For the past two years, Michelle Wilcock has been operating Lola’s Pet Sitting Services in Barnsley, England. Along the way, she’s enjoyed getting to know numerous pups — but perhaps none quite as dramatic as these two dachshunds, Buddy and Jake.
“I have
looked after them a few times now, and they are gorgeous boys,” Wilcock told The Dodo.
Naturally, Wilcock takes Buddy and Jake on daily walks while they’re under her care — leisurely strolls around the neighborhood and in parks. But while the dogs always seem to enjoy the chance to stretch their legs at first, Wilcock soon learned that they have a tendency to tire quite quickly.
Or at least that’s what they want her to think.
Here’s a video of Buddy and Jake sluggishly ambling along, and then their change of pace when they’re heading back home:
“I discovered their tendency to want to go home when we were walking, and I said, ‘Come on then, we will turn around.’ And then they set off running,” Wilcock said.
And once Buddy and Jake realize they’re heading home, any deviation from that course is met with little enthusiasm.
Interestingly, Buddy and Jake really do get excited when it’s time for a walk. But once their paws hit the pavement, it seems they are more excited about the idea of it.
Despite their homebody tendencies, Wilcock makes sure Buddy and Jake, and all the dogs she cares for, get plenty of fresh air and exercise.
For Wilcock, the walks aren’t just about keeping the dogs active. Spending time with them enriches her life, too.
“I absolutely adore dogs,” Wilcock said. “I started Lola’s Pet Sitting Services because my dog, Lola, died, and a house is not a home without a dog. I could not put myself through the heartbreak again, so I just thought I’d start looking after other people's pets. They keep me going, and I love each and every one of them.”
