As a sitter, I’ve received an auto-generated notice each time the host updates the WG for our sit. I know that, because one host updated three times. But the notice doesn’t say what was updated.
We just google the make and model of various items to find the manual so we use them properly/don’t break anything. The last HOs kindly left all the manuals for us so we didn’t have to do that.
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I recently asked HOs to make sure they had an account set up at the vet as we would not be spending out of pocket if their dog had an emergency. Hadn’t occurred to them but they did set it up.
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@Maggie8K I’ve had hosts make updates to the Welcome Guide, however I received no notifications. I usually only notice when the host mentions it or upon re-reviewing and noticing more information.
Also, I recently concluded a sit were the host said she normally supplies the Welcome Guide after the start of the sit and was shocked that I asked for it in advance.
I can’t help with that. Maybe how your notifications are set up? You could follow up with membership services if that matters to you.
The sit for which I received notifications happened in March 2024, so I’m guessing I got the notifications a month or two before. I had received the WG earlier.
If a host expressed surprise on being asked, I’d decide based on the tone of that exchange whether that was a red flag. Surprised in a neutral way, for instance, like just because they’d never been asked before? Or maybe surprised, as in they were put out? (This would be a red flag for me.) Or something else?
I prime hosts during our video chat. None of my hosts have been surprised, maybe because I scrutinize listings, looking for signs of thoughtfulness, hospitality, reciprocity and such. I pick carefully and don’t make compromises on such, no matter how good the sit otherwise. That’s because to me hosts are the No. 1 potential dealbreaker for any sit.
My POV: Sitting is icing, so there’s no way I’ll do it with any red flags. I’d rather not sit at all than take unnecessary risks with potentially bad hosts.
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“Sitting is icing “ yes I so agree with you maggie8k!
I have just secured a 51 day sit for a lovely lady who needs to go to USA for a knee operation. She’s 74 and still skiing ! I’m delighted to step in although I will be in a residential development of 65 + population of retirees. She couldn’t take the dog because she couldn’t walk him and it would have cost her £500!
I’m really looking forward to this sit as I can join in in group activities and make new friends. One thing I find challenging about repeated housesitting is it can get a bit isolating. Here I’ve got the social side and it’s on a bus route to my house in UK. The dog loves travelling too. So very happy as this really works both ways. My home is being decorated so I don’t want to be there but I need to check on things and cut the grass etc.
I’m booked up for 4 months now in UK and some sits are isolated but use of car is provided. I had to let some people down this summer but they have listed me as favourite for next time.
It’s great to be wanted and appreciated. What a great time I’m having!
I also feel in control of what I choose to do . My plan B is stay home.. that’s fine too.
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Glad to hear that sitting is working out so well for you, @Highfive. Judging from your other posts and comments, you seem to be a great fit for sitting and hosts are lucky to get you.
Remodeling recently finished at my new-to-me house. As with most remodeling, it was a pain and took too long. Toward the end of construction, I was especially fortunate to find a great local sit with the loveliest of dogs. I took him out on various adventures and he even came home with me for an afternoon, when my husband had to make an appointment out, so I had to stay available for contractors’ questions. Yet another reason I appreciate THS.
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So pleased to hear you made good use too of a local housesit while juggling home alterations. It’s a great way to get to know an area too. I’ve listed best pubs, walks sites and got excellent info for when I host visitors in the area. Insider knowledge is the best.
Not requiring a car has saved me a lot too as hire car companies are very expensive in UK now..
Thanks for all your helpful tips on how to get the best out of THS exchanges. Your wisdom is well worth sharing.
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