Reciprocal Sheepdog Sitting
I got to wondering if OES owners in any region had ever tried taking in someone's sheepdog in return for the same from other sheepdog owners. Maybe some compensation would need to be involved, I don't know, but having my dogs be able to have a vacation with other sheepdogs when my wife and I take our vacation would sure beat most kennels. There would probably be some problems like incompatibility or others that I can't think of, and maybe even liability issues for those worried about such things, but given the nature of the group here, I would be surprised if it hasn't been tried at least in some part of the country or with one of the regional OES organizations. |
|
|
| I think that's a fabulous idea.
I have one who is too old and has severe separation anxiety, so if we go anywhere he has to be left with family (extended herd, as we say). But I'm often looking for help with the other two! |
| It definitely comes down to compatibility. We have had some that did great, others that just can't make it in the house with the two boys. Clyde and Bear as a team can be tough, especially for certain personalities!
It does seem to me that I have gotten other people's but no one has ever taken mine.  |
| We dog sit within the family mostly. Our big test will be in May, when all of us go out to NY for my daughter Lisa's college graduation. Between us (3 households) we will have 9 dogs, plus all the livestock chores here....for a week. I am already planning!
We also exchange pet sitting with my friend Mary. They have 2 dogs, about 7 cats and numerous birds. LeAnne's Clay is staying with her. It helps, as she lives only 3 blocks from LeAnne's house! |
Yes, it's been done. I've petsitted for forum members. I'm happy to help when I can. It does make a difference as far as compatibility is concerned, though. I have to be sure the wigglebums don't tag team the newcomers and wear them out trying to make them play. 
If only we all lived closer together. |
| I wish there was something like this - it has been tough living in a new area and finiding someone I trust to take care of Winston like I do. |
I think that is a great idea.. I do not do hoildays but I know I would hit up an aunt that lives on a farm and she has 3 dogs already whats a few more.... I would even shave them down so no worries of what I am come home to.  BUT to hang with more sheepies would be great. |
ButtersStotch wrote: Clyde and Bear as a team can be tough, especially for certain personalities! It does seem to me that I have gotten other people's but no one has ever taken mine.
I would watch Clyde and Bear heartbeat. Harry would be in heaven. |
SheepieMommy wrote: ButtersStotch wrote: Clyde and Bear as a team can be tough, especially for certain personalities! It does seem to me that I have gotten other people's but no one has ever taken mine. :( I would watch Clyde and Bear heartbeat. Harry would be in heaven. I'll also volunteer Barkley to be kid brother to Clyde and Bear. He had a good time playing with them for 35 seconds or so at the Michigan Sheepdog Picnic last year (after that they all laid down in the shade and/or kiddie pools). If we need to leave Barkley somewhere, it's either with a set of parents, or he goes back to spend time at his breeder's place which is only half an hour from home. Like ButtersStotch, we seem to sit for others, but most of our friends wouldn't be able/willing to take Barkley. |
| Aw, thanks Judi and Craig. Harry and Barkley were 2 dogs that they did get along with great. Clyde and Harry acted like they knew each other all their lives and Barkley wasn't the least bit intimidated by both of them. He had that whole "whatever" sheepdog attitude with them, which is perfect! I'm glad someone would be willing to watch my bad seeds, lol. No, they're good boys but I am fully aware what a handful two dogs of that size can be, especially for someone who just isn't used to it. Even Clyde by himself dwarfs most other OES then throw in Bear for good measure-- that would send most people and dogs running for the hills!
The people we board them with love them and do great with them. My bigger problem now is Lucy because she needs a lot of special care and, honestly, I just don't trust most people to give it the way I want her to get it. |
Didn't find exactly what you're looking for? Search again here:
Custom Search
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|