I can't believe it is so hard......................
In April, my sister had a bone marrow transplant. She is my only sibling and has MDS. Thankfully, the transplant was successful BUT she has had many ups and downs, more downs than ups. At this time she is in hospital for blood clots in legs and lungs. A little Graft vs Host Disease in mouth but very easily treatable. I just can't believe it's so hard to find someone. Plus I have a limited amount of $$$. It isn't like some needs to be there 24/7. Even I'm not!!! I know, stop whining.  Oh well, this too shall pass. Just wondering how many others have the same type of situations for sheepie sitters. |
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| Do you live near a college? A lot of the dorms close for the holidays and not all have a place to go or its too far. Maybe someone knows someone and you still have plenty of time to interview and do background checks and see how they react with your babies. Also I would ask your vet, any churches, even if you are not a member, maybe one of your friends is a member and they can ask for you. I know how you feel. I have not been anywhere that was not just for a day in years due to elderly issues. But they were happy and I was happy. So no regrets. Good luck. |
| Maybe try this....Do you have friends with kids who use a babysitter? Hire the babysitter. Have you left the dogs before? I think when you realize what goes into explaining the care of your dogs you will realize it's just like leaving kids. It's a lot of work - you just don't really realize it because you do it every day but once you start to write it down and explain it in detail so there are no mistakes and so someone else can understand you will be blown away at how much you actually do to provide your babies with a comfy existence! When I have to leave my furkids I leave them with my kids babysitter. She is a college student and honestly she says taking care of the kids is easier and it's easier to care for the dogs when the kids are here is case she has questions! She is the best, I don't know what I would do without her. Kids and dogs alike have trained her well! I have to leave for my daughter's dance frequently and it can often be stressful for all involved meaning the dogs and she is always here to settle and calm. House is cared for, mail, no burglars, lights on and off. Dogs are in their own space. |
Ask your veterinarian (and local vets) for a recommendation. Ours has two vet techs that offer full in home stay or you can customize it to your needs. They are very reasonable when compared to boarding. You might find someone this way.  Just read an article a few months ago about bonded pet sitters in large cities being a huge business. You might google it. |
| Thanks all for some good suggestions. I'll check with some of my neighbors who have kids and dogs. My vet office probably may not be too helpful since they do have boarding facilities. I know of some of the in home business's that take the dogs but they are pretty expensive. Finances do play a part BUT my furkids comfort and safety are my priority. I know it sounds silly but I think I am more dependent on them than they are on me!  I do have time but I won't just settle. If I have to bite the bullet and board them I will because I want to see my sister. Haven't had an update on my sister yet. Hoping for the best. So keep good thoughts on all levels. |
| Another good resource for dog sitters, can be dog trainers. I know my trainer keeps a list of qualified dog/house sitters. Just a thought. |
Well, I finally have someone for Oliver and Macie. I booked it thru DogVacay.com. We did the meet and greet and Macie, who is a bit concerned about people (but she is getting better) went up to this woman and kept kissing her. That in itself, spoke volumes. Oliver was also was quite receptive and loved the massage she gave him. She has a son 9, and another dog. She also works at home and lives close to me. I lucked out. Granted it's spendy but I have to bite the bullet. I was very comfortable with her and I trust her with the furkids. My neighbors that have small children seem to only have 'family' babysit. The vet and techs prefer I board there. Yeah, like I want them crated 4/7 and of course nobody is on site at night. So I will give this a shot. Too bad I can't find a group of people who would like to get into bartering dog-sitting services. We would all save a bundle BUT if they stay with me, they will be spoiled rotten!!!   |
| Good for you. The fact that your babies like her, does speak volumes. And you like her and trust her. It is well worth the money for peace of mind. I hope your trip is great. |
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