Kotaro-kun, a Shiba Inu, is a senior dog of thirteen years. 

His care list even included the word

"nursing care." 

At our meeting, his family gave me a careful explanation of how Kotaro-kun was doing —

that he had lost almost all of his sight, that he could no longer go without diapers,

and that his legs had grown weak. 

When I greeted him for the first time — "Kotaro-kun, it's nice to meet you" 

he came shuffling toward me, dragging himself along on his bottom.

It was such a happy surprise. 

He rested his chin on my lap and worked his little nose,

as if committing my scent to memory. 

In that very moment,

I felt certain that Kotaro-kun and I had connected. 

Thanks to that first bond,

the care went smoothly from beginning to end. 

Even with nursing care — something quite different from my usual work —

I was able to do it all with such joy,

and that was because Kotaro-kun relied on me,

entrusting me with his body and his heart. 

His family also shared stories of Kotaro-kun in his younger days. 

He had been a difficult dog, they said —

wary of people, keeping everyone at a distance, with a habit of nipping. 

Kota-chan, is this gentle calm of yours

something you've come to find with the passing years? 

Looking at Kota-chan's peaceful expression,

my heart grows warm and tender. 

I feel as though, this time,

I learned something deeply important from you. 

Orange Petsitter🍊

Let me introduce the four adorable pups I had the pleasure of caring for this time! 

Maron-kun, a Toy Poodle. 

He loves my lap, and would always claim his spot first thing, making sure none of the others could take it! 

That slightly jealous side of him was simply endearing💕 

Shuri-kun, a Maltese-Poodle mix. 

A spirited little tomboy who loves a good game of fetch with her plushie! 

The moment I tossed it, she'd bring it right back to me — "One more time!" — inviting me to play again and again🥰 

Flora-kun, a Cavalier-Chihuahua mix. 

His daily routine was to lounge on the sofa, watching everyone else at play. 

Now and then he'd drift right off to sleep just like that — such a soothing sight✨ 

Genki-kun, a Maltese. 

After his meal, he'd sleep soundly in his carry bed. 

He showed me the most peaceful sleeping face, looking so utterly at ease — it was just precious💕 

Each of them spent the time at their own pace, and I do hope I was able to bring them some relaxed, happy moments✨ 

Orange Petsitter🍊

This was my very first time caring for sugar gliders. I felt just like a new teacher on the first day with a brand-new class — heart fluttering with excitement and anticipation! "Did you pack your lunchbox?" 

"Yes, got it!" 

"Mama made something yummy for me!" 

"But before lunch, I want a snack~ Goofy!" 

…I could almost hear voices like that (ha!). 

That's right! Their mom had prepared colorful, love-filled meals in little plastic cases, one serving each, just like packed lunchboxes. Warm, nutritious meals too — softened in hot water and mixed with fruit — all ready to go! 

And so, lunchboxes in hand, off we went, field-trip style! 

～～～～～

The long-awaited snack time! 

"It's snack time, everyone!!" 

When I called out, each of them responded in their own way. 

One delighted little one: "I've been waiting!" 

Another holding it in both hands, cheeks stuffed full: "Don't you dare take mine~!" 

A pair lined up side by side: "Let's eat together!💕" 

And a health-conscious one, too: "I'll have mine after a jog on the wheel." 

Their personalities shone through, and just watching them brought a smile to my face.😊 

There was even one easygoing little one who wouldn't budge, still half-asleep: "I'm sleepy, so just leave it by my door~." That sweet sight warmed my heart all over again. 

And the next morning… 

When I looked beneath the cage, there were scattered bits of food and signs of play everywhere! 

I imagined a lively late-night "sports festival" or "sleepover party" had been held, and couldn't help but laugh♬ 

■ A Little Extra 

This little one wasn't part of my care this time, but watching it all so intently from right beside them was a leopard gecko! With a happy look that seemed to say, "This looks like so much fun!" 

Next time, let's go on a picnic~♬ 

Orange Petsitter🍊

June 27th is a very special day for Ken-kun. 

It's the day, eleven years ago, that he found his wonderful family.♥️ 

And so, this day became Ken-kun's birthday. 

Welcomed by such a kind family, Ken-kun spends each and every day in gentle peace. 

He's also the very best of friends with his beloved Meria-chan. 

Past ten years old now, and still as lively as ever, our Ken-kun. 

Happy Gotcha Day, and happy birthday!✨ 

May this be your very best year yet. 

Orange Petsitter🍊

Half a year on, Giovanna-chan is as lively as ever on her walk. 

She pattered along, guiding me down her usual walking route. 

And plenty of happy sniffing along the way! 

Back home after her meal… now, what could be next? 

Why, her beloved brushing, of course🎶

It felt so nice that she dozed right off🎶 

What a happy sitter I was, reunited with sweet Giovanna-chan. Thank you so much for entrusting her to me. 

Orange Petsitter🍊

On the day of our very first meeting, Ushimaru-chan perched on my shoulder the whole time, listening along to our conversation. 

On the day of care, she settled onto my shoulder again — which delighted me, of course — but then I realized I could hardly catch a glimpse of her adorable little face… 

So for the time being, I did my mopping with her still perched on my shoulder, and we gazed out the window together.☺️ 

I'd been told which toy was her favorite, 

and at last, she hopped down from my shoulder to play! 

Even with her little eyes closed, she's just too adorable! 

As I was leaving, Ushimaru-chan treated me to the most beautiful song. 

I'm already looking forward to the day we meet again.🥰 

Orange Petsitter🍊