hi -
this may seem like a silly question - but when you are taking in a dog for doggy care care is the expectation that you don't leave the dog alone at all the entire time?
thanks!
I try to stay home as much as possible, but if I needed to run to the store or do an errand that would take like an hour or less I would do it.
You need to make sure the dog either has a crate or is trustworthy to be inside alone before you decide to leave them though.
I agree with everything both Deb and Shadi have said. However, there's no real way of knowing what pet owners expect from daycare provided at a private home. That is why communication is key. They really should not expect the same level of supervision as a daycare/boarding facility, where there is staff in each play area. Emphasize that you might have to run out and the dog(s) may have to be crated briefly. State the duration. Let them know that their pup isn't being ignored for the better part of a day.
Also, since you are co-hosting with another caregiver, the pet parent might rightly expect someone to be home at all times.
Agree with previous answer and want to add that during the meet&greet, it's wise to discuss if the dog has stayed elsewhere before and how reacts (ever had a problem with separation anxiety? escape artist/door dodger?) The pet parents may not know. I'd recommend that if possible do not leave the pup (even for errands) at least the first day, as the pup adjusts to new environment. After that, utilize crate or indoor playpen/gate/fence as needed for the protection of the dog and your pets & home.
I always go over that with the client for both daycare and boarding. I really don't get many day care requests, it just isn't popular around here so when I do have a dog for a day, I can go to the store a different day. If I do already have somewhere to go (like a prescheduled walk) I tell the owner beforehand and say roughly how long I'll be gone and if my husband will be there or not. I've never had someone expect me to be home 100% of the day. Just be sure you can safely contain them while you are gone. You should be there most of the day though, that's why they want their dog to be at your house.