Let your dog have fun while you are away.

Pictured: Kylie Baker (Brittany) and Tanner Moraw(Cockapoo). They had a GREAT time together!

Dog-Sitting Co-op Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dog-sitting co-op?

A dog-sitting co-op allows dog owners to exchange evening, overnight, and weekend dog-sitting services using a point system. As a member of the co-op, you will have more freedom to do the things you enjoy without worrying about who will care for your dog. Through the co-op, dogs can socialize with other dogs, and dog-owners can rest assured knowing their dog is being cared for in a safe and loving environment. A co-op is also a no-cost alternative to boarding dogs or hiring a pet nanny. And, like most other things in life, what you get out of the co-op experience depends on what you put into it.

What are the requirements for membership?

1. Members must complete a membership form and submit it to the Co-Op Coordinator prior to arranging dog-sitting services. Once the coordinator receives your form, you will receive a membership directory that includes members' names and contact information and information about their dog(s). It is your responsibility to make dog-sitting arrangements using the member directory.

   Sitters may watch dogs in their home or drop by the dog's home as directed by the dog owner to let the dog out, feed the dog, walk or play with the dog, etc.

2. To ensure the health and safety of all dogs, your dog(s) must be:
   
   • Non-aggressive
   • Housebroken
   • Up-to-date on vaccinations
   • Free of fleas and tics and well-groomed
   • Spayed or neutered
   • Wearing a dog license tag and I.D. tag with owner name and phone number on a collar (ID tags can be purchased for a few dollars at local pet supply stores)
3. When dropping off a dog at the sitter's home, dog owners must bring:
   
   • A supply of food to last through the entire stay
   • Leash
   • Name and number of pet's veterinarian and copy of vet records in case of emergency
   • Toys (optional)
   • Treats (optional)
   • Crate/bedding (always ask the sitter in advance if this is required)
   • Medications (if necessary) and instructions for administering meds (always ask if the sitter is willing to administer meds)
4. Members are asked to participate in two membership meetings per year (to be scheduled by the coordinator with input from members about the most convenient days/times).
5. The member providing dog-sitting services is responsible for reporting points to the coordinator within two weeks of performing the service (or before the last day of the month). The coordinator will enter end-of-the-month point balances into the membership directory and email (or mail) an updated directory to all members at the beginning of each month.

How does the point system work?

Point System: (Note: These time periods include multiple visits to a dog's home when the dog-sitter does not watch the dog in his/her home)

• Less than 12 hours = 1 point per dog
• 12 to 24 hours = 2 points per dog
• 25 to 72 hours = 4 points per dog
• 3 to 7 days = 8 points per dog

You will receive an automatic 2 points (per dog) when you join the co-op. Each time you use someone else's services for a dog walk, a trip to the park, evening care or other short-term service (under 10 hours), it will cost you one point (per dog) and the sitter will earn one point (per dog). Each time you use a sitter's service for 10-24 hours, it will cost you 2 points and the sitter will earn 2 points (again, this is per dog). If your account drops to 0 points, you must dog-sit for other members to accrue points before using any more services. Ideally, each member will maintain a balance of at least 10 points. Members are responsible for keeping track of their own points, and sitters must report their points to the coordinator within two weeks of the date of service or before the last day of the month. This process takes very little time and will ensure that everyone is "playing fair." Sitters may report their points to dogsitting co-op chair at dogsittingcoop@plymouthnewcomers.com.

How do I request a dog-sitter?

Members are responsible for making their own dog-sitting arrangements with other members using the information provided on the member directory. As a courtesy to other members, please give as much advance notice as possible and be prompt when dropping-off and picking-up your dog. Try to contact members who have low point balances first to give them a chance to increase their balance.

How do I join?

Email us a dogsittingcoop@plymouthnewcomers.com. You may not begin exchanging dog-sitting services for points until you receive a membership confirmation and directory from Tiffany.

How can I get the most of my membership?

The only way to earn points is to care for someone else's dog, so don't expect others to care for your dog unless you return the favor from time to time. To ensure a pleasant and safe experience for your dog and your household, arrange to meet other dog owners at a dog park or a home with a large yard to introduce pets, watch how they play together, and get to know the other owners. The last thing that anyone wants is to find out after you've left your dog with a sitter that your dog does not get along with the sitter's dog.