Do’s:
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Balance the pitch – Your listing (photos and description) should strike a thoughtful balance between showcasing the space and communicating expectations. It’s the heart of the “deal.” (This especially resonates with low-volume or last-minute listings—hosts often adjust to what should have been front and center from the start.)
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Communicate well – Be courteous, responsive, and show genuine interest in the guest. Speed and sincerity goes a long way.
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Offer a clean, welcoming, and organized home – It sets the tone and reflects mutual respect.
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Leave a review—on time – Believe it or not, some skip this step, thinking a thank-you on WhatsApp will do.
Don’ts:
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Avoid employer/job-like language – Terms like “interview,” “dogwalker,” or “booking” miss the point. This isn’t a gig; it’s a free exchange between travelers. (Also, not every listing includes pets
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Don’t obscure the location – Be transparent about where the place is, how accessible it is, and confirm your arrival/departure times before the video call.
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Skip the half-measures – A welcome guide is not optional. Handwritten scraps or outdated pet or house pics from another decade don’t inspire confidence.
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Retaliatory comments in reviews – Don’t use the comment section to vent or punish. A bad review isn’t the end of the world—how you respond speaks louder.
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Be upfront – No surprises with third parties. No misleading information about the pet or property— all are major red flags and could potentially lead a guest to leave mid-stay. Also, not having an active vet account in place signals a lack of preparedness and responsibility.
Good luck @Kali 