I usually keep a stack on me when I'm out and about -- but def when with my pups of the day. People love to stop and talk to me about my pack -- usually asking if they're all mine! It's never a bad idea to give them a way to reach you if they find they need some help! I've gotten a lot of business at the dog park -- so much that sometimes when I have a meet and greet (I've been known to do it at the park), other owners come up and join the conversation.

I like to leave them in the swanky pet boutiques and dog friendly bars if the owner is amicable.

I think it would be great for rover to offer some swag as a little bonus after a certain time / stays / income. They're getting 20% indefinitely, I don't feel the need to buy a branded item on top of that. If they sent me a hat (or tote, or maybe a set of bandanas for my pup clients?) after I made them a certain amount of money, that would be a really great way to say "thank you" and "here generate more money for both of us."

I've been inside a lot of other people's homes, and most have been pretty clean. There is occasionally a living situation I don't feel comfortable entering, and unless it's for cats I'll usually just offer to board the animal at my house for the same rate (I have a dog who doesn't like cats). There was one situation where I offered the client some of my time on a weekend when she was in town to help her clear out some of her house. She didn't take me up, but when I went back later the house was in much better shape. Sometimes we don't notice our environment.

This is why I insist on meet and greets before pretty much every booking -- you never really know what you're walking into. Some people describe their dogs as sweet, but when you're face to face with Kujo, the word "sweet" isn't at the top of your list. Luckily most people know their dogs' issues and are upfront -- whether it's lack of housebreaking, chewing / destructive behavior, lunging, etc. Most people are not as upfront about their houses.

Good luck with your situation!

I've had more than one client tip me with a treat for my pup, since he had to share the house! It's thoughtful and shows respect for the sitter's animals, but certainly isn't expected.

The best things you can do are: 1) leave a great review (it boosts them in the searches for new clients) 2) share their information if someone asks for a recommendation 3) ask them to care for your pets again.

Repeat business is the best flattery. :)

If you had a good stay and good communication, why shouldn't you ask? This is your business -- if you know someone enjoyed your work, ask for a recommendation! Plus the more reviews you have, the higher you appear in searches -- assuming you want to keep getting clients, I say yes.

I take a lot of photos but when my client is gone I don't like to bog them down with more than 2-3 photos a day. After the stay I send a follow up note with more of the photos, an offer for specialty pricing on their next booking, and a request for a review. Most people are happy to oblige!