If the customer is new, that might be the time they are looking for a sitter. If they have been on for a while, I suppose maybe they found and didn't like the sitter, had a sitter turn them down, or had a sitter cancel on them. I would rather take the new person. Also, do you know how you can go look for something online, let's say a music download. You find a cool site - can you browse? Often you can't because you have to "sign up for free" Sometimes you are orces to answer questions that is annoying because we don't even know if we will find something, much less fins something that is worth the irritation. What if, on the music site, you were directed to a music genome project with a bazillion questions. Do we work for this site? No! So if our prospective customers hasn't initially jumped through the hoops before deciding to book, I think that is understandable and not creepy. Plus, you could require something that lends them credibility, maybe vet record? Photo, shot record etc. If they are not inclined to complete their profile once they have booked - and they know you will be their sitter, those are maybe not great diligent dog owners, but it's just as likely that something was more pressing in their life at that time, so we shouldn't automatically suspect the negatives. I have been thinking about this too and what I have decided is that I will make a form with all the Rover profile info, highlight missing bits, and chat about the dog at the meet and greet. I don't like to type into my phone when I am chatting with a customer, but I don't mind a notebook used to "double check" that you have all the information you need for a happy stay. I would live to know what others think. It's an important point, how do the veterans deal with gaps in the basic or even sometimes important info. What if they just legitimately forgot? They will be impressed when you catch the errors.

No, never, unless you are a better veterinarian with credentials. People choose their own vet for reasons that are personal to them. Undermining that relationship is hurting the owner and the dog. Plus, your opinion is just that. Why insert yourself into the issue uninvited? I suppose there are imagineable exceptions, like if the dog owner "specifically and directly asks you". Share honest experience if you must but I think we should offer comfort and support, not advice and complications, you know? And what if you are wrong? Good chance that you don't have all necessary information or qualifications. I don't think sitter - parent is exactly like friend - friend. Neutral is best. You can always vent to us! Bless your hear the for caring so deeply. Lucky dogs.

My vet said regular over the counter human - use antacid. Baking soda works in a pinch. A vet would have to ok AND advise on dosage for individual dogs (by size mostly). And you probably should clear it with the owner. I don't think it's unreasonable to say, I would like to try x if you don't have a better solution. It's nobody's fault, but we all need to be comfortable in our homes. Otherwise it sort of diminishes the happy living home atmosphere we provide to our guests. Ugh, Dexter had a silent-but-deadly puppy toot! Thank God it passed, no pun intended!

You just have to grit your teeth and "kill 'em with kindness." Sometimes we have to do business with people that we don't like. That is why we charge $! But be kind to yourself - you only have to do jobs you want. Maybe figure out brief reply like, I am sorry I can't help this time, happy trails!

Dogs may dig because their ancestors did! Dogs were cave/ground dwellers and would dig holes for sleep, safety, and to hide food. If a dog is just scratching at the ground for a cool spot I I don't fuss, but when my dog decided to dig a tripping hazard by the kitchen door, I filled it in and put mulch over it. Then a sprinkled a few drops of essential eucalyptus oil (my dog doesn't like that scent) on the mulch. Inside, maybe "Bitter Apple" spray might work on carpet, although I let mine scratch carpet during storms to self-soothe. And usually if I offer a substitute interest the dog moves on. I tried to get Dexter to dig holes for tomato plants in my vegetable garden, but he played the whole, "No opposable thumbs card." Slacker! Good luck!

I am praying for you.

The Next door app has been good for me. There is a new "recommendations" section and I am looking for an opportunity to earn a rave review! And classifieds are available, all free, and you can search for terms, like "dogsitter" and reach out to people who have Pets. You can tag your interests a, e. g. Dogs, pets, etc. Even where your key word search pulls up out of date events, like the need is filled and the time passed. In that case, I sent private messages saying, "I just wanted you to have my information, link, coupon code, etc. as a backup if your regular sitter is unavailable. Or suggestion they get the app and schedule a M&G. A few ignored, a few thanks me, and one was indignant that I didn't have a better "neighbor rate" (I offered 20% and a tentative "pencil - in" save the date on my calendar. I tried!

Nextdoor website is easy to find, just Google Nextdoor, also an app on Google play, iTunes or via the website.

Tread lightly, I have heard there can be a little push-button if your post is too commercial looking, check the rules for posting first so you don't get flagged.

Yes! You have to be sure you have their attention. So, for instance maybe use your best deep command voice to say their name and then pretend you are off to do something dog-awesome! They are pack animals and would rather be with "the pack" and don't want to miss out on any cool dog activity!