Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to step into the shoes of devoted pet parents while they embarked on the trip of a lifetime. They were headed overseas for three weeks, a trip they’d been planning for years. But there was one big catch: they couldn’t bring their beloved senior dog, Sophie.
Sophie is a sweet, lovable 12-year-old Chocolate Lab with a heart of gold and a body that just doesn’t cooperate like it used to. She has significant mobility issues, arthritis and hip dysplasia, and needs help getting up, lying down, and moving from room to room. She also has a medication schedule, and a deep need for companionship and routine.
This is the story of how I became Sophie’s full-time sitter, and why, with the right preparation and heart, it is possible to give pet parents peace of mind, no matter how special their pet’s needs are.
Making It Happen: Yes, It’s Possible
When Sophie’s family first reached out to me, they were nervous. Could someone else really care for their dog the way they did? Would she be comfortable without them? Could a sitter manage her unique needs for a full three weeks? The answer: Yes. With the right planning, communication, and commitment, caring for a senior, special-needs dog while their people are away is not only possible, it can be deeply rewarding.
I packed up and moved into their home, which was in the next state over for the duration of the trip. This minimized stress for Sophie by keeping her in her familiar environment, and gave me full access to everything she needed. I didn’t just “stop by” I lived there, providing round-the-clock care and love.
Daily Life with a Senior Dog Like Sophie
Here’s what our days looked like:
-
Mobility Assistance: Sophie couldn’t go for walks anymore, but she still needed movement. There was a harness with handles I could use to gently help her outside for bathroom breaks but most of the time I just wrapped my arms around her and gave her the lift she needed. Inside, yoga mats and rugs helped prevent slips on hardwood floors.
-
Medication Management: Sophie had many medications, each with its own timing and food requirements. There was medication chart to track everything and I set phone reminders so nothing was missed.
-
Hygiene and Clean-Up: With limited mobility, accidents can happen. I kept a supply of clean bedding, had pet-safe cleaning products, and made sure Sophie was always clean, dry, and comfortable. Though I was prepared Sophie was great at letting me know when she needed to go outside and we didn’t really have to worry about any accidents.
-
Mental Stimulation and Comfort: Sophie may not be able to run, but she still loves life. We had long cuddle sessions, scratches and pets and spent time sitting together in the sun on the front porch. I read to her. I talked to her. And yes, we watched a few movies together.
-
Emergency Preparedness: Her vet’s contact info was on the counter. I had a car seat cover ready in case we needed to travel. All her details were handy, and we had a plan in case something went wrong.
The Emotional Side
Caring for a senior dog is emotional. You fall in love, quickly. Sophie and I bonded in those three weeks in a way I’ll never forget. She may have been slower, a little creaky in the mornings, but she was also endlessly affectionate, trusting, and full of quiet wisdom.
I was lucky there went any real tough days days when she didn’t want to eat much, or when lifting her required more strength than I thought I had. In fact, I got much stronger during my time with Sophie. There were also beautiful, little moments like the way she would ask for smooches when I tucked her in at night and her sassing me when it was almost dinner time.
For Pet Parents Wondering If They Can Leave
If you’re a pet parent with a senior dog and you’re wondering if a trip, even a long one is possible? It is. With careful preparation and the right sitter, your beloved companion can stay safe, comfortable, loved and cared for while you’re away.
Here’s what makes it work:
-
Detailed notes and instructions
-
A possible trial visit or overnight before the trip
-
Honest conversations about your dog’s condition
-
A sitter willing to live the job, not just visit
And above all, trust. Trust that someone out there will care for your dog with the same compassion you do.
Final Thoughts
Sophie’s parents came home to a happy, stable dog. She greeted them with a happy tail wags and a bunch of barking, and I stepped back with a full heart and zero regrets. Being a dog sitter isn’t just a job it’s a calling. And caring for Sophie reminded me why I do what I do.
If you’re ever in a situation like Sophie’s family, know that your trip of a lifetime doesn’t mean you have to choose between your dreams and your dog. With the right sitter, you can have both. And if you’re a sitter wondering if you’re up for a challenge like this, believe me, it’s worth every moment.
See all the pet care services we offer
Follow us on Instagram