How can I tell if the owner/pet are real?

Yes it’s completely appropriate to ask any thing about the pet that is important to you, including any deal breakers. There are a number of things that I confirm, through rover messages (documented written trail), before I’ll agree to a meet&greet. During the meeting greet, which always starts outside, i ask more detailed questions about the pet.

If it’s not a valid request, their answers will probably be nonresponsive. You also may choose to call Rover and ask them if they can see the persons history and if it appears to be a valid client from what they can see.