I have turned down many requests because it feels like I'm pulling teeth to get information. Is this normal? <<<
I completely agree. Most requests I receive have empty profiles. I usually decline them because I figure: if they don't have a passion about using Rover they probably won't review me. Other "drama" may occur (surprises, such as "Oh, I thought I could have you try this new food while I'm away...." -- which has happened to me, which risks stomach upset during an already stressful time). I think it says something. I've read other sitters say the same thing.
I hate being judgmental. But, Rover simply does not give us many tools to evaluate a dog owner. Sure, sure, you could meet the owner and do your own research. But, the same holds true for sitters. Rover could let us have empty profiles ("the dog owner can meet with you if they have questions.").
Compared to what sitters have to do, and the regular "how to be a better sitter" emails, the metrics. It seems like Rover could at least send reminder emails like, "Attract more sitters! Did you know sitters use your pet's profile when deciding to respond to a request? (blah, blah)." The profile is there for a reason. Presumably a productive reason. If it's regularly overlooked, that seems like a problem with Rover's presentation of the profile, educating the member, etc.
When someone sends a request to me, if I'm not available (or simply say I'm not because of the lack of info) I will also urge them to complete their profile, that it could help them attract a sitter.
Rover gives us a place in our profile to say "What I'd like to know about your dog." I used that to point people to their profiles. Now I have people answering the literal profile questions in a message to me -- while their profile remains untouched. (Shaking my head.). :)
It seems like a small thing. But, we have so little to go on. We can't see how many sitters they've had (if they hop?), the reviews they've left (if they're hard to please, or don't bother giving reviews). If we choose badly, Rover dings our metrics which they want us to hold in high regard.
So, it's definitely understandable that you're nervous about things such as this. I think it's Rover. If they just sent pleasant "did you know....?" emails like they do to us, it would probably be much less of an issue. (Or, if Rover had some metrics about the owner. The avg review, ratio of stays reviewed, etc. Avg num of sitters who would book them again.).
PS: I notice you haven't had a verified stay (review) yet. Don't let me embolden you to be too picky before you're established. (But, on the other hand, one bad or un-reviewed stay could sink ... (more)