what can I do to make the meet and greet professional?

Like Christine, I have a checklist of questions to ask, and I do bring it with me to the M&G on a clipboard. For boarding, I hold M&G in my home. I meet the client outside in the front yard, then we walk around to the back yard. I suggest they let the dog off leash to run around (they usually pee) and I chat with the client. I tell them a bit about my experience with Rover and emphasize the fact that the dog will be supervised outside at all times and that I am at home most of the time. I then take them inside through the kitchen and dining room, and we sit in the living room. I have closed off all rooms in my house. I observe the dog's behavior as I ask questions about his routine, feeding schedule and amounts, any meds, behavior quirks, etc. I confirm the dropoff and pickup time estimates. If they are new to Rover I give them my business card with my promo code. I ask if they have any questions of me or need me to know anything else about their dog. I tell them I would like to keep Fido and to text me with any questions. I give them my list of things to complete on Rover and things to bring on drop off day. Then I walk them to the door and we're done. I wear clean jeans or shots and a non-logo shirt and tennis shoes. I am in control of the interview at all times.

Hi Lacy,

I am rather new myself but here are some of the things I have been doing and have been successful with.

1. Make a list of all the general information you would like to know about a pet. Then, when you get a request, note what info is still missing after viewing their profile. I don't bring that list to the meet and greet but I do look over what I am missing prior to just to have it in my brain.

2. I also treat it like a job interview because, essentially, it is. I don't go business casual but I do look put together and dressed appropriately for interacting with animals.

3. I end the meet and greet by asking if there is anything else I need to know about taking care of their pet and if there is anything else they would like to know about me.

Overall I am friendly, open, and respectful. Hope that helps. :)

In addition to the great tips already mentioned: 1. As we introduce ourselves, we hand the client and anyone else they brought a business card whether they are new to Rover or not then we acknowledge their pet. 2. Toward the end of the M&G we ask if anyone else might be picking up and ask for the name of this person. Be sure to have this person supply you with their name when they come up to the door. Don't say "You must be Joe." 3. We have dog biscuits in their original package on the coffee table and as we show them the package ask if we can give one to Rex. And we ask if we can get water for their dog. 4. We have poop bags in our pocket and Clorox disinfecting wipes nearby so that if Princess has an accident during the M&G we make it vanish in seconds with a smile so as not to add to their embarrassment . (It will happen !) 5. We thank them for taking the time to come out and meet us.

Hope you have many wonderful Meet & Greets !

I totally agree with meeting the potential client outside. They are meeting a total stranger on your turf. Be welcoming and friendly. Introduce yourself and offer a hand shake.

I would add ...

If you are sitting other dogs at the time of the meet and greet put them in another room to keep the chaos at a minimum and avoid any immediate personality conflicts.

I now have a sheet that pull out of one of those expanding folders with dividers, that has boxes with reminders for I need to remember to ask for. Things like where do you keep the

dog approved towels? What is the code for the lock box/garage etc. Allergies Triggers (Squirrels, chipmunks, - skateboards) (I want to know ahead of time) Food, treats, special water? Clean up supplies (Vinegar and water, paper towels etc) Poop bags - and where do I put them for disposal? What is off limits (That room, upstairs etc.) Leash, Collar, Harness - and make sure they show you how it goes on.

I also have articles about common issues, crate training, labeling behavior, positive training, training logs, and things like making Kongsicles, and how to make chicken ice cubes.

I usually end up wearing my ANSI Class 2 or 3 reflective shirts/vest when I meet folks, and explain that safety is REALLY important to me, and I want to make sure that people and cars, bikes etc. See your dog and I. I have to say, that vest makes me feel SO much better and safer. - Plus a place to carry business cards, poop bags, extra phone charger, phone, and maybe a few wet wipe type things in case the poop just leaps out of the bag. :)