How to Have a Great Time, Every Time
We’ve been there: The pet parent pulls out of the driveway, and you realize you forgot to ask that really important question. Whether you’ve been a sitter or dog walker for years or you’re just getting your paws wet, we want to share some tips that will help you have a great time, every time.
Before the Booking Begins
Get the “just-in-case” information. This includes:
- Regular vet info
- Emergency vet info (you can also do this handy Google map search)
- Emergency contact who can make decisions if you can’t reach the pet parent
Print out this information and put it on your fridge if the stay is in your home, or bring it over to the pet parent’s home if you’re staying there.
For stays in your home, dog-proof big time.
Pick up anything that can fit in a dog’s mouth (you’d be surprised) and place a second barrier, like a baby gate, around doorways (again, you’d be surprised how quickly and easily dogs can run out of the house and down the street without a barrier).
Make sure pet parents know who will be helping out with care.
If you have a partner, roommate, or someone else who will be helping out with care, ask the pet parent if that’s okay. Even better—make sure they’re at the Meet & Greet.
Confirm what kind of care you’ll provide.
We recommend asking pet parents to clarify the kind of care their pet needs. A drop-in three times a day to feed their dog and let them outside? Your actually staying in their home? Giving their pet a pill once a day (and any tricks to make that go well)? Avoid miscommunication just by clarifying the basic details.
During the Service
Show up (or be prepared) on time.
We know, this one’s a no-brainer. But it goes a long way in creating the professional impression you’re going for.
Send at least 1 photo and short update every day.
Pet parents miss their pets when they’re away, and your consideration will help you earn their loyalty—as well as their pet’s!
Know that separation anxiety is normal.
Just like humans, dogs can be anxious in new situations. Read more about how to prepare for separation anxiety. Bottom line: Your compassion and patience will pay off!
For stays, walks, or drop-ins, be a good houseguest.
This includes cleaning up before you leave and not inviting other people over unless you cleared it with the pet parent first.
Always supervise dogs when they’re outside.
Your Rover dog may find that one hole in the fence that your dog has ignored for years. Read about how to prevent escape-artist dogs.
If There’s an Emergency
We hope you never have experience an emergency with a Rover dog, but we’re here for you if you do. You can reach Rover Support at 888-453-7889. Stay confident and be prepared to manage the situation. We’ll help you through it!
Rover’s Here for You
One of the joys of caring for dogs is they’re full of surprises—like how many times they can poop in a day (answer: infinity). We’re here to help you prepare for anything that comes up, whether it’s learning about a dog’s funny (and sometimes gross) quirks or knowing who to call if your Rover dog ate a whole bag of treats. Bottom line: We’re here to help you prepare and navigate through anything that comes up, but you’re well on your way to having a great stay if you follow our tips.