How do you handle friends wanting to drop their pets off for a stay "but we are friends" without being charged or going through Rover?

Hi Sandi -

I've got a variety of friends that I sit for, and I've had them go through Rover, regardless of what I charge them. The insurance thing is great, and it also helps them out in the future if you're unable to watch their dog - you can help set them up with another sitter in the area. Also, it allows them to leave a review for you rather than a testimonial. For some friends, they insist on paying full price (I still discounted a bit - changing their puppy's rate to the rate of an adult dog). I generally offer a big discount (like, charging $5/night) to people who are willing to occasionally watch my dogs in return, or provide some other service. So if you have friends who are massage therapists, mechanics, or brewers, barter away! I'd even be happy to trade sitting for a friend taking me out to dinner. If, however, your friends aren't willing to trade services and are just expecting you to watch their pets for (nearly) free because it's what you do, I'd explain that because you're always working, watching their dog prevents you from hosting another dog at your full rate, and you count on that income, so while you're totally willing to give them the friends/family discount (whatever amount you feel is reasonable), you aren't able to go any lower.