Dad Sleeps Downstairs On Sofa With Senior Dog To Keep Him Company

When the Morris family adopted Spike nine years ago, they planned for him to stay downstairs. But on his first night, Spike jumped the stair gate and climbed into bed with his parents — and that became his routine.

During the day, he was full of energy, and at night, he loved snuggling in bed. Now 14, Spike has slowed down and suffered two strokes. After the second, he couldn’t stand, but with his family’s help, he relearned to walk.

He’s still too weak to climb stairs safely, so the family blocked off the bedroom. Knowing Spike would still try to reach them, they came up with a new plan: they take turns sleeping downstairs with him.

While Catherine was away at university, her parents shared the nights. Now that she’s home, all three rotate to ensure Spike is never alone — and always comfortable.