Every dog in this gallery holds a special place in my heart. Some have been by my side since the very beginning, while others weren't even born when Olivia's Pet Minding first started. Some I've known for years, and some I've only recently had the pleasure of meeting. They come in all shapes, sizes, breeds, ages, and personalities—each with their own quirks, adventures, and stories to tell. Whether they're energetic explorers, gentle seniors, confident leaders, or enthusiastic mud-lovers, I love every one of them and feel incredibly lucky to be part of their lives.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
​
Dog Walking/Group Adventures
Do you take puppies?
​​
Not any more, puppies need dedicated training, guidance, and one-on-one attention. With a pack of adult dogs to supervise, I simply can't give puppies what they need, so I no longer take them on. But I can suggest other reliable and local walkers.
​
Do you offer solo walks?
I used to, but with a full schedule and a lot of dogs to keep happy, all walks are group adventures. If you're looking for one-on-one walks, I'm happy to recommend other local walkers.
Do you take dogs with behavioural issues?
​​​Not anymore, this takes a lot of training to get them comfortable enough to get into a group that they feel safe in. My groups are carefully matched and rely on dogs being safe and social around others. There are plenty of wonderful trainers and behaviour specialists who are better equipped to help dogs needing additional support. I can recommend some, but alternatively I do work occasionally on Saturdays for a few of these dogs, that could be an option depending on your location and their particular needs.
Can my dog join if they don't have recall?
Yes, they will be leashed the whole time or only taken to areas that are fully fenced.
​
Where do you walk?
​I keep adventures local to where the dogs live. This means less time in the car and more time exploring, sniffing, and having fun. We avoid main roads and crowed areas if possible. I like to give my dogs as much variety as possible, and try to not do the same walk. We never repeat the same walk within a fortnight, I rotate my walks as much as I can! I like variety too!
Do you pick up and drop off?
​Yes! Nobody needs to be home. If you're at work, I'll collect and return your dog. If you work from home, I'll quietly sneak in, collect your dog, and disappear before your next Zoom meeting. I’m very stealthy!
How many dogs are in each group?
​Four dogs maximum. I have four seats, so I only take four dogs. Personal space for the dogs is very important to me. I'll never cram in a bunch of dogs in together. I wouldn't appreciate being crammed into a taxi with a bunch of my friends, so I don't expect the dogs to have to do it either. Most of my dogs love their own personal space and that's how it should be.
​
Can my dog go on more than one adventure each day?
Yes, I have multiple dogs who come along to 2 or 3 different adventures per day, this will be about 10 - 15kms of walking, including hikes and off leash areas. Your dog needs to be able to adapt well with the current dogs in each group and if that is a success, then yes, we add them to multiple adventures.
Do dogs need to be desexed and vaccinated?
​For the wellbeing of all dogs in my care, all dogs must be desexed and vaccinated. Entire males can become competitive or display dominant behaviours over males and females. On the other spectrum, even desexed males can become overwhelmed by undesexed females, even though they are not in season. I have had too many issues with this, so keeping groups desexed helps maintain a calm and safe environment for everyone. Remove those pheromones so everyone is happy!
What equipment do you use?
​I use my own harnesses and leads. Not because yours aren't lovely, but because if I borrowed everyone's equipment I'd inevitably lose it! Don’t give me a pretty leash handmade by an artisan, it will end up at the bottom of a dam!
Will my dog come home dirty?
We live in the Adelaide Hills. There are puddles, mud, creeks, dust, and plenty of opportunities for fun. If your dog enjoys adventures, there's a good chance they'll come home wearing evidence of them. But I do towel dry every dog before I drop them back. If you want your dog looking like they just come back from the groomers, we're definitely not the pack for you.
Do you walk in bad weather?
​With rain, hail, or shine, the adventures usually go ahead. However, safety always comes first. Walks may be cancelled during extreme heat (generally 30°C+), torrential rain, or severe winds.
Will you send photos and updates on my dog?
​Yes, I am happy to if you require, I take photos of the dogs all day long, but keep an eye out on my Facebook page, that's usually where I upload doggy photos and videos.
​
Do you offer doggy daycare?
​Unfortunately not. I have a structured day and often walk up to 25 kilometres myself. I would never expect a dog to do that kind of mileage. My longest regular adventure is two hours, although occasional beach days may run longer during the warmer months (and when it's safe to go back into the ocean due to the algae bloom.) But your dog may join two or more adventures depending on their energy level and personality.
​
​
Check my availability now to join the pack!
​
​
Pet Sitting
​
Do you offer pet sitting?
​Yes, in-home and only in Bridgewater and surrounding suburbs and my small does accompanies me during house sits.
Can you pet sit for new clients, even if they don’t go on walks with you and your group?
​​Sometimes. For non-regular clients, I generally only offer shorter weekend stays.
​
Why are your pet sitting services limited?
​My own dog has health needs and requires regular check-ins, so I need to stay close to home or have her accompany me where appropriate. I can get weekend care for her, but long than that is unsuitable and she will need to come along during house sits.
Do you board dogs in your home?
​No, unfortunately I do not have appropriate fencing and I work long hours. All pet sitting takes place in your pet's own home where they are most comfortable and settled.
How long can you spend with my dog while house sitting?
​As I care for my regular dog walking clients during the day, I am typically away from the house for up to 8 hours. During this time, I am out adventuring with my walking groups across the Adelaide Hills. For the safety and wellbeing of all dogs involved, I do not take house-sitting dogs along on my group walks. Being introduced to unfamiliar dogs, travelling in an unfamiliar vehicle, and joining established groups can be stressful for many dogs, especially when we've only just met.
My priority is always to ensure your dog feels safe, comfortable, and secure. Before I leave for the day, your dog will enjoy a walk, toilet break, and plenty of attention. When I return home, they'll have another walk, dinner, cuddles, and company for the evening. I then stay overnight with them, maintaining their normal routine as much as possible.If your dog requires more frequent daytime company or has special care requirements, please let me know during our initial chat so we can discuss whether I'm the right fit for their needs.