Flea for the Asking

 

Our days spent as pet sitters sent us to far-off places, caring for wagging tails and purring cuddles of fur, giving us adventures in foreign neighborhoods armed only with a strange pet at the end of a leash.

The variety of pet owners accepting us into their homes proved to be a trusting and friendly lot, leaving their home and beloved pets to the care of us.  What were they thinking?

In all the years of our service, never once did we encounter a situation we couldn’t handle, or a pet so unruly they couldn't be bribed with a treat.  Everyone seemed to always be on their best behavior.

By the end of our adventures, we came to the conclusion that we no longer felt comfortable being responsible for everything left in our charge.  So many things could have gone south that just thinking about them caused us to call it quits while still on top.

I can honestly say that through these experiences we have made lifelong acquaintances.  The bond between pet owner and pet sitter is unique to say the least.  At the onset, the pet owner is filled with concerns, distrust and yet hopeful that all turns out well.  By the end of the experience, they are relieved and feeling proud for having selected the right people for the job.  The pet sitters, on the other hand, are hoping their first night in a strange house they are not dismembered and fed to the drooling chow at the bottom of the stairs.

It was our experience that the first evening was spent at the dinner table, enjoying a meal with the homeowners, while fielding questions as to who we are, why we do this, and will everything still be here when they return?  The peas and carrots are not the only things strained.

As they head down the driveway, leaving us and little Fifi behind, we just know they are now questioning their own judgement.  

 

                                           to be continued...