Annual cost for regular users: If you board 30 nights/year at $50/night, Rover fees add $180-240 (owner fees) + $300 in sitter commission
Going direct saves: $180-540/year combined (owner + sitter both benefit)
When Rover Makes Sense vs Going Direct
Use Rover for: • Finding a NEW sitter (vetting, reviews, background checks have value) • One-time or emergency pet care needs • Rover Guarantee coverage (injury/property damage insurance)
Go direct for: • Your established, trusted sitter (you already know and trust them) • Regular recurring care (weekly walks, monthly boarding) • When sitter is willing to work off-platform (most are — they keep 20% more)
Finding Pet Sitters Without Rover
Nextdoor app: Post asking for pet sitter recommendations — neighbors vouch for quality
Your vet's bulletin board: Vet techs and vet students often pet sit — they're trained in animal care
Local Facebook pet groups: "[Your City] Pet Owners" groups have vetted recommendations
Care.com: Pet sitting section with background checks available
Dog park regulars: People who spend time at dog parks genuinely love dogs
Local pet sitting businesses: Independent operations without platform fees
Your Rover sitter — directly: Exchange numbers. Most sitters prefer direct clients (20% more pay, more flexibility).
Rover Alternatives for Dog Walking
Wag! ($0 booking fee, lower commission): Direct competitor with GPS tracking
Local dog walking businesses: Often $15-20/walk with no platform markup
Neighborhood teenagers: $10-15/walk, reliable if you find the right person
Dog walking co-ops: Neighbors take turns — free, builds community
Safety When Going Off-Platform
Get references: Ask for 2-3 references from other pet owners
Do a trial visit: Short supervised visit before overnight boarding
Pet cam: A $30 Wyze cam lets you check in during boarding
Written agreement: Emergency vet contact, feeding schedule, medication — text thread works
Pet insurance: Your pet insurance covers vet bills regardless of who's watching them
📊 Find All Your Pet-Related Charges Upload your bank statement to JustCancel — we'll find every recurring charge including pet sitting, supplies, insurance, and vet plans.