do I give the sitter my keys?

As for meeting the Sitter, yes. Most Sitters will offer to have a Meet & Greet to make sure you are a good match, because not all situations are compatible.

As for keys, that depends. I have some clients that just give me the garage code. I have others who have security systems, so they give me a temporary key and a 'guest' security code that identifies me as I enter. For frequent travellers, I am sometimes given a key to keep. And, finally, there are those who leave a key under the mat for a one-time service (quick walk or drop-in).

As the pet parent, you need to find a Sitter you are most comfortable with and a key system that works for you.

All the best! :)

I now require owners to get one of those combination key holders for their key. The key stays with the owner, that way, I don’t have to remember to bring the darn thing, am less likely to miss-place it - switching cars and such. PLUS, they will no longer get locked out of their residence..since there is always a key there. There are so many different types, ones that hang on the door knob, screw to a wall etc. You can get them at Wal-Mart, Amazon, home improvement stores - so it isn’t tough. The owner can change the combination any time for security reasons - new contractors, all that stuff.

Ive also had clients give me the garage code and get in that way. When folks are not willing to get one of these before the visit, no dice. This is how I protect myself. Once I managed to accidentally bring the key with me instead of leaving it in the lock box thingy, and as soon as I discovered it, I texted the owner, let them know I would return the key to the box in the next couple of hours.

Keeping the key locked up - should their house get burglarized, when the police and the insurance company ask, “Who has keys to your residence?” They can explain that XYZ people have the code, and it is used by these people. When the Police ask me where was I on such and such a day, I can show them the Rover app, and explain any other time periods.

If potential clients are not willing to help protect their property - and me - I am not interested in having that person as a client.