Build local friendships

"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 verify all Premium members before they can send messages. The key to BorrowMyDoggy is getting to know a dog and owner really well and building local friendships.

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 on any arrangements up front, including how and when you will give the dog back to the owner (ie will you drop the dog off at their house; or will they come and pick it up, and if so what time?). If you have agreed with the owner to take care of a dog 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 returned to the owner.

Be prepared

Request the borrowing info sheet before you take care of a dog. This document includes information about the borrowed dog, including their vet details, feeding information and alternative contact details for the owner. This ensures that you have information to hand in the case of an emergency and also includes access to the BorrowMyDoggy Vet Line telephone number.

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

If your borrowed dog is going to be staying in your house, please make sure that your home is safe for dogs by following this guide.

Stay Premium

All BorrowMyDoggy dogs are covered by our medical and 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

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