In a bustling society that thrives on productivity, finding the time to adequately provide for all the needs of our four-legged companions can prove challenging. This realization has led to an increase in the demand for dog walking services, a specialized sector that caters to the exercise and socialization requirements of our canine friends.

However, entrusting the care of your beloved pet to a stranger requires careful consideration. A plethora of questions springs to mind, highlighting the need for a comprehensive vetting process. In this discourse, we venture into delineating the twelve essential inquiries every pet owner should make before hiring a dog walking service.

• The first question to ask would be about the qualifications and training of the dog walker. An understanding of canine behaviorism rooted in ethology (the scientific and objective study of animal behavior) is a quintessential attribute. Dog walkers should be equipped with knowledge on dogs' body language, basic training commands, and handling behavioral issues.
• Secondly, it is crucial to understand the dog walker’s procedures for emergencies. The walker should have a well-detailed contingency plan, covering scenarios ranging from medical emergencies to mishaps during walks. The plan should be a confluence of the walker's personal initiative and the protocols of the dog walking service.
• Thirdly, ask about their policy on group walks. Research based on social dynamics among canines suggests that dogs derive immense benefits from socializing with their peers. However, the group size should be manageable to ensure each dog gets adequate care and supervision.
• Fourth, it is prudent to seek clarity on the dog walking routes. In urban planning and transportation theory, the concept of walkability applies to dogs as well. The routes should be safe, clean, and stimulating for the dog, taking into consideration factors like traffic, potential for off-leash play, and interactions with other dogs or animals.
• Fifth, inquire about their experience dealing with dogs similar to yours in terms of breed, age, and temperament. This allows you to assess their ability to handle the specific needs and quirks of your pet.
• Sixth, query about the walker's availability and flexibility. The stochastic nature of our schedules necessitates a service provider who can accommodate sudden changes, without compromising the quality of care rendered to the dog.
• Seventh, investigate their communication strategy. A robust system of feedback is integral to the relationship between the dog owner and the walker. The utilization of modern technology such as GPS tracking, real-time updates, and photographic evidence of the walk is a definite plus.
• Eighth, evaluate their procedures surrounding pickup and drop-off. The security and convenience of your home and pet should not be compromised in the process.
• Ninth, demand to understand their pricing strategy. Economic theories suggest that pricing is a reflection of value, hence the need for transparency and fairness.
• Tenth, question their policy on dog health, particularly vaccination requirements. This serves as a protective measure against the spread of communicable diseases.
• Eleventh, ask for references from past or current clients. This provides first-hand insight into the walker's reliability and professionalism.
• Lastly, it is imperative to ask about their insurance and bonding status. This serves as a risk management strategy, safeguarding against potential injuries or accidents.

In conclusion, hiring a dog walking service requires a meticulous approach. The outlined questions serve as a guide, underpinning the importance of entrusting your pet to a competent and caring professional. The game theory, which has found extensive application in economics and political science, can be applied here. Perceiving the process as a strategic game, where the payoff is the wellbeing of your pet, emphasizes the need to make informed decisions based on the available information. With the right service, not only do you ensure your dog's exercise needs are met, but you also contribute to their overall wellbeing.