Planning for the Unknown
No one can see the future. Accidents happen. Tragedies occur. And, as Americans now know all too well, terrorists strike. The best way to handle unforeseen events is to have a plan on how to handle the what-if situations.
Have a backup plan for if you don't come home to your dog one day. If you don't have a family member who would know that you are missing, can you count on a trusted friend or neighbor? You'll want this individual to know you have a dog and that you come home every day. You'll want him to have a key to your home to take care of your dog or at least have a number he can call if he thinks something has happened to you.
Post a sticker on your window saying that you have a dog. In case of fire, firefighters will know that they are also looking for a pet. Post a care plan or message that there is a care plan so that if you can't get into your home or apartment and only emergency personnel are in the building, they will know to look for an animal when they are making rounds of the building.
Finally, make arrangements for the care of your Chihuahua should you pass away. Remember that often friends or family may say they would always take your dog for you; in reality, this is often not the case. Don't think that you can will your dog to someone and leave the money in trust to your pet. A pet is not considered a person who has rights. They are chattel.
Ideally, you can make arrangements with a friend; however, back it up with alternative arrangements. Many owners have had good success with making arrangements for a trusted Chihuahua rescue to take the dog and rehome her if possible. If not, a set amount of money can be donated to the rescue specifically for the Chi's care for the remainder of her life.
Keep your Chi's medications in one place and make sure the care plan explains how these medications are to be given. Also note emergency numbers where you might be reached so that rescuers can tell you where your dog is.
We all hope that we outlive our Chihuahuas, but if this is not the case, make sure the little one who has given you so much love for so many years will be taken care of and that she won't be left alone, dumped, or disposed of. You owe it to her and, as they say, it will give you peace of mind that you've taken care of her. And then? You can forget about it and live life to the fullest with your enthusiastic canine companion.
