DEAR SUN SPOTS: We really may need help for our dog, and I hope that Sun Spots can point me in the right direction. We have a lovable 15-year-old female dog that may need a temporary home in case of an emergency. 

Our family is getting older, and we may need help in the future. When the time comes that someone in our family passes away, both my wife and I will want to attend their funerals. The problem is that they all live in the Midwest and overseas. 

We would want to place our dog in a non-anxious home — not in a kennel. She needs some easily administered medications every day. She has significant arthritis in her legs but still walks around, including going outside to do her duty. 

She’s a small 18-pound mixed breed, a real trouper determined to carry on, but she doesn’t do well with cats. She needs kind, loving “stepparents” to care for her in our absence. She sleeps a lot, so she shouldn’t present a problem. 

I understand there are people in Portland who do this sort of thing and I was hoping that surely there must be similar arrangements around our area. Do you know of any? We would be most appreciative. — Stuart, Auburn

ANSWER: I’m sure someone in Sun Spots Land will know of a temporary foster home for your doggie, and I assume you would be compensating them for their time and attention. Have you consulted with your veterinarian and other dog parents? You may also want to ask the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society in Lewiston. 

Have you considered having a professional dog sitter come to your home so your dog’s routine will be less discombobulated for her? There are dozens of people ranging from reliable teens to retired folks who do this sort of thing. Some will even take care of other duties around the house while you’re away, which is a bonus.

Please write again to let us know how this goes. And readers, if you’re a pet sitter who would like to take with Stuart, please contact me! 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: St. Mary’s Surgical Associates is hosting a free community presentation on hernia awareness, evaluation and treatment options on Tuesday, April 7, at 5 p.m.

A bulge or discomfort in the abdomen or groin may seem like a simple strain, but it could be a hernia. Hernias are common and often treatable, yet many people are unsure what symptoms to watch for or when it is time to seek care. 

The evening will begin with a brief presentation from the surgical team covering common hernia symptoms, how hernias are diagnosed, and the treatment options available. After the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to receive a free screening from a member of the surgical team.

This event is free, but registration is required and space is limited. Those interested can reserve a spot by visiting stmarysmaine.com/hernia. — St. Mary’s Surgical Associates, Lewiston

ANSWER: The address for St. Mary’s Surgical Associates is 93 Campus Avenue, Suite 401. The contact number is 777-8650.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to [email protected].