In my first year, I was so excited to be a member and I even had THS business cards made up. I would “talk up” THS to anyone who would listen and give out my business cards at dog parks, while I was out dog walking, or anytime I would meet someone and they would ask, “Did you just move here?” And I would explain that I was a TrustedHousesitter member taking care of pets for which many could not believe that I do this voluntarily and I do not receive pay.
I receive “pay”, just not in monetary form of what people might think. Since becoming a member, I have met so many amazing pets and people. That is my payment. And as a bonus, I have traveled to many wonderful places.
Things for me also feel different now. My motivation to “talk up” THS has declined. And that is a shame because out of 500 business cards, I stil have at least 250 remaining.
It is hard to stay motivated and advocate for a business that does not seem to value its sitters.