One day course specifically designed for new dog walkers, those thinking of setting up, or anyone who wants to work with dogs. It can be adjusted for dog rescue volunteers and staff if required, or dog trainers who have done lots of theory courses but need to get some practical handling experience and skills. Course covers:

• Dogs -body language & communication, multiple dog handling, safe transportation
• Owners – customer services, initial consultations, expectations
  Common issues and problems
• Business – key handling, background checks, insurance, advertising

and lots lots more. Includes PRACTICAL experience with dogs, you will meet a minimum of 4, up to 30 depending on day attending.

Course is based on a personal basis, one student at a time, however we may be able to accommodate small groups at a reduced rate, or will try to match you with another student to reduce costs.

A Certificate of Attendance awarded at the end of the day. Clients look for experience when taking on a dog walker which is difficult to provide when just starting up – there are lots of ‘theory’ courses you can go on, practical training for dog walkers is very hard to find – this is a unique opportunity not to be missed!

I have been looking after dogs professionally for over 6 years and have cared for well over 200 dogs in that time, of all different shapes, sizes, breeds and temperament, and have been training dog walkers since 2010. I also run dog training classes so am experienced in training people as well as handling dogs.

Linda answered all our questions and provided us with more information then we could possibly have hoped for, and we got to experience what life was like in her shoes, as someone who has made a successful career in the pet industry. Both Becky and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Linda and we are so happy to have received such hands on experience whilst learning all that we needed from her. I highly recommend Linda as a pet professional, as she truly understands the way a dog’s mind works and is able to assert the control necessary to get what you want out of them.”

Kieran Murphy, Perpet Work Pet Sitters, Kent

Ideally you would attend on a weekday when we have clients dogs to walk so you can gain the most from your day, but we also have dogs boarding with us, and our own dogs so even weekends there are plenty of dogs to meet. If you provide a simple camera I can take plenty of photos of you with the dogs for your website or social media sites.  You can also chat to my staff during the week, so can get even more of an idea what it’s like to do the job, not just my perspective.

Usually the dog walks and visits are all done by around 3pm, then we’ll go back to my training centre to go over some of the ‘business’ ideas, and anything that hasn’t come up during the day – included in the information pack is a list of topics we usually cover, but will ask you to provide a list of important questions you would like answered prior to arrival. If you are travelling a long way we can include a second day with the dogs for only a small extra fee.

You will also be given access to all my booking forms, terms and conditions, information pack etc, which you can adapt for your own use, as well as some suggestions of follow up courses it would be beneficial to attend during your career with dogs.

I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend some time with Linda Ward at Boredom Busters. I got much more than I ever expected. Linda took me under her wing and showed me how her business is run. Her knowledge is endless and I was amazed by the control she has of the pets she is looking after. She always treats them with respect and kindness.

Linda is so professional and I have seen how she has gone the extra mile to make sure all her clients and pets are happy and satisfied. I will always be grateful for the opportunity; Linda has been an inspiration as a professional and as a person. Thank you!
Francisco Freeman, Amigo Pet Services, Exeter

If you have been claiming JSA for 6 months you may be able to get help setting up your own business (back to work support, new enterprise allowance). Speak to your local job centre for more information.

Working with dogs is hugely rewarding, making a career out of dog walking could be the best decision  you have ever made, contact me now for a full information pack.

I am really glad I went to see Linda when I was considering setting up a dog walking company, as spending a day with her gave me the confidence to see I could do it. Also, it was lovely to spend time with someone so “doggy”, and to have all my questions answered.

I have now got myself set up, and am just waiting to get some more dogs on my books (do have some chickens to look after next month!)
Emily Barclay, Doggle Walks, Norfolk