Expect growth of on-demand, task matching apps to continue

UPDATE @ 6:01 p.m.:  Apps are being used to get jobs done, from hailing a ride to getting groceries delivered, and now dogs are taking advantage of these on-demand services, too.

"I love it. I use Uber and Lyft and AirBnB. Everyone is using these apps now. It makes it really easy and convenient," said Josiah Clark of Kettering who found a sitter for his dog, Elsie, through the Rover app.

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The Rover app and website helps dog owners find background-checked and rated dog walkers and sitters.

"Calling around, putting an ad out- I think that's just kind of something that is dated now and technology is the future so this is where it's going," said Elsie's dog sitter, Jessica Morgan of Oakwood.

By 2020, 43 percent of the U.S. workforce will be employed in on-demand jobs, a jump from 34 percent, according to Intuit, the owner of Turbo Tax.

The pros for these gig workers include flexibility and variety.

The cons include lack of benefits and inconsistent work.

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But Morgan has another problem -- too many customers.

"Sometimes I have to turn people down," said Morgan. "Who knew?"

For Clark, the process is quick and inexpensive.

"Five to ten dollars cheaper a night to have your dog stay at someone's house and have them taken care of as part of their family- rather than another group of dogs," said Clark.

Rover workers set their own rates.

Twenty percent goes to the company to cover insurance and other costs.

Morgan said she's made about $4,000 already this year. But to her, it's not about the money.

"I really love it for getting to know the animals and getting to know the people, too. But really the animals are the perk," said Morgan.

There are about 100 Rover sitters and walkers in the Dayton, area and 140,000 nationwide.

Walkers and sitters must be 18 years old to sign up.

Company officials said they are on track to double revenue in 2017.

INITIAL REPORT

From hailing a ride through Uber to finding someone to walk your dog through Rover, apps connecting workers to tasks are taking off.

News Center 7 consumer reporter Rachel Murray is speaking to a Rover dog walker and dog owner this afternoon and will have more on the growth of gigs today at 5 p.m.