Expecting food to be included?
Have you ever had clients show up on the day of booking and not bring all their pets food?
I had a multi pet booking, for a week long stay, where the pet parent showed up with wet food, but told me they did not bring them dry, and expected me to provide it. They never discussed at the meet and greet that they wanted me to provide dry food - they just said they would be bringing their food. While I don't mind providing food, it should definitely be requested in advance, especially since they wanted me to feed multiple animals for a week. It would also require a rate increase, as I use a high quality food, and feeding multiple animals would be costly. I was just kind of surprised that would be their expectation.
I kindly told the client I don't normally provide food (not free of charge), and they thankfully had no problem with picking some up and dropping it by later the same day.
Has this ever happened with other sitters bookings? What are your thoughts?
Hi, At Meet and greet I usually discuss what is needed during their stay. The obvious their food, leash + harness, miscellaneous (bed, toys, crate and medication if needed) I ask them to bring whatever will make their pet the most comfortable. Make sure you’re staying this when you first meet!
I always remind people at the meet/greet to bring their food, bed, crate -- anything they need to feel comfy and at home. I've never been expected to provide food not to mention switching food to any other food risks diarrhea and/or vomiting without sufficient time to wean to the new food.
Thanks for your response - I ended up adding to my profile that food needs to be brought for pets, under the other needed supplies for people's pets, and I make sure to let mew client's know at meet and greets to bring food. I also explained it can upset their digestion. This has really helped.
Thanks for your response - I ended up adding to my profile that food needs to be brought for pets, under the other needed supplies for people's pets, and I make sure to let mew client's know at meet and greets to bring food. I also explained it can upset their digestion. This has really helped.