FAQs
Answers to our frequently asked questions
Booking FAQs
A: We use a team approach! We work together to make sure all of our clients have exactly what they need, and ensure that your dog is cared for no matter what. Every team member is trained, background-checked, and monitored by a manager to ensure consistency, and you can read all of their bios on our about page. At your Meet & Greet, we’ll learn your dog’s needs so any walker can provide quality care. While many pets enjoy the variety, shy or fearful dogs may do better with a solo sitter, and we’re happy to recommend one if needed.
A: Yes! We understand life can be unpredictable, and we encourage established clients who have completed a Meet & Greet to book last-minute, including same-day bookings within two hours. Availability isn’t guaranteed, and a $10 fee applies to services requested or changed after 5:00pm the day before. Whenever possible, we recommend scheduling in advance to secure your preferred time, but we’ll always do our best to help when plans change unexpectedly.
A: We schedule within designated 2-hour windows and can’t guarantee exact arrival times due to factors like traffic delays or emergencies. We’ll always message you when we’re on the way so you know when to expect us. This flexibility allows us to give each dog the patience and care they deserve—whether that means cleaning up a mess, giving medication, or helping a nervous pup feel comfortable.
A: Recurring scheduling is how most clients use our service. They sign up for the same days and times each week, so that way they can start to build a routine for their dog. We prefer this way of operating because it helps us know that we will always be able to get your dog in by holding that spot for them, and it is also our best pricing!
For households whose needs are unpredictable or less than once per week, they may choose to book on-demand. Please be aware that availability is not guaranteed, and there is a $5 upcharge per service. For a full breakdown on our pricing structure, click to be redirected to our Dog Walks, Field Trips, and Enrichment Visits.
A: We ask clients to schedule at least one appointment per month. This helps your dog stay comfortable with us and keeps us updated on any changes to their routine. Even if you don’t need regular care, a monthly check-in maintains a strong relationship and ensures smooth service when you need us on short notice. We’re happy to set up a recurring monthly visit, even just a quick 20-minute walk around the block!
A: Click here to book your Meet & Greet directly on our calendar, and we’ll handle the rest! A $20 deposit is required, which is applied as a credit to your account once the Meet & Greet is completed. If you decide not to move forward, the deposit covers our time. There are no other fees for becoming a new client. We can’t wait to meet you and your pets!
Payment FAQs
A: All cancellations and changes must be submitted through the Scheduling page of TTP—we cannot accept requests by phone, text, or email. If you cancel before 5:00pm the day prior, there’s no fee. After 5:00pm, the full service charge applies since schedules have already been finalized for our team. We know plans can change, and we appreciate your understanding as this policy helps us stay reliable and fair to both clients and staff.
A: We accept ACH transfers or credit/debit card payments through our secure online client portal, powered by Stripe. Stripe is PCI Level 1 certified (the highest in the industry), encrypts all data, and automatically blocks fraud so your information is always safe. Clients are billed weekly, with payments due each Sunday after services are provided. A 20% tip is automatically included on invoices and goes directly to your walkers, but we’re happy to adjust or remove it anytime at your request.
A: Nope! We never charge additional fees for more than one dog, but we may recommend longer appointment times to ensure each dog receives the best care possible. For a full breakdown of our rates and what’s included, please see our services page.
A: Click here to book your Meet & Greet directly on our calendar, and we’ll handle the rest! A $20 deposit is required, which is applied as a credit to your account once the Meet & Greet is completed. If you decide not to move forward, the deposit covers our time. There are no other fees for becoming a new client. We can’t wait to meet you and your pets!
Service FAQs
A: We require all clients to utilize a lockbox or electronic entry system for us to gain access to your home. You may provide your own lockbox, or we can provide one at the Meet & Greet for a $25 installation fee. Our walkers do not carry keys on them. This system allows us to provide consistent, reliable service while adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind for last-minute visits, emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances.
A: Our appointments come in 20, 40, 60, and 90 minute options. We start the timer once we park our vehicle and end the timer once we return to our vehicle. Each service is tailored to your dog’s individual needs, but most include a healthy mix of exercise, sniffing, and enrichment. A typical 40-minute appointment includes about 30 minutes of active walking or playtime, with the rest used for entering and exiting the home, harnessing, refreshing water, giving food and/or medication, and securing the home.
All of our services include photos, time stamps, and a written “report card” to showcase how much fun your pets had with us! All of our services are private and one-on-one, so you can have peace of mind knowing we provided exactly what your individual dog needed during their appointment! Click here to explore our full list of services.
A: Yes! We operate in all weather as long as it’s safe for our staff to reach your home. During heat advisories, ice, or thunderstorms, walks may be shortened or replaced with indoor enrichment to keep your dog safe. We do our best to ensure a fun experience, but we ask clients to use discretion during extreme conditions, like scheduling shorter walks on very hot days.
A: Dogs must be on leash during walks unless inside a private, fully fenced area. We also use backup leash attachments to ensure your dog is never separated from our staff. As a professional, insured company, we follow all Henrico County and Richmond City leash laws and cannot make exceptions to this policy.
A: Yes! Just keep in mind that our hours are Monday–Friday 10am–4pm. Many clients schedule breakfast, midday, and dinner visits and arrange for after-hours or holiday care from another sitter or neighbor. We also provide routine daily care for pets beyond dogs, including litter box maintenance or occasional fish tank cleaning. Check out our services page to see how we can support your family while you’re away.
A: Yes! Austin, the owner of Tuckered Out Dog Walking, is Fear Free certified and incorporates Fear Free practices into all team training. We aim to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress to create a positive experience for pets, their humans, and our walkers. We will not use e-collars, prong collars, choke chains, or any aversive handling techniques. If your dog normally uses these, we’re still happy to work with them on a martingale collar or harness and your preferred treats!
A: Absolutely! Tuckered Out Dog Walking is licensed to do business in the state of Virginia. We are fully insured and bonded through Business Insurers of the Carolinas. Our entire team is certified in Pet First Aid / CPR as well.
A: Click here to book your Meet & Greet directly on our calendar, and we’ll handle the rest! A $20 deposit is required, which is applied as a credit to your account once the Meet & Greet is completed. If you decide not to move forward, the deposit covers our time. There are no other fees for becoming a new client. We can’t wait to meet you and your pets!
Ready To Book Your Dog Walker?
We are accepting new clients for recurring and on-demand midday dog walking!