I have been a babysitter and dog sitter for almost as long as I can remember.
Babysitting was one of my very first jobs and has been something I've enjoyed getting to do. Dog sitting has also been something I've done for a while, which has been great because my family doesn't have any dogs at home. Throughout the years, I've noticed that watching dogs and watching children have several things in common.
Here are eight ways babysitting and dog sitting are basically the same thing.
1. You don't speak their language
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I have been watching kids for many years and was a kid myself not too, too long ago, yet sometimes I swear they're saying things and I have no idea what they're saying. I either ask "what?" a bunch of times or just smile and nod. The same goes for the dogs I watch. They'll cock their head at me questioningly or stare outside, but when I go to help them, they back away or do something else. One minute I think I understand, the next I'm completely baffled.
2. You have to make sure they're fed, water, and use the bathroom
GiphyDoes this need an explanation? Figured, it's pretty self-explanatory.
3. They don't always listen as well as they should
GiphyYou already know what I'm going to say here, don't you? Good ole selective hearing. I've found both my dog wards and my kid wards tend to miss out on things I've told them. Sorry, Mom and Dad, I finally know what you feel like.
4. They love individualized attention
GiphyI love spending time with all of my charges, human or animal. I think it's so cute when they come up wanting to spend time with you. Whether it's reading a book or giving pets, it's a pretty fun time giving one on one attention.
5. You have the most random conversations
GiphyKids have asked me about everything from my boyfriend to when I'll have babies to my favorite food. I think I've talked about almost anything kid-friendly you can think of. Same with dogs. Sure, they don't ask questions, but I still talk to them. Although I usually am talking to them about squirrels in the yard or their chew toys. But hey, they're great listeners for when I want to talk about something!
6. They need encouragement
GiphyI'm constantly telling my dog and kid wards "good job!" and "wow that was great!" It's nice to know someone is looking out for you and seeing what you're doing well, and dogs and kids are no exception to that rule. Plus, they get so excited (see the next one).
7. They're easily excited
GiphyTell a kid they can have ice cream and watch how excited they get. Tell a dog they're going for a walk and you'll find the same reaction. They get see the joy and excitement in the small things. Plus, as long as they don't get too crazy, it's great to have that enthusiasm. It always makes me perk up more!
8. You love them with your whole heart
GiphyNo matter how crazy my kid and dog wards can get, I still love them. It's always so fun to get to hang out with them and live in their world for a time.
I'm still not sure if my babysitting has helped me be more prepared for my dog sitting or if it's the other way around, but one thing's for sure — I couldn't imagine life any other way.
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