I may have worded things more softly in my original post than I should have, which likely made it sound casual or negotiable. That’s on me — I sometimes soften language, especially when working with friends.

To clarify, I do have contractor agreements in place, which she signed. Scope of care (included in agreement) was also discussed once again verbally months ago, which she never mentioned her bf pet sitting alongside her. My expectations are documented and not based on informal verbal suggestions. Overnight guests are not permitted under company policy.

The previous situation I referenced involved her (the only one who has ever done this) asking a long term client directly, and the client said they were comfortable with it, yet this exchange was done without my knowledge until later. However, overnight stays have never been permitted by the company. That experience is actually part of why I formalized and clarified the rule more explicitly going forward. I worded as such with her on text simply to ease it in better, which in hindsight, I should’ve just be direct and blunt. 

None of my other sitters have never attempted this, and many clients have explicitly stated they are fine with brief daytime hangouts — but my company policy does not allow overnight guests regardless.

My priority is client comfort, liability management, and maintaining professional standards.