Advice for being a successful sitter on Rover

Sitter Resources / Providing Great Service

5 Tips for a Great First Impression

By Faye Murphy |

You know exactly how to impress your canine guests—your pockets are full of treats, you approach with calm confidence, and of course you’ve found their favourite scratching spot. But have you thought about how to make a great impression with pet parents? Never fear! We’ve gathered some tips to help you make connections, from that first message to doggy drop off.

Online

Rover messaging is your first contact with pet parents. They’ve read your profile and felt like you were a good match for them, now it’s time for you to seal the deal! When communicating online, remember to:

  • Be professional. This is a professional transaction, so be sure to be polite when communicating with new owners.
  • Ask questions. As much as an owner wants to be sure that you’re a good fit for their dog, you want to be sure the dog is a good fit for you! 
  • Respond quickly. By responding as fast as you can, you’re more likely to impress them and nab that booking.
  • Be honest. If you’re unavailable or you don’t think the dog is a good match, be sure to tell the owner right away.

Meet and Greet

Your professional messages did the trick, and you and the owner have set up a meet and greet. Successful meet and greets are the next step in securing a booking. During your meeting:

  • Be on time. Punctuality shows that you’re responsible and can stick to a schedule.
  • Greet both the owner and the dog. Make sure you make an effort to get to know both the owner and the dog, after all you’re forming a relationship with both.
  • Bring treats. Shy dogs and friendly dogs alike respond to treats⁠—and also shows that you’re prepared.
  • Bring your business cards. Sending them home with your business card will help remind them to book and reiterate your professionalism. 

Drop Off

This is a nerve wracking time for a pet parent, and you want to be sure that both owner and dog are comfortable. Put everyone at ease by:

  • Taking a tour. If boarding the owner will want to know where their dog is staying. 
  • Providing details. Remind the owner of your schedule, what you and the dog will do together, as well as your contact information. 
  • Ask questions. Engage with the owner and ask them about their own schedule. Ensure that you have their contact information and emergency contacts as well. 

During the Stay

Pet parents often want to know what their dog is up to while they’re away. Update them frequently by:

  • Sending text updates. Communicating what you and the dog are up to will help soothe a worried owner. 
  • Send pictures and videos. Whether you’re out on an adventure or snoozing on the couch, pet parents will love to see what their pooch is doing.

Pick up and Afterward

The stay went well and your canine guest is heading home. But you want to be sure that the owner remember you for next time. To clinch a 5 star review and a repeat booking:

  • Be organised. Pack up the dog’s things and be sure that you send them home with all of their belongings. No one wants to make an extra trip.
  • Be creative. Send the dog home with a goodie bag with treats, a thank you note and one of your business cards.
  • Be thoughtful. Write the owner a quick follow up through Rover messages, letting them know that you enjoyed your visit with their pup and reminding them of your availability for next time. 

These simple tricks will help you make a lasting impression on pet parents, help you gain rave reviews and a build a network of pet owners. If you have any questions, or want some more tips on how to make your stays extra special, feel free to reach out.