How does my dog-walker gain access to my dog while I'm at work?

Hi, James! I am a dog walker myself and there are a few different arrangements that I have with clients, depending on their preferences. Once you've contacted the walker, they should arrange a Meet & Greet with you. This is where they will come to your house to meet you and your dog, learn about the service specifics you're looking for, and see where the supplies (leash, poop bags, etc.) are located within your home. Each sitter/walker on this site has passed a background check, so I hope that makes you a little less leery! You can also read the walker's reviews to see what others have said about them. So long as you both feel that it is a good fit, you can book with that sitter. At this time, you can decided whether you'd like to give them a key to your home, leave a key hidden somewhere around the exterior of your home, give them your garage code if you have one, or give them a spare garage door opener. Clearly some of these are more secure than others, but it really depends on what you're comfortable with. Good luck with your move and I hope you find the perfect new walker for your dog!

This is a good question and has been asked before. In addition to the usual ways that Hillary stated, if you're still hesitant after a meet&greet, you may consider if the person offers day care. Sometimes the difference between daily walks at your home and daycare at the sitter's home isn't much (especially if this is a long term five day/week agreement) and then you could arrange to have your dog dropped off/picked up and not bother with giving access to your home.