The Importance of a Meet & Greet

From time to time a dog minder or even a dog owner may realise after the first stay of minding that the minding set-up is just not the perfect fit. This mostly occurs when the owner and minder didn’t make a prior arrangement for a meet and greet. It is very important for all three involved – the minder, the owner and the dog, to arrange such a meeting. In most cases the meet and greet takes place in the minder’s home but can also be done at a nearby park or public meeting place.

Here’s why the Meet & Greet is a must:

Advantages for the Pet Minder

It is the perfect chance for you to get to know the dog before the stay. This prevents unexpected surprises like misbehaviour and disobedience. Also if you have a dog of your own, you can see if it fits and be sure that they get along with each other. It allows you to be 100% comfortable with the dog that you are going to mind and eliminates almost all potential issues.

Show the dog owner around your yard and other areas the dog will have access to
Explain the regular exercise routine offered to your fur-guests and ask if that is suitable for their dog
If the booking is going ahead, provide the dog owner with the dog minding detail sheet to complete
Confirm a date & time for drop off

Advantages for the Owner

Are you a dog owner? For you it is a good opportunity to check out the place where your dog is going to stay and if it is a place that you can see your dog feeling comfortable in. As well as meeting the minder and having a chat you also want to travel with absolute peace of mind, knowing your dog is in good hands.

Ask lots of questions
See where your dog will sleep at night
Ensure the yard is secure and clean & tidy
Compete the dog minding detail sheet

The meet & greet does not take much of your time, usually 15 – 20 minutes and prevents many potential issues from occurring whilst you’re away. This makes it easier for both minder and owner and most important for your fur-child.

Read our Meet-N-Greet Guide to see how to have a successful pre-stay meeting in the dog minder’s home.

Published by

Felicity Thompson

My name is Felicity Thompson and I grew up on a farm in Swan Hill. As a child, I loved animals and spent most of my free time caring for them. From horses to cats, dogs to sheep, they were all part of my life. My horse was named Sunshine and she was so gentle and kind – even as a young girl she could carry me around with ease! My dog was Max, a loyal and faithful companion who always had my back. I now write articles for pet blogs and websites. I'm passionate about helping people care for their animals in the best way possible – from providing proper nutrition to offering emotional support.