Meeting a prospective dog owner - I'm a little concerned about having a stranger come to my home for a first meeting. His phone number is for a city 1,500 miles away. Best to meet him at a public place first? Other ideas?

Like Grace said, a non-local number is no cause for concern. If it's an 858 number, that's their anonymous Rover number, the number that is assigned to their Rover account for communication before the stay is booked and your real numbers are exchanged. Otherwise, it's very common for people to keep their cell phone number when they move, rather than have a new number assigned. My area code doesn't match the city/state I currently live in, because it's the same number I've had for the last 15 or so years. I wouldn't change it, regardless of where I move.

As for meeting strangers, it's always alright to request your introduction take place somewhere public, like a nearby park or coffee shop, or to bring someone with you. I always have my clients come to my house, but I first meet them out at the curb, and then we take a group walk with my dogs and theirs before going inside. This gives me a chance to chat with them in a more public area before inviting them inside. I've never had any problem meeting any potential client - generally people using a site like Rover are just normal dog owners looking for a sitter. You might also feel more comfortable if you did a phone interview with your client first. Once you've done it a few times it'll become more comfortable for you.

I agree with Grace. Feel free to ask them to complete their Rover profile, not only for your safety but also for the dog's. I always do meet and greets at a nearby park first and I always take a friend. Owner's shouldn't object to you wanting to see how their dog interacts with you and your dog before bringing them into your home. And meeting in a public place is usually easier on both dogs as neither feels territorial. If after meeting them in a public place, don't be afraid to be honest if you don't think it's a good fit. Part of being a good sitter is keeping a safe home.