@outdoorsy, firstly kudos on fab name. Having spent bunch years playing in Western Canadian Rockies then outdoorsy resonates!
Re questions, we don’t believe that video calls need be aggressive at all. It’s just conversation. But the work is before the call … identifying topics that are important to you; listing any potential red flags; and then weaving questions into the conversation. My spouse and I complete video calls. We have notes written out and I jot responses. Housesitter preferences seem to vary significantly but we are keen to understand:
- housesit logistics (what is PP trip? booked? departure date/time? return date/time? … we find that dates per listing vary in their accuracy) … a “green flag” pet parent will respond that their trip is committed; that we are welcome to arrive on day x or y (perhaps to share a meal before their departure); and that we are welcome to leave on day x or y. For us, as full-time housesitters, flexible dates are gold dust.
- pet specifics (day in the life of pet; where sleep; time/distance/frequency walk; any medications; any behavioural concerns, etc)
- property basics (ballpark location; nearby amenities; local walking areas; transit options, etc)
We try to ask open questions and then let conversation flow. “describe a typical day for [pet]” typically yields lots info. if there’s gap then we clarify, eg. “where does [pet] sleep?” A few of our questions are probably loaded, in that an undesirable response will terminate our application. That’s ok.
We observe that Pet Parents appreciate questions. It shows preparation, effort and respect for the intent to assess a good fit. We totally recognize that we are absolutely not going to be the best housesitter for each situation, heaven forbid.
In your question, you note neighbours dog barking … bravo, it’s great to identify dealbreakers (we all have them, or should). Suggest simply weave into conversation “how are your neighbours?” … we’d wager that most times this will identify any neighbour pets. As appropriate then followup re barking. It’s totally ok to ask questions! Objective of the call is to assess best fit for both parties - much better to ask in video call rather than be surprised on arrival.