Meet Deandra West, Owner of Deandra Dog Sits
An Interview with Jessica Wise
What got you into the dog sitting business?
My journey into dog sitting started when I was looking for a flexible side hustle that could complement my lifestyle. The idea sparked when I saw an opportunity to combine my love for dogs with the need for flexibility. Watching my neighbor's dachshunds opened my eyes to the joy and fulfillment that comes from caring for pets. It also provided my own dog with invaluable social skills and companionship, making it a rewarding experience for both of us.
What’s a common misconception about working with dogs?
A common misconception I've encountered is the underestimation of dogs’/ needs, such as their dietary requirements, whether they might try to escape the fence, or if they're truly potty trained versus just at their owner's home. Each dog comes with its own set of habits and needs, which requires adaptability and understanding from a sitter's perspective. Educating pet owners and managing these expectations is a crucial part of my job.
What makes your at-home business stand out from bigger doggy daycare/sitting businesses?
My at-home dog sitting business offers a more personalized and attentive care environment. I limit the number of dogs I take in to ensure they all receive individual attention, love, and care as if they were my own. This contrasts with larger daycare facilities, where dogs might not receive the same level of human interaction or might feel overwhelmed by the larger groups.
How has social media helped your business grow?
Social media has allowed me to showcase the genuine care and fun the dogs experience while with me, through photos and videos. Good and engaging visual content helps build trust with potential clients and creates a community of dog lovers. It also facilitated word-of-mouth recommendations, which are invaluable.
Being a dog mom yourself, how has becoming a dogsitter changed your relationship with your own pup, Romeo, if at all?
The experience has significantly benefited Romeo, providing him with more opportunities to socialize and build friendships with other dogs. This companionship has enriched his life, making him more adaptable and sociable. Observing his positive interactions has deepened my appreciation for the role that companionship plays in a dog's well-being.
You use the Rover app to obtain your clients. How do you make the app work for you? Does it do the marketing for you?
Maintaining a high rating on Rover is crucial — it's a badge of trust and quality in the dog sitting community. I focus on delivering star service to every client, which in turn, encourages positive reviews and helps my profile stand out. While Rover provides a platform for visibility, the quality of my service is what truly markets my business. I actively engage with clients and their pets to ensure a personalized and exceptional care experience, fostering my reputation as a “Star Sitter.”
Any advice for pet parents who are looking for sitters or daycares?
My advice is to look for sitters or daycares that align with your pet's needs and your expectations. Don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about their experience, approach to care, and how they handle emergencies. A meet-and-greet is also essential to ensure your dog feels comfortable with the sitter and the environment. Trust your instincts and your pet's reaction to the sitter or daycare environment.
What has owning this business taught you about yourself?
Owning this business has taught me a great deal about resilience, patience, and the joy of following one's passion. When you’re doing what you love, the challenges become stepping stones rather than obstacles. I've learned the importance of adaptability and continuously educating myself to provide the best care possible. It's been a fulfilling journey of personal and professional growth.
Follow Deandra on IG at @deandradogsits, and book her on Rover!
