For the last two years, Michelle Wilcock has been running Lola’s Pet Sitting Services in Barnsley, England. During that time, she has cared for plenty of lovable dogs, but two dachshunds named Buddy and Jake have certainly made a lasting impression.
Michelle has looked after the pair several times and says they are both wonderful dogs with plenty of personality.
Whenever Buddy and Jake stay with Michelle, walks are naturally part of their daily routine. She takes them around the neighborhood and through nearby parks so they can enjoy some exercise and fresh air.
At the beginning of each outing, the two dogs appear perfectly happy to be outside. Before long, however, their enthusiasm seems to disappear. Their pace slows dramatically, and they begin acting as though they have completely run out of energy.
But Michelle discovered something amusing: their sudden exhaustion does not seem to last once they realize they are heading home.
In one video, Buddy and Jake can be seen slowly making their way along the path. The moment the direction changes and they understand that they are going back home, their energy returns almost instantly.
Michelle first noticed the habit while out walking with them. After seeing how reluctant they were to continue, she suggested turning around. As soon as they started heading back, the dachshunds suddenly picked up the pace and began running.
Once Buddy and Jake decide home is their destination, convincing them to go anywhere else becomes much more difficult.
The funny part is that both dogs genuinely seem excited when they first realize a walk is about to happen. They are eager to get outside, but after spending a little time on the pavement, their excitement quickly fades.
It appears Buddy and Jake may enjoy the anticipation of a walk more than the actual walking itself.
Even though the pair would often prefer to return to the comfort of home, Michelle still makes sure they receive enough exercise. The same goes for every dog she looks after through her pet-sitting service.
For Michelle, caring for dogs is about much more than simply taking them outside and keeping them active. Spending time with the animals also brings happiness and companionship into her own life.
Her decision to start Lola’s Pet Sitting Services came after the loss of her own dog, Lola. Losing her was heartbreaking, and Michelle did not feel ready to go through that experience again by adopting another dog.
Instead, she decided to devote her time to caring for other people’s pets.
Being surrounded by dogs has since become an important part of her life. Each animal she looks after brings something special, and Michelle says caring for them gives her a sense of purpose while allowing her to share the love she has always had for dogs.