EXCELLENT Based on 26 reviews Posted on Google Nick AddisonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has looked after our dog for us a couple of times now and he is our go-to person for walking, feeding and company for Scooby. He can always be relied on to arrive at the scheduled times, sending photos, videos and short notes every time which have been a huge comfort while we have been away. Highly recommended
Owner's reply
Thank you Nick for taking the time to write a review about my dog walking services - I appreciate it. Scooby is a truly unique dog with a unique and endearing personality. I'm constantly amazed by how he negotiates life with such joy and enthusiasm and a love of all people and dogs. Then when you take into account that he's deaf - you realise that he truly has a wonderful indomitable spirit and serves as an example to we mere humans as to how to enjoy life in the face of adversity. Oh and I almost forgot to say that I noticed whilst on my walks with him that he has another ability - to make people smile! Who wouldn't love a dog like Scooby!?Posted on Google Maddy MacdonaldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Theo, our lively cavapoo loves Derek! We have never had a dog walker before and didn't want Theo to be 'just one of many' on walks with multiple dogs. Derek came to meet Theo first at home which was great and helped us feel more confident. He is always very responsive and has helped us out last minute at times. The K9 app works really well for booking and reports on the walks too. Cannot recommend highly enough
Owner's reply
Thank you Maddy for your appreciation of my dog walking service and in particular caring for Theo, your gorgeous Cavapoo. You could say Theo is a great crowd pleaser when I take him for our walks in the Botanical Gardens. It's wonderful to see peoples' faces light up with broad smiles when they see Theo coming towards them - such is his remarkable presence and his joie de vivre - so infectious! I have no doubt that much of his joy stems from the way you and Mike have treated him since you became his proud pet parents! For my part I just adore him and always look forward to our walks together.Posted on Google Grace QuantTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is so kind and caring and really takes his time with my nervous dog. I would highly recommend his service
Owner's reply
Thank you Grace. I hadn't looked after a Shih-Poo before although I had cared for one of your neighbour's Cavapoos-Theo. Bella was a little bit shy on our first meeting though she quickly responded to my massages everytime I arrived to take her for a walk to the Botanical Gardens. I love that she always seems to know its me entering your home and just lies there on her back waiting for my cuddles. I really look forward to going on walks with her and letting her sniff her way round the Botanical Gardens. The fact that Bella is so loving and affectionate is a tribute to the way you and your partner love and care for her and I am delighted and feel very proud that you have chosen me to look after her.Posted on Google Jennifer HendersonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek has walked both my rescue dogs, the most recent arriving just over a week ago. He's been invaluable in helping my new little one settle in with gentle walkies and kindness - even dealing with house training accidents.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jennifer. Of course I'm delighted Josh loves me especially since the feeling is mutual. Bearing in mind his background it's truly remarkable that Josh can love. Josh personifies the old adage that love conquers all and I feel sure that the love you have given him has enabled Josh to become the adorable and loving Cocker Spaniel he now is. Josh is a joy to walk and always gives me such a warm welcome with his twirls and fetching me his toy - a truly amazing and loving dog.Posted on Google Anne DargueTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is reliable and trustworthy . Easy to book and pay online. Takes great care of our dog both with cuddles, walks, feeding and toileting. Flexible with timings of visits whether it's a lunch time walk while I'm at work or away for the whole day for a family wedding. Our dog loves his time with Derek and we can relax knowing he's in safe hands. One on one care from Derek since he's been a puppy. Derek takes and shares many great photos and videos so I can see how happy my pooch is while I'm not around. Derek is very experienced - would recommend for any age of dog.
Owner's reply
Thank you so much Anne for trusting me to look after Ridley. I had never met a Miniature Labradoodle before and was excited to meet him. I was absolutely bowled over by his cuter than cute appearance and endearing behaviour. Of course as well as being sooo cute he's a wonderful guard dog. When I open your front door he immediately goes on guard growling and barking until he sees me then suddenly his barking stops and all he wants is love - lots of it! I find it difficult to resist taking lots of pictures and videos of him at home and as we walk through the nearby woods. And of course should we met anyone on our walk they fall in love with Ridley immediately. I always find you a pleasure to deal with and look forward to going on many more walks with the ridiculously handsome Ridley!Posted on Google JacTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 100% reliable. My doodle is visibly excited as soon as Derek arrives. Even if I am at home, my dog happily trots off for his walk with Derek. He’s also a fountain of knowledge and ideas. Would highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jacqui. I can't tell you how much I look forward to going on walks with Bolt, your loving and always smiling Goldendoodle. Bolt is a peculiar dog in the nicest possible way. For instance he's the only dog I walk that bears his teeth at me when I arrive to take him out. I quickly realised that unlike other dogs that bear their teeth aggressively Bolt was mimicking me smiling at him because I am always so pleased to see him. Then after smiling at me he promptly lies on his back on your pouffe for his 5 minute massage before we set of on another quest to find people and dogs - such is his insatiable appetite for making new friends. Should a car pull up Bolt is always there waiting to greet the occupants as they get out of the car! Bolt's owner, Jacqui is a joy to deal with and as you'd expect has a great sense of humour just like Bolt!Posted on Google Jan WrightTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from Derek. We got regular updates and lovely videos of our cat Minnie. Derek is caring and spends time fussing over Minnie who clearly loved it! Highly recommend.
Owner's reply
Thank you Jan for your kind words. Minnie is a really affectionate and beautiful cat and after I've fed and watered her and cleaned her litter I like nothing better than to invite her to lie on my chest and stroke her. Judging by her contented purrs she really appreciates this and I'm pleased that I can bring her some comfort whilst you're on holiday.Posted on Google Erica BradleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Derek whilst out walking my elderly dog & it was obvious he cares a lot about dogs & is very knowledgeable. He has since taken my dog out for walks and is very reliable & trustworthy. He always sends pictures and communicates promptly. Would not hesitate to recommend him. Erica
Owner's reply
Thank you Erica for your appreciation. Tess is a sweet little Puggle and she always gives me such a warm welcome when I arrive at your home to collect her. It's a pleasure to take her for walks.Posted on Google ank mTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek is pleasant,very reliable and also receptive to short notice requests, which is very helpful indeed. Alma,our cocker, really likes him. Thank you, Derek
Owner's reply
Thank you Anka for trusting me to take Alma for walks. It's a real pleasure walking Alma. She is such a sweet natured Cocker Spaniel. And I always look forward to receiving a warm welcome from her when I arrive to take her for her walk.Posted on Google Helen TaylorTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Derek provides an excellent, caring service and clearly loves animals. My 2 dogs have very different walking styles and one can be dog reactive at times. Derek did an initial visit to meet the dogs and learn all about them, which was very reassuring. I felt very confident that he understood their needs and would be able to manage them in a caring and competent manner. Both dogs were very pleased to see him each morning for their walks and he sent photos and videos showing the great time they were having. I can certainly recommend him to anyone needing help with their pets!
Owner's reply
Thank you Helen for taking the time to review my service. For my part it was a pleasure meeting you and walking your 2 beautiful dogs - Bruin and Oscar and I look forward to seeing them again when you next need my services.Showing our latest reviewsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Pet care service areas in South West Sheffield are at the heart of everything we do at K9 Time. Because we specialise in solo, one-to-one dog walks and in-home pet sitting, we deliberately keep a tight service area across South West Sheffield. That focus allows us to deliver genuinely reliable, unhurried care for every dog, puppy, and cat on our books.
By limiting the ground we cover, we make sure no visit is ever rushed and every pet gets the calm, personal attention they deserve. Our service spans postcodes S7, S8, S10, S11, and S17, covering well-known neighbourhoods from Abbeydale through to Whirlow.
K9 Time is led by Derek Collinson, who brings more than 25 years of hands-on pet care experience to every walk and visit. Whether you need professional dog walking, in-home dog sitting, puppy sitting for young pups, or cat sitting while you are away, care is always shaped around your pet’s routine, temperament, and comfort.
A free 30-minute meet and greet is available before any booking, with no obligation. It is the simplest way to talk through your pet’s needs and see whether K9 Time is the right fit for your household.
Why K9 Time Keeps A Focused South West Sheffield Service Area
Keeping our coverage area compact is a deliberate choice. It means we can offer one-to-one dog walking, in-home dog sitting, puppy sitting, and cat sitting without stretching ourselves thin across the city. Every pet care service we provide benefits from shorter travel times, more predictable scheduling, and the personal familiarity that comes from working within a close-knit set of neighbourhoods.
Solo Walks And In-Home Visits Without Rushed Scheduling
Solo walks are the foundation of our dog walking service. Each dog is walked individually, or with up to three dogs from the same household, so the pace, route, and length match that dog’s energy and behaviour. There is no juggling a mixed pack across town.
The same principle applies to our in-home visits. Cat sitting, puppy sitting, and dog sitting visits are built around the pet’s normal routine. A smaller service area means we can schedule visits at the right times without cutting corners to cover long distances between appointments.
Why A Smaller Coverage Area Means Better Reliability
Reliability depends on geography as much as commitment. By working within S7, S8, S10, S11, and S17, we reduce travel time between visits and keep our schedule realistic.
That means arriving on time for a 7am early morning dog sitting visit in Dore, then reaching a midday walk in Ecclesall without rushing. Fewer miles between clients translates directly into better timekeeping and more consistent care.
A Calm, Personal Approach For Dogs, Puppies, And Cats
A focused area allows Derek to get to know each pet properly. Dogs benefit from a familiar walker who understands their quirks. Puppies up to 16 weeks get gentle, patient handling during a critical stage of development. Cats receive quiet, stress-free visits in their own home.
This personal approach simply would not work if we were trying to serve the whole of Sheffield. Keeping things local keeps things calm.
Book A Free Meet And Greet Before You Start
Every new client starts with a free 30-minute meet and greet. There is no obligation, no paperwork to sign on the spot, and no pressure. It is simply a chance to sit down, introduce your pet, and talk through what you need.
What To Expect From The Free 30-Minute Meet And Greet
The meet and greet takes place in your home, where your pet is most relaxed. Derek will spend time getting to know your dog, puppy, or cat in their familiar surroundings. You can ask questions, raise any concerns, and see first-hand how Derek interacts with your pet.
This visit also gives Derek a chance to note practical details such as where leads, food, and keys are kept. It sets the foundation for smooth, stress-free visits from day one.
How Derek Learns Your Pet’s Routine And Needs
Every pet has a rhythm. Some dogs need a long, energetic walk first thing. Some cats prefer a quiet feed and a gentle fuss. Puppies may need frequent toilet breaks and short bursts of play.
During the meet and greet, Derek asks about feeding schedules, exercise habits, behavioural traits, and any medical needs. That information shapes every visit going forward, so your pet’s care feels familiar rather than disruptive.
Choosing The Right Visit Or Walk Length
Dog walks are available as 1-hour or 30-minute sessions, or a mixture of both across the week. Cat sitting and puppy sitting visits run for either 15 or 30 minutes. Dog sitting visits can be booked as 1-hour or 30-minute sessions, with a typical schedule of four visits per day.
The meet and greet is the ideal moment to decide which combination suits your pet’s age, energy level, and routine. Derek can recommend a starting plan and adjust as your pet settles in.
Trust Signals For Local Pet Owners
Trusting someone with your pet and your home is a significant decision. We take that seriously, and we back it up with credentials, experience, and technology that give you real peace of mind.
25+ Years Of Hands-On Pet Care Experience
Derek Collinson brings more than 25 years of pet care experience to every visit. That depth of experience means confident, calm handling whether your dog is nervous on walks, your puppy is finding its feet, or your cat needs a quiet, reassuring presence.
It also means better judgement in unexpected situations. Experience matters when a dog reacts to something on a walk or a puppy is unsettled during their first few days without you.
Fully Insured, DBS Checked, And Trained In Dog First Aid
Derek is fully insured, DBS checked, and trained in dog first aid. These are not optional extras. They are fundamental to providing professional pet care and giving you confidence when handing over your keys and your pet.
Being DBS checked matters when someone is entering your home regularly. Insurance protects both your pet and your property. Dog first aid training means Derek can respond quickly if a health issue arises during a walk or visit.
GPS Tracking, App Updates, And Home Security Support
Every dog walk is GPS tracked, and you receive walk reports, photos, and videos through a free mobile app. You can see exactly where your dog went, how long the walk lasted, and how they looked along the way.
For sitting visits, regular check-ins also support home security. Collecting mail, watering plants, and taking out rubbish help keep your property looking lived in. It is a practical benefit that comes naturally with consistent, scheduled visits across your time away.
Areas We Cover By Postcode
We serve South West Sheffield across five postcode areas. Below is a full breakdown of the neighbourhoods we cover within each postcode, along with the pet care services available. Each area receives the same standard of one-to-one walks and in-home visits.
S7: Abbeydale, Carterknowle, Nether Edge
- Abbeydale: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Carterknowle: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Nether Edge: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
S8: Beauchief, Greenhill, Millhouses
- Beauchief: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Greenhill: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Millhouses: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
S10: Broomhill, Crookes, Crosspool, Fulwood, Lodge Moor, Ranmoor
- Broomhill: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Crookes: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Crosspool: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Fulwood: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Lodge Moor: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Ranmoor: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
S11: Bents Green, Brincliffe, Broomhall, Ecclesall, Endcliffe, Greystones, Hunter’s Bar, Sharrow Vale
- Bents Green: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Brincliffe: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Broomhall: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Ecclesall: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Endcliffe: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Greystones: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Hunter’s Bar: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Sharrow Vale: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
S17: Bradway, Dore, Totley, Whirlow
- Bradway: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Dore: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Totley: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
- Whirlow: Dog Walking | Cat Sitting | Puppy Sitting | Dog Sitting
Services Available Across The Covered Areas
Every neighbourhood listed above has access to the full range of K9 Time services. Below is a summary of what each service includes, so you can match the right option to your pet’s needs.
Dog Walking In Your Local Area
Solo, one-to-one walks tailored to your dog’s energy level, behaviour, and confidence. Dogs are walked individually, or up to three from the same household. Walk lengths are available as 1-hour sessions at £26 or 30-minute sessions at £20. GPS tracking and app updates come as standard with every walk.
Cat Sitting Visits At Home
In-home visits designed to keep your cat comfortable and settled while you are away. Each visit can include feeding, fresh water, litter tray cleaning, playtime, and gentle attention. Practical support such as plant watering, collecting mail, and taking out rubbish is also available. Visits are priced at £14 for 15 minutes or £20 for 30 minutes.
Puppy Sitting For Young Puppies Up To 16 Weeks
Gentle, in-home care for puppies who need regular check-ins before they are ready for wider exposure. Visits support toilet breaks, feeding, playtime in the home and garden, and early social confidence. Pricing matches cat sitting: £14 for 15 minutes or £20 for 30 minutes. Photos, videos, and updates are sent through the app.
Dog Sitting As An Alternative To Kennels
In-home dog sitting keeps your dog in their familiar environment with structured visits throughout the day. A typical schedule includes four visits: 7am, 11am, 3pm, and 9pm. Visits can include walks, feeding, fresh water, playtime, and cuddles. Rates are £26 per hour or £20 per 30-minute visit. Regular visits also help with home security while you are away.
Call Derek for a friendly, no-obligation chat about your pet’s needs and the visit schedule that would work best for your routine.
Just Outside These Boundaries?
Our listed service area covers the main South West Sheffield postcodes, but we know that neighbourhood boundaries are not always clear-cut. If you are close to one of the areas we cover, it is still worth getting in touch.
When To Get In Touch About Nearby Areas
If your home sits just outside S7, S8, S10, S11, or S17 but borders one of our covered neighbourhoods, reach out and ask. Depending on your location and how your visits fit into the existing schedule, we may be able to help.
How To Check If K9 Time Can Help
The simplest way to find out is to call Derek and mention your postcode and street. A quick conversation is usually enough to confirm whether your area falls within practical reach. There is no charge for that initial chat, and there is never any pressure to commit.
Arrange Your Free 30-Minute Meet And Greet
Whether you are inside our core service area or just on the edge, the free 30-minute meet and greet is the best first step. It gives us a chance to visit your home, meet your pet, and talk through exactly what you need. Book your meet and greet by calling Derek for a friendly, no-obligation conversation about your pet’s care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which neighbourhoods do you cover for pet care visits in the south-west of Sheffield?
We cover 27 neighbourhoods across postcodes S7, S8, S10, S11, and S17 in South West Sheffield. These include Abbeydale, Beauchief, Bents Green, Bradway, Brincliffe, Broomhall, Broomhill, Carterknowle, Crookes, Crosspool, Dore, Ecclesall, Endcliffe, Fulwood, Greenhill, Greystones, High Storrs, Hunter’s Bar, Lodge Moor, Millhouses, Nether Green, Nether Edge, Ranmoor, Ringinglow, Sharrow Vale, Totley, and Whirlow.
Do you travel to Totley, Dore and Bradway, and how are travel fees calculated?
Yes, Totley, Dore, and Bradway all fall within our S17 coverage area and receive the full range of services. There are no separate travel fees. The prices listed for dog walking, cat sitting, puppy sitting, and dog sitting apply equally across all covered neighbourhoods.
What are your usual visiting hours and can I book early morning, evening or weekend appointments?
Dog sitting visits follow a typical schedule of 7am, 11am, 3pm, and 9pm, covering early morning through to evening. Dog walks and other pet sitting visits are arranged to fit your pet’s routine. Contact Derek directly to discuss specific timing, including weekends, so we can find a schedule that works for you.
Is there a minimum booking requirement if I live on the edge of your coverage area?
There is no published minimum booking requirement. If you are on the edge of our coverage area, the best approach is to call Derek and discuss your location and needs. A quick conversation will confirm whether we can accommodate your schedule.
How do you handle key collection and returns for clients in different areas?
Key arrangements are discussed during the free 30-minute meet and greet, where Derek visits your home and gets to know the practical details. This ensures a secure, agreed process for key handling that suits your situation before any bookings begin.
What happens if severe weather or roadworks affect travel to my area?
Our focused South West Sheffield service area helps reduce the impact of travel disruptions because distances between visits are kept short. If severe weather or roadworks affect a specific route, Derek will communicate with you directly to adjust timings or arrangements so your pet’s care is not compromised.