Professional Dog Walker – Gizmo’s & Gadget’s K9 Services (G&G’s)
Gizmo’s & Gadget’s K9 Services are looking for a confident, reliable and highly organised new team member to join our busy dog walking team based in Consett, County Durham. This is a self-employed role with hours building over time, and we are specifically looking for somebody who wants to become a regular, long-term member of our team with substantial weekday availability.
We are a busy, fast-paced and highly client-focused business, so reliability, good judgement and attention to detail are incredibly important to us.
This role is much more than simply “walking dogs”. A large part of the working day involves driving company vans, following individual client instructions, safely collecting and returning dogs, managing groups, communicating with clients and producing high-quality photo/video updates. We are therefore looking for somebody who is comfortable taking responsibility, working independently and maintaining consistently high standards throughout the day.
What the role involves
- Safely collecting and dropping off dogs from client homes
- Driving company vans throughout the day between client homes and our secure walking fields
- Handling and managing groups of dogs of different sizes, breeds and personalities
- Following individual care, access and handling instructions accurately
- Working independently and making sensible decisions throughout the working day
- Working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Taking high-quality photos and videos for client updates and social media
- Communicating professionally and confidently with clients
- Using apps, phones and social media platforms including TikTok and Instagram
- Cleaning and maintaining vans, equipment and working areas to a high standard
- Working closely with a small, friendly team whilst also being confident working alone
Availability requirements
Please read carefully before applying:
- Applicants must have broad weekday availability between approximately 7:30am–5pm
- A minimum of 4 weekdays availability is required, ideally all 5
- We are specifically looking for somebody who wants regular and substantial ongoing work.
- We also offer occasional weekend shifts as optional extra, paid at a higher hourly rate.
- Rotas and hours vary week-to-week depending on bookings, staff holidays and business demand. Hours are not guaranteed.
- Availability and flexibility across the working week are therefore extremely important
- This position would suit somebody whose current circumstances allow them good flexibility Monday–Friday and who is looking for a role they can commit to long-term.
What we are looking for:
- Full, clean UK driving licence – essential
- Must be aged 23+ for company vehicle insurance purposes
- Own vehicle required for travelling to/from our base in Consett
- Confident driving larger vehicles/vans
- Extremely reliable and punctual
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Calm and sensible when working under pressure
- Able to work independently and use initiative
- Strong communication and client-facing skills
- Confident around dogs of all sizes
- Comfortable managing multiple dogs at once
- Physically fit and happy working outdoors throughout the year
- Comfortable and confident using technology, apps (such as Tik Tok & Instagram) and social media platforms
- Able to take good-quality photos and videos
- Willing to learn and follow established procedures and safety standards
- Previous professional dog-handling experience is beneficial but not essential
Recruitment & Training
Successful candidates will initially be invited to meet the team and learn more about how G&G’s operates. Applicants who progress will complete practical trial/shadow sessions before beginning work, followed by structured training before progressing onto independent working. We are looking for somebody who genuinely wants to become part of the team and grow into the role over time.
A little extra:
Suitable, well-socialised staff dogs may be able to accompany team members on walks while working.
Discounted walks and boarding may also be available for staff, friends and family dogs where appropriate.
Pay
Starting from £13.00 per hour, with opportunity for future increases as experience, responsibilities and time with the business grow.
Pay: From £13.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company car
- Employee discount
- Flexitime
Application question(s):
- Are you over the age of 23 (for insurance purposes)?
- If you have a minimum or preferred number of hours you would ideally need each week, please let us know. If you don't, just write "flexible".
- Do you hold a full and clean UK driving license?
- Please describe your current weekday availability (including days available, and time restrictions)
- Are you located in, or near, Consett, and do you have access to your own vehicle?
- Please outline any relevant experience with dogs.
Work Location: In person
