What to Know About Imperial Dog Walking Service in South Carolina
Imperial Dog Walking Service offers daily walks and pet care in select South Carolina neighborhoods
Imperial Dog Walking Service is a local pet care provider that handles midday and afternoon dog walks for residents in certain areas of South Carolina. The service picks up your dog from home, takes them out for exercise, and returns them within a set timeframe. Unlike larger national chains, Imperial operates as a smaller, neighborhood-focused business, which means availability depends on your specific location and their current service area.
Before contacting them, confirm whether your address falls within their service zone—this is the first step, since they do not serve all of South Carolina. Once you know they operate in your area, you can discuss your dog's needs, walking schedule, and pricing directly with the business.
Key Takeaways
- Imperial Dog Walking Service operates in select South Carolina neighborhoods, so you need to verify your address is in their service area before reaching out.
- The service handles midday and afternoon dog walks, which works well for owners who are at work or away during the day.
- Pricing and walk duration vary by location and service package, so contact them directly for rates specific to your area.
- As a smaller local business, Imperial may have limited availability during peak seasons, so booking in advance is often necessary.
How to learn about Imperial serves your neighborhood
Start by visiting Imperial Dog Walking Service's website or calling their main line to ask whether they cover your specific street or zip code. Many dog walking services map their service areas by neighborhood or district, and some have online tools that let you enter your address to check instantly. If their website does not have this feature, a quick phone call will give you a definitive answer.
If Imperial does not serve your area, ask whether they have plans to expand or whether they can recommend another walker in your neighborhood. Local veterinary clinics and pet supply stores often keep lists of trusted walkers in the area, and the South Carolina Veterinary Medical Association may also point you toward providers near you.
What to expect from a typical walk
A standard dog walk with Imperial usually lasts between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the package you choose and your dog's energy level. The walker will arrive at your home at a scheduled time, leash your dog, take them out for exercise and bathroom breaks, and return them home. Most walkers provide a brief update—either a text, photo, or note—so you know your dog was walked and how they behaved.
Before the first walk, you will need to meet the walker, show them where your dog's leash and supplies are kept, and discuss any special instructions—whether your dog pulls on the leash, has anxiety around other dogs, or needs to avoid certain routes. Providing clear information upfront prevents confusion and keeps your dog safe.
Pricing and booking
Imperial Dog Walking Service charges by the walk or by package, with rates varying by location and walk length. A single 30-minute walk typically costs between $15 and $30 in most South Carolina markets, though this can shift based on distance from their main office and local demand. Many walkers offer discounts for recurring bookings—for example, five walks per week may cost less per walk than booking one or two walks at a time.
To book, contact Imperial directly by phone or through their website if they have an online booking system. Have your address, dog's name and breed, preferred walk times, and any special needs ready when you call. Payment methods vary by location—some accept credit cards, others prefer bank transfer or cash—so ask what they take when you book.
What information you will need to provide
When you contact Imperial, have the following details ready: your full address and zip code, your dog's name, age, breed, and size, any behavioral notes (shy, energetic, reactive to other dogs), and your preferred walk times. You will also need to provide emergency contact information and your veterinarian's name and number in case something happens during the walk.
If your dog takes medication or has a health condition, mention that upfront. Some walkers will not take dogs with certain medical needs, and it is better to know that before you schedule. Be honest about your dog's temperament and any training issues—a good walker will tell you if they cannot safely handle your dog, and that protects both your pet and the walker.
Questions to ask before your first walk
Ask Imperial whether their walkers are insured and bonded, what happens if your dog gets injured during a walk, and whether they have a cancellation policy. Find out how they handle bad weather—do they still walk in rain, and what is their policy on extreme heat or cold? Ask whether they use a leash only or also use a harness, and whether they walk dogs individually or in groups.
Request references from current customers if possible, and ask whether you can do a trial walk where you observe or follow along the first time. A reputable walker will welcome these questions and be transparent about their practices. If they seem defensive or unwilling to answer, that is a sign to look elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Imperial Dog Walking Service is available in my area?
Contact them directly by phone or check their website for a service area map. Most dog walkers serve specific neighborhoods or zip codes, so you need to confirm your address is covered before booking. A quick call will give you a yes or no answer.
What if my dog has never been walked by a stranger before?
Let Imperial know this when you book. A good walker will start with a meet-and-greet at your home so your dog can get comfortable with them. Some dogs need a few short walks to adjust, so discuss a trial period or shorter initial walks to build confidence.
Can Imperial walk my dog if they have behavioral issues?
Some walkers can handle dogs with mild anxiety or leash pulling, but others cannot. Be honest about your dog's behavior when you call. If your dog is reactive to other dogs or people, ask whether Imperial walks dogs individually or in groups, and whether they have experience with that specific issue.
What happens if my dog gets sick or injured during a walk?
Ask Imperial about their emergency protocol and insurance coverage before you book. Most walkers carry pet first aid training and know local emergency vets. Confirm they have your vet's contact information and your permission to seek emergency care if needed.
Do I need to sign a contract with Imperial?
Most dog walkers use a simple service agreement that covers liability, payment terms, and cancellation policy. Ask to see their agreement before you commit, and make sure you understand what you are signing. If anything is unclear, ask them to explain it.