A Pet Owner's Guide: How to Securely Provide Your Home Key to a Dog Walker in Australia
As an pet owner managing a hectic work schedule or adapting to new living arrangements, enlisting the help of a dog walker can be a true blessing. However, a pressing concern you might have is, "How can I safely hand over my key to the dog walker?"
In this guide, we'll explore various options to ensure the security of your home while simplifying life for your furry companion.
P.S. Apart from reading this post, we recommend seeking advice from local forums to obtain specific recommendations for dog walkers or practical tips. Look for Australian Facebook groups such as "Dog Sitters and Walkers of Perth" or "Professional Dog Groomer/Dog Walkers/Dog Sitters/Animal Services Australia"
Before entrusting anyone with your key:
Don't rush the process of choosing a dog walker. Prioritize these two steps:
The Initial Introduction Meeting:
After reaching out to the dog walker, the first step is to arrange an introductory meeting. During this meetup, the dog walker will visit your home to meet both you and your dog.
This is an ideal opportunity to discuss your pet's unique requirements and preferences, including their favorite walking routes and any special needs.
If you're using a reputable platform like Mad Paws, rest assured that all sitters and walkers undergo background checks for added peace of mind.
Reviews and Recommendations:
Checking the reviews and references of the dog walker you're considering is always a wise move. Read about the experiences of other pet owners who have hired the same walker to make an informed choice.
Positive feedback from previous clients can offer valuable insights into the walker's reliability and trustworthiness.
Options For Providing Access to Your Home:
Now, let's explore the options for granting access to your home to the dog walker:
a) Providing the Walker with Their Own Key (Only When You Trust Them):
If you feel comfortable, you can provide the dog walker with a spare key to your home. Ensure that you have complete trust in the walker before taking this step.
While this option offers convenience, it may raise security concerns, as the walker could potentially enter your home at any time or make a copy of the key.
b) Leaving a Key Hidden Around Your Home (Not Recommended):
Leaving a key hidden outside your home under the doormat or a rock may seem convenient but poses a significant security risk.
We strongly discourage this option, as it can lead to potential break-ins or unauthorized access. In the modern age, this practice is highly discouraged.
c) KeyNest Points (Recommended):
KeyNest Points provide a secure and reliable solution for key exchange, allowing you to track key movements even when you're away.
Simply drop off your key at a designated KeyNest Point, often located in your local convenience store or cafe, and the walker can pick it up at a pre-arranged time. They can also return it once the daily walk is complete.
This method ensures that your key is stored securely until it's needed and is an excellent choice for pet owners who prioritize safety.
You'll receive notifications for every key collection or drop-off, providing proof of the walk's duration—a win-win!
Prices start at A$12.99 per key collection or A$49.99 for unlimited key movements per month.
d) Garage Code or Spare Garage Door Opener:
If you have a secure garage with a code or a spare garage door opener, you can grant access to the walker through this method.
Make sure to change the code or opener if you decide to switch dog walkers or if there are any security concerns.
In summary, sharing your home key with a dog walker doesn't have to be a daunting process. The key to a successful arrangement lies in open communication and selecting a method that aligns with your comfort level while prioritizing security. Always keep your pet's safety and well-being in mind, along with the security of your home.
FAQ:
Q: How can I determine if a dog walker is trustworthy?
A: Begin by checking the walker's reviews and references. Take advantage of the introductory meeting to assess your comfort level with the walker. Background checks are typically a standard requirement for all walkers on most platforms.
Q: Can I change the access method if I switch dog walkers?
A: Absolutely! You have the flexibility to modify the access method whenever you wish. Just ensure that the new method you choose is secure and convenient for both you and your new dog walker.
Q: What if I don't have a garage or secure location for a key?
A: In such cases, we strongly recommend using KeyNest Points. They offer a secure, hassle-free solution for key exchange, even if you don't have a garage or designated secure location. Your key will remain safe until your walker needs it.
About Us:
KeyNest offers a convenient service for storing and exchanging your property keys. You can drop off a key at any of the 5,000+ locations in our network, so there's likely a KeyNest Point conveniently situated near your property.
Guests, dog walkers, or contractors can securely collect the key from a KeyNest Point, which is often open 24/7. You'll receive notifications each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.
KeyNest has a continually expanding global network of locations, often just minutes away from your property. To learn more, visit our website.
