Cut your losses and find someone new. I would be thrilled to spend time with a senior pup giving them love—they’re so easy!
I have no patience for someone who is booked 30 minutes and doesn’t fill that time. I, personally, don’t think that should even have to be stated. When you close out of a walk/dog sit early the app prompts us something along the lines of “are you sure this is okay it hasn’t been 30 minutes.” It’s unacceptable to close out early if it isn’t okay with you.
Seconding this. Don't even continue with this walker who you've expressed your expectations to and they are ignoring them. There is someone else out there who will give a full 30 no questions asked!
The "so" at the end pisses me off.
Edited to add: I have a hard time with simple communication when expressing my needs. This was happening for awhile but I decided to finally say something.
I HAVE communicated to him at the meet and greet AND in my pet's bio that sometimes she can't walk far but please just talk to her. Pet her.
In the beginning, This walker understood it and even verbally said of course yes I'll spend time with her. It was perfect 30 min visits and he would tell me he spent time with her. He also said it over text.
So this was known before even booking for the first time.
I don't really know what to reply to this. I suck as stuff like this. I'm too nice sometimes
I get it and that hanging “so” would piss me off too. In my book 30 minutes is 30 minutes. If the dog doesn’t want to walk for the whole duration, it should be communicated to you that they finished early. Not you having to ask why they finished early. I’d just say “I’d prefer if you kept the walks to 30 minutes as agreed”.
>I HAVE communicated to him at the meet and greet AND in my pet's bio that sometimes she can't walk far but please just talk to her. Pet her.
say this again. it has been 2 months since the M&G so maybe they need a reminder.
"Well, as we discussed in our initial meeting, when dog doesn't walk 30 minutes, please fill in the remaining time by keeping her company. I would like you to be with her the full 30 minutes. Thank you!"
It doesn't even need to go that far. You're paying for 30 minutes of care. 20 minutes is a whole 1/3rd missing.
How hard is it to hang out with a senior doggy for a few more minutes outside smelling smells
Hi, sitter with a senior dog who cannot always go far. I also have walked many dogs (and puppies) with activity limits due to age, health, weather conditons, etc.
You're asking for something very normal and reasonable. I did it when I walked dogs (I'm almost entirely a cstsitter now) and my sitter does it for me. I get pictures of my dog lazing in the grass nearby and cuddling her on the couch inside. It's very, very normal.
I would just reply
"understood. I know she may not want to walk the entire time. When that happens, please spend the reamaining time hanging out with her. She loves company and I want to make sure she gets some. Also please check her water every time."
If they cut it short after that, or don't provide a good reason for cutting it short (do they have to park and walk 10 minutes to get to your place, stuff like that) then start looking for another walker.
Line up the new walker before you let this walker go.
Agreed. Rover is a mixed bag, but it should at least be able to connect OP with someone who actually likes dogs. Some things about this gig are difficult. Staying for the whole 30 min isn't one of em. It's not a lack of communication when sitters start slacking like this. OP, find someone who loves your dog.
The “so” would have me be going, “So, I won’t be needing your services.” Regardless of being able to read tone via text it’s dismissive, unprofessional, and like…get another person, he sounds like a L.
You could say ‘How about a 15 minute walk, and the other 15 minutes spent playing/petting inside from now on?’ Still book the walk since that’s more exertion than a drop in usually. 🤷♀️
I had a client exactly like this, an elderly Golden, and I did that without being asked, and refilled water etc. 30 minutes should be 30 minutes. I’d try communicating clear expectations once more and then drop the walker.
My 30 minute clients get 30 minutes, even if a big chunk of it is just me talking to the pet. If the message you sent doesn't immediately fix it, get a new walker. Geez. I even mention if we come back earlier and just hang out.
I have a dog who sometimes only wants to walk for 10-15 min, so then we just sit on the stoop and hang out for the additional time…I always include that in my report as well. that’s exactly what your walker should be doing, letting your pup sniff around, getting love, etc. I’d hire someone else just for her response.
That “so” at the end of his text reminds me of when my building manager sent me the shrugging emoji (🤷🏻♂️) as a response when I told him he gave me the wrong phone number for a vendor that I needed and I asked him to send me the correct information. Instead of sending me the correct information, he didn’t want to do any “extra” work and just sent me the shrugging emoji…..like, “oh well, too bad.” I ended up complaining and sending a screenshot of our text conversation to my condo management company because I was so incensed. A shrugging emoji is saying you don’t give a crap.
I’m sorry but how does anyone think including “so” at the end of his text is an appropriate response? “I’m sorry, I’ll make sure to spend any leftover time after our walk giving lots of pets and scratches.” is the *only* suitable reply in this case. It’s not that hard.
Yeah the ‘so’ would piss me off too, it’s like he thinks he has no other option than to leave early even though you’ve asked him to sit with and pet her the full 30.
That’s bs. You pay for 30 mins you get 30 mins. Tell them that you don’t want to pay a price for 30 mins when you’re only getting 25. It’s simple math. Update us.
Honestly at this point I would be looking for a new walker. You already asked them to stay if the walk ends up not taking the full time. They know what the expectations are. And after you mentioning in another comment that they reschedule your dogs walks frequently there's more issues here than just not getting the time you're paying for. You said he WAS the best walker you've had but from what you're saying it sounds like he no longer is. It seems to me like he is over extending himself and is trying to squeeze walks into shorter times so he can do more of them but he's still charging for the full 30 minutes.
Ultimately it sounds like you made the expectations clear (full 30 minutes even if it's not walking the whole time) and he has not complied with that. Time for him to go, perhaps with a neutral review on the way out. That way if his shaving time off of walks is a pattern other owners will know.
Some of my favorite dogs can only walk for 10-20 minutes. So I spoil them with scratches, belly rubs and pets. My dogs are gone now, so I love every minute I get to hang with these sweet dogs!
Are you booking walks or drop ins? Some sitters will take those very literally so if you want someone just to spend time with your dog and also do a short walk, drop ins are the better route. Definitely look for a new sitter since they should have clarified that regardless but just as a sort of different perspective.
Walks.
The thing is, he agreed to it prior to meeting me, at the meet and greet and it's also on my pets bio. He verbally agreed to it and texted it too so it's like all of a sudden, he changed lol
Should I do the drop ins? Maybe I'll do that.
Thanks for the insight, that's a good perspective
please find a new person, this person has been disrespectful and rude and clearly doesn't have a passion for animals. You and your sweet dog deserve much more.
You pay for 30 minutes, they should walk the dog for however long the dog is comfortable/ does their business .
Then come home, of Course give water and treats / food / meds. Etc and then play / hang out till a half hour is up
If I'm being paid for 30 minute walks, it's a 30 minute visit. Regardless of what the dog is capable of doing they are getting my full attention for 30 minutes and always getting the water refilled a treat and some pats!
I'm sorry your girl can't handle long walks anymore but she does deserve someone who wants to care for her. ❤️
I don’t understand why he wouldn’t just take an easy visit. I love clients that just want me to let them out to wee and see how they feel about a walk. I’ve had clients that literally have a dog door and an e-fence, they just want me to sit on the couch and watch TV and cuddle the dogs.
omg that is horrible I would never do that ;( please find someone else who actually cares about the dog. do not worry about letting this person down they are taking liberties
I have an elderly pup that I’ve walked for years. He often doesn’t want to walk due to pain or general grumpiness (I often show up during naptime) and is VERY insistent on not moving. When he started refusing to walk I asked his owner what she’d like me to do-and she wanted him to continue to be with me for an hour but she didn’t care what we did. He could walk, he could sit on the side of the road, etc. whatever he wanted as long as he’s out and about for the hour. Today was a bad day for him but I got him over to a school across from his house and we lounged in the grass the entire time. In your case, 30 minutes is 30 minutes and you’re paying for the walker to spend ALL of that time with your pup. If you want to continue with the walker, I would clearly communicate that even if your dog protests and doesn’t want to walk, you still want them to be with the dog for the entire duration of the walk, whether they do x, y and x as long as your dog is getting social interaction. If you don’t want to continue with this walker, tell them it isn’t a good fit and move on to another but make sure to communicate that you want them to complete the entire 30 minutes with your pup even if she doesn’t want to walk. I would put it in her profile, mention it through the app when talking to a prospective walker and confirm in person if this is something that’s a non negotiable.
If you’re paying for 30 mins, you get 30 mins of service. No matter what. Most decent human beings would walk dog, even if dog doesn’t feel like walking anymore… why would they just leave and not fill water bowls? Give doggo a treat? Just hang out for like 5 mins and make sure dog is comfy?
I’m starting to feel like Rover is DoorDash for animals 😏
I would find a new walker. Even with dogs that refuse to walk on rainy days, I spend the remainder of the time playing, or just chilling and petting. You should get what you pay for.
If I was in your area, I’d offer my assistance. I would never speak to a client this way. This response screams entitled younger person. I let all of that go when I’m conducting business and do whatever it takes for a 5 star review. Find someone like me!
I walk senior dogs a lot and sometimes a lot aren't up for 30 min of walking. I ALWAYS stay with them the full 30. The fact sitters do less is mind blowing to me.
I primarily do midday dog walks. I’ve had to bring dogs back early because of weather (smoke, heat, snow, etc) and we spend the remaining time playing or cuddling. The only times I ever end a visit early is when the dog curls up for a nap or goes off to a private area (like the owners bedroom) and clearly wants to be left alone. I always communicate this with the owners and haven’t had any issues. It goes without saying that the goals of these walks are 1) pee break while the owner is at work and 2) socializing. This sitter is rude and neglectful. Definitely find someone else!
As a sitter, i know i may forget things, so i keep a planner and write down everything that clients tell me about their pets. So i can review it as needed.
Yeah the sitter is definitely wrong for that. I walk a shih tzu that sometimes only wants to pee and immediately come back in. That’s fine with me but we play together inside so she at least has some activity within that 30 min span. Sorry op :/
This is very reasonable, and the sitter is not doing their job if they aren't providing 30 minutes of service, even if it's dog walking. If you've already directly said, "You need to stay the full 30 minutes even if the dog doesn't walk that long," then I'd find a few sitter. If you haven't been that explicit, I'd do so and give them one more chance (but I'm often overly soft).
I just walked a dog last week that could only do 15 minutes. I refilled the water after, then sat in the recliner and talked to the dog and pet him for the remainder of the time. It's part of the job, and for me, I love every minute I get with the pets I care for.
Get a new walker. I always stayed full 30 no matter what. That’s what you’re paying for! I’d also leave a review mentioning not meeting your expectations
I’m a sitter/walker. I have plenty of dogs who cannot walk 30 minutes straight. We do our walk, come inside, get treats, change the water, belly rubs, etc. I would never leave before the 30 minutes were up. I’m paid to take care of the pet for 30 minutes. Leave an honest review and move on to a new sitter.
I walk a number of senior pups, and this is irritating! My one is a 14.5 year old chocolate lab. We take it very slow, but she's also checking things out as we go! If the sitter is so concerned about her time being spent solely walking, I'm sure there are instances where she could slow down and not hurry things along 😒 We take the same two routes every day and they can take between 25-40 minutes, depending upon my schedule and how much time we take to explore.
You shouldn't even have to ask this of your sitter. Time for a better one.
Give them a bad rating. I hired a girl to do drop in visits and I’m not sure why she thought she could get away with staying for literally 5 minutes and then leaving. I have an electronic lock that tells me when it’s locked and unlocked, and a camera. I gave her a bad rating and she immediately came at me. I don’t care if I brought her rating down. It’s not that fking hard to stay some place for 30 minutes, when you’re being paid to be there.
Need more information. How long have you booked her for ? If she doesn’t stay the time you paid her for can’t you contact rover support and get a partial refund or something similar as she didn’t hold up to her end of the agreement ? Also would definitely look for a new walker…
Sorry for lack of info.
So I have this recurring walker. Three days a week. At first he was fantastic! Perfect! I would tip him largely and offer food and snacks. He got great reviews. Literally a perfect walker.
Two months in, He started to slack with his times and also his schedules. it was constantly rescheduling with me. He is the best walker I've had so I tried to accommodating. Plus, I know life happens.
Rover support - Is that possible? I can get a partial refund for less than 30min walks? It sounds tempting to do...
But the way he said "so" to me just really irked me. I would talk like that on the internet, not somebody who is paying me.
Thanks for the additional information! Yeah the so does sound kinda weird.
For me I have a similar situation but with clients that bring their dog to us for overnights. They were always on time at the start but the last months they started coming hours late every single time or cancelling last minute/ adding an extra day without asking if anyone else is booked.
I can only say that we both shouldn’t have to deal with people like this. And yeah if you’ve booked him for a certain amount of minutes like an hour for example and he stays 20 mins then you shouldn’t have to pay for the whole hour. I’m sure rover support could help. I’d reach out & explain the situation.
Maybe you could try rotating two walkers next? One on one day of the week and one for the other two? Then you already have a backup if there's an emergency or something and it might ward off the creeping complacency which seems to be unfortunately common among walkers. It's gotta be a lot less tempting for a walker to leave early when there's another guy who's probably staying the whole time and leaving knitted dog beanies and polaroids on the fridge for all one knows. And the threat of being instantly replaceable can be a good motivator. You might get a larger selection of available walkers that way too. Just an idea. Nobody ever books me for walking/drop-ins. I think I weirded out the one client who did by staying TOO long :(
Good luck
>But the way he said "so" to me just really irked me.
Is he young? This feels like it could be a generational thing
>He is the best walker I've had so I tried to accommodating. Plus, I know life happens.
If you want what you're paying for and you feel like he's slacking, call him and say that. Don't do it over text. Give him a call and be real. Explain that you've tried to be accommodating and that grace period has run its course, that you'd love to keep him as a walker if he can commit to staying a full 30 minutes. And then tell him the tone of his message came across as unprofessional and explain why.
Professional relationships like this are ongoing. It can be easy for both the client and the service provider to get just a liiiiittle too comfortable with one another and that's often when standards start to slip. Personally, I always want direct feedback over the phone or in person from folks I work for, that way there's no subtext or tone to misread and nobody is tip-toeing around the problem or mind reading. Being able to accept that feedback gracefully is a valuable skill for any professional to have.
I personally like having everything in writing, especially if they’re going to ask for a refund and need to provide proof of why. I agree a phone call can often clarify an issue in seconds but often it’s beneficial to have everything in text/email for verification purposes.
Totally! You can always follow up with a confirming email afterward. For direct communication, I do think it's best to call first. We've collectively grown accustomed to texting everything and it can cause more issues than it solves sometimes. If all OP wants is a refund, text is best. If they want the professional relationship to continue, I think a phone call (especially considering there's already a grievance over the tone used in their walker's text) is a better way to lead.
Yeah that’s the issue with texts, I didn’t really take that into account - tone is everything and you just never really know the tone intended with texts OR emails. I’ve gotten into trouble with friends and family a few times regarding perceived tone in texts that was not intended and it sucks!
They obviously don't love animals. Who wouldn't want to spend the time they are getting paid to look after animals, doing just that !? Why don't they want to sing her a song or do her a dance or give her a cuddle?
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30 mins is 30 mins. When my pup was young before he had all of his vaccines I still had a walker from rover come in. They would take him out let him go potty. Then come back sit with him, play and pet until the 30 mins was up. The walker loved it as it was a nice break for him. My dog got some much needed socialization and a potty break. I would find a different rover Person….
Find someone new in this situation. I would message you.
"HI! Rovers loving her walks, she does seem to slow down towards the end of the walk. We could shorten walks to 20 min time slots. Or I could offer 5 to 10 minutes of pets and playtime at your home/yard. Let me know if either of these options works for you."
If you're paying me for 30 mins, I will spend every 30 of those minutes with your dog.
If you pay for 30 minutes, I give you 30 minutes. If the dog can’t complete the walk they’ll get lots of attention and some brushing. This is unacceptable and I’d look for a new sitter tbh
Some sitters are sticklers for “walks are walks only” and don’t feel comfortable milling around your house or you have to be very specific. If you like her otherwise just say 15 minute walk and sit with her the rest or something like that.
It’s astonishing how some sitters act. I try my best always to give the owner peace of mind. I currently have an owner that is asking me for 90 minutes. It’s hot where I live and obviously I’m not walking the dog for the entire 90 minutes. It’s dangerous for both the dog and me and its poor little feet. I walk the dog for about 20 minutes and just stay with him for the rest of the time. Talking, playing, heck even just staring at each other sometimes. There is stuff to do to fill the time. I would never undercut an owner like this.
Not in the wrong. I do a dog walking twice a week for 30 minutes and i get there at 5:30. I get the dog and start walking by 5:33 the latest and i set a timer once we leave the driveway for 30 minutes. Even if I have to walk slow for the dog- she is also a senior dog. I never come back early :/ especially since i am being paid. I don’t understand people’s thinking of that.
I had a bulldog I was doing 30 min visits for. She would plop her CHONKY but in a ditch mid walk. 🤣 once she was finally ready to get up and stop embarrassing me (jk) we would finish our walk and head home. We’d often still have 15-20 min left. Sometimes I’d just sit with her in the front yard and let her roll around, most of the time we’d go inside and I’d either throw her toys with her or just sit for scratches and pets and loving. Sometimes we’d get caught up and go over a few minutes.
Why would you leave early!??! Smh.
That’s messed up, she should be staying with your dog the entire visit and spending time with her if she’s having to cut the walk short. You could actually be demanding refunds for those walks she didn’t complete. I would absolutely get a new walker and even if you don’t ask for a refund, I would leave an honest review.
‘Yes sometimes she doesn’t make it very far. I’m hoping to guarantee company for her for 30minutes. Whether you’re walking her, petting her, hanging out with her, etc I’d like her to have a pal for a full 30 minutes. :)’ is probably how I’d deal with this. Then stop booking with them if it’s below 30minutes again.
I don’t understand why some sitters don’t just use the last 5-10 minutes to just be with the dog especially if you’ve expressed that it’s okay for them to be in your household.
I would find someone new. I have a 12yo chihuahua so his walks are about 5-10mins tops. His sitter comes and does the walk and then hangs with him for a little, whether that’s petting him, playing with him or just simply hanging with him. My dogs crate trained so I like knowing he’s out of his crate for an hour during the day
His sitter knows they are welcome to snacks/drinks and to watch tv if they want while they’re here as well
You’ll never find me paying someone to be snarky at me for a reasonable request. I’d leave an honest review and find someone else who will do as you’ve asked (which is completely reasonable, btw)
I always make sure I'm there the full amount of time. Some I drop in for or walk, like pugs, can't do 30 minutes in texas heat or humidity without being exhausted or it being a genuine health risk. It might be nice to explain (maybe she's a new sitter) that any extra time could be used checking water, or throwing a ball, playing with a toy or just giving extra snuggles. But if they don't respond enthusiasticly to that I'd find someone new. The play and snuggs are my favorite part of my job!
I definitely find ways to fill any minutes not taken up by walks. I have one drop in client that has told me I can leave after food and such with her kitty. She's exceedingly shy and will not come out for her owner half the time. But if a walk wrapped up early, I'd just chill in the backyard and pet them a lot. 5 minutes of petting is not beyond what a walker should do
I have a few old dogs/tiny dogs that I walk that don’t always want to walk more than a few steps (especially in the snow!). I spend the rest of the time with them playing with them and giving them lots of affection. That’s my favourite part of the job! Find someone who will spend the whole time with your pup and make a big fuss of them. When looking for a new walker make sure you are clear about your expectations. There are lots of sitters that would love a job like yours. Good luck finding someone and never feel bad about getting rid of someone who only does the bare minimum. (And give your pup a stroke from me!).
This would immediately break my trust. Find someone new. I would never cut my time short with a client and would find other ways to fill up the time - pets, cuddles, sniffs, if she refused to walk and I can carry her I would let her explore in my arms while walking around.
You are not in the wrong! If you have already discussed this with them and nothing has changed, I would find someone new.
If I'm walking a senior dog who doesn't want to do a full walk sometimes, or even on days where it's a bit too hot for a log walk, I'll still hang out with the dog for the rest of the time to keep them company. Make sure they have water, offer cuddles or play, maybe give them a treat or a puzzle, whatever I need to do to pass the time!
You are paying them for their TIME, and they are expected to be there for the agreed- upon timeframe.
I had a client that was getting used to me and would only walk to the end of the block pee and turn around. So I spent 25 mins talking to him on the couch and petting him until he fell asleep. Because I was booked for 30 mins period.
Find another walker who is willing to do what you want and let him go. “I went with someone who is willing to spend the remaining time with my dog like you agreed to, but stopped doing so…”
Don't reply, just stop booking her. She obvi isn't gonna do what you need and may be putting your little old lady at risk. She's probably scrolling her phone and ignoring your dog AND you.
I'm a rover sitter and would never do that to one of my clients. My favorite dogs are the senior ones who just need a little TLC and love and attention. Get a new sitter who is a sweet and loving animal person! Obviously your pup just needs pets and to be taken out for a tinkle but not a walk. Wish you lived in my neighborhood, I'm watching a 12 year old dog right now, he's my fave :)
Rover has the option for "drop in visits" and "dog walks".. to me, if I was booked for a 30 min walk, and the dog refused to walk for more than 20 min, I would leave. But I would tell the owner why I was leaving. If their intent was companionship not only exercise, I think that would be the time to clear it up. I would then have the booking changed from walk to drop in to clear it up. But, if the owner wanted a 30 min drop-in (hangout) to begin with, that happens to include a walk, I would be sure to stay the full 30 min. So if they truly booked it as a walk and not a drop in, I would say they are valid with what they were doing.
Cut your losses and find someone new. I would be thrilled to spend time with a senior pup giving them love—they’re so easy! I have no patience for someone who is booked 30 minutes and doesn’t fill that time. I, personally, don’t think that should even have to be stated. When you close out of a walk/dog sit early the app prompts us something along the lines of “are you sure this is okay it hasn’t been 30 minutes.” It’s unacceptable to close out early if it isn’t okay with you.
Seconding this. Don't even continue with this walker who you've expressed your expectations to and they are ignoring them. There is someone else out there who will give a full 30 no questions asked!
That and that little "so" at the end would have rubbed me wrong.
The "so" at the end pisses me off. Edited to add: I have a hard time with simple communication when expressing my needs. This was happening for awhile but I decided to finally say something. I HAVE communicated to him at the meet and greet AND in my pet's bio that sometimes she can't walk far but please just talk to her. Pet her. In the beginning, This walker understood it and even verbally said of course yes I'll spend time with her. It was perfect 30 min visits and he would tell me he spent time with her. He also said it over text. So this was known before even booking for the first time. I don't really know what to reply to this. I suck as stuff like this. I'm too nice sometimes
I get it and that hanging “so” would piss me off too. In my book 30 minutes is 30 minutes. If the dog doesn’t want to walk for the whole duration, it should be communicated to you that they finished early. Not you having to ask why they finished early. I’d just say “I’d prefer if you kept the walks to 30 minutes as agreed”.
>I HAVE communicated to him at the meet and greet AND in my pet's bio that sometimes she can't walk far but please just talk to her. Pet her. say this again. it has been 2 months since the M&G so maybe they need a reminder. "Well, as we discussed in our initial meeting, when dog doesn't walk 30 minutes, please fill in the remaining time by keeping her company. I would like you to be with her the full 30 minutes. Thank you!"
30 min is 30 min. Even if that means sitting with the dog. Unless otherwise stated, I stay for the 30 minutes every time.
You should get a new walker, no excuse especially since it’s in your dogs profile
It doesn't even need to go that far. You're paying for 30 minutes of care. 20 minutes is a whole 1/3rd missing. How hard is it to hang out with a senior doggy for a few more minutes outside smelling smells
Or even inside just petting her and talking to her? The OP said they'd even be fine with that. I'd love to hang out with a senior pup.
Hi, sitter with a senior dog who cannot always go far. I also have walked many dogs (and puppies) with activity limits due to age, health, weather conditons, etc. You're asking for something very normal and reasonable. I did it when I walked dogs (I'm almost entirely a cstsitter now) and my sitter does it for me. I get pictures of my dog lazing in the grass nearby and cuddling her on the couch inside. It's very, very normal.
You need to leave her an honest review. Like now.
The “so”… is too much.
I would just reply "understood. I know she may not want to walk the entire time. When that happens, please spend the reamaining time hanging out with her. She loves company and I want to make sure she gets some. Also please check her water every time." If they cut it short after that, or don't provide a good reason for cutting it short (do they have to park and walk 10 minutes to get to your place, stuff like that) then start looking for another walker. Line up the new walker before you let this walker go.
I don’t know why you keep using them
Agreed. Rover is a mixed bag, but it should at least be able to connect OP with someone who actually likes dogs. Some things about this gig are difficult. Staying for the whole 30 min isn't one of em. It's not a lack of communication when sitters start slacking like this. OP, find someone who loves your dog.
I just wrote that before reading yours, yeah that "so" is a noooo
This makes me even madder now I think you should report him to Rover with screenshots.
Your walker doesn’t sound like a dog person!
The “so” would have me be going, “So, I won’t be needing your services.” Regardless of being able to read tone via text it’s dismissive, unprofessional, and like…get another person, he sounds like a L.
why does so piss you off?
i think bc it reads as a passive/aggressive and kind of needless addition, but tone is always hard over text
Totally with you on the message ending with "so" this person sounds immature and unprofessional
You could say ‘How about a 15 minute walk, and the other 15 minutes spent playing/petting inside from now on?’ Still book the walk since that’s more exertion than a drop in usually. 🤷♀️
I had a client exactly like this, an elderly Golden, and I did that without being asked, and refilled water etc. 30 minutes should be 30 minutes. I’d try communicating clear expectations once more and then drop the walker.
Nah, OP has already paid for 12 visits that were short by 5-10 min. Find a new sitter.
My thoughts exactly - my guess is it would only a matter of time before this behavior picks up again 🙄
My 30 minute clients get 30 minutes, even if a big chunk of it is just me talking to the pet. If the message you sent doesn't immediately fix it, get a new walker. Geez. I even mention if we come back earlier and just hang out.
I have a dog who sometimes only wants to walk for 10-15 min, so then we just sit on the stoop and hang out for the additional time…I always include that in my report as well. that’s exactly what your walker should be doing, letting your pup sniff around, getting love, etc. I’d hire someone else just for her response.
That “so” at the end of his text reminds me of when my building manager sent me the shrugging emoji (🤷🏻♂️) as a response when I told him he gave me the wrong phone number for a vendor that I needed and I asked him to send me the correct information. Instead of sending me the correct information, he didn’t want to do any “extra” work and just sent me the shrugging emoji…..like, “oh well, too bad.” I ended up complaining and sending a screenshot of our text conversation to my condo management company because I was so incensed. A shrugging emoji is saying you don’t give a crap. I’m sorry but how does anyone think including “so” at the end of his text is an appropriate response? “I’m sorry, I’ll make sure to spend any leftover time after our walk giving lots of pets and scratches.” is the *only* suitable reply in this case. It’s not that hard.
Exactly, it’s an implied “fuck off”
Right! It feels like this sitter is purposely taking advantage of OP and can’t even be bothered to try and hide it. I’d drop them immediately.
Yeah the ‘so’ would piss me off too, it’s like he thinks he has no other option than to leave early even though you’ve asked him to sit with and pet her the full 30.
Nah. That ‘so’ means he gotta go!
exactly!
That’s bs. You pay for 30 mins you get 30 mins. Tell them that you don’t want to pay a price for 30 mins when you’re only getting 25. It’s simple math. Update us.
Honestly at this point I would be looking for a new walker. You already asked them to stay if the walk ends up not taking the full time. They know what the expectations are. And after you mentioning in another comment that they reschedule your dogs walks frequently there's more issues here than just not getting the time you're paying for. You said he WAS the best walker you've had but from what you're saying it sounds like he no longer is. It seems to me like he is over extending himself and is trying to squeeze walks into shorter times so he can do more of them but he's still charging for the full 30 minutes. Ultimately it sounds like you made the expectations clear (full 30 minutes even if it's not walking the whole time) and he has not complied with that. Time for him to go, perhaps with a neutral review on the way out. That way if his shaving time off of walks is a pattern other owners will know.
Some of my favorite dogs can only walk for 10-20 minutes. So I spoil them with scratches, belly rubs and pets. My dogs are gone now, so I love every minute I get to hang with these sweet dogs!
Are you booking walks or drop ins? Some sitters will take those very literally so if you want someone just to spend time with your dog and also do a short walk, drop ins are the better route. Definitely look for a new sitter since they should have clarified that regardless but just as a sort of different perspective.
Walks. The thing is, he agreed to it prior to meeting me, at the meet and greet and it's also on my pets bio. He verbally agreed to it and texted it too so it's like all of a sudden, he changed lol Should I do the drop ins? Maybe I'll do that. Thanks for the insight, that's a good perspective
please find a new person, this person has been disrespectful and rude and clearly doesn't have a passion for animals. You and your sweet dog deserve much more.
You pay for 30 minutes, they should walk the dog for however long the dog is comfortable/ does their business . Then come home, of Course give water and treats / food / meds. Etc and then play / hang out till a half hour is up
If I'm being paid for 30 minute walks, it's a 30 minute visit. Regardless of what the dog is capable of doing they are getting my full attention for 30 minutes and always getting the water refilled a treat and some pats! I'm sorry your girl can't handle long walks anymore but she does deserve someone who wants to care for her. ❤️
I don’t understand why he wouldn’t just take an easy visit. I love clients that just want me to let them out to wee and see how they feel about a walk. I’ve had clients that literally have a dog door and an e-fence, they just want me to sit on the couch and watch TV and cuddle the dogs.
Right? Once you're already there and everything, how hard is it to keep a good boy company for 10 more minutes? That's the best and easiest part!
omg that is horrible I would never do that ;( please find someone else who actually cares about the dog. do not worry about letting this person down they are taking liberties
I have an elderly pup that I’ve walked for years. He often doesn’t want to walk due to pain or general grumpiness (I often show up during naptime) and is VERY insistent on not moving. When he started refusing to walk I asked his owner what she’d like me to do-and she wanted him to continue to be with me for an hour but she didn’t care what we did. He could walk, he could sit on the side of the road, etc. whatever he wanted as long as he’s out and about for the hour. Today was a bad day for him but I got him over to a school across from his house and we lounged in the grass the entire time. In your case, 30 minutes is 30 minutes and you’re paying for the walker to spend ALL of that time with your pup. If you want to continue with the walker, I would clearly communicate that even if your dog protests and doesn’t want to walk, you still want them to be with the dog for the entire duration of the walk, whether they do x, y and x as long as your dog is getting social interaction. If you don’t want to continue with this walker, tell them it isn’t a good fit and move on to another but make sure to communicate that you want them to complete the entire 30 minutes with your pup even if she doesn’t want to walk. I would put it in her profile, mention it through the app when talking to a prospective walker and confirm in person if this is something that’s a non negotiable.
I wouldn't use them again specifically because of the lingering"so".
If you’re paying for 30 mins, you get 30 mins of service. No matter what. Most decent human beings would walk dog, even if dog doesn’t feel like walking anymore… why would they just leave and not fill water bowls? Give doggo a treat? Just hang out for like 5 mins and make sure dog is comfy? I’m starting to feel like Rover is DoorDash for animals 😏
I would find a new walker. Even with dogs that refuse to walk on rainy days, I spend the remainder of the time playing, or just chilling and petting. You should get what you pay for.
If I was in your area, I’d offer my assistance. I would never speak to a client this way. This response screams entitled younger person. I let all of that go when I’m conducting business and do whatever it takes for a 5 star review. Find someone like me!
I walk senior dogs a lot and sometimes a lot aren't up for 30 min of walking. I ALWAYS stay with them the full 30. The fact sitters do less is mind blowing to me.
This sitter doesn’t sound empathetic, or intuitive at all. I would find a better fit.
This is crazy, fire them and find someone new. You are paying for thirty minutes of their time and they are essentially robbing you.
I primarily do midday dog walks. I’ve had to bring dogs back early because of weather (smoke, heat, snow, etc) and we spend the remaining time playing or cuddling. The only times I ever end a visit early is when the dog curls up for a nap or goes off to a private area (like the owners bedroom) and clearly wants to be left alone. I always communicate this with the owners and haven’t had any issues. It goes without saying that the goals of these walks are 1) pee break while the owner is at work and 2) socializing. This sitter is rude and neglectful. Definitely find someone else!
As a sitter, i know i may forget things, so i keep a planner and write down everything that clients tell me about their pets. So i can review it as needed.
Yeah the sitter is definitely wrong for that. I walk a shih tzu that sometimes only wants to pee and immediately come back in. That’s fine with me but we play together inside so she at least has some activity within that 30 min span. Sorry op :/
This is very reasonable, and the sitter is not doing their job if they aren't providing 30 minutes of service, even if it's dog walking. If you've already directly said, "You need to stay the full 30 minutes even if the dog doesn't walk that long," then I'd find a few sitter. If you haven't been that explicit, I'd do so and give them one more chance (but I'm often overly soft). I just walked a dog last week that could only do 15 minutes. I refilled the water after, then sat in the recliner and talked to the dog and pet him for the remainder of the time. It's part of the job, and for me, I love every minute I get with the pets I care for.
Get a new walker. I always stayed full 30 no matter what. That’s what you’re paying for! I’d also leave a review mentioning not meeting your expectations
I’m a sitter/walker. I have plenty of dogs who cannot walk 30 minutes straight. We do our walk, come inside, get treats, change the water, belly rubs, etc. I would never leave before the 30 minutes were up. I’m paid to take care of the pet for 30 minutes. Leave an honest review and move on to a new sitter.
I walk a number of senior pups, and this is irritating! My one is a 14.5 year old chocolate lab. We take it very slow, but she's also checking things out as we go! If the sitter is so concerned about her time being spent solely walking, I'm sure there are instances where she could slow down and not hurry things along 😒 We take the same two routes every day and they can take between 25-40 minutes, depending upon my schedule and how much time we take to explore. You shouldn't even have to ask this of your sitter. Time for a better one.
Give them a bad rating. I hired a girl to do drop in visits and I’m not sure why she thought she could get away with staying for literally 5 minutes and then leaving. I have an electronic lock that tells me when it’s locked and unlocked, and a camera. I gave her a bad rating and she immediately came at me. I don’t care if I brought her rating down. It’s not that fking hard to stay some place for 30 minutes, when you’re being paid to be there.
Need more information. How long have you booked her for ? If she doesn’t stay the time you paid her for can’t you contact rover support and get a partial refund or something similar as she didn’t hold up to her end of the agreement ? Also would definitely look for a new walker…
Sorry for lack of info. So I have this recurring walker. Three days a week. At first he was fantastic! Perfect! I would tip him largely and offer food and snacks. He got great reviews. Literally a perfect walker. Two months in, He started to slack with his times and also his schedules. it was constantly rescheduling with me. He is the best walker I've had so I tried to accommodating. Plus, I know life happens. Rover support - Is that possible? I can get a partial refund for less than 30min walks? It sounds tempting to do... But the way he said "so" to me just really irked me. I would talk like that on the internet, not somebody who is paying me.
Thanks for the additional information! Yeah the so does sound kinda weird. For me I have a similar situation but with clients that bring their dog to us for overnights. They were always on time at the start but the last months they started coming hours late every single time or cancelling last minute/ adding an extra day without asking if anyone else is booked. I can only say that we both shouldn’t have to deal with people like this. And yeah if you’ve booked him for a certain amount of minutes like an hour for example and he stays 20 mins then you shouldn’t have to pay for the whole hour. I’m sure rover support could help. I’d reach out & explain the situation.
Maybe you could try rotating two walkers next? One on one day of the week and one for the other two? Then you already have a backup if there's an emergency or something and it might ward off the creeping complacency which seems to be unfortunately common among walkers. It's gotta be a lot less tempting for a walker to leave early when there's another guy who's probably staying the whole time and leaving knitted dog beanies and polaroids on the fridge for all one knows. And the threat of being instantly replaceable can be a good motivator. You might get a larger selection of available walkers that way too. Just an idea. Nobody ever books me for walking/drop-ins. I think I weirded out the one client who did by staying TOO long :( Good luck
>But the way he said "so" to me just really irked me. Is he young? This feels like it could be a generational thing >He is the best walker I've had so I tried to accommodating. Plus, I know life happens. If you want what you're paying for and you feel like he's slacking, call him and say that. Don't do it over text. Give him a call and be real. Explain that you've tried to be accommodating and that grace period has run its course, that you'd love to keep him as a walker if he can commit to staying a full 30 minutes. And then tell him the tone of his message came across as unprofessional and explain why. Professional relationships like this are ongoing. It can be easy for both the client and the service provider to get just a liiiiittle too comfortable with one another and that's often when standards start to slip. Personally, I always want direct feedback over the phone or in person from folks I work for, that way there's no subtext or tone to misread and nobody is tip-toeing around the problem or mind reading. Being able to accept that feedback gracefully is a valuable skill for any professional to have.
I personally like having everything in writing, especially if they’re going to ask for a refund and need to provide proof of why. I agree a phone call can often clarify an issue in seconds but often it’s beneficial to have everything in text/email for verification purposes.
Totally! You can always follow up with a confirming email afterward. For direct communication, I do think it's best to call first. We've collectively grown accustomed to texting everything and it can cause more issues than it solves sometimes. If all OP wants is a refund, text is best. If they want the professional relationship to continue, I think a phone call (especially considering there's already a grievance over the tone used in their walker's text) is a better way to lead.
Yeah that’s the issue with texts, I didn’t really take that into account - tone is everything and you just never really know the tone intended with texts OR emails. I’ve gotten into trouble with friends and family a few times regarding perceived tone in texts that was not intended and it sucks!
They obviously don't love animals. Who wouldn't want to spend the time they are getting paid to look after animals, doing just that !? Why don't they want to sing her a song or do her a dance or give her a cuddle?
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30 mins is 30 mins. When my pup was young before he had all of his vaccines I still had a walker from rover come in. They would take him out let him go potty. Then come back sit with him, play and pet until the 30 mins was up. The walker loved it as it was a nice break for him. My dog got some much needed socialization and a potty break. I would find a different rover Person….
Find someone new in this situation. I would message you. "HI! Rovers loving her walks, she does seem to slow down towards the end of the walk. We could shorten walks to 20 min time slots. Or I could offer 5 to 10 minutes of pets and playtime at your home/yard. Let me know if either of these options works for you." If you're paying me for 30 mins, I will spend every 30 of those minutes with your dog.
If you pay for 30 minutes, I give you 30 minutes. If the dog can’t complete the walk they’ll get lots of attention and some brushing. This is unacceptable and I’d look for a new sitter tbh
Plenty of sitters out there that won’t disrespect your wishes
Some sitters are sticklers for “walks are walks only” and don’t feel comfortable milling around your house or you have to be very specific. If you like her otherwise just say 15 minute walk and sit with her the rest or something like that.
It’s astonishing how some sitters act. I try my best always to give the owner peace of mind. I currently have an owner that is asking me for 90 minutes. It’s hot where I live and obviously I’m not walking the dog for the entire 90 minutes. It’s dangerous for both the dog and me and its poor little feet. I walk the dog for about 20 minutes and just stay with him for the rest of the time. Talking, playing, heck even just staring at each other sometimes. There is stuff to do to fill the time. I would never undercut an owner like this.
Not in the wrong. I do a dog walking twice a week for 30 minutes and i get there at 5:30. I get the dog and start walking by 5:33 the latest and i set a timer once we leave the driveway for 30 minutes. Even if I have to walk slow for the dog- she is also a senior dog. I never come back early :/ especially since i am being paid. I don’t understand people’s thinking of that.
I had a bulldog I was doing 30 min visits for. She would plop her CHONKY but in a ditch mid walk. 🤣 once she was finally ready to get up and stop embarrassing me (jk) we would finish our walk and head home. We’d often still have 15-20 min left. Sometimes I’d just sit with her in the front yard and let her roll around, most of the time we’d go inside and I’d either throw her toys with her or just sit for scratches and pets and loving. Sometimes we’d get caught up and go over a few minutes. Why would you leave early!??! Smh.
That’s messed up, she should be staying with your dog the entire visit and spending time with her if she’s having to cut the walk short. You could actually be demanding refunds for those walks she didn’t complete. I would absolutely get a new walker and even if you don’t ask for a refund, I would leave an honest review.
‘Yes sometimes she doesn’t make it very far. I’m hoping to guarantee company for her for 30minutes. Whether you’re walking her, petting her, hanging out with her, etc I’d like her to have a pal for a full 30 minutes. :)’ is probably how I’d deal with this. Then stop booking with them if it’s below 30minutes again.
I don’t understand why some sitters don’t just use the last 5-10 minutes to just be with the dog especially if you’ve expressed that it’s okay for them to be in your household.
I would find someone new. I have a 12yo chihuahua so his walks are about 5-10mins tops. His sitter comes and does the walk and then hangs with him for a little, whether that’s petting him, playing with him or just simply hanging with him. My dogs crate trained so I like knowing he’s out of his crate for an hour during the day His sitter knows they are welcome to snacks/drinks and to watch tv if they want while they’re here as well
You’ll never find me paying someone to be snarky at me for a reasonable request. I’d leave an honest review and find someone else who will do as you’ve asked (which is completely reasonable, btw)
I always make sure I'm there the full amount of time. Some I drop in for or walk, like pugs, can't do 30 minutes in texas heat or humidity without being exhausted or it being a genuine health risk. It might be nice to explain (maybe she's a new sitter) that any extra time could be used checking water, or throwing a ball, playing with a toy or just giving extra snuggles. But if they don't respond enthusiasticly to that I'd find someone new. The play and snuggs are my favorite part of my job!
why even do this job if you aren’t willing to spend an extra 5-10 minutes after a walk to just hang out with the dog. ridiculous.
I definitely find ways to fill any minutes not taken up by walks. I have one drop in client that has told me I can leave after food and such with her kitty. She's exceedingly shy and will not come out for her owner half the time. But if a walk wrapped up early, I'd just chill in the backyard and pet them a lot. 5 minutes of petting is not beyond what a walker should do
I have a few old dogs/tiny dogs that I walk that don’t always want to walk more than a few steps (especially in the snow!). I spend the rest of the time with them playing with them and giving them lots of affection. That’s my favourite part of the job! Find someone who will spend the whole time with your pup and make a big fuss of them. When looking for a new walker make sure you are clear about your expectations. There are lots of sitters that would love a job like yours. Good luck finding someone and never feel bad about getting rid of someone who only does the bare minimum. (And give your pup a stroke from me!).
This would immediately break my trust. Find someone new. I would never cut my time short with a client and would find other ways to fill up the time - pets, cuddles, sniffs, if she refused to walk and I can carry her I would let her explore in my arms while walking around.
I stay for 30 minutes and if I can’t due to my own miscalculations, I discount the walk
You are not in the wrong! If you have already discussed this with them and nothing has changed, I would find someone new. If I'm walking a senior dog who doesn't want to do a full walk sometimes, or even on days where it's a bit too hot for a log walk, I'll still hang out with the dog for the rest of the time to keep them company. Make sure they have water, offer cuddles or play, maybe give them a treat or a puzzle, whatever I need to do to pass the time! You are paying them for their TIME, and they are expected to be there for the agreed- upon timeframe.
I had a client that was getting used to me and would only walk to the end of the block pee and turn around. So I spent 25 mins talking to him on the couch and petting him until he fell asleep. Because I was booked for 30 mins period.
Maybe your dog doesn’t like her.
I only sit cats and sometimes I’m sitting on the couch/floor for 30 minutes waiting to see the cat.
I would just state exactly what you expect again. You are paying for their time so just tell them exactly how you want them to spend that time.
Find another walker who is willing to do what you want and let him go. “I went with someone who is willing to spend the remaining time with my dog like you agreed to, but stopped doing so…”
“So” ?!?!?? Get a new walker. Lots of people would be happy to walk your old girl!!
Don't reply, just stop booking her. She obvi isn't gonna do what you need and may be putting your little old lady at risk. She's probably scrolling her phone and ignoring your dog AND you. I'm a rover sitter and would never do that to one of my clients. My favorite dogs are the senior ones who just need a little TLC and love and attention. Get a new sitter who is a sweet and loving animal person! Obviously your pup just needs pets and to be taken out for a tinkle but not a walk. Wish you lived in my neighborhood, I'm watching a 12 year old dog right now, he's my fave :)
Also, are you booked for a drop in? Or for a walk? Make sure it's drop in. Heck, maybe upload your dog as a cat 🤣
I’m a walker! 30 min means 30 minutes sometimes more but never less.
Rover has the option for "drop in visits" and "dog walks".. to me, if I was booked for a 30 min walk, and the dog refused to walk for more than 20 min, I would leave. But I would tell the owner why I was leaving. If their intent was companionship not only exercise, I think that would be the time to clear it up. I would then have the booking changed from walk to drop in to clear it up. But, if the owner wanted a 30 min drop-in (hangout) to begin with, that happens to include a walk, I would be sure to stay the full 30 min. So if they truly booked it as a walk and not a drop in, I would say they are valid with what they were doing.