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Hey All! How many of you do Rover full time, or part-time? I just started 2 weeks ago. Any tips?

I just started 2 weeks ago. Any tips?

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There is a Facebook group for sitters that may be helpful. You should start with keeping your rates on the lower end until you get some reviews. Make sure you get some testimonials. Provide pictures of your home if boarding. You can have members of the Facebook group critique your profile.

8 Answers

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I do this full-time as a way to pay the bills while in grad school.

Keep your phone charged all the time and make sure your notifications are on via the app. The app for walks and drop-ins can drain your battery.

Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions of pet owners about their dogs. Better too much information than not enough.

Don't take bookings you aren't comfortable with, even if you need the reviews.

Definitely get pee pads, dog diapers, and belly bands.

If you're boarding, you'll want a sturdy vacuum and a carpet cleaner. Even house trained pets often have accidents when they're in a new environment.

I like to scope out resale stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army for extra kennels, bowls, leashes, etc. This way, I have some extra stuff on hand if a client forgets something.

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I do this full-time, offering dog boarding and daycare. My tip: Always supervise dogs in your backyard -- no exceptions. Welcome !

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Make sure you clarify that the rate is for a 24 hour period. If I have a drop off before noon and a pickup after 5pm I charge an extra $20. No one has had a problem with that. Always get your drop off and pickup times up front. If they are not sure of pickup, you can edit and add fees when they know. Get familiar with editing a booking as you have to treat it as adding an extra day. they don't give a choice for a late pickup fee on the website. Also, don't be afraid to charge extra for puppies or large,high energy dogs that take more care. When you first start out, you want to take every booking request, but set yourself up for repeat clients that you want. For example, i prefer small to med dogs that don't require lots of walking/exercise. I have a large parklike yard and prefer to exercise them there. you will have accidents in the house. Be prepared[with cleaner,male bands,diapers. I have different ratings for my dogs. VIP means they don't mark in the house or chase my cat so they get full access . the others are restricted to my lower level which has a concrete floor .

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Invest in a carpet cleaner when you can, if you have carpet or a steam cleaner (even the little ones) if not. They are invaluable as are belly bands and washable diapers for dogs who tend to pee inside. Try not to let yourself get overwhelmed with dogs and take time for yourself!

If you can, make little cards to give to your clients and write something nice about the dog(s) and ask politely for a review when they have time. The more reviews, the better!

Welcome to dog sitting and to Rover! Its a good

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I work part time. I always do a meet and greet for every dog to make sure it's a good fit for both of us. I stay steady, but it took a good month for my business to take off. Don't get discouraged and like previous sitters indicated...ask a lot of questions and make sure the client knows your boundaries up front. It will make things go smoother.

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I do it full time. The services I offer is boarding and doggy daycare. I have quite a few repeat customers and needed a "semi-break" so I closed out about 2 spots and take only repeat customers for now. In Jan. 2018, I will open up to potential new customers and push more advertising. I do recommend searching sitters in your area that provide same type services and read their profiles. It will give you some ideas on perfecting your profile. Don't copy but if you see a phrase you like, make it your own. Also check out their rates and go "about average or a little below". If you have private customers, ask them to provide a testimonial. Also ask family, friends and anyone else that you have provided pet care. Also, do a lot of advertising. Search "Sitter to Sitter" for where and how to advertise. Welcome!

P.S. A lot of Great tips above!

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I did it part time, and now do it full time when I'm home but I travel a lot. It works well for either situation, thats whats so great about it!

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I am doing in part time and I love it. Rover has been a great!