Group walks are always a minimum of 60 minutes – the only times this fluctuates is if our walkers get particularly filthy; it’s an exceptionally hot/cold day; or there is an incident that needs to be dealt with immediately.

Extreme weather (Defined as heat and cold, not rain) are usually dealt with on a case by case basis. We will never endanger your pet and we always consider the owner’s situation. For example, an owner who is unable to walk their dog because of a physical inhibition will likely be rescheduled whilst an owner who is at work will likely have their pet visited instead of walked.

Rove try and function as much as possible, and only cancel when absolutely necessary. We like to pick shady, dirt tracks to avoid the heat and ensure we carry plenty of water when heat is the issue.

The optimum (and average) number is four and the van is crated specifically for 4 dogs. We walk from four households, but will never have more than six in any walk. Four works very nicely as it gives the dogs and the walker enough time together, maintains a lovely balance of control and also means the group walk enough (as opposed to spending half of the walking time picking up poop!).

Rove use Beco’s Biodegradable bags. We are actively looking for a better alternative as biodegradable bags are actually not that environmentally friendly, and typically the poop goes to landfill and petrifies.
For now, we try and bag as many poops in a single bag as possible (to minimise environmental impact) and we are looking to use cornstarch or other compostable bags, but they have to work for some… very large poops which is why we have yet to change! Please do get in touch if you have recommendations though.

Leashed dogs can be an anchor and inhibit a walkers flexibility to problem solve whilst you’re walking. This is purely to minimise risk on all behalfs.

To ensure the leads are safe and to work with the walking belt that we use. Halti leads are widely available, they offer a great adjustable system allowing Rove to give or retract freedom as necessary. We also carry a long line for some of our leash-bound woofs so they can at least get a little more freedom.

Yes. Rove are not afraid of any breed, we hold no breed prejudice in the slightest. We consider every dog on their merits, their faults and work with them accordingly. The van is also wonderfully fitted for large dogs, so please don’t be afraid to approach us with anything!

We will consider all dogs, and if they can be worked with (and the owner is flexible and understanding) we can usually accommodate.

Awkwardly, the answer is yes and no. As mentioned, your dog is expected to have recall and basic manners. We try to use your commands as far as possible.

Whilst there is a small amount of training, this is more what I would call the dog learning the walkers expectations of them.

This is largely dependant on your dog(s) behaviour. If they are very responsive and obedient? Certainly! But, if they struggle on introductions, or their listening ears aren’t quite so sharp? Then unfortunately we would spend so much time focusing on the adhoc that our regular would suffer, which isn’t what we want.

In order to set up some understanding between walker and pet, we recommend a minimum of two per week. This allows the walker to bond nicely and your dog to avail of meeting other puppies and have lots of fun!

It’s usually pretty quick that you get an idea of how well a dog listens; but typically, we’ll do at least one leashed walk, build them up on that to a long line, and then leave the long line trailing behind them, and finally then off lead. They will need to show an ability to listen and a want to work with the walker.

We do understand that sometimes focus is tough and we will work through this as best as possible. Though, on occasion, we may ask you, Mum and Dad, to do some homework with your dog to try and help us get them aligned with the needs of a group walk!

Yes! We will happily have a good conversation with your trainer, doggy professional to professional in order to discuss the exact needs and specifications for your pup. We will work to the trainers best advice, as well as we can.

The only things that may become an issue is if Rove’s methodology (Positive training) conflicts with your trainer. If that is the case, we can recommend new trainers (and certainly can say that anyone from the IMDT would be a great place to start), and if that cannot happen, then unfortunately Rove isn’t the walker for you.

For a variety of reasons! The dog may be new, the dog may be uncertain of the other dogs, or vice versa, sometimes it’s simply because if Fido and Talullah are off lead together the play gets too rough, or mischief starts to grow! Typically we try to avoid pairing ill-fitted dogs together, but sometimes emergency dictates otherwise!

No. This one is a tough one because we know that a lot of dogs love to chase a ball, or fetch a stick, or similar. We actively discourage toys on walks as it is one of the few things that can make even the most peaceful dogs become protective over – and sadly the increased risk to your dog and others is just not worth it.

This one is tricky… anxiety can sometimes be treated. Thunderjackets, or lickimats put on the wall of the van can comfort or entertain for short periods of time, respectively. But, if they cannot travel, we cannot walk them.

This largely depends on the dog and the group they will be walking with. Some other males find intact males quite scary, and it can be quite disruptive. We rather our puppies are neutered before 18 months for the peace of all our walkers.

Yes, however, it is the owners responsibility to inform the walker if their dog is in season. They can not be walked on group walks if this is the case. Rove will accept no responsibility for any accidental pregnancies.

So, if your dog needs some extra exercise, for whatever reason, don’t let it become a problem. By walking safely and securely whilst providing a fantastic environment to play and explore, Rove can bring you home a happy and tired dog.