I’m on a repeat sit in San Diego with two super sweet boys. They’re senior dogs and sleep a lot. I’m monitoring the 15-year-old, because he’s not eating well.
I did my first sit with them and then there was a sitter in between. When I left, they were both in good shape, eating and pooping well. When I returned after the other sitter (I was away for 10 days), I found one of their bowls with half-eaten dry kibble. That wasn’t the HOs’ instructions — they’re supposed to get a mix of wet kibble and healthy homemade food, because they have few teeth. There also were tiny gnatlike insects on one of the trays and enough debris in their water bowls that there was zero chance that it had accumulated during what was supposed to be a one- to two-hour window when the other sitter left and I returned. It pisses me off that anyone wouldn’t give these boys the best of care. They’re not even one bit hard to take care of.
About 3:30 this morning my charges began barking incessantly. They usually sleep peacefully through the night. Been caring for them for about 5 years now and it was clear that something was not right.
When I got up I saw flashlights/torches and the shadows of two men outside the glass doors. One was trying to open them! Feeling overly brave and within 30 seconds (I have two big dogs and this is an enclosed gated community in a remote area of Uruguay) I parted the drapes and cracked open the doors .
They were community security guards who were investigating and searching for two men reportedly seen running in the the area. They apologized for the disturbance, asked if I had seen or heard anything and very slowly asked if I was alright. It was an intense moment as I could tell they wanted to be sure I was safe.
For nearly two hours they patrolled on foot, motorcycles and cars, all the while the dogs barking and desperately wanting to do their own investigations.
At dawn they did just that and this one, well she stood watch and wouldn’t come back in till she was satisfied all was well.
They are knackered. Me too
@Amparo So glad all is okay and yes you were super brave! That is why I love large dog breeds. I grew up with French Mastiffs and always felt safe walking in the woods on my own with them. What good pups!
Oh my god, how terrifying! I’m so sorry you had such a night, and thank goodness all is ok for you. Dogs are such great protectors — my huge chow mix always made me feel a lot safer. I hope that was just a one-off for you.
Thanks @Edith it was a first. It will be good conversation when the folks get back. Have to also sing the praises of the security here. It was impressive.
One of the sweet little donkeys on my sit (the one dressed for a joust) developed an infection after a stone got deeply embedded in his hoof wall. Vet came and did his thing, now ongoing pain management, observation and lots of loving, hands-on TLC. Little fella will be ok.
So glad you’re okay @Amparo as what a tense and stressful experience. Great guard dogs. Can well imagine how knackered you were after the “excitement “!!! Take care.
Oh my gosh Amparo … what an ordeal and rather frightening.
I’m so pleased you secure and have both humans and doggies looking after you.
You can’t beat doggie alerts. However, I am sure you all exhausted. Hope your day’s been a good restful one.
I’m on a rare sit close to home enjoying the lap of luxury until the a/c broke. It’s still one of my favorites, just a bit warmer than I’d planned on. The cats make up for it. They’re both delightful.
