I'm not the happiest with this app, especially because they take such a large portion of what I earn and then take 3 or more days to pay me. I'm no longer going to use this app, as I've gained a number of clients who agree that the 20% is ridiculous. And they do not mind paying me through PayPal. Also, I hate apps like this that don't have a PERSON to speak with when there is an issue. It only has automated chat, and Q&A. And they never refunded my $35 for the background check... But here is my experience:
I considered Rover for a long time but finally gave it a try when I lost my job. I was worried, being a Black male in a nicer area, that I would get looked over and not be seen as trustworthy. But I was very surprised with the amount of requests I got, even when I hadn't had any reviews on my account. I also set my prices reasonable, as I am ok with providing a lot of services beyond the basic care. And I don't expect to be paid extra to administer medicine or give baths. I enjoy dog sitting so I'm not trying to empty the owner's pockets. However, it is necessary to set your prices to a median price for your area. If it's too low, you won't be paid worth your time. If it's too high, you won't get any requests. Also, doing some extra stuff like cleaning before you leave, will always get good reviews and a tip!
I have met the best pups and owners, and they have been very friendly and never judged me for my looks. I was given house sitting gigs for my first couple of jobs and they went incredibly smoothly! I made sure to do Meet & Greets, and I didn't even feel comfortable staying in the owners' houses at first, until one couple let me know that they prefer someone who stays through the night, and not someone who just drops in a few times a day. So I became more comfortable.
I'm grateful for the ones who chose me and trusted me with their pets and home. Some owners do send out multiple requests at a time so they'll say "nevermind, I found another sitter" even when I respond within 10 mins. But that is ok. I don't believe all of these negative comments and bad reviews, but Rover is not 100% the best platform. If you love animals and aren't looking to pay most of your bills from the app, you will love it. It's a good side gig if you have lots of free time. If I keep my weeks booked, I can usually make $600-$1000 a month. Especially if they have more than one pet. The only down side is Rover takes that 20%. On my most recent gig, I sat 2 dogs for 7 days. Because of the second dog and it being the holidays, I was supposed to make $400 for the sitting. Rover took $80... Luckily the owners are recurring and always appreciate the extra work I do, so they try to tip the fee to offset it. So just be aware of that because you still have to pay taxes on what you earn.
Hi Greg, thank you for your feedback and sorry to hear you did not have a good experience! We surely do send a confirmation email right after purchase, and once it ships. Maybe yours ended up in your spam folder. Please contact us again on orders@represent.com and we will be happy assist!
Team Represent