Frequently Asked Questions

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Definitely not. All dogs are welcome at Empire of the Hound. If your dog is a cross breed and therefore bred to do more than one job, I take the time to find out which jobs are the most enriching and focus on providing outlets for those

Yes, and it will help them to better manage these behaviours. One of the reasons I offer enriching outings rather than group walks is that a lot of dogs find group walks overwhelming and unfulfilling. The play sessions are also tailored specifically to your dogs individual requirements, incorporating scientifically proven elements to address exactly what your dog needs and give them fun and fulfilling outlets, resulting in calmer, more relaxed and confident behaviour

My 3 step safety system keeps your dog safe on every outing-

1. An air tag is fitted to your dog's collar before we walk out the door, so in the unlikely event of them becoming separated from me they can be located

2. I always carry a slip lead in case your provided collar or lead breaks

3. Your dog's lead isn't just held in my hand,  it's also attached to a harness around my waist  

We require 24 hours notice to cancel or your service will be charged at full price

The health and safety of your dog is always my top priority and any decisions to reschedule or postpone sessions are made in accordance with current best practice in animal welfare

In the case of weather deemed too hot for your dogs safety, outings will be rescheduled to earlier in the day if possible, or postponed to another date. Play sessions can still take place indoors, or potentially in a suitably shaded area. In the case of other extreme weather events we will reschedule outings, but can continue with an indoor play session or covered outdoor area if your home allows 

Your average Melbourne rainy day doesn't stop our fun, and we towel dry your dog at the end of a wet weather outing or play session. 

Yes I do, because treats tell your dog they did a great job, and encourage behaviour you want to see more of. I only use premium air dried liver treats because they are very high value to most dogs, and therefore super rewarding. I source them from a 100% Australian-owned producer, not a mass market pet shop supplier. They are made from single origin Tasmanian grass fed organic beef. Air dried liver is more easily digested by most dogs compared to standard liver, lowering the chance of GI distress. If you have a treat or something else you would prefer I give to your dog, just leave it out and I'll make sure to use that instead  

Empire of the Hound can only book sessions with proof of a current C5 vaccination

If on arrival at any session your dog is deemed unfit to participate in a session due to illness or injury, the session will be cancelled and charged at the full rate

Instinct play sessions require your backyard to be free of excrement. If you've booked a play session in your backyard and it needs to be cleaned before I can start, a $25 surcharge will be added to your invoice