why can't you check a sitter's schedule before you attempt to book?

I am not sure where you are looking but sitters' schedules are totally visible on their profile pages.

If, for example, when Rover asks you for the dates you need pet care, you will only get sitters who are available on those dates, at least per their calendar on the site, which doesn't mean anything since not all sitters are conscientious about keeping it up to date.

I have issues getting requests on the days/weeks I have marked unavailable. I am trying to figure out why. It’s my biggest pet peeve with Rover. I get requests come through for dog sitting and I have to decline because I am not actually available :(