FAQs
What’s the process to join the pack?
Step one is a phone consultation to review some key considerations to see if your pup is a good fit for our programs, free of charge. The second step is an in person initial consult & evaluation, click here to join the pack. Complete the intake form and check your email for our response. We are currently on a rolling waitlist for all towns, integration into our programs may take 2-6 weeks.
Each dog is unique and safety is paramount, from the initial consult we will determine the pace of integration into our programming.
In order for your dog to participate in our pack excursions your dog must meet our criteria and be 100% off-leash trained, meaning:
100% recall from all distances
100% recall away from people & dogs not in our programs
No reactivity to other dogs or people on trail including mountain bikes & trail runners
Able to share their personal space in the van
Each in person initial consult & trial run is billed at $45.00
Do you offer training?
Yes! See our “Services” page for our On Ramp Program details. If your dog does not meet the above criteria we can help you out. Each program is specifically tailored to your dog. Not sure if this program is right for you? Send us an email and let’s talk strategy to getting our dog ready for some adventures!
Looking for a comprehensive board & train program for your pup? We only recommend A Very Good K9. Join our dozens of clients who have thrived with Haley & Austin’s guidance.
What are your dog requirements and limitations?
All dogs must be 4+ months old with their first set of shots completed. The DHLPP, Bordetella, and Rabies vaccine is critical. Dogs nearing their 3/4 of their lifespan may join for hourly treks but no hiking, biking or trail running programs. We do not accept dogs in tact over 16 months.
While we love all dogs, we do not accept corgis or huskies into our programming.
*Space for puppies is limited as many considerations go into group dynamics.
We do recommend that you have pet insurance for all dogs partaking in our programs as there are inherent risks associated with off leash programming. Send me an email and I can walk you through the steps to compare coverage and set you up for success.
All dogs have be on a tick preventative with the exception of puppies until they reach the recommended age for medication.
What do you do about behavioral issues?
In terms of aggression that leads to fights, unprovoked attacks are an immediate removal from our programs. Dogs with a history of unprovoked aggression are not allowed to partake in our programs- no exceptions. Dogs with a history of “resource guarding” may partake in our programs as a case-by-case basis. Dogs that initiate fights that end in injury are removed from our programs instantly. Our staff will notify you if behavioral modification is required for your dog to remain in our programs. That goes for on leash handling, off leash recall, potty accidents in the van, etc. We do not accept any dogs that may pose any aggression or threat to the general public, including but not limited to other trail users, horses, livestock, dogs & children.
At Timberline Treks, we maintain an unwavering zero tolerance policy towards dog aggression, and as a result, we have never experienced a dog fight during any of our off-leash pack excursions. This is a deliberate and bold commitment, reflecting the rigorous standards and careful protocols we employ.
Every dog enrolled in our programs undergoes an extensive onboarding process designed to ensure safety and compatibility within our packs. Through this process, we:
Build a strong, trusting relationship with each dog.
Thoroughly understand their behavioral needs and limitations, which is crucial for success in off-leash settings on public trails.
Enforce continual accountability and oversight by our professional team throughout their time with us.
Our staff remains vigilant at all times during excursions, closely monitoring interactions to allow dogs to communicate naturally while promptly addressing any signs of tension or discomfort. This proactive management effectively mitigates risk and prevents injuries, safeguarding the well-being of every dog and handler involved.
In summary, the combination of careful selection, individualized care, and active supervision makes Timberline Treks’ programs some of the safest and most enjoyable off-leash adventures available in Maine.
Weather & Cancellation Policy
We are a four season, rain or shine trekking service. Any cancellations due to severe storms will be credited to the next service. If the weather for Alpine programs is deemed beyond undesirable, a local extended trek will take its place automatically and billed as an “Expedition Trek”.
All changes in scheduling need to be communicated 24 hours in advance at minimum. Any cancellations within 24 hours that cannot be filled will be billed at 50%. Cancellations day of programs will be billed at the full price.
We service most of Cumberland County and spots fill up fast! Our schedule is set for the week, while we understand that life has many moving parts- our limited spots allow us to maintain a high quality service, and canceling at the last minute can cause changes to schedules for the whole team.
Will my dog come home dirty?
We are an all-weather, outdoor excursion company, there is a very high possibility your pup may get dirty. We go to the the mountains, woods, beaches, lakes, logging roads etc. We do our best to not bring all of nature home. If your pup is completely covered head to paw in mud or sand, we will give them a quick rinse and damp dry...but definitely no guarantee they will be as clean as they were when they were picked up. We do tick checks and a full body scan to check for cuts, scrapes or anything that we would want to know about our own dogs- and apply first aid where needed. We highly encourage you to have your hose hooked up at your house, or set up a mud room for your pup if you haven’t already!
