It seems that GPS is all the rage lately. I see many pet sitters and pet sitting services who tout having GPS check ins. I see it on the slick TV commercials for the ‘on-demand’ dog walking services. So, is it important for your pet sitter or dog walker have GPS?
I’m sure your first thought is “Yes! I want my pet sitter to have GPS check ins” to prove that they were there.
Here are my thoughts.
On the surface it does sound like a great idea. I have considered changing to a software program that offers this. After thinking about it and doing some research I’m not so convinced.
First, I want clients who trust us, just as I trust my employees.
Honestly, I just don’t have the time (or desire) to be tracking every move my employees make. That is why I am so thorough when it comes to hiring. Not to mention everyone and their brother has cameras these days, so they can easily check the comings and goings of their sitter.
Second, I want my sitters to be paying attention to your pet, not their phone.
I don’t want my staff to be worrying about checking in and out every twenty minutes. I feel it would take away from the attention your pets receive.
Third, do you really need to know the EXACT location where Fido poops?
My staff is trained to be hyper-vigilant and constantly be scanning the horizon while they are walking your dog. I want them looking for cats, squirrels, kids, cars, other dogs, etc. I don’t want them looking at their phone to mark where you dog poops. Their safety and the safety of your pets are a priority.
Every visit we make is finished with a handwritten note which details our visit and Fido’s pooping history.
Last, but not least, it can be faked.
I’ve read many horror stories of pet sitters who arrive to a visit and check in, then sit in their car for the allotted time and then check out. It proves they were there, but doesn’t prove they did what they were contracted to do. They could also pull into your driveway and check in, then drive slowly around the block instead of walking.
GPS tracking keeps some people honest, but not all. Your first priority when searching for a pet sitter or dog walker is finding someone that has a good track record, good reviews and has been in business for a while.
Do your due diligence and don’t rely on technology.
What say you? Do you think GPS is a requirement when considering a pet sitting or dog walking service?
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