Concerned that the dog is not acceptable but you don't know that until they are already at your home. What do you do then? Send the people away AFTER they have booked and paid....not likely....so how do you handle this?
I've taken a number of stays last minute with no M&G. I've started having clients come by and plan on spending 15-20 mins at drop off taking all the dogs for a walk to get everyone settled and acquainted. That is the number one most important part of my M&G because even dogs who might be nervous snark at each other at first (and I have a dog who is prone to this--she gets very frustrated, hyper-focused and bossy on leash when she meets a new dog) calm down and do great together after they've had a chance to calm down and do a group activity. Plus that gives the owners and I a chance to make absolutely sure there aren't any big concerns before the stay officially begins.
I second what Kathleen said. I've only been on Rover for a couple months, but I've taken a number (probably most) of dogs without a meet and greet because schedules don't line up or because the owner is out of state. The owner is always aware that I have dogs and so far have been up front about their dog's issues. I have a lot of dog training practice and have handled a number of issues, including dog-dog aggression, with great success. I even had a dog scuffle at a meet and greet and still took the dog! I think it depends on your confidence level and your situation. I am ideally set up for most dogs because if they do turn out to have serious issues, I am in a position to address them. Barking problems - I do not share the building I live in. Cat problems - I do not own cats. Dog aggression - I have dogs, but there are many ways to separate them. Etc. You can shape your questions based on your situation - you may be able to handle most dogs where you are, or there may be dogs with certain habits that you cannot help. Just be clear with the owners what you do and do not do.
Love your advice.
I personally don't take same day bookings, for the reason you mentioned. I would like at least 24 hour notice, that way we can have the M&G one day and decide on the booking before the actual arrival time.
I have taken rovers without a meet & greet either because they are the same day or out of state. Call the Pet Parent and ask the questions you would at a Meet & Greet. Explain your requirements (utd shots/records, house trained, etc), and go through your procedures. I have had dogs turn out not to be a good fit, after a Meet & Greet, during the stay. If that happens, work with the situation, use it as a learning experience, But finish the stay. I have had dogs without a Meet & Greet wish they were local because they were Awesome and would love to have them back. Just go into it with a positive, confident, open mind and it will work out. Have Fun1
How do I book a sitting without doing a meet and greet?
I require a meet and greet before setting a sitting visit. I have my own fur babies and it is important for me to have everyone enjoy a happy and healthy vacation together. For me there could be too many issues that arise and it insures that the owners also know that I have everyone's best interest at hand. I recommend setting up a Meet & Greet in advance for all unpredictable future stays too.