I'm interested in possibly being a part time dog walker. Can people take their 1 child along on a walk, or does this cause an insurance issue?

Rover Sitters are independent contractors. You would be walking your child with strange dogs at your own risk. Rover provides insurance that covers the pets in our care but there is nothing to cover you or your child. This does not mean you cannot do this, but know the risks and discuss it with potential clients.

I love children and my pup has never had an issue nipping but I don't take the risk. I don't let small children come up and pet him nor would I feel comfortable with a child that he didn't know going on a walk with him when I wasn't there.

The risk is that if he got surprised or something happened to where he nipped, he could get branded a biter and some states have a one or two strike system.

But that's just me. You may find clients whose dogs have tons of experience with children and would like a small person to accompany them on their walks. Just be aware of the risks.

All the best

This is definitely something to discuss with the pet owners at the meet & greet. Some will think it's great, especially if they have kids the dogs are used to, and some will prefer that you not do it. There are liability issues and possibilities that depend on the age and experience level of the child.

I personally would not want a walker to bring a child along when walking my dog. Something could happen where the dog gets spooked and either nips at the child or runs off, and the child is then left unsupervised. Or another dog could approach and endanger the child.

Yes, I also have my child that comes with me. I work for Rover so I can be home with him. No matter how old your child is, you are the primary caretaker and the person responsible for the pups.

EX: If your child wants to walk the dog, that is not allowed, you are in charge for insurance purposes