What to Do: “Choose someone who already has pets,” says Sam Craig, a home owners’ association president. “He’ll understand how hard it is to find someone to take care of a dog when you have to run to your mother’s for the weekend.” That way, you can trade off taking care of each other’s animals. And don’t underestimate your bartering power. “Offer to wire his broken doorbell if you’re handy with electrical stuff. Or take over a playlist for his next party if you’re an expert dj,” he says.

What Not to Do: Don’t find yourself always asking for help but never offering it, says Craig.

Sample Script: “What a cute dog. I’d love to take care of him if you ever need a pet sitter. In fact, maybe we could trade off. I’m looking for someone to feed my dog while I’m away. Is that something you’d be interested in?”