A Pet Owner's Guide: How to Safely Share Your Home Key with a Dog Walker
If you're a pet owner facing a busy work schedule or a change in your living situation, hiring a dog walker can be a lifesaver. However, the big question on your mind might be, "How do I give my key to the dog walker securely?"
In this guide, we'll explore various options to ensure the safety of your home while making life easier for your furry friend.
P.S. Besides reading this post, we recommend looking for local forums to ask for specific walkers’ recommendations or practical tips - look for Facebook groups like NYC Dog Walkers And Petsitters or NYC Dog People.
Before you pass anyone the key:
Don’t just trust anyone with your dog (it’s obvious but still, important!). Even if you’re in a rush, and need someone to come in ASAP, still - do these 2 things first:
1. The Initial Meet & Greet:
After you've contacted the dog walker, the first step is arranging a Meet & Greet.
During this meeting, the walker will come to your home to meet you and your dog.
This is the perfect time to discuss your pet's specific needs and preferences, such as their favorite walking routes and any special requirements.
If you use a large platform, like Rover, all the sitters and walkers have undergone background checks, so you can feel more at ease.
2. Reviews and References:
It's always a good idea to check the reviews and references of the walker you're considering.
Read what other pet owners have to say about their experiences with the walker to make an informed decision.
Positive feedback from previous clients can provide valuable insights into the walker's reliability and trustworthiness.
Providing Access to Your Home:
Now, let's dive into the options for giving your dog walker access to your home:
a) Providing the walker with their own key (only once you really trust the person):
If you're comfortable with it, you can provide the walker with a spare key to your home.
Ensure you trust the walker fully before taking this step.
This option offers convenience but may raise security concerns - the walker could potentially enter your home anytime or make a copy of the key.
b) Leaving Key Hidden Around Your Home (Not Recommended):
Leaving a key hidden outside your home under the doormat or under a stone 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. It may have been ok in the ’60s. But in 2023… Just no.
c) KeyNest Points (Recommended):
KeyNest Points are a safe and secure solution for key exchange and allow you to keep track of key movements even when you’re away
Simply drop off your key at a designated KeyNest Point (usually your local convenience store/cafe), and the walker can pick it up at a pre-arranged time. They can also bring it back to the moment when the daily walk is finished.
This method ensures your key is stored securely until needed and is an excellent choice for pet owners who prioritize safety.
Because you get notified with every key collection or drop-off, you will have proof of how long the walk was - it’s a win-win!
Prices start at $9.95 per key collection or $34.95 for unlimited key movements per month
d) Garage Code or Spare Garage Door Opener:
If you have a garage with a secure 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 is open communication and choosing a method that aligns with your comfort level and prioritizes security. Remember to always prioritize your pet's safety and well-being while ensuring the security of your home.
FAQ:
Q: How do I know if a dog walker is trustworthy?
A: Start by checking the walker's reviews and references. Also, take advantage of the Meet & Greet to gauge your comfort level with the walker. Background checks are 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 change the access method whenever you choose. Just ensure that the new method you select 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 be safe until your walker needs it.
About Us
KeyNest offers you 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 one such Point located next to your property already.
Guests, dog walkers or contractors can then collect the key securely from a KeyNest Point, which is usually open 24/7. You'll be notified each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.
KeyNest has an ever-expanding global network of locations located just minutes from your property. To find out more, visit our website.
