A “professional” is defined by Merriam-Webster as
(1) : characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession
(2) : exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace
(3) : participating for … livelihood in an activity or field of endeavor often engaged in by amateurs
This definition sums up why I embrace using a professional dog walker rather than the neighbor’s kid or one of the convenient but not truly professional app-based walking services that have cropped up in the last few years.
The fact that C&G Pet Sitting is Gina La Monica’s livelihood means that she has a lot riding on the quality of her care—her reputation and her very business are at stake. That means she and her employees are punctual, nor do they “short” my dog’s walk time. “Professional” means Ms. La Monica and her employees are trained—by another true professional—in how to walk a dog and how to properly redirect the dog when he decides he might prefer to chase that squirrel over there or tell off the neighbor dog in the yard they’re walking past.
I know my dog will be treated not just humanely but kindly and knowledgeably and that she will return home happy and well-exercised. Knowing my pup is in professional hands allows me to concentrate on whatever I need to be doing until I can get back home for that crazy waggy-butt greeting from a happy and well-cared for dog. -Allison Alcorn Normal, IL