Essential Guidelines for safe and successful dog sitting & dog walking exchanges
Before meeting or engaging with another member, we strongly advise that you:
HAPO does not verify user identities, perform background checks, or provide insurance coverage for any arrangements made through the platform.
All users are responsible for carrying out their own checks and ensuring the safety and suitability of any engagement.
Dog walking means taking someone's dog out for exercise, fresh air, and companionship when their owner can't do it themselves.
On HAPO, dog walking is more than just a stroll; it's about connection, trust, and kindness. Every walk helps strengthen the bond between neighbours, creates happier dogs, and builds a stronger community of people who care. When you walk a dog through HAPO, you're giving them more than exercise; you're giving them joy, attention, and the comfort of routine. Plus you are helping out a neighbour in need.
These five simple principles help make every HAPO dog walk a safe, happy, and meaningful experience for both dogs and walkers.
Before any walk, always meet the dog and owner first; ideally somewhere neutral, calm and familiar like a local park.
This helps the dog get to know you, gives you a chance to understand their needs, and ensures everyone feels confident before beginning an arrangement. If you plan to bring your own dog or dogs along on the walk, it's essential that the dogs meet beforehand and get along comfortably. A short, relaxed introduction on neutral ground helps make sure the walk will be safe and enjoyable for everyone.
If the dogs don't get along or seem uncomfortable, it's okay to walk them separately; safety and wellbeing come first.
A safe walk is a happy walk. Always stay alert, follow local leash laws, and choose routes that suit the dog's comfort level.
Avoid busy roads or crowded areas if the dog is anxious, and keep them on a secure lead at all times unless the owner gives clear permission for an off-lead area.
Safety shows care; for the dog, for the owner, and for the community. Responsible walking keeps everyone protected and builds lasting trust.
Every dog has its own rhythm and preferences. Some love a brisk pace; others prefer a sniff-and-stroll.
Stick to the owner's instructions — their regular route, walk duration, and favourite spots help the dog feel calm and confident.
Dogs feel safest when they know what to expect. Familiar walks and consistent cues help them relax and enjoy their time out with you.
Communication keeps HAPO strong. Send a quick message or photo after the walk so the owner knows their dog had a great time.
Transparency builds trust — whether it's a cheerful photo, a quick "all went well," or noting any changes you observed.
A short message like "Bella had a fun trot around the lake today!" can make a big difference to an owner's peace of mind.
Even short walks can have surprises, a loose dog, a sudden storm, or a lost leash clip. Stay calm, be prepared, and always have backup plans.
Know the dog's vet details, the owner's contact info, and local safe spots (like a nearby café or shelter) in case you need a break. Make sure to check if the owner has third party liability insurance.
Preparation shows responsibility. Emergencies are rare, but readiness ensures you can keep the dog safe and cared for; no matter what happens.
Dog sitting—also known as dog minding—means caring for someone's dog in your own home while the owner is away.
On HAPO, dog sitting is all about helping each other out—a community of trusted dog owners supporting one another. When you mind a dog, you're not just doing a favour; you're building friendships and trust that make the HAPO community strong. It's about giving a dog a safe, calm, and loving home away from home, following their usual routine, and treating them with the same care and respect you'd want for your own. These five simple rules form the foundation of every successful dog-sitting arrangement on HAPO.
Before any stay, both dogs, owners, and minders must meet in a safe, public place—ideally a park or open area.
This first meeting helps everyone get comfortable, ensures the dogs are compatible, and builds the foundation of trust that HAPO relies on. Meeting on neutral ground gives both owners peace of mind, helps the dogs relax, and makes sure everyone feels confident about the arrangement before the stay begins.
Own dog must be comfortable with other dogs in its space for this arrangement to work
If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to say no—safety first.
Before welcoming a dog into your home, make sure your space is secure and comfortable.
A new home can feel strange for a dog. A safe, calm environment helps them settle faster and prevents stress or accidents. Check fences, remove hazards, and create a quiet spot where the dog can rest and feel at ease.
A secure and comfortable environment is essential for a successful dog sit. It prevents accidents, reduces stress for the dog, and gives owners peace of mind knowing their pet is in good hands.
Every dog has their own rhythm—and keeping that routine steady helps them feel secure.
Follow the owner's feeding times, walk schedule, and house rules carefully. Consistency is key for a happy, relaxed dog. Keeping their routine the same helps them adjust quickly and keeps trust strong between owners and minders.
Dogs thrive on routine. When you follow their usual schedule and habits, they feel more secure and comfortable in a new environment. This reduces stress and anxiety, making the stay more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Good communication keeps HAPO strong. Stay in touch with the owner throughout the sit.
Send photos or short updates so owners know their dog is happy and safe. Sharing updates builds confidence and strengthens community trust. If anything changes (like eating habits or mood), let the owner know right away.
A simple photo or message like "Had a great walk today!" can mean the world to an owner who's away from their pet. Regular communication shows you care and helps build lasting trust in the HAPO community.
Have a plan just in case. Know where the nearest vet is, how to contact the owner quickly, and what to do if something unexpected happens.
Emergencies are rare, but being prepared shows care and responsibility—two core HAPO values. Having essential information at your fingertips can make all the difference if something goes wrong.
Being prepared doesn't mean you expect something to go wrong—it means you care enough to be ready if it does. Quick access to emergency information can save precious time and potentially save a life.
Following these Golden Rules helps create a safe, trustworthy community where dogs get the care they deserve and owners have peace of mind.