FAQ
Teacher’s Pets is based in the Kumeu / Huapai area and covers nearby suburbs including Helensville, Parakai, Waimauku, Taupaki, Riverhead, Coatesville, Massey, Royal Heights, Redhills, Ranui, Swanson, and Henderson. If you’re outside these areas, get in touch and we’ll see if we can help.
Pack walks are a minimum of 2 hours. With pick-up and drop-off included, your dog will usually be out of the house for at least 3 hours, giving them plenty of exercise, enrichment, and downtime.
Pack sizes depend on the size, temperament, and needs of the dogs within each group. With the new Auckland Council bylaw change, packs will be no bigger than 12 dogs.
Every pack is grouped with safety and balance as the top priority. Dogs are carefully matched to ensure they feel comfortable, confident, and supported during walks.
Before joining the pack, dogs complete a minimum of four 1:1 introduction sessions. These sessions build handler relationship, recall, leash manners, and social confidence. Dogs are then slowly introduced to a small, well-matched group. This sets them up for success and keeps the pack balanced.
Yes — walks go ahead in most conditions. Dogs still need enrichment even if it’s raining! We only cancel or adjust plans in extreme weather where safety could be at risk (such as thunderstorms or heatwaves).
Homestays are structured overnight stays in a safe, home environment. Your dog will join pack walks during the day, and in the evenings they’ll relax as part of the household. For extended stays, a trial night may be required. Dogs must either be Teacher’s Pets pack members or complete the same induction process. They also need to be comfortable with cats or willing to be crate trained.
We offer tailored one-on-one training sessions covering basic manners, recall, leash walking, confidence building, and behaviour support.
$150 per hour
$100 per hour for existing pack walking clients
Board & Train options are also available on a case-by-case basis, ranging from $140–$240 per day depending on the training or management required. These will be discussed at a meet & greet.
Safety is always the top priority. Amy holds a current Pet First Aid Certificate and will provide immediate care. If veterinary attention is required, we will take your dog to your nominated vet (or the closest available clinic in an emergency) and contact you right away.
Simply use the enquiry form on our website or get in touch directly. Once enrolled, we use an online booking system that you will have access to. Cancellations require at least 24 hours’ notice. Regular weekly spots are prioritised for consistency and routine, which dogs thrive on.
Our focus is on regular weekly spots, as dogs thrive on routine and consistency. This also helps us build strong bonds and maintain structure within the pack. Casual walks are generally not offered, but in special cases we may be able to discuss options on a case-by-case basis.
We strive to give dogs off-leash adventures wherever it’s safe and appropriate. However, not all dogs are suited to off-leash walking straight away. Dogs will only be allowed off-leash once complete trust has been built and it is safe to do so. In some environments, such as council-regulated areas, all dogs must remain on-leash and we strictly follow these rules.
Yes, reactive dogs can join, but only after careful preparation and training. We’ll work on building the right foundation skills and ensure safety measures are in place, such as the use of a muzzle when necessary. Every step is taken to keep your dog, and the pack, safe.
Yes, it’s best to keep your dog on their regular diet during their stay. Dogs’ stomachs can be sensitive to sudden changes in food, so providing their usual meals helps them settle and stay comfortable. You’re welcome to also provide favourite treats, bedding, or toys if you’d like.
No — and we want to be upfront about this. Training is not a quick fix; it’s an ongoing process that requires consistency and commitment. Think of training as building habits and communication, not replacing broken parts. One session can set the foundation, but real progress comes from practice and reinforcement over time.
No, you don’t need to be home. Most clients provide a spare key, access code, or instructions on where their dog will be. Keys are stored securely, and we always respect your home and privacy.
Yes, this can sometimes be arranged at an additional cost, depending on your location. Please get in touch if you need extended care and we’ll discuss the options.
You’ll never be left wondering how your dog’s day went! I share daily updates on Instagram and Facebook, so you can see photos and videos of the dogs on their adventures.
If I ever have any concerns, I’ll contact you directly. You’re also welcome to reach out at any time if you’d like extra updates or feedback — open communication is always a priority.