When I came home with my newborn from the hospital, I spotted a note on the kitchen table and assumed it was a sweet message from my mother-in-law. Instead, it was a $600 invoice for taking care of our dog, Rich, while I was in labor. My husband promised to handle it, but I had a better plan.

Just a few days before I was due, I was sprawled on the couch, battling a dull ache in my back that was growing sharper by the minute. My golden retriever, Rich, sat beside me, resting his head on my lap like he sensed my discomfort. I absentmindedly scratched his ears while calling out to Jake, my husband, who was in the kitchen making a sandwich.

“Jake, we need to figure out what to do with Rich while we’re at the hospital,” I said. He walked over with his sandwich, kissed my forehead, and casually reassured me. “Don’t stress. Mom loves Rich. She’ll handle it.” His easygoing nature was one of the reasons I loved him, but in moments like these, it could also drive me nuts.

Later that night, Jake called his mom, Abigail, to ask if she could watch Rich. She agreed instantly, saying she was happy to help. Problem solved—or so I thought.