Laura F.'s profile

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commented question How much do I charge for additional dogs and or cats?

Depending what is needed for the visit $30-40. Your rate is low at $12 so check distance, what they need for the visit and how long service is needed. For example, all my visits start at $20 then I usually add $5 per dog. That is only for a 30 min visit. Don't sell service too cheap.

commented question Aware of this scam?

I got this years ago, not exactly the same but close. The Rover app protects us all from this. Never do business off the Rover site!!!!!

commented question Can I get some advice on sensitive situation?

Yes, I would reach out to a long time regular client. I would offer a shoulder to cry on and ask if she has a support system. Not enough people care about anyone these days. I know from experience. Reach out, Everyone should reach out to a depressed person. Your are an angel to ask.

commented answer A booking is showing up on my Google calendar twice. Once with a [B] in front of it and once with a [U]. Why?

Me too but it does correct itself eventually...

commented question What happens if my dog bits a Rover employee while in their care?

Some stranger in her home could be a problem even after meeting. Do a few meet and greets and test dog with another meeting while your out of site ONLY if m&g goes smooth. Home boarding at sitters house might be a better option depending on why the dog might bite. Fear, Territory, Aggressive?

commented question What legal recourse do the neighbors of Rover.com dog boarders have when the ongoing boarding of 5 to 6 dogs at a time is causing a severe nuisance?

1. Check state law. Usually the legal number of dogs is ONLY 3 without a boarding licence. 2. Contact owner/or Rover and more forward with animal control if they don't correct. 3. File complaint with Rover sounds like neglect, they are breaking Rover rules (left alone in yard) 4.That is just wrong

commented answer Why does my customer have to confirm the booking request that they put in, after I accept it?

Thanks so much. Great to know. I always wondered and that is good reason to confirm.

commented question Why do my customers always ask for my address even after booking?

I get that too with meet and greet. With the meet and greet they are not scrolling down the page. I am not sure about bookings, I guess they have to open and check itinerary?

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commented answer Do you as a sitter ask if a client has cameras in their home?

I do not ask about cameras but I do ask about the security system. I always assume there is a camera or multiple cameras. One can't assume that asking about a camera means something negative.

answered a question How can I confront an owner about how she treats her dogs in front of me?

That is SICK.

If you can have a conversation, I would try to talk to her. Explain that hitting a dog is unacceptable. Recommend training for the owner instead of ruling by fear they need to learn proper training techniques. When something like that happens just say, "Please stop that now" and then try to address it in a calm yet assertive manner. If you can make people understand why it is wrong to hit a dog, it is one step in the right direction.

If you need to end the client relationship just be honest. I would report it too. Let me know if I can help you.

answered a question Have a minute to look over my profile?

Hi,

I think you should have a good name regardless that most clients think of us as Rover. One can still brand themselves/services outside of the Rover platform, by using that same name.

If you want to change, it should reflect you and your services. Jean's Pet Services: dog walks, pet sitting, drop in visits, custom service for your pet... (name with type of service) Jean's Pet Services (personal name) Rodger City Dog Walking (area of service) Never Walk Alone Dog Walking (Use a tagline as your name)

I am donating at this time but may change. I don't think it matters if you give on this site but everyone should give and remind others to do so as well. I find that telling people I give and encouraging people to give can make an impact with the animals that need us.

Photos are great but I have not mastered this category yet. We should only use the best photos. Your profile pic should be you walking a dog or dogs...I think it is ok to have one picture of spouse on profile but not main picture. I use my husband as safety device...he may drive me to a meet and greet for overnight stay. Always be safe and use the application.

Let me know if I can help you more.

commented question Cashiers Check?

I think this is the same email I got!!! I also told them I would never accept a cashier's check. Anyone that asks you to break the terms and conditions of Rover is trouble.

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commented answer Has anyone experienced scams from posting on CraigsList?

I have had a few scammers I reported. I have not had it happen in a long time. I would like Rover to do a sting operation and get these people arrested.

answered a question What do you do when customers cancel your meet and greet?

It has happened a few times. Sometimes people can be flakes. I do lose jobs to family or neighbors and other Rover sitters too. Don't worry about it. If they cancel, I request to reschedule. It is good to know why. If a friend will do it for free, that's great for them. Sometimes the cost, regardless of how low your rates are, is too much for many people.

commented question Not sure if I am overreacting or if this is creepy??...please help?

CANCEL and report to him to Rover. Honey don't break the rules ever for anyone. This guy is a jerk. Sad. Let me know if you need help. Block his number from contacting you. I was always worried about this being a little dangerous if one is not very very careful, Your safety comes 1st.

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commented answer How Safe is Rover for Sitters?

Meet and Greet helps. Get as much info as possible before the meet and greet. Many people are last minute with Rover and most of my clients were new to Rover so that can be normal. However, I am always very careful with all clients. I have flagged people for fishing scams. Use good judgment!

commented question Do you let guest dogs off leash?

No, don't do it. It is not ever worth the risk. I would get a ticket where I live. The dogs will have just as much fun on a good walk.

answered a question How many German Shepherds do I need, and breeding questions?

Please do not buy from a breeder. There are too many dogs abandon and killed in shelters. There is a German Shepherd rescue in Orange, CA and others all over the US. You can also use Pet Finder and choose from thousands of dogs perfect for what you need. There are puppies and young adult dogs waiting for a job like yours. Check shelters and rescues. Let me know if I can help you.

40 aces is a big area. It would also depend what they are guarding. Is it just the land or structures too? Two or three dogs is a good idea. It is not a good idea for you to breed any dogs and not necessary. There are wonderful dogs waiting for you. Please reach out if you need referrals.

Thanks so much, Laura

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commented answer Can I raise my rates but hold old rates for loyal clients?

I would email your current clients and let them know your rates have changed however you will honor the old rate for them. Then adjust the price and keep notes in the account so you know what to charge,

asked a question Cashiers Check?

This is from the client and some things I don't think are right. Cashiers Check, Requesting my DOB

There will be no problem working with us, Our dogs will be arriving on 31st so when will it be convenient for you to start?And also my husband financial Clerk will make out a check to you before our arrival.You will receive a Cashier's check which you will deduct your upfront payment for the first week and the remaining funds will be used to buy the Dog foods,toys,Soaps,lotions,trash bags,shampoo,balm,paper towel and other things needed for the Babies. I will also instruct my estate agent to mail the keys of the apartment to you so as to do all other necessary preparations before their arrive.You have to get all this shopping before they arrive so that you wont have to start running around when they arrive,So my husband financial Clerk would be needing the following Information to make out the check payment.

Full Name: Full address with zip-code & Apt Number: Age: Phone number: All I need from you is total honesty and sincerity. I know you will be committed to the work, You will also have a nice period of time working with i and my husband.

Faye C. 2 days ago

answered a question What would be the best way to introduce a new dog to my dog and make them get along in case they do not?

I keep my dog upstairs separate most of the time unless I know they will get along. Not all dogs will get along. Use the tips:

Introduced on neutral territory. Take a walk together. Supervise all interactions Separate with baby gates or king pin (This is great because the can see and smell each other before you decide to let them interact together. Sometimes I do this for days or always unless I feel the dogs are friends.) Feed separately. Provide beds and toys for each (Watch out as toys can cause issues if 2 dogs want the same toy. I will pick up toys if I need to leave the house). Manage all interaction or limit it with gates.

I have a chihuahua!! I the last few years, I have never left her alone with clients dogs or friends dogs, It is just not worth the risk. She always has her private space. This works best for me because I never want any dog to get upset or hurt while in my care. Just eliminating the risk is how I run my business. It is a little more work to plan and prepare but I never have to worry about it.

I hope this helps. Laura

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answered a question How can I get my dog to lose weight?

Was the dog checked by a vet before adoption? Always speak to a Vet about any special needs a dog may have first. Try this: No table food Ever. Start walking more and more everyday. Even if you are really busy 10 mins in the AM and PM is good. A good healthy (Quality) low cal dog food. Play time daily too.

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asked a question Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety

I have had a few dogs that did not want to be left alone. I keep them mainly in the kitchen and indoor patio (Dog Safe approved area) so they don't have complete run of the house. However, I do allow them in front room and bed room with me. The problem was scratching at the door an crying or barking when I am gone from their site. These are very short periods of time to shower or run an errand. One dog actually did some serious damage to several doors in my house. I am here 24/7 usually but I need to be able to leave for short periods of time. What can I do?

commented question How do I know I can trust these sitters and how do I know they will take care of my furbabies?

You did a meet and greet, right? I do my research. I understand how you feel. You should let your sitter know that you are nervous. Rover does a great job but you need to feel comfortable with your sitter.

commented answer How do I know I can trust these sitters and how do I know they will take care of my furbabies?

Great advise. I hope everyone does a meet and greet.

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commented answer How to prevent 'marking.'

I did that technique with my dog and it worked well. I also use it during potty training for dogs too.

commented answer My dog only pees indoors when I'm home.

Yes, he was ticked off and likely because there was a new dog (Rover) in his home. Can you take them out together? Try taking him out more with treats. Maybe he needs are refresher potty training for a few weeks. I know how hard it is with cats and dogs. I have had the same type issues.

commented question My dog only pees indoors when I'm home.

Is the second dog new to your family? Start taking him out more often or start potty training over again...If the dog was 100% potty trained then something is upsetting the dog. I have a small dog and I take her out often and she has potty pads when I am at work if needed.