Tell me about it.
I sit for dogs.
When Crystal was alive I only sat for friends so the dogs knew each other well and there were no problems even with a cat. Since then, I can really relate, if there is just one or more than one, they miss their owner so much, they want all my attention. They start eating each others food and I have to feed one with the door closed in another room and change off because I hate to play favorites
There is one house that when I walk one the other will cry in the window until we get back.
A first time is always the worst for me but once they get to know me it's either they know owners are leaving when they see luggage being packed and get stressed out or just figure because they are more laid back, what's the use. I tried to bring a new toy the first time but they still hated me, then I went to those tiny BilJac liver treats and only gave one when I arrived after asking owner ahead of time and it seemed to work. I only gave one more while I was there but they seemed to realize I was the lady with liver.
Yes the bed thing
One client wants me to give her poodle a drink of water which I hate to do since she will pee during the night but at least she wakes me up to go to her pee pad. It's from a glass while in bed with me and before we settle down to sleep. I follow their orders but this poodle knows the order in which things should be done and will correct me.
I almost always sit summer months for vacations but some wealthy clients go away in the in the winter to a warm client but I usually say 'no' or I'm booked and thank heavens I do with the winter we have had.
celstu1, I wish I could help but they are just like people and miss us. You are being very creative I think and certainly doing your best and still being fair to your own little one, that is when it is really difficult, I would think.