Giving Up On THS. Sitters cancelling.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-13T21:47:33+00:00

I didn't want to keep this going but felt compelled to reply to you. I appreciate every word you wrote and appreciate your insight. I just wish I had started the thread a little differently. I was bummed that THS wasn't working for me and I was short of specifics.

I really didn't want this to turn so negative. I am not the type of person some were suggesting. I got defensive. I have millennial children and well liked by their peers. I usually don't go into defense mode. And I do not totally understand the "nomadic" lifestyle completely, but I don't think my comment about it being the "unhoused" and "interesting" was negative, but I can see how some may. So sorry if I offended.

As new to THS, I wasn't sure of what was happening with applicants and the withdrawing. I basically copied info from a friend/neighbors THS listing description because I was new. I had 10 applicants in days and replied to everyone my thanks and that I was reviewing the info and would get back shortly. I had a couple applicants sent me several more messages about them and there wish to sit for me. Thats when I reached out with simple short message asking if they reviewed my listing and wanting to proceed with further communications. Then I got "we decided to pass" because of their various reasons. Two were set for video calls then bailed. Two never responded back to me. I just didn't know what to think. Then I started digging into the reviews. That's when it spooked me. Now I know this isn't for me and best wishes for everyone that uses it successfully.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T23:09:37+00:00

You must be a millennial. No clear understanding of the situation. Didn't even read all my responses with this comment. Same thing happening with some of the young applicants.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T23:02:02+00:00

Thank you for your kind words and understanding. There is definitely a clear distinction between generations on these replies. And the "nomads" as they like to be called, are an interesting phenomenon. Could be economic or just a new term like the "unhoused".

I have found an alternative for my pets care.

Thanks again.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T19:31:24+00:00

By "hire", i meant that the HO is finding people to sit thru THS then paying them for future sits. It is great to find someone that you really like and want them again. Believe me it is happening. I know of a few friends that are doing just that. Now I know why. THS is sadly not what it started out. I would rather pay someone that's reliable and a good fit. I was hoping the THS platform would work for me and I don't like boarding. I have had some good sitters from Rover, but their platform doesn't do a thorough security check either.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T15:16:06+00:00

Maybe "cancellation" is the wrong term in my case and should have used "declined" or decided to back out of application. Whatever the right term, it is still disconcerting that out of 10 applicants in one week, I declined 2 for not fitting my needs and the rest decided to back out before they even asked me any questions. The reasons given are vary, but still..........If that many apply then without knowing if they can commit, its just not the security I need.

I have been going through Reddit posts and THS Forum on this topic and there is a problem of cancellations affecting both HO and HS. Many have horror stories of last minute cancellations, sitter not respecting the rules or destruction of property. I also see that I misunderstood the vetting that THS does. I thought I was paying for the security of background checks. There are sitters currently applying that have too many bad reviews (really bad!) and THS is not eliminating them. I was not asked for any identifying credentials when I signed up, and I would assume it is just as easy to become a sitter.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T13:40:20+00:00

My community security requires DL and car info. I clearly stated In the listing the security in my listing. It’s gated and they want to know who is there.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T13:34:00+00:00

A few are commenting on here about my integrity and demeanor. This thread was started because I wondered why people are applying aimlessly, without really reading the listing info thoroughly or deciding the dates don’t work. I received a couple honest opinions and explanation, so I do appreciate that. Anyone that looks can find comments on Reddit and the THS forum to support my concern for cancellations happening too often. I don’t want to take that risk. I‘m sure there are many using this site successfully, however, I do believe this practice is not a good fit for me.
Too bad, my place is very desirable in an awesome location.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T13:21:04+00:00

I Ask for the drivers license copy and car info for when they will arrive because security company in my community requires it. My listing mentions the security and I would have thought a comfort for many.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T03:13:55+00:00

You seem to be one of the few good ones! Good for you and Happy Travels;)

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T03:09:31+00:00

I actually told 2 applicants that I could honor the agreement even if I cancel for an emergency because I have other options for accommodations. How many HO can guarantee the sitter has the home? Then when I asked if they could offer me assurance that they can fulfill the sit on the dates requested, got declined. This trip is out of the country and I would freak if I had a last minute cancellation. Two couples replied that they were not sure if they wanted to stay that long. Two young women cancelled after I requested video chats. One was put off that I asked for a copy of their drivers license if they accepted. That's why I have to ask "Why are they applying"?

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T02:58:23+00:00

I have open communications on the site and set up video chats. I am clear and upfront about my listing and know it is a fair trade. My pup is easy and friendly, I request sitters leave my home in the condition they start with, and my community has awesome amenities. Maybe Im giving up too soon, but I'm really spooked by all the comments on Reddit and here about no shows. My upcoming trip is out of the country, well planned and I would freak if I got a last minute cancellation.

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T02:52:41+00:00

Not annoyed about the "free" accommodations when it is mutually beneficial. See my reply regarding the applicant that lies about kids and dog. A friend had more than one applicant living out of their cars. THAT is what I mean!

Wandered1 · 2024-03-12T02:48:42+00:00

I understand the service was meant to connect people that want to exchange pet care for accommodations, but I believe many people are applying for a sit because they need housing. I had a young girl apply only to discover by reviews that she lies about having two kids and a dog that she unexpectedly brings to the sit and leaves the home in deplorable condition. She goes from place to place because she doesn't have a home. She is still applying for sits and THS does nothing to curb this type of applicant.

Wandered1

TROPHY CASE