Dog Walkers in Saint Hedwig, TX

Book a dog walker to give your dog a 30-minute walk around your neighborhood.

End
Search

Every sitter passes an enhanced background check. Learn about RoverProtect

Top rated Saint Hedwig dog walkers

Prices are estimates per walk. Pricing may vary based on your search. A booking fee of 11% and taxes will apply.

1 / 1
Sitter Profile Image: Bella H.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Bella H.
from
$15
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
3 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: I have several years of pet sitting experience and over six years of working as a vet tech. I have experience with all animals - large, small, and exotic. I have dog training skills and will keep up your routines with your pets while I care for them. I pet sit part time and will always make sure to care for your pet in the way they deserve. Your fur baby is my number one priority while I care for them. I do drop in visits and walks at your home, where your pet is at ease. I am capable of handling both big and small dogs on walks, as I have one of each. I will always make sure your pet is supervised and getting 100% of my attention during my entire time with them. I never leave a pet alone with anything they could get into and will make sure they are in a safe environment when I leave.

Sitter Profile Image: Delishia N.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Delishia N.
Star Sitter
from
$18
per walk
4.8 out of 5 stars
16 reviews
4 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: Lifelong dog lover with training experience, senior care background, and two adopted pups. Compassionate, patient, and reliable—I treat every dog like family with loving care I’m retired with plenty of free time, so caring for dogs fits naturally into my days. I love dedicating my routine to giving pets attention. I care for every pet as if they were my own. I’m patient, gentle, and attentive, making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and loved whether in my home or yours.

Sitter Profile Image: Jennifer M.
Verified Background Check
Jennifer M.
from
$22
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
25 reviews
13 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Seguin, TX, 78155

About: Hello Texas! I am a La Vernia area Rover contractor. I can service La Vernia, New Berlin, Marion, Adkins, and Sutherland Springs area, and possibly into Seguin or McQueeney. Just ask! 😊 I have a ton of special needs dog and cat experience Just let me know what you need! I'm excited to be here. As you can see from my Iowa reviews I was well liked and had several repeat clients. I will go out of my way to accommodate. I have also had a several dozen clients in Texas since starting here. Rover doesn't always give you an accurate number if there are multiple visits, mulitple animals, cats only, holidays, etc. I will adjust it! *I also do cat care: rates will depend on the number of cats, the number of days, and if there is a dog also. I will give each person a custom rate based on these. House sitting for cats only isn't an option, I will give you a custom cat visit rate (let's face it, they don't need me there all night!) : ) You can be assured you will always get a very reasonable rate. ABOUT ME: A have a lifetime of pet care experience. I grew up with cats and dogs and have had both as an adult (so that is a lot of pet years. 174 in dog years, I think). I have had two different seniors with special needs (one is with me currently). I love them all! My pets are members of my family and I treat them as such. I will do the same for yours. I am comfortable with all sizes, ages, special needs, med administration, etc. Kitty will get love too! If I am house sitting or doing drop in visits while you are away, I can also take care of trash/recycling day, plants, mail. Just ask! Part of the reason we moved was so I could rescue animals. So far, just in Texas, we have rescued 120 dogs, cats, cows, and goats. 30 of the dogs and cats have gone on to be adopted in the Pacific NW and are loving their new lives. 😍 I can accommodate preparing/feeding their special diets if you have them on one (raw food, homemade dog food, etc). Any other questions? Please just ask! Leaving your pets can be hard. My goal is to make that easier for you! I also have a farm sanctuary and we have rescued dogs, cats, cows, goats, hens, guinea pigs, and rabbits. My hours are flexible and animals are my whole life! I am not currently taking animals in my home as I am full with fosters! At your home, I will spend time playing and/or walking on visits depending on client wishes when visiting their home for check-ins or dog walking. I am able to handle all size dogs and multiple dogs. I am able to handle medication administration and various medical procedures. I love cats just as much as I love dogs!

Sitter Profile Image: Hayley W.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Hayley W.
from
$25
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
2 reviews
24 years of experience
Saint Hedwig, TX, 78152

About: Lifelong dog owner with hands-on experience fostering dogs and puppies, dedicated to providing safe, attentive, and compassionate care for pets of all ages and breeds. I offer flexible availability to meet your pet’s needs, including daytime visits, drop-ins, evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight stays with advance notice. I prioritize consistency and reliability, ensuring your pet receives dependable care and attention. Your pet’s safety and well-being are my top priorities. As a lifelong pet owner with two senior dogs and two cats of my own, I understand the importance of careful, attentive care. I provide a secure, loving environment, ensuring every pet feels comfortable, safe, and well-cared for while you’re away.

Sitter Profile Image: Kristen V.
Verified Background Check
Kristen V.
Star Sitter
from
$25
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
167 reviews
63 repeat clients
17 years of experience
Schertz, TX, 78154

My Bailey's home away from home!! Ok so a little background- my dog Bailey is a rescue who was physically abused by her previous owner. For this reason, she is utterly terrified of new people because she has a natural distrust for people following early life events. Kristen and her family originally spent time coming to my house to walk Bailey and spend time with her, and Bailey had been doing well with the new dog walkers! However, after learning about Bailey's concerns, Kristen thought it may improve Bailey's situation to have her spend the day at doggy daycare, and let me tell you, she and her family have done an amazing job taking care of Bailey!!! I've never seen her so happy every day when I come to pick her up (and probably even more happy to be dropped off :P). It's only been a few weeks and I can already tell Kristen and her family are making her feel at home away from home, and carefully allowing her to interact with other dogs and humans when Bailey is ready. I've been absolutely overjoyed seeing her improvement in socialization skills, and, really, just how happy and comfortable she is; makes my day! On a side note, following several meetings with a Behavioralist, I'm actively training her to help improve her anxiety and fear toward people. Kristen understands how important this is and has been ensuring Bailey is trained (in the same way I'm training her for continuity sake) while at doggy daycare, since I don't have the opportunity to train her several times throughout the day during the work week. Her obedience has improved, and better yet, she's starting to see new people with a different outlook; she's excited to make new friends! Thank you Kristen!!

Profile image
Steven C.
Sitter Profile Image: Vanessa B.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Vanessa B.
from
$15
per walk
20 years of experience
St Hedwig, TX, 78152

About: What sets me apart from other sitters is my ability to care for pets at every stage of life. I’m experienced with training puppies using patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. I also have strong senior-care skills, including helping with mobility support, administering medications, and keeping a calm, comfortable routine. I treat every pet with the same love, attention, and respect I give my own. Pet care fits naturally into my daily and weekly routine because I plan my schedule around the pets I’m responsible for. I set aside dedicated times each day for feeding, walks, playtime, and check-ins, and I make sure each pet gets consistent attention. I’m very routine-oriented, so it’s easy for me to stay on top of medication schedules, training sessions, and any special needs. When caring for pets in my home or in a client’s home, I focus on creating a safe, clean, and comfortable environment. I follow each pet’s routine exactly—feeding schedules, medication needs, potty breaks, and playtime. I pay close attention to behavior, keep their space tidy, and make sure they always have fresh water. Whether I’m in my home or the client’s, I prioritize safety, supervision, and consistency so pets feel relaxed and well cared for.

Sitter Profile Image: Laura B.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Laura B.
Star Sitter
from
$20
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
30 reviews
9 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: Animals ranging from Sugar Gliders to cats and dogs to cows have been a part of my life since before I could walk. I used to foster medical case kittens when I lived in Georgia to increase their chances of being adopted into their furever homes I currently work part time, so I can love on your furbabies every day except for tuesdays and wednesdays until after 3 PM. Unfortunately, my home is not pet friendly, but I would love to come to your home and make friends with your animals. I am well-versed in most types of dogs- large and small, timid and excited that I exist, aggressive and love spongey. I have experience with pets working on their potty training and fur babies learning boundaries, as well as animals needing special medical attention.

Sitter Profile Image: Melissa S.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Melissa S.
from
$20
per walk
10 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: I love dogs and have been around them for most of my life. I am a proud owner of a shiba inu(a true rascal) and I love him to death. Your dog will be in good hands with me. Word of caution: he/she will be spoiled with love! I currently work from home everyday of the week! When I am home, your dog(and cat) will have my full attention and be able to go on frequent walks. I have a fenced yard at home so your pet will have all the room to roam inside and outside. Your dog will have a darling companion(my shiba inu) to keep him/her active all day!

Sitter Profile Image: Criss N.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Criss N.
from
$25
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
26 reviews
9 repeat clients
15 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: I'm Criss, and my mission is simple: to make your dog feel just as loved and spoiled at my place as they do at home. With years of experience and a 100% of my ratings being 5 stars is proof that every pup gets nothing but the best care. I treat every dog like part of the family and send plenty of photo updates. My home is shared with my husband and sweet wheelchair dog, Gizmo. Our place is a calm and kid-free so we are dedicated entirely to your dog's comfort. Whether yours loves park adventures or just couch snuggles, they'll get exactly the care they need. Let's meet and see if we're a good fit! 🐾 I work full time from home so all dogs will have 24/7 supervision. Trips to the parks, car rides, walks around the neighborhood, back yard play and other activities will be available to your pup. 24/7 care is a priority. Since my own dog is paralyzed there is a lot of structured attention he gets that all the other dogs receive as well. I provide natural raw treats, exercise, socialization, neighborhood walks, rides, consistent laundry/ cleaning, and a small kennel available if needed.

Sitter Profile Image: Luis G.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Luis G.
from
$12
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
2 reviews
10 years of experience
San Antonio, TX, 78219

About: I grew up on a small farm taking care of various animals and I have loved animals ever since. When I got my own home I got my first indoor pets and cherish them as part of the family. I’m a teacher who will be free most of the day starting in June. I prefer walking in the mornings before the sun gets to strong but I am free to do drop ins most of the day. Getting to know the individual personalities and needs of each pet is vital to giving proper care. Their unique personalities is what makes pets so fun.

Sitter Profile Image: Evelyn P.
Verified Background Check
Evelyn P.
from
$13
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
14 reviews
1 repeat client
10 years of experience
Sunrise, San Antonio, TX, 78244

About: I have ten years of pet sitting experience, a year of Kennel Tech experience, and have had pets of my own practically since birth. What can I say? I love animals! I have experience with puppies/kittens, elderly pets, and special needs animals, including diabetic and hearing/sight impaired animals. I am focused and pay attention to detail to ensure that your pet is taken care of the way they would if you were home. I work in office from 9am to 2pm, and am working from home the rest of the day, so I can be with your pet nearly 24/7 and ensure their full needs are met. Your pet will be cared for exactly the way you would if you were home! Instructions are meticulously followed and lots of love is given to ensure your fur baby is as comfortable and safe as possible.

Sitter Profile Image: Soraya S.
Verified Background Check
Soraya S.
from
$15
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
22 reviews
4 repeat clients
5 years of experience
Universal City, TX, 78148

About: Hi! My name is Soraya, and I’m a 28-year-old animal lover with several years of hands-on experience caring for pets of all ages, sizes, and temperaments. My background with animals started in high school, where I participated in FFA and veterinary science classes. Since then, I’ve gained professional experience working in both a veterinary setting and a pet boarding facility, giving me valuable knowledge in animal behavior, health monitoring, and daily care routines. I am comfortable caring for dogs and cats of all sizes, from energetic puppies and kittens to senior pets who may need extra patience and attention. I can administer most medications, including oral medications, topical treatments, and other routine care (excluding injections). Your pet’s safety and comfort are always my top priorities. I strive to maintain their normal routine, provide plenty of love, attention, exercise, and enrichment, while keeping you updated with photos and messages throughout your booking. For transparency, my spouse may accompany me during house-sitting bookings. We are currently in the process of having him added to my Rover profile and are awaiting completion of Rover’s background check process. He is a military veteran who has successfully completed government background screenings and shares my love for animals. While I remain the sole caregiver responsible for your pets and booking services, I believe in being open with pet parents about who may be present during a stay. I have experience working with pets of all ages, sizes, and energy levels, and I understand that every pet has unique needs. Whether your pet enjoys long walks, playtime, cuddles, or simply sticking to their normal routine, I’ll provide attentive and compassionate care as if they were my own. I look forward to meeting you and your furry family members! With pet care in need my schedule works around your schedule! I’m pretty open and flexible and can make last minute changes if possible. I’m a veteran currently working on certificates from home. When it comes to your pet they will be safely taken care of in your home. They will have all the attention while we are there and every home is left how we entered.

Sitter Profile Image: Trinity C.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Trinity C.
from
$15
per walk
11 years of experience
La Vernia, TX, 78121

About: Hi there, my name’s Trinity! I’ve lived with pets my entire life, including cats, dogs, and the gerbils that I researched months for before presenting my findings to my parents (they caved). Before earning my BA in Psychology, I studied animal science at TTU for two years in hopes to become a veterinarian. While my career has changed drastically, I still love spending time with animals and frequently volunteer with local animal shelters. I currently work two part-time jobs, one during weekday afternoons and the other on weekend mornings. My pets get their meals and walks before I leave for work. I am no stranger to a commute as a recent UTSA grad and as someone who is constantly driving all over town for work/volunteer opportunities. In fact, it gives me more time to listen to music in the car! I have an acre of land with a fenced in backyard with plenty of open space for your favorite child to run around. Our community is in a quiet country neighborhood, perfect for low-risk dog-walking.

Sitter Profile Image: Christen O.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Christen O.
from
$25
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
14 reviews
7 repeat clients
30 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: About Me Hello, fellow pet lovers! My name is Christen, and I am thrilled to offer my services as a pet caretaker on Rover. With a deep passion for animals and a wealth of experience in pet care, I am dedicated to providing the best possible care for your furry friends. My Experience Medical Expertise: I am trained in trauma medical care, which means I am well-equipped to handle both calm and emergency situations with confidence and precision. Your pet's health and safety are my top priorities. Personal Pet Training: Over the years, I have trained my own dogs, honing my skills in understanding and addressing their unique needs. I believe in meeting pets where they are, providing them with the love, attention, and guidance they need to thrive. What I Offer - Reliable and Compassionate Care: I am committed to treating your pets as if they were my own, with all the love and care they deserve. - Tailored Services: Whether it's walks, playtime, feeding, or simply keeping them company, I tailor my services to meet your pet's specific needs. - Calm and Friendly Approach: I understand that every pet is unique, and I strive to create a calm and friendly environment where they feel safe and happy. Why Choose Me? Finding a trustworthy sitter is so important. My combination of medical expertise, pet training experience, and genuine love for animals makes me confident in providing exceptional care. I go above and beyond with regular updates, photos, and open communication so you feel at ease while you’re away. My schedule allows me to provide consistent and attentive care during evenings and weekends. While I’m not available during standard 8–5 work hours, I ensure your pets receive plenty of quality attention and affection when I’m with them. ⸻ Skills ✔️ Oral & injected medication administration ✔️ Pet first aid/CPR ✔️ Senior & special-needs dog experience ✔️ Daily walks and exercise ✔️ Calm, structured care for anxious pets ⸻ Requested Information When you reach out, please share your pet’s specific needs—whether that’s special care, medications, feeding schedules, or unique behaviors—so I can create the best personalized care plan. I balance my full-time work with my passion for pet care. While I’m unavailable during standard weekday work hours (8–5), I’m fully available in the evenings and on weekends for drop-ins, walks, stays, and extended care. When I’m with your pets, they receive my complete attention, love, and care. My organized routine ensures consistency, so your pets feel safe, happy, and well cared for. Note: unfortunately at this time I am not able to care for pets during work hours 8-5 on weekdays. I believe pets thrive best in their own familiar environment, so I provide care in your home to keep them comfortable and secure. At home, I have two dogs—one a senior who values his own space—so I understand the importance of respecting each pet’s personality and routines. I adapt easily to any type of home or setup and prioritize safety, consistency, and trust so both you and your pet feel at ease.

Sitter Profile Image: Emmarose G.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Emmarose G.
Star Sitter
from
$20
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
25 reviews
6 repeat clients
6 years of experience
Ventura, San Antonio, TX, 78244

About: I have extensive hands-on experience with dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and energy levels. I previously bred German Shepherds and raised and managed a pack of 10 of my own dogs, which gave me a deep understanding of canine behavior, pack dynamics, and safely handling multiple dogs at once. Through my work with the American Kennel Club, I earned the distinction of Breeder of Merit, reflecting my commitment to responsible breeding, health standards, and proper care. I’m also an active member of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and participate in the Schutzhund club community, which keeps me actively involved in training, temperament evaluation, and working-dog development. Because of this background, I’m comfortable working with energetic puppies that need structure and training, as well as senior dogs that need patience and attentive care. I’m experienced reading dog body language, preventing conflicts between dogs, and maintaining a calm, safe environment. Dogs tend to warm up to me quickly, and I genuinely enjoy working with them. I also love helping rescue dogs feel safe and comfortable while their owners are away. I’m home full-time, which allows me to give dogs consistent supervision and attention throughout the day. Because of this, pets in my care are rarely left alone and get frequent potty breaks, walks, playtime, and interaction. My schedule is extremely flexible, so I’m able to accommodate different routines, including puppies that need more frequent outings and senior dogs that benefit from a calm environment and regular care. I’m also able to work with last-minute bookings and different drop-off or pick-up times when needed. I provide a safe, structured environment with a fully fenced yard for supervised outdoor time, exercise, and play. With my background raising and managing multiple dogs, I’m very experienced reading dog body language and carefully managing group dynamics. All new dogs are introduced slowly to make sure everyone is comfortable. I also require meet-and-greets beforehand so I can ensure a good fit and a safe environment for every dog in my care. Dogs are separated during feeding to prevent resource guarding, and I have crates available for dogs that are crate-trained or need their own quiet space to rest. Because I’m home full-time, dogs receive consistent supervision, attention, and care throughout the day.

Sitter Profile Image: Ashley & Christopher S.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Ashley & Christopher S.
Star Sitter
from
$30
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
42 reviews
18 repeat clients
25 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

Thanks for being amazing to Mia. She loves the company!

Profile image
Raquel H.
Sitter Profile Image: Melissa H.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Melissa H.
from
$18
per walk
40 years of experience
La Vernia, TX, 78121

About: I’ve dog and cat sat for friends and family since I was a child. I’ve been an animal lover my entire life. I’m reliable and have the summer off so can be available quickly. I currently have the summer off so I have plenty of time to spend with your pet. I am available quick and can sit overnight in your home if needed. I am available to sit day or night in your home. I understand pets are family and so caring for them is of utmost importance to me.

Sitter Profile Image: Valeria V.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Valeria V.
from
$18
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
1 review
2 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: I grew up with two medium sized dogs who are now seniors, and I’ve taken care of large energetic dogs as well. There is a large range of breeds and sizes that I’ve dealt with and loved! I’m currently a full time student three days a week, so I have plenty of time for pet sitting for the large majority of the week. I am able to take care of your pets from the comfort of their own home. I’m able to become familiar with the environment they’re comfortable in and keep them out of places they’re not supposed to get into!

Sitter Profile Image: Lasaiah P.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Lasaiah P.
from
$24
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
2 repeat clients
7 years of experience
Converse, TX, 78109

About: I would be delighted to care for your babies while you are away. Tending to animals is never a chore for me; it's a pleasure. Will be starting a part time job soon with a highly flexible schedule. Let me know your needs and we can work out an arrangement! I own a kitten named Princess with a big personality that gets along with any animal. I can distribute your pets prescribed medicine if needed.

Sitter Profile Image: Angela & Samuel R.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Angela & Samuel R.
from
$15
per walk
5.0 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
11 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Floresville, TX, 78114

About: I’ve cared for many pets of various sizes and breeds over the years for neighbors and friends, even for some who went overseas for several months at a time. I am a teacher and I have a lot of spare time. My husband also works from home. We are flexible and can meet your boarding needs. I have secure, air conditioned kennels on a 1 acre ranch to meet all your pet’s needs for comfort and exercise. Doggy pools, splash pad, and toys included!

1 / 1
View more sitters

How Rover works

  1. 1. Search

    Read verified reviews and choose a dog walker who’s a great match for you and your dog
  2. 2. Meet & Greet

    Meet either virtually or in-person with a walker to discuss the level of care needed for your dog
  3. 3. Book & Pay

    All payments are processed through Rover’s secured platform and your booking is backed by 24/7 support. It’s that easy!

The median cost per walk for dog walking in Saint Hedwig is $18

Why Choose Rover?

  • Cashless payments

    Book and pay through Rover’s secured platform—no cash or checks required.

  • Reservation protection

    It doesn’t happen often, but if your dog walker has to cancel, we’ll work with you to find a new walker.

  • World-class support

    We’re friendly, knowledgable, and total dog fanatics. You can get in touch with us anytime.

Sitters in Saint Hedwig average 3
repeat dog walking clients

Dog Walking FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Rover

Dog walkers on Rover are free to set their rates. The median cost to hire a dog walker in Saint Hedwig on Rover as of Jun 2026 was about $18 per walk, after factoring in Rover’s service fees. A dog walker’s rate may also change as you customize your booking to fit your and your dog’s needs.

If you’re searching for a Saint Hedwig dog walker for the first time, visit the dog walker’s profile and select the Contact button.

If you have an active request or have booked a service with a dog walker before, learn more about how to do this in the Rover app or on your computer.

As of Jun 2026, there are 2,719 dog walkers in Saint Hedwig. You can filter, sort, expand your radius, read reviews, and compare pricing to find the perfect dog walker near you. As a reminder, dog walkers joining Rover must pass a background check for you and your dog’s safety.

Rover makes it easy to reach out to multiple dog walkers about your booking. Typically, 87% of Saint Hedwig dog walkers respond in under an hour.

Dog walkers in Saint Hedwig have an average of 14 years of experience. Dog walkers with repeat customers have an average of 3 repeat clients. Experience can vary from dog walker to dog walker, but you can view reviews, years of experience, and number of repeat clients when you compare dog walkers in Saint Hedwig.

You can’t always predict a super busy day at work, but you can anticipate your dog’s needs. Instead of rushing home at lunch, book a dog walker to give your dog a 30- or 60-minute dog walk. Your dog walker can stop by as many times as you need—on whatever days you need them. With the Rover app, get a comprehensive Rover Card from your dog walker that includes:

  • Start and stop times
  • A map of their walk with total distance
  • Pee, poo, food, and water breaks
  • Cute photos and a personalized note

There are 2,719 dog walkers in Saint Hedwig on Rover, so you’re sure to find the perfect match for your dog! In Saint Hedwig, 89% have experience with senior dogs and dogs with special needs. We know each dog is unique and may have specific care instructions. You can filter, sort, expand your radius, read reviews, and compare pricing to find the perfect dog walker near you. As a reminder, all dog walkers on Rover have been background checked for you and your dog’s safety.

Yes! Dog walkers joining Rover must pass a background check before offering their services. You can also easily keep in touch with your dog walker through messages on Rover for delightful photo updates. The Rover team is available 24/7, and your dog walker has access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals. In the rare event of any issues during a booking, rest easy knowing your dog is covered by the Rover Guarantee reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care.

Note: If your dog walker requested to cancel this booking, then they need to cancel from their account. Please contact them via Rover Messages.

We get it—sometimes plans change and you may need to cancel your dog walking service. You can cancel an upcoming booking directly from the Rover app or your computer, in accordance with your dog walker’s cancellation policy.