Do you transport dogs to walks, and how is transport kept safe around Southampton?

Q: How is the van set up to keep dogs safe?

The van contains six large dog crates, each individually secured inside the vehicle. Every dog travels in their own crate, never loose, which prevents any interaction between dogs during the journey. The van has three ventilation points: two flettner fans that spin continuously on the roof, plus an electric fan. This setup maintains strong airflow throughout the journey, keeping dogs comfortable even on warm days.

Q: What happens if my dog doesn't like car travel?

Many dogs are nervous about vehicles initially. Ritchie introduces the van gradually, starting with the engine off, offering treats near the crate, then short practice trips before longer journeys. Most dogs settle within a few trips once they associate the van with fun walks. If your dog genuinely struggles with van travel, solo walks from your doorstep are always available instead, avoiding transport altogether.

Q: Is the van cleaned between groups?

Yes. The crates are cleaned regularly and the van is maintained to high standards. This matters for hygiene and for dogs sensitive to strong scents left by previous occupants. The same professional care Ritchie applies to pet sitting and walking extends to the vehicle that transports your dog. Each crate receives individual attention between uses.

Yes, PHG Southampton collects dogs from home and transports them to group walks in a fully ventilated van with individual crates. Each dog travels safely in their own secured crate with continuous airflow from roof vents and fans.

Last updated: 2026-04-29

Key facts

Dogs are collected from home and returned after group walks in PHG’s van
Six large individual dog crates keep each dog safely separated during transport
Three ventilation points: two flettner roof fans plus one electric fan ensure year-round comfort
Group walks take place in a private secured field used exclusively by PHG
Solo walks available from your doorstep if your dog doesn’t cope with van travel

Do Ritchie and Amber transport dogs to group walks?

Yes. Dogs booked for group walks are collected from their home address and driven to PHG’s private secured field in a well-maintained van. After the off-lead play session, they’re returned home tired and happy. You don’t need to drive anywhere, which works perfectly if you’re at work during the day. The field is used exclusively by PHG, so your dog won’t encounter unknown dogs from other walking services and they will remain safe within a fully fenced perimeter.

How is the van set up to keep dogs safe?

The van contains six large custom-built dog crates, each individually secured inside the vehicle. Every dog travels in their own crate (unless from the same household), never loose, which prevents any interaction between dogs during the journey. The van has three ventilation points: two flettner fans that spin continuously on the roof, plus an electric fan. This setup maintains strong airflow throughout the journey, keeping dogs comfortable even on warm days.

Is it safe to transport dogs in hot weather?

Yes, with proper equipment and planning. PHG’s van is purpose-built for dog transport with the ventilation system described above. Ritchie and Amber monitor temperatures and adjusts walk times on hot days, often moving to early morning to avoid midday heat. The base of each crate is sprayed with cool water and lined with cooling towels. Plus dogs are always kept hydrated. The continuous airflow from multiple fans keeps the interior comfortable even when parked.

What happens if my dog doesn’t like car or van travel?

Some dogs can be nervous initially. In these instances, Ritchie and Amber will introduce the van gradually, offering treats near the crate, then short practice trips before longer journeys. Most dogs settle within a few trips once they associate the van with fun walks. If your dog genuinely struggles with van travel, solo walks from your doorstep are always available instead, avoiding transport altogether.

Is the van cleaned between groups?

Yes. The crates are kept immaculately clean and the van is maintained to high standards. This matters for hygiene and for dogs sensitive to strong scents left by previous occupants. The same professional care Ritchie and Amber apply to pet sitting and walking extends to the vehicle that transports your dog. Each crate is thoroughly cleaned after every walk.

Is it safer to drive my dog to walks myself?

Many Southampton dog owners think they should transport their own dogs to avoid risk. Actually, a purpose-built pet transport van is often safer than a standard car. PHG’s van has individual crates that prevent dogs escaping or distracting the driver, plus professional ventilation systems most cars lack. The driver focuses entirely on safe transport rather than juggling driving with pet management. Of course, solo walks from your doorstep remain available if you prefer no transport at all.

Is PHG’s transport approach right for your dog?

Consider PHG’s group walk transport if your dog enjoys playing with others and/or you can’t drive them to suitable spaces yourself. The service works particularly well for working owners who want their dog exercised during the day. If your dog gets carsick, shows severe anxiety around vehicles, or you simply prefer doorstep service, solo walks might suit better. The free initial meeting lets you see the van and discuss your dog’s specific needs before deciding. We also begin with trial walks for both solo and group walking arrangements

Have a question about your pet?

Ritchie replies personally, usually within the hour. Every new client starts with a free meet and greet at no commitment, so you can decide with confidence.

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Or call 07902 127835