Frequently Asked Questions
Hiking Paws LLC specializes in off-leash, group hikes for dogs. When your workday is long and you just don’t have the time to get your 4-legged friend the exercise they need, Hiking Paws can help.
We offer a pick-up and drop-off service for your special family member.
Hiking Paws can pick up and drop off your dog if you live along the 91-Corridor from Bernardston to South Deerfield, MA.
We begin with a phone interview to ask questions about your dog: their experience off-leash, manners in the house, manners on the trial, experiences with other dogs, and how they do when riding in a vehicle.
Next, we’ll set up a meet-and-greet. There is a one-time fee of $40. Margot will come to your house, answer any questions you have, go over our Liability Contract, and take your dog for a “solo hike” for 20-30 minutes. This is an on-leash walk to test their recall skills, see how comfortable they are with other people, and watch them interact with other dogs.
After those steps are completed, we can have a discussion about how many days per week you’d like them to hike, which pack would work best for them, and when you’d like to start.
Yes, we ask that all clients pick a minimum of 1 hike per week.
The day and time will be consistent from week to week. It can be unsettling for the dog(s), pack leader, and route if things are not consistent.
Our goal is to help your dog have a fun adventure with us.
After their ride to our hiking location, we water everyone and get them geared up to go. Bells, body harnesses, and some wear GPS collars. We get the pack out of the van (everyone is on leash) and start the adventure. Once we are away from the parking lot, everyone is free to go, and we keep the pack moving for one whole hour.
Your dog has the opportunity to run, walk, go to the bathroom, play with friends, and get water and treats. After our hike, it’s load-up time and everyone gets a ride back home.
Dogs need fresh air and exercise just like people do. Off-leash hikes offer them the sensory stimulation they need to calm their minds and get their energy out. When your dog is given the opportunity to move their body and stimulate their brains, they’ll be happy pups at the end of your day! And for you, a tired dog is a good dog!
Hiking Paws offers off-leash group hikes for dogs.
You can…
- Call Margot Van Natta at 413-772-9082
- Email us
- Fill out our contact form
- Or find us on Facebook