Member Spotlight: Laura and Rumi
We spoke with one of our members, Laura, and talked about being a dog parent in the Bay Area, the story of how she and Rumi (her dog) met, Rumi’s friendship with another member’s pup Bailey and her general experience with Louie’s Club so far.
Are you from the Bay Area originally?
No, I’m actually from Italy. I was in Boston for two years previously and that’s where I got Rumi. I moved to the Bay Area in December 2016.
Is Rumi your first dog?
I had a dog growing up. But then I went to university and was moving around so I didn’t get a chance to get another dog until I moved to the U.S.
What are some of your favorite activities to do with Rumi?
We go to Whisman Park in Mountain View almost every day, except when it rains. During the weekends, we go for hikes sometimes. She loves being outdoors so I try to be outdoors as much as I can.
During weekdays, does Rumi stay at home or do you use a day care?
No, she stays home. I work from home often, because I have calls from Europe so I can leave home around 10 AM and come back home at 5 PM. That way, she doesn’t stay too long at home alone.
What do you think is the hardest part about being a dog parent?
Nowadays, it’s more that I am responsible for her and also working. So I feel guilty sometimes, leaving her alone. I think that’s the hardest part.
What did you do as far as dog sitting before Louie’s Club, back in Massachusetts?
I was using another site called Rover.com where you pay for people to come take care of your dog. But it became very expensive since this year I travelled a lot.
Louie’s Club was ideal. It was much more effective to be able to exchange dog sitting without having to pay. That, and also the idea of having dogs over was nice so Rumi could have some company.
How has your experience been so far with Louie’s Club?
It’s been great so far. I actually only exchanged with the same person, Jenny, because she loves Rumi. In fact Jenny’s family has hosted Rumi three times already and is happy to have Rumi because she gets along very well with their dog, Bailey. I’ve also hosted Bailey once so far.
So when you are looking for someone in the community, is there something specific you look for on a member’s profile?
First of all, the location. I like it to be close; not too far from home. Other than that, I am also looking to see if the dog would be easy to take care of, since it would be an exchange. Usually that has to do with size, since I live in a small apartment; the dog can’t be too big. Also, I look to see if the description of the dog is compatible with Rumi’s personality.
Lastly, what tips or advice do you have for other members for a successful exchange?
Definitely to meet ahead of the exchange, just to see if the dogs get along. Also, you will feel more comfortable after you meet them face to face.
Write a message that is very descriptive. I have received a few messages that I couldn’t answer because I was away but the messages were just one line and not very descriptive. Make a message that is personable and warm. That might make a person more likely to respond and help to establish that relationship even before you meet.
We enjoyed getting to know Laura and are so happy that she’s having a great experience with the dog sitting community.
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on Member Spotlight, shoot us an email at help@louiesclub.com.
Louie’s Club is active in the San Francisco Bay Area. Sign up now on Louie’s Club and meet both dog lovers and dog parents.
