Need help with sleeping arrangements - dog and cats

[mydoglovesme]

Ddog has always slept on top floor with two sons. Three cats sleep in our bedroom (middle floor) with access to outside roof space and garden. Stairgates used to ensure each zone is secure and everyone gets a decent nights sleep. Problem is, both sons off to Uni in September and on the rare occasion she has been left alone on top floor, DDog cries and we end up bringing her down and one of us sleeping on the sofa with her. DDog and cats tolerate each other but I don't think it's fair on the cats to let DDog suddenly sleep in our bedroom too. Trying to think of a solution that doesn't involve husband and I sleeping in separate rooms! Any advice/suggestions?

[LumelaMme]

Does your dog sleep in a crate? That would at least stop her bothering the cats.

[Catzpyjamas]

I'd try swapping them round now so the cats sleep elsewhere together and DDog is in with you so this is not a sudden thing when your DSs leave. The cats will have each other for company but the dog is going to want to be with you.

[mydoglovesme]

Well, we tried a crate but it has been so long since she was shut in one that she didn't like that. In the end we shut the cats out (with a heavy heart) and let the dog sleep on the bed. New problem. I'm having hot flushes at night (a whole other thread) and ended up wedged between Ddog and Dh - boiling! Too many bodies in a double bed. Have invested in a sleep alongside cot for the dog - and yes I am aware just how ridiculous that sounds but it seems like a perfect compromise.

[Catzpyjamas]

sleep along cot for DDog

Now I think you and the cats need to stay in the room with the window open and send DH and DDog upstairs.