The Worst Part of Dog Walking - Coping With the Death of a Client Dog
Over the span of 20+ years in the pet care industry, I've had quite a few dogs I walk pass away. It's devastating every time. Here are some tips that have helped me cope with the loss of a client dog while offering support to my clients' after their loss.
A Time to Grieve
Give yourself time to mourn after the loss of a client dog. These dogs light up our lives every day and become a part of us. It can be like losing your own dog when they pass away. Set yourself up so you have time to grieve by always having savings put aside so you don't have to scramble for a new dog to fill the open spot and can refund the client any unused walks. This allows you to fill it on your own terms, when you're ready.
Part of my grieving process is going through old photos from past walks, and for long-time clients, making a slideshow of their dog's adventures with me. I find it very cathartic. Find what helps you mourn and give yourself time.
Support Your Client
Often the best way to support your client is just to listen and offer condolences. If they have another dog in the household that you also walk, keep a close watch for any signs of grief and let your client know if you observe anything unusual (lack of appetitite, hesitancy to go on the walk, or anything out of the ordinary).
Encourage the client to keep the surviving dog's regular walk schedule. You don't want to disrupt the dog's regular routine any more than it has already been affected by the loss and potentially add more stress.
Let Them Know You Care
There are many options to let your client know you're thinking of them after the loss of a pet. Here are a few to consider:
- Send a condolence card signed by you and your staff
- Make a donation in the dog's name to an animal charity
- Gift a photo book or framed photo of their pet
- Have flowers delivered to their home
- Post an "in memoriam" slideshow or photo to your social media in honor of their dog
The loss of a client's dog is always difficult, and it's 100% the worst part of dog walking for me no matter the circumstances (and I'm betting for you too). If you're in business long enough, it's inevitable. If you need a safe space to get support after the loss of a client dog, join the School for Dog Walker's Community, my private Facebook group. It's full of dog walkers who know exactly what you're going through.
