Does anyone provide money to cover a dog's expenses while boarding?

Usually, it's expected that the pet parent will provide the food and treats the dog regularly eats to prevent digestive issues. Some pet parents of dogs I've watched have given me money up front or at the end of the stay to cover any necessary expenses. Usually, there aren't any unscheduled, unplanned expenses. In my experience, when I've offered to return it, I've been told to consider it as a cash tip (which is allowed and appreciated, but not expected). The fee really is for the care the sitter provides while they treat them like family in their home or yours.

I agree with Deb. Ideally everything the dog will need should be provided up front for the stay. However, occasionally things will happen. One of my regulars came for a long stay recently, and he went through all of the food his family brought when the stay was barely half over. At home, and especially when he's boarding, he usually skips meals regularly, but on this trip he decided to eat his full meal every time. I went out and got him another bag of food, and the owners reimbursed me when they returned.

If you want to provide some spending money for the stay up front, I think a lot of sitters would appreciate it. I send a lot of my boarders home with goody bags I've put together, full of treats or small toys, and I've bought treats and things for my guests during a stay before (I usually have tons at home, but when we go out to pet stores or dog-friendly restaurants, sometimes I'll get something special for all the dogs), and I've bought presents for most regular guest (and one of my favorite dogs) just because I wanted to. I'd do this more often if the owner provided me with some cash to spoil their dog.