Alerting an owner about a destructive dog?

I had a very destructive dog staying with me who also became aggressive toward my dog, other dogs and bit a person. I too will not get my security deposit back as a result of this dog. Rover did a really good job of helping me to get the dog to a new home because the owner knew ahead of time that the dog was destructive. It was a dangerous situation. Learned from my experience: contact the owner as soon as it happens, put it in writing on the Rover messages. Stick to the facts and try not to use emotions (Even though it is so upsetting when your stuff is destroyed). Nobody wants to think their dog is a bad dog but the truth is that dogs act differently in different situations outside of their homes. But, you need to protect yourself from a lawsuit. Most owners will apologize and offer to pay for the destruction because they feel bad. However, some will blame you and may write you a nasty review. CONTACT ROVER SUPPORT ASAP and tell them what is going on. They had my back when I needed it. I haven't decided yet what to do about my security deposit but I'll let you know what I am going to do. And let me know how you handle it as well. Good luck!

Dogs frequently behave differently when not at home. The destructiveness may be severe separation anxiety. I've read accounts where a dog might chew through drywall! Did you discuss with the owner prior to the actual stay (e.g., at the M&G) whether the dog had separation anxiety or had stayed at anyone's home before? Have you asked whether the dog can or should be crated? I never leave a new dog alone for any length of time on his/her first day unless the dog comes with a crate and is comfortable with it. I don't know the dog and wouldn't automatically trust it in a new environment. I would hope by this time you have contacted the owner to find out if their dog has any history of anxiety. I wouldn't call her a destructive dog but one who is not adjusting well. Find out what the owner has tried and what, if anything, works. Good luck!

I definitely think that it's a case our separation anxiety. The first dog I took care of from rover, pooped on our carpet. The owners told us that he likes to look for them while they're gone. So he dug under our gate and ran down the street twice and almost got hit looking for them! And as far as a dog destroying your house I would definitely charge them for the damage

Tell them straight out, people do not tell us everything about their dogs. After a very bad experience, where shoes,carpet, and three pillows were torn apart. I did charge them, and I making a paper they will have to sign if want to stay with me. So just be upfront,honest. That should be enough. God bless

My guess is that the owners already know. The dog has probably been similarly destructive in their home. Or maybe not, and the dog is stressed about being in a new environment. You might want to consider crating the dog when you can't supervise it. The caveat is that if a dog isn't used to being crated, it can "freak out" and injure itself.

Another contributer to destructiveness can be insufficient exercise. A tired dog is less likely to get into things or rip things up, so maybe have a long walk or play session before leaving it.