Frequently Asked Questions

  • I strongly believe that inclusion towards all dog breeds is essential for promoting responsible ownership and the overall treatment of dogs. Some regions of Canada have implemented Breed-Specific Legislation that targets specific breeds based on perceived risks associated with them. Inclusion encourages a shift away from BSL, advocating for laws and regulations that focus on responsible ownership, proper training, and dealing with aggression on a case-by-case basis, no matter the breed.

    Wild Sage Petcare is happy to welcome all sizes and breeds of dogs for both private and group walks (as long as each dog is deemed compatible).

  • I kindly request that all pets have completed their first set of vaccinations, ideally spanning a minimum of four months. Additionally, it is appreciated if they have basic leash skills and, if applicable, effective recall for off-leash activities.

    For the comfort and safety of all guests, pets that exhibit signs of aggression or lack of response to verbal cues may not be able to be accommodated.

  • I offer private one on one tailored walks depending on your dog's needs (reactivity, fearfulness, puppy, or senior) and small group walks up to a maximum of 4 dogs.

    I request that all clients interested in group walks have their dog complete at least 1 trial private walk before being offered a group walk. This is to gain an understanding of each dog’s energy and training levels, as well as to assist in determining their compatibility and placement within a group.

    New clients are offered a paid 2 walk trial period, after which walks are scheduled on a recurring monthly basis unless the client provides notice of termination (2 weeks notice required).

  • Overnight pet sitting is offered to clients within their homes and requires a 2 walk trial period before pet sitting services can be booked. This ensures your dog will be cared for by someone they are comfortable with, and they will be cared for in the comfort of their own home.

    Overnight rates start at $90-additional fees may apply for puppies, senior dogs that require additional care and/or medication administration, and multiple pets within the same home.

  • Wild Sage Petcare proudly serves Penticton, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Summerland, and Naramata.

    If you reside outside of the regular service areas listed and are interested in recurring walks with Wild Sage Petcare, please contact me to discuss further. An additional travel fee may apply.

  • In 2023 I completed my BravoDog Dog Walker Certification and Dogsafe Canine First Aid Certification. Additionally, I have had the privilege of being mentored by Sandy Wei, of Wei With Tails, a certified dog behaviour consultant and one of the most reputable, multi-credentialed dog trainers in the Okanagan. She has instilled in me the importance of fear & force-free methods and shared her extensive knowledge and education surrounding ethical, humane, positive reinforcement-based training and care.

    I am fully licensed, insured and bonded.

  • An Emergency Authorization Form is obtained from each new client. This authorizes me to take your pet to their regular vet or the nearest vet in case of an emergency. I will always ensure to contact you or your emergency contact person listed ASAP in the event of an emergency situation.

    Please take comfort in knowing that I also hold my Canine Emergency First Aid Certification, should your pet become ill or injured while in my care.

  • Contact me to set up your initial 15-20 minute discovery call, at which time I will get to know a little bit about your dog and your walking needs. Next, we will schedule a complimentary in-person meet and greet where I will get to meet you and your pup, go over policies and do a short walk around your neighbourhood.

    Reach out and get walking with Wild Sage Petcare today!

Curious about our policies? Learn more here.

  • I kindly ask that at least 48 hours notice be provided for any scheduled walk cancellations, unless there are health/medical issues related to your dog. For recurring walk services, I kindly request 2 weeks notice to end your scheduled services.

    All scheduled walks are completed, rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather advisories (heat/freezing temperature warnings or severe storms), I will contact you the day prior or the morning of in order to discuss an alternative option or to reschedule your walk.

  • Pets must remain up to date with all vaccinations. Proof of vaccination records may be requested during the initial intake process.

  • I ask that your dog be equipped with a well-fitted harness, as well as a standard leash and collar, with both a city license tag and a name tag with owner contact information.

    When appropriate and upon client approval, I may use my own 6 foot leash or 20 foot long line during walks. Clients must disclose any aggression and/or bite history and are required to prepare a well-fitted basket muzzle during pickup of the dog, should that be the case.

    I do not use or endorse the use of aversive tools, such as prong, pinch, or choke collars, any type of e-collars, or any training methods involving physical force or punishment.

  • Wild Sage Petcare is committed to only using science-based, positive reinforcement, fear and force-free methods. I do not use any form of physical force or punishment.

    While I am not a dog trainer, I am happy to continue reinforcing any training that you are implementing. My objective is to consistently advocate for your dog's well-being through an ethical, humane, and compassionate approach, consistently employing positive reinforcement.

    I take pride in working to establish a trusting bond with my dog clients based on compassion and patience, encouraging them to always feel safe and secure.

  • At Wild Sage Petcare, safety and trust are fundamental. I provide the option for your dog to be crated or seat-belted during vehicle rides to and from walk destinations. Any specific requests, such as on-leash only or specific walking destinations will always be strictly adhered to.

    My focus will always be on your dog’s movements and body language, as well as our surroundings, in order to ensure they are safe, content, and not getting into anything they shouldn’t. Deer poop, anyone?!

    I do request that any potential new clients inform Wild Sage Petcare of any details surrounding the dog’s past bite history and/or aggression. If the dog does have a bite history, the client is to prepare a well-fitted basket muzzle during pickup of the dog.

  • All walks are 1 hour in duration. All walks are scheduled for a specific time of day, however times may slightly vary, taking into consideration circumstances beyond my control (i.e. traffic, car trouble, previous walk delays, etc).

    New clients are offered a paid 2 walk trial period, after which walks are scheduled on a recurring monthly basis unless the client provides notice of termination (2 weeks notice required).

    Additional drop in walk requests from regular clients can always be made, and will be accommodated based on availability.

  • Invoices for the following month’s walks will be sent out near the end of the month prior. Payment is to be made via e-transfer and is due upon receipt, unless otherwise specified. Late payments beyond 7 days will result in a 10% late fee. Prepayment is required for pet sitting services.

Tail-Wagging Adventures Await!

Start with a short discovery call and I’ll walk you through every step of the process.