The co-op is a service to members, but the Westie Club of the South, Inc. is not a party to the actual dog-sitting transaction.  Members should understand that this is a means for them to meet other people interested in exchanging dog sitting services.  The Westie Club of the South, Inc., the committee chair and the members of the co-op do not vouch for the ability, reliability and safety of any of the participants or pets, and do not assume any responsibility for the safety of the pets or people who choose to use this forum.  Participants are not licensed and bonded pet sitters, nor do they carry any special credentials regarding caring for animals.

1. Only Westie Club of the South, Inc. members can participate and the primary caregiver must be 21 years of age or older.
2. Members must complete a profile form and submit it to the committee chair prior to arranging dog-sitting services. Once the committee chair receives your form, you will be noted in the club directory as a participant and will receive a co-op profile that includes other member participant names, contact information, information about the dog(s) and sitter preferences.
3. Members are responsible for making their own dog-sitting arrangements with other members by using the information provided in the member directory or co-op profile. As a courtesy to other members, please give as much advance notice as possible, be prompt when dropping-off and picking-up your dog and notify the sitter immediately if you are cancelling because service is no longer needed.  
4. Sitters may watch dogs in their home or drop by the dog's home as directed by the dog owner to let the dog out, feed the dog, walk or play with the dog, etc.
5. To ensure the health and safety of all dogs, your dog(s) must be:
   • Well socialized
   • Up-to-date on vaccinations
   • Free of fleas and ticks and well-groomed
6. Wearing a dog license tag and I.D. tag with owner name and phone number on a collar
7. When dropping off a dog at the sitter's home, dog owner must bring:
   • A supply of food to last through the entire stay
   • Leash
   • Name and number of pet's veterinarian in case of emergency
   • Toys (optional)
   • Treats
   • Crate/bedding (always ask the sitter in advance if this is required)
   • Medications and instructions for administering meds (always ask if the sitter is willing to administer meds)
8. Contact your vet ahead of time to notify them who will be taking care of your dog and that the sitter has permission for treatment
9. Get together to introduce dogs at the sitter’s house
10. Owner agrees to cover all expenses while their dog is being cared for, including, but not limited to food, medications and medical attention if needed.
11. The member providing dog-sitting services is responsible for tracking the number of days they provided service and report it to the committee chair.  This will allow for an equitable program for all participants and help monitor the value on an ongoing basis.

How do I join?

Send an email to Cathy Moerchen at co-op@westieclubsouth.com asking to participate in the co-op.  You may also call her at the numbers listed in the member directory.  You may begin exchanging dog-sitting services when you've received a confirmation and a co-op profile.