Frequently Asked Questions

 

Are you insured?

​Yes. We are fully insured for the services we provide, giving you peace of mind while your pets are in our care. We're also DBS checked and canine first aid trained. 

​

What areas do you cover?

We cover Cheshire and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, please feel free to get in touch and we’ll happily let you know.

 

How do I book a service?

Simply get in touch via email or message with a few details about your pet and the service you’re looking for.

Before services begin we arrange a meet and greet so we can get to know you and your pet, discuss routines and ensure everyone is comfortable.

​

What happens at the meet and greet?

The meet and greet allows us to learn about your pet’s routine, personality and any specific needs.

 

We will also discuss:

• feeding routines

• exercise requirements

• medical needs

• house access arrangements

• emergency contact details

• behaviour or training considerations

​

This meeting ensures your pet is comfortable and that we understand exactly how you would like them cared for.

 

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for holidays, school breaks and busy periods, as availability can become limited.

However, we will always try to accommodate last-minute requests where possible.

 

Can I book regular weekly walks?

Yes. Many of our clients book regular weekly dog walks, which helps dogs maintain a consistent routine and ensures their space in the schedule is reserved.

​

Do you offer one-off bookings?

Yes. We are happy to provide both regular services and occasional bookings, depending on availability.

 

Do you offer solo walks or group walks?

Both options are available.

Some dogs benefit from solo walks, while others enjoy the social interaction of group walks. We will always recommend the most suitable option based on your dog’s personality, behaviour and exercise needs.

​

Where do group walks take place?

Group walks take place in a secure enclosed field, allowing dogs to enjoy safe off-lead exercise, play and enrichment.

​

How many dogs are walked together?

Group sizes are kept manageable so that all dogs can be supervised safely and receive appropriate attention.

There are usually no more than 6 dogs per walk. 

​

Will my dog be walked off lead on a solo walk?

Dogs will only be walked off lead with the owner’s permission and where it is safe to do so.

If there are any concerns regarding recall or safety, dogs will remain on lead.

​

What happens in bad weather?

Pet safety always comes first.

In very hot weather, walks may be shortened, moved to shaded areas or replaced with enrichment activities. We do not walk dogs in temperatures exceeding 24 degrees celcius. 

In severe weather conditions such as storms, ice or extreme temperatures, walks may be adjusted or postponed if necessary for safety.

Owners will always be informed if changes need to be made.

 

What happens if my dog gets muddy?

Dogs often love getting muddy on walks. Please provide a towel, and we will dry them off upon returning them home.

​

What happens if my pet becomes unwell while in your care?

Your pet’s wellbeing is our priority.

If your pet becomes unwell while in our care we will contact you immediately. If veterinary attention is required and you cannot be reached, we will contact your registered vet or the nearest available veterinary practice.

 

Can you administer medication?

In many cases yes, depending on the type of medication required. Please discuss this when booking so we can confirm whether we are able to assist.

​

Do you care for pets other than dogs?

Yes. We also care for cats and small animals, including feeding, cleaning and companionship visits.

​

What is included in a pop-in visit?

Pop-in visits may include:

• feeding

• fresh water

• toilet breaks

• litter tray cleaning

• cleaning small animal enclosures

• playtime and enrichment

• companionship and attention

 

What is pet sitting?

Pet sitting allows your pet to stay in their own home environment while you are away. A sitter stays in your home, maintaining your pet’s normal routine and providing companionship, feeding, exercise and care.

 

Do you stay in the house during pet sitting?

Yes. Our pet sitting service means a sitter remains in the home for the duration of the booking, allowing your pet to stay relaxed and comfortable in their familiar surroundings.

​

Will I receive updates about my pet?

Yes. Many owners appreciate updates while they are away, so we are happy to send messages and photos so you know how your pet is doing.

​

How reliable is your service?

Reliability is extremely important to us.

Pet owners rely on us to care for their animals when they cannot be there themselves, and we take that responsibility seriously.

In the unlikely event of illness or emergency, contingency plans are in place to ensure pets still receive the care they need.

 

What makes Cheshire Paws different from other pet care providers?

We focus on providing a service that is:

• professional

• reliable

• experienced

• genuinely caring

Pets are treated as individuals and we aim to build long-term relationships with both animals and their owners.

​

Why choose a professional pet care service?

Professional pet care services provide reliability, experience and accountability.

We understand animal behaviour, maintain routines, and are committed to providing consistent care for your pets.

​

What if my dog has behavioural issues?

If your dog has behavioural concerns, please discuss this with us before booking so we can determine the best approach.

 

For behaviour and training support we recommend visiting our sister service Captain’s Orders Dog Training.

​

Do you offer dog training?

Cheshire Paws focuses on pet care services.

For professional training and behaviour support please visit our sister service Captain’s Orders Dog Training.

 

Is my home safe while you have access?

Yes. We respect every client’s home and privacy.

Keys and access information are handled responsibly and used only for the purpose of caring for your pets. No name or address details are stored on the key, only the name of the pet. 

​

Can you care for multiple pets?

Yes. Many households have more than one pet and we are happy to care for multiple animals where appropriate.

​

Do you work weekends and holidays?

Availability varies depending on demand, but we often provide services during weekends and holiday periods.

Early booking is recommended for these times.

​

What happens if I need to cancel a booking?

We understand that plans sometimes change. Please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or adjust a booking.

​

What if my dog does not get along with other dogs?

Dogs that are not comfortable around others can be booked for solo walks.

​

Do you walk puppies?

Yes, depending on age and vaccination status. Puppies often benefit from short visits or pop-in care rather than long walks.

​

Do you walk elderly dogs?

Yes. Older dogs often benefit from shorter, slower walks tailored to their needs.

​

Do you provide enrichment for pets?

Yes. Mental stimulation and enrichment are important for animal wellbeing, so play and interaction are always included where appropriate.

 

What happens if there is a delay due to traffic or weather?

If unexpected delays occur we will communicate with owners and ensure your pet is still cared for.

​

Do you work with nervous or anxious pets?

Yes. Many pets take time to build trust with new people.

We take a calm and patient approach, allowing animals to become comfortable at their own pace.

​

Can you bring in post or water plants during pet sitting?

Yes. Small household tasks such as bringing in post or watering plants can usually be included during pet sitting.

 

What equipment do you use for dog walking?

We use safe, reliable leads and equipment and will follow any specific instructions provided by the owner.

​

What if my dog refuses to walk?

If your dog does not feel like walking on a particular day, we will adapt the visit to include enrichment, play and companionship instead.

​

How long have you been working with animals?

Cheshire Paws has extensive experience caring for pets and building trusted relationships with owners. The business has been established since 2017. Our team members are hand picked to ensure they have a strong background in animal care. 

​

Can I contact you while I am away?

Yes. We are always happy to communicate with owners while they are away to provide updates and reassurance. Each client is added to a Whatsapp group which is set up solely for their pet. All staff members involved in your pet's care are added, and clients can add whoever they like from their family or friends. 

 

 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to get in touch — we are always happy to help.