When a Walk Goes Wrong: Why Emergency Planning Matters for Dog Walkers
- Tori Lynn Crowther
- Nov 4, 2025
- 3 min read
When a Walk Goes Wrong: Why Emergency Planning Matters for Dog Walkers
There are days in this profession that stay with you. A walk that feels off. A situation that rattles your confidence. A moment where you realise how exposed you really are when you’re out there alone, responsible for multiple dogs, with no immediate backup.
If you have ever come home from a walk feeling shaken, overwhelmed, or quietly questioning whether you handled everything as well as you could have, it is important to say this clearly: that reaction does not make you weak, and it does not mean you are overthinking. It means you are aware, reflective, and taking your role seriously.
Asking “what would I do if I needed help?” is not pessimism. It is professionalism.
Many experienced walkers only put robust safety systems in place after a difficult or frightening day. That moment of discomfort is often the catalyst for better planning, clearer procedures, and stronger boundaries. What follows are practical, realistic measures that can make a significant difference to your safety, your confidence, and your peace of mind.
Practical steps that genuinely help:
Emergency information in the vehicle. Keep a clearly labelled folder in the front of the van containing each dog’s name, owner contact details, vet information, and any critical notes. If something were to happen to you, this allows immediate identification and action.
Clear identification on your phone. Ensure you have an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact visible on your lock screen and that your business name is obvious. Small details like this matter more than people realise.
Adjusting walks in poor conditions. On quieter days or during bad weather, reducing group sizes or staying closer to home or reliable signal is not a failure. It is sound risk management.
Lone worker support. Live location sharing or a lone worker app provides an extra layer of protection. Even if the person monitoring you is not local, they can raise the alarm if something seems wrong.
Building local connections. Swapping numbers with other local walkers and setting up or joining a WhatsApp group can be invaluable. A simple “anyone nearby today?” message can make all the difference when you need help or reassurance.
A basic contingency plan. Having a written “if I don’t come back” plan—covering who contacts owners and where the dogs would be—offers quiet but powerful peace of mind.
One difficult walk does not undo everything you have built. For many professionals, it is precisely these moments that lead to stronger systems, better boundaries, and safer working practices. This is not about giving up. It is about levelling up.
See The Dog House Resources for templates you can use.
About Tori & TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub
I’m Tori, founder of TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub and The Dog House, where I help dog walkers and dog owners build confidence, clarity, and success. With years of hands-on experience running a busy dog walking company and training academy, my mission is to make the industry easier to navigate. Whether you're growing your business or supporting your dog at home, you’ll find practical guidance, community support, and resources designed to help you thrive.
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