My Dog Runs
Frequently Asked
Questions 
We've provided answers to several common questions you may have regarding the services of My Dog Runs. Of course, if you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we will answer you promptly.
A
dog running service...why?
When are your services available?
I work during the day...how will my dog be picked up?
Is your business bonded/insured?
I have a puppy. Are your services appropriate for young dogs?
I'm not a runner. My dog has never run for an extended period of time.
Will it be too much for him?
What forms of payment are acceptable?
Where will you run my dog?
Do you run multiple dogs at the same time?
Do you require a special type of leash to run my dog?
Is your dog running service limited to only certain breeds?
Q:
A
dog running service...why?
A: A dog that exercises is generally a happy dog. The health benefits of
exercise are numerous, and include improved cardiovascular system, increased lifespan,
stronger bones, obedience, agility/mobility, bowel regularity, improved sleep, and a healthy
appetite. For most dogs, walking is simply not enough...more cardiovascular
is recommended, pumping the heart, and exercising the legs
thoroughly! Running 30-45 minutes daily is physically demanding, and requires
a high level of fitness. We are distance runners, who love dogs,
but know our limits and theirs. Running a dog 2-3x/week should be
adequate for a good start on fitness. We welcome the opportunity to share our
enthusiasm with them.
Q: When
are your services available?
A: Our dog running hours are 10am - 8pm daily Sunday-Saturday, during Summer and extended daylight hours. During shorter daylight hours, our dog running hours are
10am - 4pm.
Q: I
work during the day...how will my dog be picked up?
A:
We will work with you to arrange a pick-up. You may give us a copy of your key to access your residence for as long as you utilize our
services.
Q: I
have a puppy. Are your services appropriate for young dogs?
A:
In general, dogs less than 1 year old might not be suited for
sustained jogging or running as it may be too hard on their joints. However, consultation with your dog's
veterinarian is highly encouraged if
you're interested in our services. He/she will be able to assess
your dog's health and provide more specific guidelines based on his age, breed, and current fitness level.
Q: I'm
not a runner. My dog has never run for an extended period of
time. Will it be too much for him?
A: Dogs were born to run! However, recognizing that a
regular exercise regime may be new to some, our dog runners pay attention to your dog's behavior
and demeanor during
the workout. Common injuries include
irritated footpads, head "bobbing," which may indicate a
leg injury, and dry nose and white gums that signify discomfort or
dehydration. If your dog shows signs of any of these conditions, the dog runner will stop the workout.
Common techniques we employ include the following used by marathon training groups, especially for individuals attempting
their first distance running event: run-walk approach where dogs run and walk according
to a predetermined time ratio, such as four minutes of running, followed by one minute of
walking, and progressive training
techniques whereby dogs start off with one mile runs, increasing by one-half to one mile increments
as their fitness levels improve.
Q:
What
forms of payment are acceptable?
A: We only accept cash, money orders or bank check payments for
our services. Payments are due at the time services are rendered, unless other arrangements are agreed upon.
Q: Where
will you run my dog?
A: We are familiar with most areas around Rochester and will run
your dog/s in areas with the least possible interruption. The great thing about running is that it doesn't
require any special equipment or planning.
A simple loop or out and back route will suffice...the important
factor is duration. Depending upon which workout you choose, your dog is guaranteed either a 30 or 45
minute workout, regardless of the route.
Q: Do
you run multiple dogs at the same time?
A:
No. For safety reasons, we prefer to run only one dog at a time.
While walking multiple dogs at once is common, we prefer maximum control when moving at
a faster pace. Also, when multiple dogs do not live in
the same household, compatibility issues may arise. Additionally,
fitness levels vary from one dog to another, so in order to maintain a consistent pace and cater to each dog's
individual needs, we run one dog at a time.
Our services are truly individualized and tailored to yeach dog!
Q: Do
you require a special type of leash to run my dog?
A: Yes, but our dog runners will bring a
leash. All you have to do is make sure your dog is wearing a harness
on the days of
scheduled runs. The main reason we provide our own leash is so that your dog begins to associate it with running.
Otherwise, he may think he's going for a light walk and his behavior will reflect that. We will also be equipped with
plastic bags and water...to clean up after and hydrate your dog!!
Q: Is
your dog running service limited to certain breeds?
A:
There are specific breeds that are ideal for running. However, we cater to all breeds of dogs.
The authors of "Planet Dog: a
doglopedia," state that the following are some common dog breeds that love to
run: Airedale Terrier, Alaskan Malamute, American Pit Bull Terrier, Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collie, Border Collie, Boxer, Chesapeake Bay
Retriever, Collie, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, English Springer Spaniel,
German Shepherd Dog, Giant Schnauzer, Golder Retriever, Greyhound, Irish Setter, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Pointer,
Portuguese Water Dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, Samoyed, Siberian
Husky, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, Weimaraner, and Welsh Springer Spaniel.
However, if your dog does not fit into one of these breeds, s/he might
still like to run. Dogs, like humans, are individuals!
Nonetheless, smaller dogs with short legs generally should not be run as long as larger dogs.
Also, dogs with short noses may have difficulty breathing during
vigorous exercise.
We consider all of these factors during the workout. We adhere to the
walk/run technique as a fantastic, safe way to ensure your dog gets
the exercise he needs and enjoys.
Remember, EVERY
dog needs exercise...and benefits from it greatly!!
My Dog Runs...Does Yours ?