How to Message Other Pet loving Members on Pawshare Club: Kindness, Trust & Community Etiquette

4 Dec

At Pawshare Club, we’re not just another pet sitting app. We’re a trusted, growing community of animal lovers who support each other not necessarily for money, but for the joy of caring and sharing.

Many members join because they believe in the power of community care — a bit like time banking or home exchange. Whether you're a pet owner needing help, or a pet lover who misses having a furry friend, here’s how to connect thoughtfully and build trust with fellow members.

💬 1. Send a Warm, Personal Message

A generic “Hi, are you available tomorrow?” rarely gets the best response.

Instead, try:

Mentioning something you liked about the person’s profile
Introducing yourself briefly (e.g. your dog’s name, your experience, why you're reaching out)
Being specific about the help you're offering or seeking

💡 Examples:

“Hi Emily! I saw you live nearby and I loved what you shared about your golden retriever.

I’m heading away for a few days from 23rd of December to 26th of December and was wondering if you might be around to help. This will be my family reunion and I have not met my family for a few years and I am so excited! If you are not available, no worries at all and feel free to let me know if you know someone who might be. Of course, feel free to reach out to me if you need help with your golden - I am normally available on weekends”
“Hi Susan,I came across your profile and your [dog’s/cat’s] photos made me smile — they look so loved! 🐶💛 I don’t have a pet of my own at the moment, but I genuinely miss being around animals. I recently moved to [Melbourne / Australia], and while I’m not quite in the right place to have one yet, I’d love to help out however I can.
A few years ago, I had to say goodbye to my own dog, and I’ve been taking time to settle into a new chapter before bringing another animal into my life. But, If you’re ever looking for support — a walk, a cuddle visit, or company while you're away — I’d be more than happy to help. I’m currently available [insert days/times], and I’m flexible over the holiday period too.
If you already have support, no worries at all — and if you know someone nearby who might need a hand, I’d love if you could pass on my details on Pawshare Club”

📅 2. Be Mindful of the Season

As the holidays approach, many people are:

Travelling
Closing out the year with work
Spending time with family

Not everyone will respond immediately — and that’s okay!

👉 We recommend:

Reaching out to a few members
Being kind and patient
Asking if they know anyone else who may be available

🗣️ Word of mouth is powerful — it’s how Pawshare Club has grown from day one.

🐱 3. Pet Lovers Without Pets Are Welcome Too

Even if you don’t currently have a pet, you’re part of the community.

Many members without pets:

Offer to help because they miss being around animals
Are happy to lend a hand, especially during holidays
Enjoy the connection, walks, and cuddles — just as much as the pets do!

If you're around during the Christmas/new year season and would love to help, feel free to message members in your area who might need a hand.

✅ 4. Build Trust by Verifying Your Profile

We encourage all members to take simple steps to increase trust and safety during onboarding or by going to profile -> help once logged in.

Complete your Dog Knowledge Form
Submit your ID Verification (if available in your area)
Add a few friendly photos of yourself with a pet if you have one!)

As a pet parent myself, I’ve never asked someone to look after my dog unless I knew they’d taken some steps to verify themselves. Not because I don’t trust people — but because trust grows faster when we feel safe and informed.

🐾 5. A Note on Special Pet Needs

Before starting Pawshare Club, I was a foster carer with a non-profit animal organisation. To qualify, my partner and I were required to complete a police check, share employment references, and host a home visit to ensure the space was pet-safe.

Why? Because some pets are more vulnerable or have higher needs and even when help is freely offered, it needs to be the right help.

Pawshare is a beautiful, community-powered platform. But if your dog has:

Significant behaviour issues (e.g. reactivity, separation anxiety)
Severe medical needs
Or requires someone with professional animal care qualifications and/or professional insurance

Please reach out to us via info@pawshareclub.com directly. I have a list of qualified and/or fully insured pet carers I can personally connect you with.

Most members on Pawshare are loving, experienced pet lovers — but not all are equipped to handle pets that require special attention or expertise.

💛 Let’s Keep This Community Kind and Safe

Whether you're messaging someone for the first time or offering a helping hand, a little kindness goes a long way.

Pawshare Club isn’t about monetary transactions — it’s about trust, connection, and care. Let’s continue building a community where pets (and people) feel safe, supported, and valued.

Thanks for being part of it. We’re so happy you’re here. 💛

Have questions or need help? Feel free to message us anytime — or book a call with the founder here »

Ally Kim