Thomas’s story
Years ago, Thomas worked as a gardener whose employer needed help with walking her dog. Jumping at the opportunity, neighbours soon spotted Thomas walking Chester and via word of mouth and recommendations, his dog walking business soon took flight. Thomas has been walking dogs for eight years now.
A day in the life of Thomas
Monday is the busiest day for Thomas as he starts walking dogs at 7.30am and finishes at 5.45pm. He can walk up to ten dogs at a time, depending on whether his clients live in the same neighbourhood.
On busy days, Thomas walks 29 dogs – ‘there’s a lot of dogs but never too many, I would love to walk more dogs. I know how many dogs I walk but I can’t tell you how many clients I have, it’s too many.’
We asked Thomas a few quick questions to get to know him more:
- What’s your favourite thing about your job?
‘I love the animals and I love walking the dogs – they don’t bother me and don’t talk back. Sometimes I play music and sing to them, they are great company and I enjoy being around them.’
- What’s your favourite breed?
‘The Schnauzer – the first dog that I started walking eight years ago was a Schnauzer named Chester. I taught Chester to walk without a lead and I am still walking him today.’
- When is the best time to walk the dogs?
‘The morning is the best time, between 8– 11.30am. It is much cooler for the dogs and myself.’
- On average how long/far would you say you walk?
‘I walk very far especially on Mondays and Thursdays – I have been asked by clients before about how many kilometres I walk and I just can’t tell them but I know it is a lot.’
Thomas charges R35 per dog for an hour walk and is looking for more dogs to walk to improve his income.
You may have seen Thomas story on social media recently. He was unfortunately stabbed in an armed robbery and ended up in hospital.
Any help or support you can offer will be greatly appreciated. you can get in touch with Thomas on 076 126 9800.
Thank you for talking to us, Thomas! We are truly inspired by the way in which you care for all of the dogs who are lucky to have you walk them.