Questions
Everything owners ask us
If your question is not here, call us. We would rather talk it through than have you guess.
The session
What is a mobile dog gym?
A mobile dog gym is a climate-controlled van fitted with a professional canine treadmill. It drives to your home and your dog does a supervised exercise session in the van, in your driveway. There is no drop-off, no facility to travel to, and no group of unfamiliar dogs involved.
How long is a session?
Thirty minutes. That is the window widely cited as enough to sustain a dog's mental focus and deliver real cardiovascular work and muscle development, without pushing into overexertion. Longer is not better; consistent is better.
How often should my dog have a session?
Once a week suits most dogs and is what the majority of our clients book. High-drive or working breeds often do better on two. Dogs in a weight-management program may benefit from more frequent sessions. We will make a recommendation after seeing your dog work.
Does my dog need to already know how to use a treadmill?
No. Most dogs work out what the belt does within about five minutes. The first session is deliberately short and low-pressure, and its only goal is for your dog to decide the machine is a good place to be.
Do I need to be home during the session?
We strongly encourage you to be there for the first session. Your presence helps your dog settle. After that it is entirely optional. Many clients leave us to it and get on with their day.
What should I do before a session?
Avoid feeding a full meal in the two hours beforehand, give your dog a chance to relieve themselves, and have them ready on a leash. That is all the preparation needed.
What happens during the session?
Your dog is fitted with a harness and introduced to the belt at their own pace. A coach stays with them for the entire session, encouraging them with voice and toys, watching their gait and breathing, and offering water breaks as needed. Nobody is ever left unattended on the equipment.
What should I expect after a session?
Panting and thirst are normal and settle quickly. Some dogs get a short burst of energy before crashing into a deep sleep. Most owners report a noticeably calmer dog for the rest of the day and into the next.
Safety and equipment
Is a treadmill safe for a dog?
Our treadmill has no motor. The belt only moves because your dog moves it, which means the pace is always your dog's choice and the machine can never pull them along. Combined with a harness and constant supervision, this is a substantially more controlled environment than a walk beside traffic.
What is the difference between a motor-free treadmill and a regular one?
A motorized treadmill sets a speed and the dog must keep up. A motor-free treadmill, sometimes called a slatmill, is driven entirely by the dog. It self-regulates, it recruits the hindquarters harder, and it removes the central risk of a dog being forced to a pace they cannot hold.
What size dogs can use it?
The equipment accommodates a very wide size range, from small breeds through to large working dogs. If you are unsure whether your dog is a fit, call us and describe them.
Is the equipment cleaned between dogs?
Yes. The belt, harness and contact surfaces are sanitized after every single session, without exception.
Is the van air conditioned?
Yes. The van is climate controlled, which is the entire point of exercising indoors. Your dog works in a stable, comfortable temperature regardless of what the weather is doing outside.
What if my dog does not like it?
Then we stop. We never force a dog onto the belt or keep them there. Some dogs need two or three short introductions before they are comfortable, and a small number decide it is not for them. We will tell you honestly which of those we think is happening.
Requirements
How old does my dog need to be?
At least four months. Growing joints need care, so young dogs work shorter and easier sessions than adults.
Do you need proof of vaccination?
Yes. All dogs must be current on their vaccinations before their first session.
Do I need clearance from my veterinarian?
Yes. Always clear any new physical activity program with your vet first, particularly for senior dogs, dogs carrying extra weight, dogs recovering from surgery, and brachycephalic breeds.
Can an overweight dog use the treadmill?
Very often this is exactly the right dog for it, because controlled low-impact work is easier on the joints than long walks. It must be built up gradually and it must be cleared by your vet first.
Can a senior dog use the treadmill?
Many do, at a walking pace, for mobility rather than fitness. Sessions are shortened and the pace stays gentle. Veterinary clearance is required.
Can an anxious or reactive dog use the service?
Frequently, yes, and it is one of the strongest reasons to use us. There are no other dogs, no unfamiliar environment, and no strangers walking past. For dogs who find the outside world overwhelming, exercising at home removes most of the triggers.
Booking and payment
How do I book?
Book online and choose a time that suits you. You will get a confirmation the day before your session and a message when the van is on its way.
How do I pay?
Payment is taken at the time of booking by card.
Do you offer memberships?
Yes, and they are the best value as well as the best result. Conditioning works through repetition. A weekly standing session does more for your dog than occasional one-offs ever will.
Can more than one dog do a session?
Yes. Multiple dogs from the same household can be worked in one visit, and it costs less per dog than booking separately.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours ahead at no charge. Same-day cancellations are charged a $25 fee, and no-shows are charged in full. The van has already committed the route and the slot by then.
What areas do you cover?
We cover a defined radius around our home base. If you are near the edge of it, get in touch. We can often make it work.
Still deciding?
Book an intro session. Thirty minutes tells you more than any FAQ can.