General
What are your operating hours?
My group dog walks in Cramlington typically run on weekdays between 09:00–15:30. Drop in visits for cats, small animals etc are carried out before or after this. Some weekend services may be offered to existing dog walking clients and cat visits will be carried out over weekends where agreed.
Services scheduled outside of 08:00–18:00 Monday-Friday incur a £5 additional fee. This is waived for Bluelight workers as a thank you for the worthwhile work you do and to support you through the difficulty of finding pet care as a shift worker.
What areas do you cover?
I provide dog walking and cat sitting services in Cramlington (NE23) and surrounding areas across Northumberland.
My main service areas include:
- Cramlington
- Stannington
- Seaton Burn
Dog walking, pet visits or pet sitting services outside these areas may incur a small additional travel charge.
If you’re searching for a reliable dog walker or cat sitter in Cramlington, Seaton Burn or nearby towns, feel free to get in touch to check availability.
What happens at a meet and greet?
Meet and greets are a free home visit to discuss your dog/cat’s routine, behaviour, medical needs and more. You can ask any questions you have about me and how my services operate.
You’ll complete a detailed pet information form to ensure safe, personalised care.
Choosing the right dog walker or cat sitter is important — this visit ensures complete peace of mind.
What are your qualifications and experience?
I hold a degree in Biology from Newcastle University, including modules specialising in companion animal behaviour.
I am qualified in Pet First Aid & CPR and have extensive hands-on experience with high drive breeds, lazy dogs, naughty puppies, reactive dogs, rescue and pedigree cats, small animals, rodents, chickens, ducks and more!
Before establishing my Cramlington dog walking and cat sitting business, I served as a Police Officer for 6 years! I bring reliability, professionalism and strong situational awareness to every walk.
On a personal note — I run a 22:22 time 5K and train regularly at a CrossFit gym. I haven’t met a dog I can’t keep up with yet! I’ve had Border Collies my whole life, and currently have a black and white Collie called ‘Mouse’. I’m very well acquainted with high drive working breeds.
What happens in extreme weather?
Your dog’s welfare is my highest priority. During extreme weather conditions — including heatwaves, snow or severe storms — walks may be shortened or cancelled where necessary. Where appropriate, a drop-in visit can be offered as a safe alternative. Owners are always given as much notice as possible.
How do I make payment?
Payment details are provided before your first booking.
Payment for weekly dog walking or pet visits is required by Sunday evening for the upcoming week. Services not paid within 24 hours of commencement will be cancelled. You can also pay on a monthly basis if you are booking all services for the month at the same time.
A 50% deposit is required for multi-night pet sitting bookings.
What is your bluelight policy?
As a former emergency services shift worker, I understand the stress that comes with finding reliable care for your dog outside 9-5. I waive the additional out of hours supplement of £5 added to walks/visits after 6pm or on weekends for all NHS, Police, Fire and Military workers. Just show your ID at the meet and greet and it will be auto applied to every invoice.
Are you insured and DBS checked?
Yes. I am fully insured through Protectivity and hold an up-to-date DBS Certificate, giving you complete confidence when choosing a trusted local dog walker / pet sitter. I am also Pet first aid & CPR trained.
Dog Walking
How do GPS tracked walks work?
Every walk with Northumberland Paws includes GPS-tracked routes. I use Strava to record each walk so you can see exactly where your dog has been, how far we’ve gone, and how long we were out. The distance shown on the map reflects my walking route — in reality, the dogs will typically cover well over double that distance as they run back and forth, explore, and move freely throughout the walk. After the walk, you’ll receive a shared GPS map image so you can view the full route. It’s a great way to stay connected to your dog’s adventure and see the variety of local Northumberland trails we explore. This offers full transparency – you always know your dog has had a proper walk!
Where do you take dogs for walks?
As a local Cramlington dog walker, I carefully select safe, enriching environments tailored to your dog’s personality, recall ability and behaviour.
Popular dog walking locations near Cramlington and Northumberland include but are certainly not limited to:
- Arcot Pond Nature Reserve
- Shotton Pools Nature Reserve
- East Cramlington Nature Reserve
- Big Waters Nature Reserve
- Weetslade Country Park
- Cambois Beach
- Cresswell Beach
- Seaton Sluice Beach
- Holywell Dene
I rotate locations regularly to provide mental stimulation and variety for every dog in my care.
How do you transport dogs?
Safety when travelling is a top priority. I use a fully electric van custom fitted with individual crash-safe crates with escape hatches on both sides. Dogs from separate homes will never share a crate within the van. I also carry fresh water, a pet first aid kit, and emergency contact details for every dog in my care. In the unlikely event of an emergency, I am fully prepared to act quickly and appropriately.
How big are your group dog walks?
My group dog walks are small and carefully managed, with 2–6 dogs per walk. Dogs are matched where possible by temperament, energy level and play style to ensure safe, positive social experiences. All dogs in group walks have had a trial period to ensure they are happy playing with other dogs and in group settings.
How long are group walks?
From pick-up to drop-off, group dog walks typically last 1.5–2.5 hours, with a minimum of 60 minutes active walking time — and often much more.
Your dog’s safety and welfare always come first. I reserve the right to shorten or adapt a walk if a dog becomes distressed, requires medical attention, or if weather conditions become unsafe.
Is my dog suitable for a group walk?
Every dog completes a 1–1 behaviour assessment before joining group dog walks. They will attend a trial walk with my own friendly Border Collie.
Group adventure walks are best enjoyed off lead, so a strong recall is required.
Dogs with reliable recall, strong social skills and no reactivity towards people or other dogs are ideal candidates for off-lead adventure walks with us in Northumberland’s countryside. Dogs must also be happy to travel in a van in their own secure fitted crate.
What time are group walks?
I offer two-hour pick-up windows to suit your schedule:
- AM: 09:00–11:00
- Midday: 11:00–13:00
- PM: 13:00–15:00
These time slots allow me to manage travel efficiently while keeping walks calm, structured, and enjoyable for every dog.
Do you offer solo dog walks in Cramlington?
Solo walks are typically scheduled before or after group walks, with very limited availability. An arrival window of 1 hour is offered for Solo walks, eg 15:00-16:00.
Do you offer half-day or full-day dog care?
Yes — extended adventure days are perfect for sociable, high-energy dogs. Dogs booking on half/full day care are required to be suitable for group walks.
Half-Day Adventure Dog Walk
Includes 2 group walks (AM or Midday pick-up). Your dog will be out for approximately 3–4 hours, including rest time between walks.
Full-Day Adventure Dog Walk
Includes 3 group walks. Your dog will be out for approximately 6+hours, with rest periods.
These are ideal for dogs who may struggle when left home alone and benefit from a stimulating, active day.
Do you offer dog sitting in Cramlington?
Yes. I offer professional dog sitting and drop in visits services in Cramlington and surrounding areas for periods of up to two weeks. I stay overnight in your home for the agreed duration. Dog sitting includes your dog joining group walks where suitable. If group walks are not appropriate, I provide 30 min morning and evening walks and return every four hours during the day for a cuddle and toilet break for your dog.
Existing dog walking clients are ideal candidates for pet sitting bookings. All dog sitting requests are subject to a meet and greet and successful trial walk.
How do I book dog walking services?
After a successful meet and greet and trial walk, clients book via a WhatsApp chat created for your dog.
For services the following week, please confirm which days are required by Friday evening. For group walks, please share your preference of AM – Midday – PM pick up time.
Invoices are sent by Saturday with payment due Sunday to confirm your booking for the following week.
Regular client’s places are reserved. Bookings for ad hoc clients operate on a first come, first served basis, while also accommodating for compatible group dynamics. Clients typically book weekly or monthly in advance.
A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to secure pet sitting bookings longer than a one night stay.
What is your cancellation policy?
Dog walking and drop-in services cancelled within 48 hours are non-refundable.
Cancellations made outside of this 48-hour window will be refunded or credit applied to future bookings.
Cat Sitting
Where do you offer cat sitting?
I provide professional cat drop-in visits in Cramlington and surrounding areas across South East Northumberland.
Visits are carried out in your cat’s own home to keep their routine as normal and stress-free as possible while you’re away.
What happens during a cat visit?
Every visit is tailored to your cat’s individual needs and routine. Visits can include:
- Feeding and fresh water
- Litter tray cleaning
- Medication (where appropriate and agreed in advance)
- Playtime and enrichment
- Grooming where suitable
- Cuddles and company
- Welfare and home security checks
I also send regular updates and photos so you can relax while you’re away.
How long are cat visits?
Cat visits are up to 30 minutes. Multiple daily visits can also be arranged where required.
Will you make sure my cat always comes out during visits?
Not always — many cats naturally hide around unfamiliar people or changes in routine.
I will look for your cat to check their welfare. If your cat chooses to stay hidden and can’t be seen, I will still monitor their wellbeing through food intake, water consumption, litter tray use, and general checks around the home.
Can you administer medication?
Yes — medication can be administered where full written instructions are provided and it is considered safe to do so.
Do you allow outdoor access for cats?
I will follow all owner instructions regarding outdoor access, cat flaps, and windows. Where outdoor access is permitted, there is always a risk of escape, injury, or disappearance. It’s recommended your cat remains on house arrest for the time you are away!
What happens in an emergency?
If your cat becomes ill or injured while in my care and you cannot be contacted, Northumberland Paws will seek veterinary advice or treatment where necessary.
What access arrangements do I need to provide?
You must ensure safe and reliable access to the property for the duration of the booking. Please provide a key at your meet and greet. This will be returned after you have confirmed that you are safely home from your trip.
A second emergency key holder in the local area is strongly recommended in case of emergencies or access problems.
Do you bring supplies for my cat?
Owners are responsible for ensuring enough food, litter, and supplies are available for the full booking period.
What happens in extreme weather or emergencies?
In rare cases involving severe weather, illness, traffic disruption, or emergencies, visit schedules may need to be adjusted slightly. Every reasonable effort will always be made to maintain continuity of care and owners will be informed as soon as possible.
How do I book cat sitting services?
After an initial meet and greet, bookings are arranged via WhatsApp. Bookings operate on a first come, first served basis. Payment is required in advance to secure your dates.
What is your cancellation policy for cat sitting?
Cancellations require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice. Bookings cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice are charged at the full agreed rate.
Are visits carried out at exact times?
Visits are normally carried out within an agreed time window (for example morning or evening) rather than at an exact fixed time.