As a dog walker, do I ask the client for two sets of keys ( in case one is lost.....not that I would lose the key, but this is what I have read). Or is one set enough? Is there a better way to manage keys? How do most dog walkers handle this? And how do you keep track of all the keys? Thank you for your feedback.
I only get one key,but it's always nice to know if they also leave a key with a neighbor or family member in case it's needed. I also keep my keys on colored keychains with the pets' names on them, never anything identifying the client. I keep them in a lockbox in my car so I don't forget one at home and I'm always prepared for a last minute booking. If the client requests the key back after the booking, I usually give them the keychain in hopes they use it again. If the client has a lockbox on site, it's best to leave the key there at all times. You never know who else they may have going in; i.e. friends, housekeeping svcs, maint persons, etc.
I do dog walking and pet sitting, so often times am handling keys from multiple clients. I honestly only get one key, put it on a ribbon with the name of the dog and then keep all the keys on a carabiner clip. I'm hoping to start getting key labels that attach directly onto the key, as sometimes the names on the ribbons can rub off. But there is no need to get more than one key. Asking for multiple implies that you are irresponsible enough to lose their keys, which could imply that you aren't responsible enough to care for their pets. If you have a history of losing keys, ask for a garage code instead and keep the code written down in your phone.
All of my keys are put on a color coded key ring, with paper inserts to write the client's & dog's name on , then hung up on a rack that is behind the door of the bedroom we use as an office. I found the key rack at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...auidetailpageo09s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hi Mary, Thank you for the detailed info and the link. Can you tell me if you ask your clients for two keys? Or just one? Thank you!
Believe it or not, I don't get that many keys! I mostly get entry codes (usually garage doors). I write the code down on the "client page" at the M&G, and enter the 4 digit code like the 4 digit add on to the zip code in my cell phone.
To answer your key question, NO, I just get ONE key!
I only ask how I get access to the client's house. If they offer a key or garage/security system remote, I tell them my procedure - all client's physical keys are kept in a lockbox in my home separate from any personal info, like addresses or names. I color code them. Only ask for one key,
Thanks for the great information!
Great suggestion about using the code as the zip code add on and the color-coded key ring . I also like the suggestion to ask if others have a key, just in case.
I only ever was given 1 set. I am responsible enough to not be careless with a clients home key. If you have multiple leys, get creative! Paint the key a certain color for certain dog, or mark their initials, name etc.
I am only ever given one key or one code. I have a system set up at home on a bulletin board in my office. All of my clients keys get a different keychain (better if the key comes with a keychain attached!) and I hang each one up with the pet's name above to keep them in order.
Each time I need a key, I can quickly grab the one(s) I need and once I get home I put them right back. Hope this helps!