Your dog's safety depends on more than star ratings. The biggest factor is how a platform vets its providers — and most platforms stop at a background check. Here's how Tails takes a safety-first approach, and what to watch for when evaluating any pet care platform.
Tails' Safety-First Approach
Tails is built around the idea that skill verification matters more than background checks alone. Every Tails provider passes an in-person interview assessing real dog-handling capability — leash skills, reactivity awareness, and emergency protocols. Combined with background checks and responsive local support, this means fewer preventable incidents and higher-quality care. Tails charges providers just 10% (with a separate 5% booking fee for parents), which keeps experienced providers on the platform long-term. To protect yourself on any platform, use our 10 questions to ask before hiring a dog sitter and compare safety features in our best dog walking apps guide.
Common Problems on Other Platforms
When platforms rely only on background checks and self-reported experience, these issues come up repeatedly:
- Unvetted walkers: Background checks catch criminal records but don't assess dog handling skills
- Lost dogs: Off-leash incidents, gate left open, or poor recall training
- Injuries: Dog fights, falls, or rough handling by inexperienced walkers
- Property damage: Broken items, stolen keys, or unauthorized access
- Poor customer service: Slow response times to urgent issues or claim disputes
How to Protect Your Pet on Any Platform
Always meet walkers in person before booking, ask for references, check reviews carefully, start with short trial walks, and communicate clearly about your dog's needs (reactivity, health issues, training level).
Red Flags to Watch For
- Walker has no reviews or only recent reviews
- Walker cancels frequently
- Walker doesn't respond to messages promptly
- Walker pressures you to book outside the platform