Owning a pet comes with many responsibilities as most people are aware. It’s really not too different from having children as you are responsible for the well being of another life. That said, I am appalled at the irresponsibility of some when it comes to caring for their pets.
Last weekend, I agreed to dog-sit for Hank and Laura, my former roommates. I love seeing Mishka and Sullivan (the feeling is definitely mutual) and therefore I will never turn down a chance to take care of them. We’ll call this the responsible example.
Now for the irresponsible. The reason I was dog-sitting to being with was because there was a wedding. Some other friends who shall remain nameless, are also dog owners, and were attending the same wedding called me roughly four hours before the wedding to tell me (not ask me) that they would be dropping their dog off at Hank and Laura’s house so that I could watch him for the night.
Now, it’s not that I mind taking care of an extra dog. He’s well behaved and has been socialized with Sullivan and Mishka many times before. It’s fair to say I actually like the dog quite a bit. Had I received even a day’s notice, I wouldn’t even be writing this right now. Instead, they somehow forgot they owned a dog last weekend and took advantage of our friendship and the situation. This act will not easily be forgiven. In fact, I’ve decided this couple will never receive another favor from me again.
Yeah, that’s just not right. People need to be responsible.
Oh! That hits such a sour note with me, except sorta in reverse. I asked my sister to watch Aries one weekend – plenty of notice given. Dave and I dropped her off at my parent’s house (where my sister lives), and Paula was nowhere to be found. My parents, a little unnerved, were kind enough to take of Aries and feed her the weekend of our absence. Paula barely did any dog-sitting.
I won’t ask Paula for help in the future! That is so annoying though. It’s almost as bad as people who considering putting their dogs down when they suddenly decide a dog and a human kid are too much work. GRR.