Understanding the Basics
You may be wondering, “How old do I have to be to walk dogs on Wag?” You’re not alone. Many caregivers like yourself are looking to channel their nurturing instincts into this rewarding job. According to Wag’s policies, you need to be at least 18 years old to become a dog walker. This is mainly due to legal reasons, as those under 18 are considered minors and cannot enter into contracts.
Why 18 is the Minimum Age
Believe it or not, your age isn’t just a number in the eyes of Wag. It’s a reflection of your maturity and your ability to take responsibility. At 18:
- You are legally an adult.
- You are likely to have more experience handling pets.
- You can be held legally responsible for any incidents.
But age is not the only requirement. Wag also looks at your experience with dogs, your physical fitness, and even your sense of direction!
Experience and Skills Needed
Experience and skills are as important as your age when it comes to walking dogs. This is what Wag is looking for:
- Experience with Dogs: You should have experience handling different breeds and sizes of dogs.
- Physical Fitness: Walking dogs can be physically demanding. You need to be fit enough to handle it.
- Sense of Direction: Dogs can take you down any path! A good sense of direction helps you navigate unfamiliar routes.
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Experience with Dogs | Different dogs react differently. Experience helps you handle them. |
| Physical Fitness | You need to be able to keep up with the dogs. |
| Sense of Direction | You never want to get lost on a dog walk! |
Preparing to Become a Dog Walker
So, you’re 18, you have experience with dogs, you’re fit, and you never get lost. Great! But what’s next? Here are some important steps:
- Apply: Apply through the Wag website or app.
- Background Check: Be prepared for a background check. Wag wants to ensure the safety of their pet clients.
- Test: There might be a collar and harness test to check your practical skills.
Remember, every dog is unique, just like every walk. Be ready to adapt to different situations and embrace the diversity of the dog world!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I walk dogs on Wag if I am under 18 but have parental consent?
No, you must be at least 18 to walk dogs on Wag, regardless of parental consent.
Q2: What kind of experience with dogs do I need?
Any experience that involves handling dogs, whether it’s owning a pet, volunteering at a shelter, or previous dog walking jobs.
Q3: What if I am not physically fit but I meet all the other requirements?
Physical fitness is important as dog walking can be strenuous. It’s recommended to build up your fitness before applying.
Q4: Do I need to have a sense of direction if I have a GPS?
Yes, a sense of direction is still important. GPS devices can malfunction or run out of battery.
Q5: How can I prepare for the collar and harness test?
Practice putting different types of collars and harnesses on dogs. There are various videos online that can help guide you.
So there you have it! If you’re 18 or over, have a love for dogs and meet the other requirements, a rewarding career in dog walking could be just around the corner.
