Question 1

Why should I choose Yellow Dog to care for my dog?

Accepted Answer

At Yellow Dog, we provide services that are reliable, professional, and enriching for your dog. We started Yellow Dog because we understand that no two dogs are alike and their care should be personalized. A few things in particular set us apart:
We only use positive reinforcement techniques to create a fun and enjoyable experience for your pup. This not only encourages good behavior but also supports their overall training and development. To read more about the importance of positive reinforcement approach to working with dogs, this position statement by The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) is a great resource.We customize our visits and routines to fit your dog’s individual needs, energy levels, and preferences, ensuring they stay active and happy.Your dog’s safety is our top priority. From secure leashes and harnesses to avoiding high-risk areas, we go the extra mile.
We keep you updated on your dog’s activities, behaviors, and highlights from our visits. You’ll always know how your furry friend is doing and can feel confident they’re in great hands.

Question 2

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Reach out to us via our Contact Form or via phone/text at 434.214.0693. Please include the best way to reach you and what services you are interested in. We will respond to every inquiry within 24 hours. We will schedule a meet and greet ahead of our first visit to ensure that you feel 100% confident with your decision to entrust us with care for your dog.

Question 3

Do I have to schedule regular dog walks, or can I use you just once in a while?

Accepted Answer

We are happy to provide support intermittently for existing clients. For best results for your dog, we recommend a schedule that includes regular visits. In our experience, this consistent routine is most beneficial to dogs. There is a 10% discount for clients who schedule at least three visits per week.

Question 4

Do you charge extra for additional dogs?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the needs of the dogs. We will work with you to determine how to ensure each of your pets has a great experience. Let's talk!

Question 5

What about bad weather?

Accepted Answer

Unless there are unsafe road conditions, we won’t let inclement weather spoil our fun, even if it means being creative with our time. If there is any concern about weather, we will contact you ASAP.

Question 6

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We try our best to be flexible with scheduling, but please note that once you have booked an appointment with us, it means we have reserved time in our schedule. Since life is unpredictable and schedules do change, we ask that you contact us 24 hours in advance of your scheduled visit, and we will cancel at no charge. If we do not receive notification within the 24 hour window, we will charge you for the scheduled visit.

Question 7

How will I know what you did during your visit?

Accepted Answer

After every visit, you’ll receive a text or e-mail with a brief summary of our visit. If you’d like, we'll share adorable photos of your pup, so you can feel confident they’re in great hands.

Question 8

Will you use physical punishment or corrective collars when walking my dog?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is no, never. While we understand that some pet parents choose to use these tools, at Yellow Dog, we do not believe they are necessary to change behavior nor productive for long-term reliable results, well-adjusted dogs, or healthy human/canine relationships. 
You can read in-depth about the risks of training with fear and pain, including their established role in creating and escalating aggressive behaviors, suppressing the warning signs dogs as a social species rely on to avoid resorting to violent behavior, and creating an unhealthy lack of behavior through trauma and learned helplessness here.

Question 9

What is Fear Free Certified?

Accepted Answer

Founded by Dr. Marty Becker,  Fear Free works to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets through education for people who care for them. This includes veterinary professionals, pet caregivers, and families. The focus of all Fear Free programs is to provide the best physical and emotional care for animals so that they can live their best lives.

Question 10

Can I schedule an exact time for a visit?

Accepted Answer

We plan our visits within a two hour window and will always do our best to work with your preferred schedule.

Question 11

What areas in Central Virginia do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Our primary service area includes Crozet, Afton, Ivy, and Batesville. If you are outside of our service area but are interested in a regular dog walking schedule, please reach out to see if we can work something out!

Question 12

I don’t see the service I need listed. Can you recommend another service?

Accepted Answer

If we are all booked up, don't offer the service you need, or perhaps just know of a dog trainer who'd be a better fit for your personal situation, we are more than happy to make recommendations. Please use our Contact Form, and we’ll do the best we can to help out.

FAQ