What are some safe treats appropriate for all or most dogs? In the Rover articles I’ve read, it mentions having treats available. What are some good ones to have on hand that most owners would be ok with me giving to their dog? I’m also assuming I should always ask the owner first.
I would suggest to discuss during the meet and greet what’s the dog eats, including treats, and what can and or cannot eat. There are a lot of dog treats and human foods that some dogs can digest without a problem and some dogs can’t.
Giving a dog anything it doesn’t usually eat: A mild result might be that the dog ends up with diarrhea. An extreme result might necessitate a vet visit.
Dog owners who regularly give their dogs treats and are aware of their sensitivities, will most likely provide those treats along with their food for the stay.
Thanks so much for the info! I feel like I should bring a notepad/pen during each Meet & Greet! There’s sooo much info to remember about each dog!
I’ll definitely do that. A paper record to reference is helpful. I ask the questions in a conversational flow, which might elicit more information than having owners fill out a form, and I can choose what to record, reword, and where.
Rather than give you brands of treats, the thing to do is discuss with the owner what their dog is allowed to have. Some owners will supply treats and tell you their dog is not allowed to have this, that or the other thing. Some sitters make it a practice never to give their guest dogs any of their own food/treats.
In my case, I have treats on hand because I have my own dog. Guest dogs get those if they're allowed. Some turn up their noses and walk away. I also give my dog human food as treats. He sometimes gets bits of cheese or cooked green beans or raw carrots. I have some dogs who will eat anything and others that sniff and walk away. But, when it comes to human food, I always ask the owner.
Pretty much all dog treats should be considered theoretically safe, otherwise they would not be on the market. So asking owners is the way to proceed. I wouldn't go out of my way to buy the most expensive organic treats. You aren't being paid enough to do so.
Thanks so much for the feedback. There’s sooo much info to know about each dog/cat that makes me think I should be taking notes on paper! Do sitters do that?
Yes, I have an intake sheet for all new dogs. I hand it out at the M&G and ask owners to fill out and bring back when they drop off their dogs. It asks all necessary questions, including about food, and their habits. There's also a place for my notes later on.
But doesn’t Rover require that type of info to be filled out by the owner in their account?
Rover asks for minimal information, As the service provider, I determine my own requirements.