-charge, Client will be promptly notified. After the first declined charge, Client has a 24-hour grace period to rectify the issue. In the case of a second declined attempt, a late fee of 10% of the invoice total (minimum $10) will be added. Client must be attentive to emails regarding overdue notices.

Payment Terms: Hands N Paws will be paid the agreed-upon amount as discussed, with no exceptions, unless our Cancellation Policy (outlined below) applies and the Client receives a refund in the form of an Account Credit(s). In emergency circumstances, a refund may be issued as transferable credit(s) back to the Client’s card.

Additional Fees: Client may be charged additional fees if Team Members are instructed to, or determine the need to, purchase items for the pet(s) while under the care of Hands N Paws. These items may include pet food or treats, litter or cleaning supplies, transportation to the vet, or emergency expenses for the general care of the pet(s). Hands N Paws and/or Team Member will consult with Client before making any purchases, and will retain and share any receipts as proof of purchase.

SERVICE CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY

When Client schedules services with Hands N Paws, the Company has likely turned down other work so as to devote our time to the work requested from said Client.

Client understands and accepts the Company cancellation/refund policy as outlined below:

– 100% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– 50% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– NO refund is issued for same-day cancellations/less than 24 hour notice.

PLEASE NOTE: Refunds are NOT transferable. Should Client be eligible to receive an Account Credit (based on terms above), that will be auto-added to his/her account and applied to the very next invoice with us.

SERVICES TERMS

Hands N Paws agrees to provide the services stated in this contract in a reliable, caring, and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, Client expressly waives and relinquishes any and all claims against Hands N Paws arising out of or relating to the provision of services hereunder, except those arising from gross negligence or willful misconduct on part of Hands N Paws.

Client understands and acknowledges that the environment in which they are requesting Hands N Paws to complete services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If it is determined that home conditions are unsanitary and/or unsafe at any point in the working relationship, Company will make it known to Client. Action will be taken accordingly thereafter.

Additionally, Hands N Paws will not terminate during a period of scheduled service unless Hands N Paws determines, at their sole discretion, that a serious danger exists to the health or safety of Team Members or pets. If such concerns preclude Hands N Paws from providing further care for the pets, Client agrees to pay for their pet to be boarded at a boarding facility or taken under the care of another party until Client returns. All attempts will be made to notify Client and/or emergency contacts regarding such situations.

Client understands and acknowledges that he/she is responsible for letting Hands N Paws know of anyone who has access to their home during the duration of services booked. Client releases and holds Hands N Paws harmless of all loss, expense, and damage caused by any third-parties entering Client’s home at that time.

CONTRACT TERMS

This contract will take effect upon digital signature by Client (clicking “Agree & Submit” below) and will remain in effect until terminated by either party. Client may make online reservations for additional services at any time during the terms of this contract, as subject to Hands N Paws availability. All scheduled services will be governed by all the terms of this contract.

Client acknowledges that by signing below, he/she is providing written approval for the provision of services by Hands N Paws during any service period scheduled by Client and confirmed by Hands N Paws. Upon service confirmation, Hands N Paws will be authorized to enter Client premises and perform services without additional signed contracts and/or written authorizations.