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One good thing that has come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is that many more people have started to see the benefits of having a dog. However, every owner has times when they need help walking the dog, especially if they aren’t feeling well, are on vacation, or are working mandatory overtime. Fortunately, several assistance options are available, and one of the best is “Wag!,” which many people call the “Uber for Dogs.” If you are interested in hearing more about this powerful service, keep reading to learn what it is, how to get it, its pros and cons, and much more.
How Does It Work?
1. Download the App
The first step to using “Wag!” is to download the application onto your smartphone. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices and is free to install. You will need to create an account and provide basic info about you and your pets, including their name, breed, and any special requirements that they might have or behavioral traits that should be highlighted.
2. Choose Your Service
Besides dog walking, “Wag!” offers pet sitting, boarding, training, and even drop-in visits for dogs that don’t need a walk but could use companionship, food, or medication. Using the app, you can schedule walks in advance or call a walker when you need them.
3. Select a Caregiver
One of the nicer things about the “Wag!” service is that it enables you to select your dog walker from those who are immediately available in your area instead of just assigning someone. Owners can view profiles, read reviews, and see ratings to help them select the best caregiver for their pets.
4. Book and Pay Through the App
After selecting a caregiver, you can book the service directly through the app. The platform handles all payments electronically, so there is no need for cash, and the entire process is secure.
4. Get Real-Time Updates and Communication
During the scheduled service, you receive real-time updates, including GPS tracking for walks, photos, and messages from the caregiver, which will help you stay connected and informed about where your dog is and what they are doing.
5. Provide Feedback
After the caretaker completes their service, you can rate and review them, which is important for helping other pet owners and for maintaining the high quality of caregivers on the platform.
Where Is It Available?
“Wag!” is available in more than 5,300 cities across the United States, and there is a good chance there is at least one option in your area, if not several.
Advantages of “Wag!”
- Access to over 450,000 qualified pet caregivers across the United States
- Real-time GPS tracking of dog walks
- Convenience of booking on-demand or pre-scheduled services
- Support of local pet caregivers and animal welfare through contributions to feeding shelter dogs with every walk booked
- Multiple pet services, including boarding and training
Disadvantages of “Wag!”
- The cost can be high compared to private services.
- Some users may prefer a more personal connection with a single caregiver rather than multiple caregivers.
- The app and service heavily rely on technology, which some people struggle with.
- Users may naturally have concerns about leaving their pets under a stranger’s care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Choose the Same Pet Caregiver Every Time?
If your caregiver is available, you can select them. However, if they already have an appointment somewhere else, you will need to wait or choose another caregiver.
Who Are the “Wag!” Walkers and Sitters?
“Wag!” walkers and sitters are independent contractors in your area who went through the background checks, training, and testing required to become certified as part of the “Wag!” team.
Is There a Subscription or Membership Fee?
No, “Wag!” does not charge subscription or membership fees. You pay per service.
How Does “Wag!” Ensure My Safety?
Safety is a top priority on “Wag!” and all caregivers go through a long hiring process that includes background checks, testing, and training to ensure that they are qualified and trustworthy. Additionally, the platform offers insurance for all services booked through the app.
Conclusion
“Wag!” can be an amazing service for anyone who needs help ensuring that their dog gets enough activity each day, especially when they are stuck away from home. They offer 20-, 30-, and 60-minute walks and provide GPS tracking during the service so you can see where they are and what they are doing at all times. If your dog needs medication or food, they can provide drop-in visits to do just that, and they also offer pet sitting and boarding. They are available in more than 5,300 cities across the United States, and you can use the service 7 days a week.
Featured Image Credit: seeshooteatrepeat, Shutterstock
