I'm finding a lot of sitters who say they offer house sitting but are not willing to stay overnight in the house - is this typical? It looks like Rover defines house sitting as overnights but I am having trouble finding someone willing to do that. Any help would be appreciated!
Susan: I'm so sorry to hear (read) that you're having problems finding a house sitter. To answer your question: No, it's not typical for house sitters not to stay overnight. I offer house sitting and always stay the night unless the client specifically says not to. I suggest giving Rover Support a call and see if they can help in your search: [Edit: Rover’s contact options have changed. Visit the Rover Help Center at https://support.rover.com/ to find the phone number, help articles, or chat with the team].
I agree. For me, house sitting is essentially moving into the client's home for the length of the stay. I leave during the day for 3-4 hours to run errands, check on my house, and/or visit other clients, but I'm always there for the majority of the visit.
Sitters should stay in your home from 7P to 7A at a minimum. When I house sit I typically throw in a mid-day walk or potty break while I'm out caring for my other walking clients.