A sitter has applied for a sit in a month. Can other sitters see that I declined someone and will they think badly of me because I did?
There is no function to list a reason so it looks random, I’d think.
In this case the sitter stopped communicating entirely. I’d like to have more applicants but feel that the sit looks taken.
Thanks,
From the sitter’s perspective, we can see how many applications you currently have, but we do not see how many you have declined. Once you have 5 applicants, we are not able to apply unless you decline someone to open up space for new applicants. If we were to watch your listing closely, we can see the number increase or decrease but there is no way to know if you declined or sitters withdrew. Additionally, if we apply to your post, we no longer see the applicant count; instead, we only see a message stating that we have already applied.
But honestly, you shouldn’t worry about it. Your focus should be on finding the right match for your home, pets and family. The sitter is doing the same and could withdraw if a better match comes along or if, after speaking with you, it becomes clear it is not a good match based on logistics, personalities, responsibilities, etc. I think it is best not to think of declining/withdrawing as a personal insult, but part of the process in finding the right match for both parties.
@TwoGalsGo, thoughtful question. Sitters should not be upset if you decline their application. Future applicants cannot see any track record of applications or rejections. All good
Declines is part of petsitting. Declines is not an issue as such. If, however a host seem to have a pattern of applicants that don’t meet their criteria, it could be worthwhile to go through the listing the host has and see if the listing is not compelling enough and/ or does not have the info. to attract the applications one wants (it could be everything from unclear photos and lack of info. to too many requirements for a voluntary sitter and an equal match).
@TwoGalsGo When you decline an application by hitting ‘Decline’ you can also write a personal note to the sitter if you wish- it soften the blow of ‘rejection’! Sitters appreciate it.
Also when you confirm another sitter this immediately triggers an autodecline message, from THS, to be sent to all other applicants. So you may like to drop them all a personal note too. Otherwise it does just seem like a cold rejection.
I am a sitter and I can confirm we do not see who, or how many, sitters you decline. And since you can only choose one sitter all the others have to be declined anyway! Its the nature of the game. None of us should take it too personally! But it is definitely nice to receive a short message with the decline.
No I don’t feel bad towards the HO when I’m declined for a sit. They have obviously found or are looking for a better fit than me. I do realise, although I am everyone’s dream sitter, that some people are just a little bit better than me. My ego may be bruised but I will survive!
No No No:
some people just don’t realise what they are missing!
Thank you so much. Bit of relief here! 
Thank you, I am somewhat relieved. Pretty new host here, so no pattern. I always write the sitter and try to communicate everything up front. I took your advice and went through my listing and paid particular attention to posts written by sitters to make improvements. Best, Liz
Elsie, I love your reply and home most sitters are as are you!
Best, Liz
I think most sitters just shrug and get on with it. Don’t get me wrong, there is a little twinge when it’s a dream sit and we have been watching for dates to align for months if not years. But to be honest, we were accepted for a sit like that earlier on this year and it was such a disappointment. Sometimes the dream is better than the reality.