Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Code of Conduct
How long has dogknows cared for dogs?
We have been in business since 1999 and are dedicated to taking our exceptional services to more dogs so they and their owners can benefit from our expertise. So you can be sure that we intend to be here for you in the future.
What kind of handling methods do dogknows use?
We only use kind, force-free handling methods; everybody at dogknows is trained to care and control dogs in this way. We do not shout and yank or use aversive methods including choke chains, rattle bottles, corrector sprays or any such equipment.
Who owns dogknows?
Our founder is Bobs Broadbent who started working with dogs in 1999. She is a registered 'Animal Training Instructor' with ABTC, an accredited UK dog trainer with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and a qualified Puppy School Tutor. Bobs also holds an Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour Management.
In April 2023, each Dogknows business became independently owned having previously been part of a franchise network.
How do you select dog walkers?
Each dog walker is carefully selected and completes a comprehensive induction course and basic dog-handling course prior to working solo.
What Services Do dogknows Provide?
At dogknows we provide services to care for your dog at each life stage. We are there to support you as you go about your busy schedule and can nurture your puppy and exercise your dog a minimum of three times each week. All our services include everyday training of good pet dog obedience and manners
What days do you cover?
We are there for you each weekday, Monday to Friday and by prior arrangement we also support you with our out-of-hours services, which take place in the evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
My dog has never been out with a dog walker in a group before.
We have an introductory phase for every new dog that we care for. Following an in depth interview with you (which may include going out for a walk with you and your dog) we begin with 1-2-1 walks so we can get to know your dog. Once we’re happy that we have a bond we gradually introduce your dog to suitable walking pals. It’s important to us that every small group of dogs we take out are happy together and will discuss any concerns we have so we can get everything right for your dog and you.
How many dogs do you walk together?
We only walk dogs together that are happy in each other’s company and up to a maximum of four dogs, however, often we will reduce this to 2 or 3 if it is better for a particular dog or if we are including a young dog that is developing canine social skills.
What happens when my bitch comes into season?
If we care for a female dog that is unsprayed we will discuss a possible course of action for when they come into season. This may include changing your dog’s walk time and introducing 1-2-1 walks from the home.
How much do you charge?
Our fees vary depending on the service you require for you and the type of service you require and the location you live in. It’s therefore best to get in touch with your local dogknows business for information on services and fees.
Do you have a code of conduct?
Yes, we do:
1. Purpose
1.1 This Code does not replace organisations individual codes that have already been developed. It does, however provide the general public with an objective measurement that can be used to help them choose an appropriate service and provider.
1.2 It sets out the key principles and standards which behaviourists and trainers are expected to follow and uphold.
1.3 The Code is intended to reflect the good practice that already exists in organisations.
2. Scope and Objectives
2.1 Individuals have professional obligations to their clients, the animals they are helping, their employers (where relevant), to one another, to students, the animal requiring the service, to colleagues in other disciplines (e.g. Veterinary Surgeon) and to society.
2.2 In order that they may discharge their obligations to their clients they must be able to meet the expense of the professional provisions which are necessary for safeguarding and promoting the rights of both the client and the animal. The primary objective of this code is to express the values and principles which are essential to those working with animal behaviour and training.
3. Core Values
· Animal welfare
· Competence
· Confidentiality
· Effective provision · Integrity
· Legality
· Service to the client · Transparency
· CPD
4. Principles
Individuals and organisations have a duty to:
4.1 Ensure that the main requirements of the code are readily available to clients.
4.2 Work within the legal framework of the country where the service is being delivered.
4.3 Safeguard and promote the welfare of others especially the client and the animal.
4.4 To work in the best interests of the animal and the person responsible for the animal’s care. Avoid any individual behaviour which might unreasonably violate professional boundaries, unreasonably damage professional relationships or cause harm to the animal or client.
4.5 Use professional knowledge, research and experience to contribute to the discipline of behaviour and training. Encourage other practitioners to recognise and maintain similar standards. Contribute to the education and training of colleagues and students by sharing knowledge and experience.
4.6 Ensure that they do not act out of prejudice against any person or group, on any grounds including origin, ethnicity, class, sex, status, sexual orientation, age, disability.
4.7 Be honest, transparent and accurate about their qualifications, competence, experience, achievements and affiliations.
4.8 Take on work only within the practitioners’ existing capabilities or when a programme to attain the required skills has been achieved.
4.9 Encourage clients to seek other forms of treatment if behaviour modification or training is not the most appropriate means of treating the condition or problem.
4.10 Maintain and extend competence in order to provide a quality service that is accountable. Appraise new methods and techniques in order to extend experience.
4.11 Provide honest and reliable written (where appropriate) opinions, maintaining objectivity in judgements.
4.12 Take appropriate action if health or any other factor is likely to interfere with judgement or performance of duty.
4.13 Make it clear when making statements whether you do so as a private individual or as a representative of a particular organisation or group.
4.14 Keep a record of all complaints and actions taken.
4.15 Hold appropriate and adequate third party, as well as professional indemnity insurance and other insurance corresponding to the activities undertaken.
5. Conflict of Interest
Individuals must be alert to the possibility of any conflict of interest which may affect their ability to exercise discretion or bias their judgement.
6. Informed Consent
Individuals will not act without the informed consent of their client, unless required by law to protect the animal, the person or another from the risk of harm.
7. Confidentiality
Consent to disclose information must be obtained from the client before sharing related information with third parties. Any disclosure of information must be made only with the client’s written permission unless there are overriding legal, safety or ethical considerations.
8. Record Keeping
This must comply with the Data Protection Act.
9. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
In order to maintain, develop and enhance practitioner skills they must undertake appropriate CPD on a regular basis. This must be recorded by the individual. Individuals are also encouraged to reflect on their own professional practice.
10. Commercial Obligations
10.1 Practitioner advertising must not:
· Mislead or deceive users of their service
· Be sensational or make unrealistic, or unsubstantiated performance claims
· Create unjustifiable expectations about the length or type of treatment or unrealistic prospects for success
· Make claims of superiority or disparage colleagues or members of other organisations or professions
10.2 Practitioners must not sell or recommend a product, service or an individual service provider without being first satisfied that this would benefit the animal under their care and that they are suitably qualified to make such a recommendation.
10.3 The recommending practitioner must disclose to the client if the practitioner may gain a commercial benefit by making such a recommendation. Practitioners must not allow such an interest to influence their choice of provision, service, care or treatment to the detriment of the animal or service user.
10.4 There must be transparency in the charges, terms and conditions of the service that the practitioner provides.
Do you still have questions? Then why not contact us today?