My mini dachshund, Howie, and mini cockapoo, Marco, are both super attached to me. Probably because I pick them up and treat them like they are my little babies.
To clarify, they are both eleven years old. Definitely not babies or puppies, but yet here we are. At less than fifteen pounds each, they are the closest thing in my house to having a baby.
Especially considering the fact that Griff and Owen are now both more than eighty pounds and over the age of five, so picking them up isn’t what it used to be.
We have had Marco since he was a puppy and Howie since a year old. They are both wonderful dogs, best friends and very important members of the Hopkins family.
Unfortunately, as they’ve gotten older they have also become pretty anxious whenever we leave the house. And by we, I really mean me. Especially for long trips.
Here are a couple of things we do to make our away time more bearable for the dogs.
First, the Hopkins Household is super fortunate to have some lovely neighbors that offer to watch them when we go on vacation.
Definitely one positive to making friends with your neighbors! I will provide how-tos on making neighbor friends in another post for anyone that wants some tips. Trust me, it pays off to know the people next door.
Now back to the pups. Although Marco and Howie are sad when we leave, it helps that they get to stay in their own house where they are comfortable with their surroundings. They are overall happier, and I have peace of mind that they aren’t scared and afraid at a place they don’t know.
Second, we make sure to keep out a couple blankets and items that smell like me, their mom. Not only does it keep them calm to have my smell permeating their sleeping area, but it also helps protect the couch from taking on the smell of my anxious pups.
Next, we stock up on their usuals. We make sure the neighbors have plenty of the dogs’ normal foods so we don’t have to worry about them not eating. That means a huge bag of Blue Buffalo and some Fresh Pet topper. And if I’m being totally honest, some shredded cheese in the fridge in case they are really having a rough go.
Finally, I try to give them extra love and attention both prior to leaving and coming home.
You can’t help how someone (or some pup) is feeling. Yes, the dogs are sad when we are gone. But I know they are being well taken care of and that is all I can ask for, since unfortunately we can’t bring them with us every time.
There is no doubt in their minds that they are loved. And at the end of the day, that is all that matters!
What else do you do to help your pups when you are away? Add it in the comments!
