When tipping pet care providers like boarders, trainers, and sitters, the rules aren’t always so simple. They can also change based on where you are located and where you get the service, such as a private business versus a chain store.
In general, you should tip independent individuals who provide services for your dog. For example, you should tip private pet groomers. Dog walkers and sitters also fall into that category. However, those who work for a larger business often don’t get a tip (and may not be allowed to accept tips). Veterinary staff don’t get tips, for example.
That said, it can be more complicated than this. How does a pet groomer at a private business compare to a pet groomer at a chain store? We will examine all these differences below.
Who Gets a Tip?
You should tip all independent individuals who spend a lot of time with your dog in particular. For example, dog walkers and sitters spend less time caring for your particular dog.
Plus, even though they technically work for a larger company, dog walkers and sitters mostly work independently. Therefore, they should be tipped because of the large amount of time they spend with your dog. 10–15% is usually good. You should tip them the same as a waiter or anyone providing service.
Groomers are similar to hairstylists. Therefore, you should also tip them. However, in larger chain stores, groomers often do not work independently and may not be allowed to take tips. Independent groomers are different, of course, as they usually work alone or with very few other groomers. A tip of 10–15% of the total bill is recommended.
Daycare staff should also be tipped. It may depend on the daycare setup, though. If your dog is assigned to an individual, it’s a good idea to tip that particular handler. However, if the space is watched by many different people, it usually doesn’t make much sense to tip them.
You can also tip less for the daycare staff, as they tend to spread their attention more thinly among all the dogs. Around $5 is a good option, though you can raise it if an individual pays particular attention to your dog.
Who Doesn’t Get Tipped?
You should always tip when you feel someone acting on your dog. However, there are some pet care providers who do not typically tip.
Veterinarians and vet techs typically do not tip. These professionals are not service providers in the same way as a waiter. Many vets and vet techs will likely interact with your dog during a vet visit, so tipping one individual is often pointless. Just like you don’t tip your doctor, you don’t have to tip your dog’s doctor either.
Trainers usually don’t need to be tipped, either. They often set their own packages and fees, and most don’t expect tips. Therefore, you usually don’t need to give them extra money. That being said if your trainer exceeds your expectations, you may want to tip.
A positive online review is often worth it many for an independent dog trainer, too.
Pet boarders don’t require tipping, either. In most cases, your dog will receive attention from different individuals as their shifts change. The person you get your dog from may not be the person your dog spends most of their time with. Maybe you don’t know WHO tip however you want.
Exceptions
Of course, each of the general suggestions above has exceptions that you should consider. For example, anytime a service provider goes above and beyond, you can consider tipping. Extra walks or dealing with unexpected situations often require a tip. If you rush your dog to the vet at the last minute and they don’t charge you extra, you might want to tip those who stayed past closing time to take care of your dog.
Extra walks, playtime, and attention may all require additional tips.
A particularly experienced individual may also require a larger tip than someone less experienced. If your dog sitter is watching your dog year, they may deserve a bigger tip than a new dog sitter. You’re not just tipping for a specific walk or playtime. You tip for the years of experience that person has built up.
Of course, consider your budget as well. Even a small gesture is appreciated, especially if that individual doesn’t normally get a tip.
Alternatives to Tipping
If you decide not to tip someone for one reason or another, there are many other ways to show your appreciation. Sometimes, these alternatives can mean more than a $5 tip. We recommend these alternatives for those who don’t typically tip (like vets) or in situations where a 10% tip is too low, like a $15 dog walk.
- Write a positive review. If you only use the service once, a positive review will help them build their business and attract more clients. A five-star review can mean more than a $10 tip, depending on the business.
- Refer them to friends. If you have friends who may actually use the service, referring them to the provider may have more impact than a small tip. This option is especially important for new providers who may be still building a client base.
- Be persistent. If you like the service, consider using them again. Groomers and dog trainers thrive on repeat business, so be sure to make another appointment if you like the services provided.
Of course, when you can tip and do these alternatives, that’s often the best option. New businesses often need online reviews to get “on the map,” for example. When someone goes above and beyond, giving that five-star review will help them build their client base.
Negative reviews tend to be left more often than positive reviews. For every person who has a positive experience, few tend to leave reviews. Therefore, taking the time to leave a positive review is a good choice.
Final Thoughts
Tipping can be complicated. This often differs from one area to another, especially among pet service providers. In the United States, tipping is quite common. Therefore, many pet service providers can count on tips and set their pricing accordingly. Other times, tips may not be allowed. It all depends on the situation and the business.
When in doubt, asking questions is always the best policy. You can also look for a tip jar or other sign that tips are welcome.
Featured Image Credit: Nitiphonphat, Shutterstock
