PET MINDING

Having a pet can certainly add to the enjoyment of our retirement but sometimes our lifestyles do not leave room for that permanent commitment.  However, there is a way you can enjoy a pet without actually owning one, that’s by Pet Minding.  There are always friends, neighbours or family who have a dog, cat or other animal that needs care for one reason or another.  Of course it’s important to make sure the animal is compatible with you and you have the facilities to take care of it.

My friend Olga has been Pet Minding for many years.  Although she had her own dog in the past she now likes to be free to visit friends and help out with her grandchildren together with her other many activities.  Of course sometimes pet minding can interfere with these pursuits.  A few times Olga has been asked to look after a pet for an extended period, so if you do decide Pet Minding is for you, it is important to set a realistic time frame.    Olga says it is always a rewarding experience for her when a pet comes to stay even though Mango the parrot,  who arrived a while ago, seems to have become a permanent resident.

Here are some of her happy clients:

 MY DOG SOPHIA

My dog Sophia, who is one of Olga’s happy clients, gives me so much joy.  She is now four years old;  very small and a mixture of terriers.  Actually when my last dog had to go for the last long sleep, I said I would never have another dog.  It seemed very strange as we had never been without a dog in the house.  Some months passed when Ken popped into a Hydroponic Shop for supplies and came out carrying Sophia.  “What do you think of this”, he said.  Of course I was sold.  It was April Fools Day so many jokes were made.

Every day Sophia and I take advantage of the many lovely walks that are at our doorstep.  Thanks to Ken’s continuing interest in short film making, please join me in and around Dalyston with Sophia.

Do share your pet stories;  they are always a great topic of conversation.

Until next time continue enjoying your retirement.

Janice