Single RN starting 12 hr shifts (day time) after leaving management.

[Meg11M21]

Hello all.

I have a 12 month old black lab. I have been managing for about 3 years now, so my shifts consisted of 5 8hr days. During this time, my pup has been going to daycare 1-3 days a week. He also has a doggy door and an invisible fence so he can come and go as he pleases! Now, I have decided to take a step back from management, and get back into what I loved doing (ER nursing) I am working 7a-7p, but with travel time it will be more like 13 hrs. I start next week! His current daycare does not open early enough or stay open late enough for me to take him there.

He has free range of the house and outdoors. Never has accidents, doesn't destroy anything... I got so lucky! Barks a little... but not to much. (says hi to the neighbors...lets them know he's there)

I know that ultimately I will have more time with him, but the initial leaving him for that long has me anxious. I do have family that said on days I work they will come and let him out after they get out of work (8hr shifts)....but I'm wondering how is he going to handle this after having the same routine for a year.

I'm looking for positive advice. I am not a terrible pet owner, I love my dog- he is my child... I am just wondering if anyone had a situation similar to mine? And how their dog handles 12 hrs without you. I'm sad to leave him that long... but know for my sanity, I have to do what I love.

[beekee]

What about getting a dog walker to give him a little people contact and structured activity. I've used Wag and Rover to find dog walkers.