Rover is suitable for pet owners seeking local caregivers with potential vet expense coverage, but faces customer satisfaction issues. TrustedHousesitters is better for those preferring in-home care and willing to pay an annual membership fee, though 24/7 supervision isn't guaranteed.
| Attribute | Rover | In-Home Pet Sitters (e.g., via TrustedHousesitters) |
|---|---|---|
| Price per night/day | Varies, e.g., $77-$125 at Rover Kennels in Culver City | — |
| Types of pets accepted (dogs, cats, birds, etc.) | Primarily dogs and cats | — |
| Availability of 24/7 supervision | Rover's Trust & Safety team offers 24/7 support | — |
| Boarding facility cleanliness and hygiene | Rover Stay Over uses a hydrogen peroxide-based cleaner and sanitizer. Daily housekeeping services with hospital-grade cleaning protocols are used to keep facilities spotless and hygienic. Cleanliness can vary by facility; evaluate cleanliness and safety. | — |
| Indoor and outdoor play areas | Some Rover facilities offer covered turf play yards. | — |
| Staff qualifications and experience | Rover sitters undergo an application and screening process, including background checks and interviews. Not all sitters have professional experience or certifications in pet care. | — |
| Emergency veterinary care protocols | Rover has emergency protocols, including a 24/7 customer support team and a network of local veterinarians. Rover also has a Trust & Safety team that can be contacted in case of an emergency. The Rover Guarantee may cover vet expenses. | — |
| Vaccination requirements | Rover itself doesn't have specific vaccination policies. Individual sitters may have their own requirements. Some boarding facilities require current vaccination records. | — |
| Daily exercise and playtime provided | Rover offers dog walking and doggy daycare services. Some facilities offer a minimum of six outdoor breaks each day. Daily routines vary. | — |
| Personalized attention and care | Rover connects pet owners with caregivers who can provide individualized care. | — |
| Customer reviews and ratings | Rover's platform allows pet owners to leave reviews and ratings for pet sitters and dog walkers. Rover has a rating of 1.2 stars from 618 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. | — |
| Insurance coverage for pets | Rover does not offer pet insurance but provides information about pet insurance options. The Rover Guarantee may reimburse expenses from vet care costs (up to $25,000), damage to the pet owner's home, or some medical costs for third-party injuries. | — |