Great story, Susan. And super photos.

I guess that the truth is there are regular people, some of whom have pets, and then there are true animal lovers who have furbabies.

Having a fur kid is a huge comittment which cannot be taken lightly.

Too often people treat their fur kids like pieces of furniture. To be moved around at will. No particular care to be taken. Their feelings unimportant.

Our dog house rule was no dogs on the furniture, including the bed. However, a really comfy bed in every room in the house. The dog had better beds than us.

You mentioned holidays. this is something we did RARELY - because of the furkids. We did find a reliable and nice staycare place for them the few times we went, but we never felt really good about it.

Getting someone to come in - nah -who are you going to trust?