Once you’ve set up your profile and have found some gorgeous dogs in your area that you’re potentially interested in spending time with, now is the time to send them a message.
Messaging an owner is the ideal opportunity to find out whether you could be the pawfect match for their dog. But sending the first message can be a little nerve-wracking so we've put these top tips together to help you out.
Personalise messages
Let owners know you’ve read their dog’s profile, and why you think you would be pawfect for their pooch.
Discuss availability
From the start, it’s helpful to discuss what you’re looking to help with, even if it’s on your profile, as this can help you find a compatible match.
Ask questions
Get to know the dog and their unique personality. Ask questions to help understand their needs and how you might be the best match for them.
Be patient
Just like you, owners can be busy, so don’t expect a response straight away, give them time.
Message lots of owners
The more owners you message the more opportunities you have to get to know someone, and more importantly their dog, to find out if they are the right match for you. You can always borrow more than one dog too - if you have the time!
Always reply
Even if you don’t think a dog would be a good match, or if you already borrow a dog, reply to an owner to let them know. You don’t need to go into lots of detail but it’s polite to send a simple message such as “Thank you for your interest, sorry I’m currently not able to help with your dog.”
If you are not looking for a dog at the moment, or are getting too many messages, here’s how to set your profile to not looking.
Have an open mind
It’s worth chatting to an owner even if you don’t think their dog is exactly what you had in mind. There are lots of amazing doggies out there, and messaging their owners and having a chat is the best way to find out more about them. Lots of our members have borrowed breeds they never would have thought about before, and have ended up loving them more than they could imagine!
Keep your options open
If you don’t think you can help an owner with their dog right now, but maybe could in the future, let them know and keep in touch.
Take a steady pace
Dog owners consider their pups as family members, so it’s really important that you build a good relationship with the owner before moving to the next step.
Check their membership
If an owner isn’t premium they won’t be able to reply to you yet. But some are just waiting for a message from a borrower interested in their dog to subscribe.
Next steps
When you've messaged a potential match, got to know them and feel comfortable, the next step is to schedule your first meet and greet, the ‘Welcome Woof’. Check out our guide for your first ‘Welcome Woof’ here.
If you ever need any support or would like to talk with us about your experience please reach out to our Help Team.