About Woody's Walkers

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 Group dog walks can be a fantastic way to provide socialization, mental stimulation, and exercise for your pup — but like with anything new, preparation is key. Here are a few professional tips to help ensure your dog has a safe, enjoyable experience from the very first group adventure:
1. Be Honest About Your Dog’s Behaviour
Let your dog walker know how your dog typically behaves around other dogs — the good, the bad, and everything in between. Have they shown signs of nervousness around certain breeds? Are they reactive to overly energetic dogs? Do they tend to guard toys or get possessive over sticks?
The more we know, the more we can tailor the group environment to set your dog up for success.
2. Highlight Triggers and Quirks
Tell us what your dog loves to chase — whether it's squirrels, deer, cyclists, or anything that moves. If they’ve had a negative encounter (like a scuffle with another dog or fear around loud noises), sharing that info helps us plan accordingly — such as choosing calmer dogs for their group or avoiding certain locations. For example, if deer are around, we can pop them on a lead ahead of time to prevent any chase instinct from kicking in.
3. Start With Solo Walks First
We always recommend beginning with a few one-to-one walks. This allows your dog and their walker to build trust and bond at their own pace. It also gives us the opportunity to observe their behavior in different environments and get to know their walking style, energy level, and temperament before gradually introducing them to a group dynamic.
4. Practice Recall and Lead Manners
Group walks often involve time off-lead (where safe and permitted), so it’s helpful if your dog has a reliable recall and is comfortable walking calmly on a lead. If recall isn’t 100% yet, don’t worry — we use long lines for safety and can work on strengthening it during solo walks.
5. Match the Right Group
Not all dogs enjoy boisterous pack energy — and that’s okay. We carefully group dogs by size, temperament, energy level, and social skills. Some prefer a quiet trio of walking buddies, while others thrive in a livelier group. Our goal is always to create a balanced and harmonious experience for every dog.

Final Thoughts
With the right preparation and gradual introduction, most dogs absolutely love their group walks. It’s a chance to explore, make friends, and burn off energy in a safe and structured environment. Communication is key — the more we know about your dog, the more confident we can be in giving them the best walk possible.
Ready to get started? Book a solo meet & greet or walk today, and let’s take the first step toward stress-free, happy group adventures!  

Book a free meet and greet by contacting Heidi on your preferred listed method!

 Keeping Your Dog Safe and Comfortable All Year Round
Living in beautiful Gloucestershire means stunning walks year-round — from forest trails in the Cotswolds to riverside strolls near the Severn. But each season brings its own challenges for pet care. Here's how to keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and safe no matter the weather.

 Summer: Heat Hazards & Seasonal Nasties
Summers can be deceptively warm in Gloucestershire — and dogs often feel it more than we do.
Watch Out for Grass Seeds
After every summer walk — especially across long grass or countryside fields — do a quick post-walk health check. Grass seeds might look harmless, but they’re sharp, barbed, and sneaky. Target key areas:
• Inside and around the ears
• Between the toes
• Under the armpits
• Around the eyes and muzzle
Left undetected, these tiny seeds can burrow into the skin and migrate internally, sometimes ending up in the lungs or heart. They can cause serious infections and require surgical removal — so early detection is key.
Beat the Heat
Gloucestershire’s tarmac roads and pavements can get dangerously hot. Use the 8-second hand test: place your palm on the pavement — if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Cooling tips:
• Lay down a cold, damp towel in the shade for your dog to rest on
• Use cooling mats or jackets
• Freeze toys filled with water or low-sodium broth for interactive cooling
• Walk during cooler parts of the day: early morning or after sunset
• Avoid strenuous hikes (yes, even up Crickley Hill!) on hot days

 Autumn: Mud, Seeds & Seasonal Changes
Autumn walks in the Forest of Dean or Leckhampton Hill are stunning — but come with muddy trails and sticky burrs.
Coat Protection & Clean-Up
If your dog has longer or feathered fur, invest in a full-body fleece or waterproof jacket. These help:
• Reduce mud splashes
• Prevent burrs, seeds, and twigs sticking to their coat
• Save you from endless post-walk baths!
Beware of Mushrooms & Acorns
Local woodlands can hide toxic mushrooms and fallen acorns — both of which can cause vomiting, liver damage, or worse if ingested. Keep curious noses off the forest floor.

 Winter: Cold Weather, Salt, and Safety
While many dogs love the frosty air, thin-coated breeds like Whippets and Staffies may need extra insulation.
Dress for the Weather
A well-fitted winter coat helps trap body heat and protect from cold winds, especially on open fields around Minchinhampton Common or Robinswood Hill.
Road Salt Alert
After snowy walks or strolls along treated pavements, always wipe your dog’s paws. Grit and salt can crack pads and cause irritation — and if licked, can lead to stomach upsets.
Visibility Matters
With shorter daylight hours, walks often happen at dusk or in the dark. Invest in:
• Reflective collars and leads
• Clip-on LED lights
• A reflective vest for you and your pup

 Spring: Allergies and New Growth
Spring brings wildflowers, pollen — and unfortunately, allergies.
Be Allergy Aware
If your dog starts licking their paws excessively, sneezing, or developing red skin patches, it could be seasonal allergies. Speak to your vet and consider wiping down your dog’s legs and belly with a damp cloth after walks.
Fleas and Ticks Wake Up Too
As temperatures rise, so do tick and flea populations. Tick hotspots in Gloucestershire include woodland areas like Slad Valley, Tewkesbury nature reserves, and anywhere deer roam.
• Check for ticks after walks (especially under collars and in ears)
• Keep flea and tick treatments up to date

 Final Thought: Every Season Needs a Little Planning
By staying mindful of the seasons and adapting your routine slightly, you can make every walk safe, enriching, and fun — whether you're rambling through Painswick Beacon, strolling down the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal, or just out in your local park.
Need help with walks during extreme weather or mid-day breaks? Woody’s Walkers offers reliable, safe, and seasonal care that puts your dog’s wellbeing first — rain, shine, or snow! 

Book a free meet and greet by contacting Heidi on your preferred listed method!