Ask Amy: Friends get scratch for dog sitting
– Dog Tired
Dear Dog Tired: What you call “minimalist,” I call “cheap.”
The way to deal with this and also preserve the relationship is to be enthusiastic about your willingness to do this for them, and very straightforward about your terms.
Given that you also pet sit for other friends (you’re obviously skilled, trustworthy and responsible), why don’t you go into business for yourself?
You can register as a pet sitter/walker on a site like Rover.com, set your rate and be compensated consistently.
As you know from your time as a pet owner, reliable sitters are worth their weight in kibble. Having a friend and neighbor provide this service is added value.
Before the next time they come to you to schedule this “favor,” put the word out with your Friday friend group that you’ve registered with a pet care site as a way to continue to do this thing that you enjoy – and to make some extra income.
Offer to send them a link to your page on the site. You can offer them a “Friend and Fido” discount if you’re inclined. If they decline to book you – no problem!
Dear Amy: My husband and I have been married for three years. We have been planning to have a child within the next couple of years.
My problem is that it seems like every time we have a serious argument, he threatens to leave me. Sometimes he does leave the house for a couple of hours, and when he comes back he is calm and apologizes for leaving.
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