[CupofDog]

Hon,

You will do great! Not only am I a single Yorkie (mix) mama, I have a Cavalier King Charles too. The Yorkie mix is a million times easier to care for, LOL.

I am actually 25, going through a divorce and started out with a husband who was a 'helper' - I did all the work - but it was nice to think I had backup.

In the few months I have been single, I have moved cities with my dogs and started a new job. I have learned a lot, and being a single pet parent is a central issue in my life!

Here are my recommendations:

1) Make sure you have a trusted vet who knows you are a single pet parent, in case of emergency...you have someone you trust to call.

2) Give a trusted dog loving neighbor a key to your place. This way, if you get stuck in traffic or end up working late, you can call for backup. I have 3 back ups to make sure mine can get walked or fed or even just loved if I get stuck for some reason. A great way to meet people for this purpose is to go on meetup.com and join a local small dog meetup group. Not only will your dogs get to meet other dogs to run and play with, you'll meet other small dog lovers and you guys can cover each other - and babysit for business trips and whatnot. I did this and made some really good friends.

3)Plan in advance for food and treats - I can't say this enough. I got stuck without dog food and didn't have anyone to get more! I always try and have 1 weeks extra on hand and if my life is really crazy, I order supplies online.

4) Routine! Try and keep a routine for them and for your own sake!!

5) Relax! Your dogs are happy to have you - they don't need or want anyone else and you have the tools to provide them with all the love, affection and everything they could want or need.

I am so close with my dogs now - I know them better then ever and we work together to make each day work for one another. It ain't easy - but I will say, I never feel alone or lonely, because my bed is filled with furballs and I come home to love and kisses every day!!

Finally, I don't know how old you are, but I do find myself passing up certain invites from my non-dog owning friends - like going out on a Friday night and drinking until 3 AM. First, I am not into that anyway, 2nd, I am not leaving the dogs alone like that and finally, if I am all hung over, I can't have a fun Saturday with them!!

In some ways, its like being a single parent...the load is all on you...but I find it incredibly rewarding and empowering! When I look at my healthy, vibrant little beasts - I know its ALL ME!! (oh and them too...LOL)