The folks behind an online pet services website want to make it easier for dog lovers to become dog owners.
GoFetch is an online marketplace where dog owners can find walkers, sitters and even boarders.
Dog walkers have been using the site in Vancouver and Toronto since last April. Clients using the site often asked walkers to board or sit their pups too, so GoFetch decided to expand its services. This week it started accepting applications from potential doggy caretakers in Burnaby.
“We’ve received just over 2,000 service listings across Canada, so it’s pretty incredible,” said Willson Cross, co-founder of GoFetch.
But not all applicants will be approved. GoFetch staff vet each one through interviews, home visits and credential checks.
By the end of the screening process, usually about 30 per cent are approved, Cross said.
Interested dog sitters or boarders have to fill out a lengthy application where all the fields are mandatory, including providing a dog-care plan.
GoFetch is similar to travel sites like Airbnb where other users can rate andreview the dog walker, sitter or boarder.
This is part of what makes GoFetch stand out compared to other online sources like Craigslist and Kijiji, Cross said.
“With platforms such as Craigslist, the trust factor is not there. In addition to the fact that traditional kennel options, you don’t get the personalized care or the customized care peace of mind,” he said.
Cross admitted there’s always room to improve when you’re running an online tech company like GoFetch, but he’s proud of the direction the company is going so far.
“Our vision is really to be Canada’s largest and most trusted pet services marketplace,” he said, adding he hopes GoFetch will make it easier for everyone to own a dog.
For more information, go to gofetch.ca.
