Rover vs Pawshake: Which is Better?
Whether its Batman vs Superman, Taylor Swift vs Kanye West, or my dad vs your dad, we love to compare!
In this post, I’ll compare two of the UK’s biggest pet-sitting platforms: Rover vs Pawshake.
If you’re like me, the idea of getting paid to hang out with a furry friend is absolutely paw-some! The UK’s pet care industry is booming, creating exciting opportunities for animal lovers to turn their passion into profit.
Here’s an eye-opening statistic: According to Statista, the UK pet care market is expected to reach a whopping £2.1 billion by the end of 2023. That’s a lot of kibble, which signals a growing demand for quality pet care services.
There are lots of ways to set up and get clients as a pet sitter.
You could set up your own pet sitting business, create a website, contract, and advertise through flyering and social media. If you’re tech and business-savvy, this is a good option.
If you’re more of a beginner and need a little more hand-holding to get you started, consider using a pet-sitting platform like Rover or Pawshake.
Pet sitting platforms do the heavy lifting for you. They’ll help you find customers, create the contracts and even cover your insurance – that’s some serious peace of mind!
Below, I’ll explain the main differences between Rover and Pawshake, discuss their pros and cons, and help you decide how to choose between them. I’ll also give you some bonus tips on how to maximise your earnings, no matter which one you choose!
Looking for more information on pet sitting in general? Check out this ultimate guide!
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Rover.com
Rover.com is one of the largest and most recognised pet-sitting platforms globally, with a strong presence in the UK. It connects dog sitters, walkers, and other pet care providers with pet owners looking for reliable services. Established in 2011, Rover has grown to become a trusted name in the pet care industry, offering a wide range of services, including dog boarding, house sitting, dog walking, and drop-in visits.
Key Features:
- Extensive Reach: Rover’s large user base means sitters have access to a broad pool of potential clients across the UK.
- Comprehensive Insurance: The Rover Guarantee provides coverage for accidents, injuries, and property damage, offering peace of mind for both sitters and pet owners.
- User-Friendly Technology: The platform features an intuitive app and website, making it easy for sitters to manage bookings, communicate with clients, and track their earnings.
- 24/7 Support: Rover provides round-the-clock customer service, ensuring that help is available whenever needed.
- Training and Resources: Rover offers a variety of tools and resources to help sitters grow their business, including tips, training modules, and access to a community of fellow sitters.
Who is Rover.com Suited For
Rover is ideal for dog sitters looking to tap into a large, established client base with a platform that offers robust support, comprehensive insurance, and user-friendly technology. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value having access to a wide range of potential clients and prefer a platform that provides extensive resources and assistance.
Pawshake.com
Pawshake.com is a pet-sitting platform that emphasises community and trust, connecting pet sitters with owners in need of care for their pets. Founded in 2013, Pawshake operates in several countries, with a strong presence in Europe, including the UK. The platform offers various services, including dog sitting, dog walking, and house visits, and is known for fostering close-knit relationships between sitters and clients.
Key Features:
- Community-Driven: Pawshake promotes a close connection between sitters and pet owners, often leading to long-term client relationships.
- Pricing Flexibility: Sitters have the freedom to set their own rates, allowing them to tailor their services to the local market.
- Localised Insurance: The platform provides insurance coverage tailored to the UK, ensuring sitters are protected under relevant local regulations.
- User-Friendly Interface: Pawshake’s app and website are designed for ease of use, with straightforward booking and communication features.
- Support and Resources: While support is not 24/7, Pawshake offers a range of resources to help sitters succeed, including community forums and guides.
Who is Pawshake Suited For?
Pawshake is ideal for sitters who prefer a more community-oriented platform with greater pricing flexibility. It’s a good fit for those who value building strong, personal relationships with clients and appreciate a platform that supports local market needs with tailored insurance and resources. comprehensive insurance, and a supportive community. However, as with any platform, it’s important to consider how well Pawshake’s features align with your personal pet sitting goals and style before diving in.
Rover.com vs. Pawshake.com: A Head-to-Head Comparison for UK Dog Sitters
When deciding between Rover.com and Pawshake.com as a business platform for dog sitting, it’s important to understand the key differences and similarities. Here’s a breakdown of the most crucial aspects:
1. Reach and User Base
- Rover.com: Rover is a global platform with a large user base in the UK, providing a broad reach for sitters. Its well-established presence in the UK market means that sitters can potentially access a larger pool of clients.
- Pawshake.com: While Pawshake also operates internationally, it is often perceived as more community-focused, with a strong presence in Europe, including the UK. It’s ideal for sitters who prefer a more localised and potentially closer-knit clientele.
2. Platform Fees and Earnings
- Rover.com: Rover charges a 15% service fee on bookings, which is lower than some other platforms, but still a significant cut from your earnings. They also set minimum pricing for services, which can limit flexibility for sitters who want to adjust their rates based on demand or specific circumstances.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake charges a 19% service fee, which is slightly higher than Rover’s. However, sitters have more flexibility in setting their prices, which can allow for better adaptation to local market conditions.
3. Insurance and Protection
- Rover.com: Rover offers the Rover Guarantee, which includes coverage for vet bills, property damage, and more, providing peace of mind for both sitters and pet owners. This is especially useful in cases of emergencies or unexpected events.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake also offers comprehensive insurance as part of its platform, covering vet care, public liability, and more. Their insurance is specifically tailored to the needs of pet sitters in the UK, ensuring coverage aligns with local legal requirements.
4. Client Communication and Booking Process
- Rover.com: Rover’s platform is user-friendly with robust features like instant messaging, booking management, and photo updates. The app is particularly strong, allowing for seamless communication and easy management of multiple bookings.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake also provides a straightforward booking and messaging system. Their app and website are easy to navigate, but some users may find Rover’s app slightly more polished and feature-rich.
5. Reputation and Community
- Rover.com: Rover’s extensive advertising and brand recognition in the UK make it a go-to platform for many pet owners. This can translate into more consistent job opportunities for sitters.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake may have a smaller footprint, but it’s known for fostering a more personal connection between sitters and pet owners. This can be beneficial for those looking to build long-term relationships with clients.
6. Support and Resources
- Rover.com: Rover offers 24/7 support and a variety of resources to help sitters grow their business, including training modules, tips, and community forums. The support is extensive, ensuring sitters have assistance whenever they need it.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake also provides customer support, but it’s not 24/7. However, they offer helpful resources and a community-driven approach that can be appealing to those who value peer advice and engagement.
7. Payout Methods
- Rover.com: Payments are processed through PayPal or direct bank deposit. Rover’s payment schedule typically sees funds released 2 days after a job is completed, ensuring timely access to earnings.
- Pawshake.com: Pawshake uses direct bank transfer, with payments processed after a booking is completed and confirmed by the pet owner. This process can sometimes take a bit longer compared to Rover’s payout system.
Choosing between Rover.com and Pawshake.com ultimately depends on your priorities as a dog sitter. Rover might be the better option if you’re looking for a larger client base, more robust tools, and faster payouts.
On the other hand, Pawshake could be ideal if you prefer more pricing flexibility, a community-focused approach, and localised insurance coverage.
Both platforms offer valuable resources and protections, so your decision should be based on which platform aligns best with your business goals and working style.
Rover vs Pawshake: The Pros and Cons
Rover.com
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Pawshake.com
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Choosing the Right Platform for You
Selecting between Rover.com and Pawshake.com ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and business goals as a dog sitter. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
1. Client Reach and Demand
- Rover.com is ideal if you’re looking for a larger, more diverse client base. Its extensive reach across the UK can help you secure more bookings, especially if you’re based in a highly populated area or are looking to scale your business quickly.
- Pawshake.com might be a better fit if you prefer working with a smaller, more community-focused platform. If building long-term relationships with clients and enjoying a close-knit community is important to you, Pawshake could offer the environment you’re looking for.
2. Pricing Flexibility
- Rover.com sets minimum pricing for services, which can provide a baseline but may limit your ability to adjust rates according to local demand or specific client needs. If you prefer a straightforward pricing structure that’s largely determined for you, Rover could be the right choice.
- Pawshake.com offers more flexibility in setting your rates, which can be advantageous if you’re in a market where clients are willing to pay more for premium services. This flexibility can also help you adjust your prices based on your experience, location, and the specific needs of your clients.
3. Insurance and Protection
- Rover.com provides the Rover Guarantee, which is comprehensive and globally recognized, making it a strong choice if you want robust coverage that handles a wide range of potential issues.
- Pawshake.com offers insurance specifically tailored to the UK market, ensuring that you’re covered according to local regulations. If having insurance that aligns closely with UK legal standards is important to you, Pawshake may be the better option.
4. Platform Support and Resources
- Rover.com excels in providing 24/7 customer support and a wide range of resources to help you grow your business. If you value having access to continuous support and a wealth of training materials, Rover could be more aligned with your needs.
- Pawshake.com offers solid support and resources but within a more community-driven context. If you prefer learning from peers and don’t require round-the-clock assistance, Pawshake’s support structure might suit you better.
5. Payout Preferences
- Rover.com typically offers faster payouts through PayPal or direct bank deposit, which is useful if you prefer quick access to your earnings after a job is completed.
- Pawshake.com processes payments through direct bank transfer, which can take a bit longer but provides a straightforward method of receiving your earnings. If immediate payout isn’t a priority, Pawshake’s payment system may work well for you.
Tips for Maximizing Earnings on Rover.com and Pawshake.com
Whether you choose Rover.com or Pawshake.com, there are several strategies you can use to maximize your earnings as a dog sitter. Here are some tips that apply to both platforms:
1. Offer a Range of Services
- Expand your offerings beyond basic dog sitting. Consider adding services such as dog walking, house sitting, grooming, or even pet transportation. The more services you provide, the more opportunities you have to attract different types of clients and increase your income.
2. Set Competitive Pricing
- Research what other sitters in your area are charging and set your prices competitively. While it’s important not to undervalue your services, offering a slightly lower rate when starting out can help you build a client base. As you gain more experience and positive reviews, you can gradually increase your rates.
3. Encourage Repeat Clients
- Building long-term relationships with clients is key to steady income. Offer discounts for repeat bookings or create packages that provide a slight discount for multiple sessions. Personalize your service by remembering details about the pets you care for, which can encourage clients to rebook with you.
4. Be Responsive and Reliable
- Respond to inquiries quickly and maintain a high acceptance rate for bookings. Both platforms reward sitters who are responsive and reliable with better visibility in search results, leading to more bookings. Consistently showing up on time and delivering excellent service will also boost your ratings and reviews, attracting more clients.
5. Optimize Your Profile
- Your profile is the first impression potential clients will have of you, so make sure it stands out. Use high-quality photos, write a compelling bio, and highlight your experience and any relevant certifications. Including testimonials or reviews from past clients can also help build trust and attract more bookings.
6. Leverage Seasonal Demand
- Identify peak times when pet owners are likely to need more help, such as holidays, school breaks, or summer vacations. Increase your availability during these periods and consider offering special packages or promotions to capitalize on the higher demand.
7. Ask for Reviews
- After completing a job, kindly ask satisfied clients to leave a review. Positive reviews are crucial for building credibility and attracting new clients. The more reviews you have, the higher you’ll rank in search results on both Rover and Pawshake, leading to more visibility and potential bookings.
8. Promote Your Services Outside the Platform
- Don’t rely solely on the platform to bring in clients. Promote your services on social media, local community boards, or even by word of mouth. The more you market yourself, the more likely you are to attract clients who might not be actively searching on Rover or Pawshake.
9. Offer Add-On Services
- Consider offering additional services that can increase your earnings, such as administering medication, providing training sessions, or offering extended hours. These add-ons can be a great way to boost your income with minimal extra effort.
10. Stay Updated and Educated
- Continuously improve your skills by taking pet care courses, obtaining certifications, or staying informed about best practices in pet sitting. Not only does this enhance your profile, but it also allows you to offer premium services at higher rates.
By implementing these strategies, you can increase your earnings and build a successful dog-sitting business on either platform. The key is to be proactive, responsive, and always focused on providing top-notch care to your clients’ pets.
Conclusion: Rover vs Pawshake
The right platform for you depends on what you prioritize in your dog-sitting business.
If you’re looking for scale, robust support, and faster payouts, Rover.com might be your best bet.
However, if you value pricing flexibility, a community-oriented approach, and localized insurance coverage, Pawshake.com could be the ideal choice.
Consider your business goals, preferred working style, and the type of clients you want to attract to make the decision that best suits your needs.
Curious about turning your pet sitting business into an international adventure? Then trustedhousesitters.com may be for you – check out how it compares to Rover here!
