My September sit is coming up fast. Was happy to have a sitter apply with a detailed extensive request message. I quickly followed up with a request to chat. No response for 4 days. Messages unread. Was hoping to contact the sitter another way in case they are having THS messaging issues. I have messaged my cell phone, but that is also unread. What is the official THS help email address? Maybe they can contact directly.
(Post edited by the Forum team to comply with the Terms of Service).
They’re ghosting you as maybe they’re in discussions with several potential hosts, I’d move on….or more worryingly they’re testing how desperate you are in which case they’ll start discussing money. If they do then Report them to THS as this is 100% not allowed.
Make other arrangements if you can.
The sitter is not interested.
Here is one more “maybe.” Maybe they (or even you) don’t know that if they are using only a smartphone or tablet, the messages will not update unless it is closed then reopened.
When I am applying for sits, I open and close the app numerous times per day. Once I accept, I let HOs know that it is much better for me to communicate through text or WhatsApp than THS.
I read it again, just move on and find a new house sitter. If they are not showing interest, then don’t put all your eggs in 1 basket.
If you did not offer them the sit, but simply requestes to chat with them, then their silence speaks volumes. They aren’t interested anymore. Don’t stress yourself, pick someone else. If they actually get back to you, then you can decide what to do
@RoadHound, THS is unlikely to contact housesitter. Not their responsibility.
Your listing appears to be located in US. Was the applicant from a non-US location?
Regardless, suggest you create backup plan.
Sadly, this is the 2020s… 
“Don’t fancy it any more? Dump, and move on! No need to explain or apologise. After all, they don’t know your surname or where you live…Whadda they gonna do?!”
As DieFledermaus commented - it’s sad that people nowadays can’t even take the time to say “I’m no longer interested”. Common courtesy has gone out the window!
Thank you everyone for the helpful input. Fortunately another applicant just showed up and things are looking up with the communication. Ghosting is so disrespectful. Hopefully it will be rare in the future.