References give a chance for someone you know well to give a glowing description of you (all accurate and truthful of course). And with at least three references displayed on your profile, pet parent are able to get a rounded idea of the sort of person you are, and whether they're happy to welcome you into their home to care for their precious pet family. 

If you're having trouble with your reference link working, this may be because you have opened the link yourself. Remember not to open the link yourself before sending it to a friend, colleague, etc.; otherwise, the link will expire and will not be usable.