At Claws and Paws, we put your pets first. Every walk, drop-in visit, and pet sitting stay is built around one goal: keeping your pet safe, happy, and comfortable.
Over the years, we’ve refined the tools we rely on daily, and have come up with our top five necessities for keeping both pets and humans healthy, happy, and safe!
1. Portable Water Bowl
Hydration is key, especially during the warmer spring and summer months. However, it’s just as important to offer water and maintain hydration throughout the winter! Even in mild weather, dogs can overheat faster than many people may realize. During longer walks, regular water breaks are essential for preventing dehydration and potential overheating.
At Claws and Paws, we recommend carrying:
- Collapsible silicone bowls
- Portable water bottle
- Extra water for extended outings
A quick water break helps your pet keep the pep in his step on longer walks!.
2. Pet First Aid Kit
Although we like to plan for smooth walks, we’re always prepared for the unexpected — from minor paw scrapes to bee stings or small cuts.
We recommend carrying a portable pet first aid kit that includes:
- Gauze and bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tweezers (for thorns or splinters)
If your pet is larger than you can comfortably carry, you may also want to include a carrying sling in case of injury.
Though we don’t like to plan for the worst, being prepared is the key to handling difficult situations.
3. Secure Harness and Leash
A properly fitted harness along with a durable leash is one of the most important safety measures we use.
We suggest:
- Well-fitted, padded harnesses
- Secure buckles and reinforced stitching
- Reflective materials for visibility
Harnesses reduce neck strain on your dog and are more difficult to slip out of. Combined with a reliable leash, they create a safer, more controlled walking experience — especially in busy neighborhoods or new, exciting environments.
Avoid ill-fitting or loose collars and harnesses, bungee or retractable leashes, and always double check collar buckles and leash clips before heading out for your walk.
4. Treat Pouch & Motivating Treats
Treats are more than rewards — they’re communication. Using treats on your walk allows you to tell your dog which behavior you like, and helps encourage him to repeat that good behavior in the future.
If approved by the owner, we carry treats to:
- Reinforce good leash manners
- Redirect attention from distractions
- Build trust with shy dogs
- Encourage good behavior
We recommend bringing treats for every outing to bond with your dog and help reinforce good manners and calm behavior.
Make sure your treats are more motivating than the environment to ensure you are getting your dog’s attention. If you’re struggling to get your dog to focus on walks, try higher value treats like chicken jerky or freeze dried liver.
5. Slip Lead (Backup Safety Tool)
Equipment failure is rare, but not impossible. That’s why we always recommend carrying a slip lead as a backup leash.
If a harness buckle breaks or a leash clip fails, a slip lead allows you to:
- Secure a dog immediately
- Prevent escape
- Continue the walk calmly
It’s a simple tool, but it provides an essential layer of security. Bonus: If you run into a loose dog or witness someone else’s equipment fail, you can lend a quick hand with your extra slip lead!
🐶 Why the Right Tools Matter
Every dog is different. Some are energetic explorers; some are quiet observers. Some are still learning their manners! The right equipment allows us, as your trusted dog walkers & pet sitters, to effectively adapt to each personality, and to keep safety a top priority.
What are your favorite dog walking tools? Drop them in the comments below! And if you are looking for a fully equipped dog walker, contact us to get set up on a weekly or monthly template for recurring walks so your dog is properly exercised while you’re busy working! NEW for 2026: Discounted rates for 3x/week or more walks! Contact us for details.
