As a pet sitter I often hear comments about what a great job I have. And, it is true, I do have a great job and I love my job! However, it is not without its scheduling challenges.
Our schedule changes every day. And, while we work very hard to get the schedule in place ahead of time there are always the last minute changes.
A few months ago I had a day scheduled that looked pretty straight forward. Or so I thought.
I had two early morning visits for dogs that needed to be let out.
I had a morning and evening visit for a cat.
I had two midday dog walks.
I remember thinking to myself that this would be an easy schedule. I should know by now not to think thoughts such as this as it will come back to haunt me!
On a not too long ago morning as I am getting ready to start my rounds I get a phone call from a client. There was a family emergency and can we please start visits for ‘Jupiter’, the dog, this same morning as they are catching an early flight out. Oh, and Jupiter needs three visits a day.
OK, I think I can do this, so I add Jupiter to the schedule. Unfortunately, Jupiter lives in the complete opposite direction of my other two morning visits. “Oh well”, I say to myself, “I’ll just need to leave a bit earlier this morning and all will be fine”.
Just as I finish adding Jupiter to the schedule, I receive a call from another client. The client explains to me he just found out he has to work late, and could we please squeeze his dog Snoop in for a midday walk. We have to juggle a bit, but we are able to squeeze Snoop in for a midday walk.
OK, I’m thinking to myself, this still isn’t too bad and my schedule is still is manageable. Ha!
About an hour later I get a message from yet another client telling me they missed their connecting flight home. They will not be able to get home until quite late the following day. They need us to continue visits for Phil, the cat. Phil also needs medication that needs to be given at specific times.
Mind you, I’m not complaining. Really I’m not. Not all of our days are this crazy. And, in this business we know last minute changes are often a reality. But, if you ask me what my schedule is for ‘tomorrow’ and I hesitate in responding, you will now understand why!
An early July 4th note: Did you know July 5th is the busiest day of the year for the humane society? Please leave your dogs at home when you head out to enjoy the fireworks. Your dog will be much happier and safer!
— Jan Brown
Jan is the owner of Jan’s Pet Sitting and is a Pet Tech Pet First Aid Instructor. She can be reached at .