MessyPawz Dog Hiking

MessyPawz – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Serving Manhattan, Brooklyn & Queens Dogs — Let’s Get Those Paws Muddy!

 

• What is MessyPawz? 

MessyPawz is a fully insured dog-hiking company offering safe, structured, and fun outdoor adventures for dogs who crave nature beyond city streets.

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• What if my dog needs a muzzle or has behavior challenges?

We welcome dogs of all temperaments! Some dogs start out as “Work in Paw-gress” members; they may wear a muzzle or need closer guidance while learning pack manners. We officially label pups as Paw-gress Dogs after they’ve completed two full weeks of hiking this allows our team time to learn each dog’s personality, needs, and how to best support them. If a dog shows signs of needing extra support earlier, we’ll inform owners sooner to help them prepare. Their pricing adjusts as they progress and improve.

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• What if my dog needs to wear an e-collar?

No worries! Some pups start out with an e-collar, especially those still learning recall or with a higher prey drive. As we hike and train, we’ll let you know if it’s truly needed. Most dogs end up using it less over time as they learn the rules and build strong recall skills, ensuring safe and fun adventures for everyone!

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• Do you offer training?

Yes! We love helping our pack members learn and grow. While training isn’t an official service we offer, our team is always happy to lend a paw with behavior or obedience support especially for our Pawgress pups who are still mastering their manners. Each of our hikers are licensed professional trainers. Think of it as a little extra guidance to make every hike safe, fun, and full of good vibes!

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• What does my dog need on hiking day?

All dogs must have a secure front-clip harness and, if using an e-collar, it should be fully charged before the hike. Please pack items in a small or medium bag labeled with your dog’s name (or one we can label) to help keep our van organized. For winter hikes, we ask that dogs be treated with Musher’s Secret—more info will be shared as the season approaches.

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• Do you offer pick-up and drop-off services?

Yes! In-home pick-up and drop-off services are available for a set fee when scheduled at least 24 hours in advance of your dog’s hike. If we don’t receive notice within 24 hours of the scheduled hike, an additional fee may apply.

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• Do you offer grooming or cleaning after hikes?

We offer Post-Hike Cleaning for dogs who get extra muddy during their adventure! Spots are limited to 15 dogs per day.

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• How do payments work?

We accept weekly or monthly payments only. - Weekly: Pay as you go (slightly higher rate). - Monthly: Pay upfront for the month and receive a discounted rate.

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• What if I need to cancel a hike?

If a hike is canceled less than 24 hours before the scheduled time, no refund or credit will be issued unless it’s due to a medical emergency. If you cancel with more than 24 hours’ notice, your pup’s hike can be credited and rescheduled for another day.

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• What happens in bad weather?

We hike year-round but adjust for safety. If conditions are unsafe, we’ll reschedule or issue a credit.

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• Will my dog be featured on your social media?

Each hike comes with photo and video footage of your dog’s adventure! Footage will be shared privately with owners and you can also featured on our MessyPawz social media pages, if you agree to it as mentioned in our Service Agreement Contract.