How to Start a Pack Walk Program
Featuring Tips and Advice from Mallory, the Creator of NB Pack Walks
What’s a Pack Walk?
A Pack Walk is a great alternative for dogs who want and need socialization, exercise and stimulation, but don’t enjoy the dog park scene. It is an organized community walk that is inclusive to dogs of all breeds and temperaments (including those who are reactive!). Pack walks are a judgment free zone to bring your dog for a positive and rewarding experience! These walks typically last approximately an hour, or about 2 miles, and are scheduled to happen on a regular basis (weekly, biweekly, etc). Dogs and owners walk in a single file line, giving each other plenty of space to create that safe environment! They can be used to work on training and socialization, while making some friends (both human and doggo!) from a safe distance.
Mallory’s Pack Walk Group
Awesome! How Do I Start One?
Step 1: Find someone who has already established a pack walk within a reasonable distance, and experience it for yourself. If you’re not able to find one nearby, connecting with an already established program (like Mallory’s!) for advice is a practical alternative.
Step 2: Try out your own Pack Walk with a few friends. It’s an easier start when you already have some familiarity with the people and dogs attending. However, you should still treat it like it’s the real deal. How will you communicate the instructions? Where will the route be? When is a good time to have the walk that the majority of your friends can attend? What about parking? A few “dress rehearsals” will give you the opportunity to deal with any unexpected challenges or issues, without the pressure of managing new people and dogs.
Step 3: Once you’ve got a few practice walks under your belt, start a Facebook and/or instagram page! Social media is the best place to grow! Mallory recommends posting in your town’s Facebook group or any dog related groups local to you to attract some new attendees.
Step 4: Now that you’re growing - make sure you have some established rules for your Pack Walks. NB Pack Walk’s Facebook group is private and requires answering a few short questions before gaining admittance. These rules can include using a 6 foot non-adjustable leash, socialization requirements, signing off on some safety regulations, and agreeing to a judgment free zone! Your rules can be unique to your group, but they’re important in establishing a safe environment for dogs of all temperaments and needs. (Don’t forget to remind everyone to BYOB - bring your own poop bags!)
Step 5: Advertise on your social media pages. Make sure to take some cute pics after your walks, so you can show everyone how awesome pack walks are!
Step 6: Once you get some momentum, consider advertising at a local Pet Expo! It’s a great way to meet more dog lovers in the community and spread the word about your program!
We love seeing Dog Mom (or Pawrent) communities grow, and can’t wait to hear about your adventures starting your own! Pack Walks are an awesome way to meet other dog obsessed individuals, and enjoy spending time with your special pup. Mallory gave us some great advice in her interview when she said, “Invite the dogs who you think could never do something like this - they’ll surprise you!”
For inspo, make sure you follow Mallory at @NBPackWalks on instagram!
We want to thank Mallory for all her tips and advice! If you’re in the New Brunswick area, and are interested in joining her pack, visit her Facebook page here. Make sure you catch her interview with us for more insider info!
