When it comes to finding a dog walker or pet sitter in Virginia Beach, many pet owners turn to popular gig platforms like Rover and Wag for convenience. While these apps make it easy to book pet care, they also come with serious risks that many pet parents don’t realize until it’s too late.
Before you trust a stranger from an app with your beloved pet, consider the hidden dangers of hiring through Rover or Wag—and why a professional, local dog walking company might be the safer, more reliable choice.

1. Lack of Proper Background Checks & Experience
Many pet owners assume that Rover and Wag thoroughly vet their walkers and sitters—but that’s not always the case.
Minimal Screening – Background checks on these platforms are basic and limited. Some sitters may have little to no real pet care experience.
No Hands-On Training – Unlike professional dog walking companies that provide extensive training, most walkers on Rover and Wag learn as they go—often at the expense of your pet’s safety.
No Pet CPR or First Aid Certification – If an emergency happens, will they know what to do? Most gig workers on these apps aren’t trained in pet CPR or emergency response.
Real Risk: There have been numerous reports of dogs being injured, lost, or even passing away under the care of inexperienced walkers and sitters hired through these platforms.
2. Higher Risk of Lost or Injured Pets
Your dog’s safety should be the top priority, but with Rover or Wag, you’re taking a gamble on the quality of care.
No Guarantee of On-Leash Safety – Some inexperienced walkers drop leashes, don’t check for secure harnesses, or let dogs off-leash in unsafe areas.
Multiple Dogs at Once – To maximize earnings, many sitters and walkers take on multiple dogs at the same time—increasing the risk of fights, tangled leashes, and lack of supervision.
Unfamiliar with Dog Behavior – Many sitters don’t recognize stress signals, aggression, or early signs of illness, which can lead to dangerous situations.
Real Risk: There have been cases of dogs running away or getting attacked because of negligence by Rover or Wag walkers who didn’t properly secure the leash or mismanaged group walks.
3. Liability & Insurance Nightmares
Did you know that if something happens to your dog while in a Rover or Wag sitter’s care, you might not be covered for damages?
Limited Insurance Protection – Rover and Wag offer minimal liability coverage, and their policies often favor the sitter, not the pet owner.
No Workers’ Compensation – If the walker gets injured while walking your dog, you could be held responsible.
No Guarantee of Accountability – If something happens to your pet, it can be difficult to hold the walker or sitter accountable—many disappear from the app after complaints.
Real Risk: There have been numerous lawsuits and horror stories of pet parents receiving little to no support after a sitter or walker lost or injured their dog.
4. Lack of Personalized & Consistent Care
When you book through Rover or Wag, you never really know who’s coming to walk your dog.
Different Walkers Every Time – Many gig workers treat dog walking as a side hustle, meaning your pet could see a new, unfamiliar face every time—causing stress and anxiety.
No Direct Communication – With app-based bookings, you don’t get to personally interview the walker or sitter before they enter your home.
No Established Relationship – Unlike a dedicated professional dog walking company, these platforms don’t prioritize building long-term trust and consistency for your pet.
Real Risk: Pets thrive on routine and familiarity. Constantly rotating sitters can lead to anxiety, behavioral changes, and trust issues for your dog.

A Safer, More Reliable Alternative: Hire a Local, Professional Dog Walker
Instead of risking your pet’s safety with a random gig worker, consider hiring a trusted, local dog walking service in Virginia Beach, like Top Dog Walk.
Experienced, Trained, and Insured Professionals – We specialize in pet care and prioritize your dog’s safety.
Background-Checked & Pet CPR Certified Staff – Unlike gig apps, our team goes through rigorous screening and training.
Consistent Team & Personalized Care – Every team member is trained. Your dog gets the same trusted care every time.
Reliable, Fully Insured, and Small-Business Owned – We’re accountable, experienced, and truly care about your pet. Need to speak with someone? We make sure our office team is available by phone and email for any questions and concerns.
Don’t gamble with your dog’s safety—choose a professional dog walking service that puts your pet first!
Book a new client meeting today and experience the difference!
Email: info@topdogwalk.com
Serving Virginia Beach & surrounding areas
Your dog deserves more than a side hustle—they deserve a pro!
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