We have 2 miniature long-haired dachshunds, Katie and Allie--they were littermates. They are going to be 11 years old in a couple of days, but don't act like it at all. I wish SO MUCH that we had someone to come stay at home with them, but we lost our sitter when she selfishly decided to have children of the 2 legged variety. We have taken our girls to a B & B Kennel for many years, and are happy with the people- fortunately our girls love everyone, so they get lots of attention.

We get an excellant rate of 36.00/day because they stay together. They seem happy when they go, and are well cared for.
Our problem is that Katie has developed some kind of lung problems and get pneumonia or some kind of consolidation in her lungs 3 or 4 times a year and gets VERY sick VERY quickly. She is on antibiotics year round, so when she gets sick, it is harder to treat her, and when you have an infection, it is a little risky to give her prednisone, because it can make an infection worse. She is so pitiful when she gets sick. We know her so well, we can jump on it and get treatment immed. She also has problems with her calcium, but that is controlled. When she is well, she is playful and does great-just the few times a year she is sick. She is a sweet girl. Allie is just the perfect pet, so far.

I am very concerned about leaving them for 3 weeks, but we have talked to the owner who assures us she will e-mail and send pictures, and that any animal who stays with them for an extended time, gets a daily check from head to tail. They are very familiar with her meds. The kennel always gets very high ratings and is recommended by our vet. Both girls will get a visit to the vet before we go just to address any problems starting up.
Sorry this is so long, but it hit a very worried spot. I know we have to live our life, but I will be worried about how my girls are doing.

I'll try not to go on like this anymore.

I will try to be happy on the cruise. Vicki