Build local friendships

We verify all of our Premium members before they can send messages. The key to BorrowMyDoggy is getting to know your borrower really well and building local friendships.

Just as you would with a friend, babysitter, kennel or dog walker, it's important people get to know each other well locally before a dog is taken care of by another person. Everyone, including the dog, needs to feel happy and trust each other since each dog and person is different. The first step towards this is what we call the ‘Welcome Woof’ - the first meet and greet for the owner, borrower, and dog to get to know each other. Often people meet several times before the borrower takes care of the dog alone, and sometimes even do house visits since matches are local.

Here are 7 tips to ensure your ‘Welcome Woof’ runs as smoothly as possible. 

Set clear expectations

Most of the matches on BorrowMyDoggy are for occasional walks, sitting or holiday care.

Make sure you agree any arrangements about when your dog will be given back to you (ie will the borrower drop it off at your house; or will you come and pick it up, and if so what time?). If you have arranged for your dog to be borrowed for a longer period of time (especially over a month), then we recommend you agree in writing the details of what you have agreed, including the date the dog will be picked up by you.

Be prepared

Fill out the borrowing info to share with any borrowers taking care of your dog. This document includes information about your dog, including their vet details, feeding information and your alternate contact details. This ensures that your dog is getting the best care, and also includes access to the BorrowMyDoggy 24/7 Vet Line telephone number.

All BorrowMyDoggy dogs must remain on the lead at all times unless written permission has been granted by you, the owner. You can the permission form here. Remember to keep the signed copy somewhere safe.

If your dog is going to be staying in the borrower's house, make sure to do a house visit and make sure that their home is safe for dogs by following this guide.

Stay Premium

All BorrowMyDoggy dogs are covered by third party liability insurance if both the owner and borrower are Premium members. Also, all Premium members enjoy around-the-clock access to veterinary professionals. They can help with any emergencies, questions or just offer support to make sure all doggy members are happy and healthy.

"At no point was my borrower, Selene, a stranger. By the time that I decided my dog, Minnie, was going to spend time alone with her, Selene was my friend." - Kate, Minnie’s owner.

We recommend all premium owners to have their own pet insurance as well.