So those of you who live alone - when you're ill what do you do?

[nameymacnamechanger]

I feel really crappy today, some sort of cold/flu virus... I don't know.

If you live on your own (I'm not counting ds as he can't walk dog alone) what do you do about dog when you're ill? Am not too much on death's door today so dog has had to make do with shorter walks but what if I could do none at all? I'm trying to rack my brain of soemone I could call on to walk him but not coming up with anyone so far!

Personally, I don't think it's the end of the world if they miss walks from time to time. I deliberately walk mine at random times of the day, and sometimes they get one long one, sometimes 2 or more short ones (whatever's most convenient), to keep them guessing, so that they don't start telling ME when they should be walked. I've got kids - the last thing I want is the dogs going bananas at certain times of day if I or the kids are ill.

When my bitch was in season and I kept her in (entire dogs abound where we live), she really didn't seem to bother that much. I did extra training, and she got more chewies and bones/filled Kongs than usual to keep her occupied and she was perfectly happy.

Thanks for reply, I hadn't thought of giving him indoor excercise, I think that will have to be my back up plan!

He gets a walk after breakfast and after tea, and most days one midday too. You are right about being walked same time each day = them telling you it's walkies time, mine's doing this and it's driving me bananas!

It wont do the dog any harm if he isnt walked today, just give it some mental stimulation and let it out for the loo in your garden.

Hope you feel better v soon.

If it is something longer term then maybe a dog walker could help you out.

It makes sense to have a backup plan. Dog walkers available through Yellow Pages - these days most have public liability insurance and are CRB checked. Alternatively, many dog owners I know have informal "dog sitting" arrangements for illness or going away - so make friends with other doggy owners and help each other out. I know loads of grey owners - we are like freemasons (but nicer )

If your dog is from a rescue, and there is a genuine, unforeseen emergency (e.g. you are in hospital) they may well be able to help/do emergency foster, but this would be for real life or death situations, not just a hangover or wanting a weekend away.

For longer term illnesses, such as having cancer, then use the Cinnamon Trust.

It is also sensible to ensure that as part of your arrangements, you let your executors/keyholders/etc know about your wishes as part of your will making/death arrangements. Some dog charities offer a homing service for these circumstances. In any case, it is wise and sensible to ensure arrangements are in place, and that the right people KNOW ABOUT THEM. You would be amazed at how many people don't make arrangements, which can cause chaos.