Older children and teens can be the perfect solution to friends or neighbors in need of a dog walker. But like many areas of development, readiness to take on such a task varies greatly by the child.
Consider these issues before you decide if your child is ready for being a dog walker:
1. Is your child dependable, or will you be reminding him or her to visit the dog?
2. Does your child have control when walking your own dog, and will he or she pick up waste and avoid off-limit areas?
3. Will your child uphold his or her commitment, even if it means going out in the rain or declining a social opportunity?
4. Does your child remember details like locking doors, checking windows, and latching the fence?
5. Is your child patient with all canine personalities, from rambunctious puppies to slow moving seniors?
Once you feel your child is read, dog walking can be a great way for him or her to develop an early sense of responsibility and make some extra money in the process.
