re: new dachshund

[gregs317]

Hi all, and thanks to everyone that replied to my previous posts here. I just got the go-ahead from my landlord to bring home a pet dog, just so long as she doesn't make too much noise (disturbing the neighbors). I am a part-time student, living in my own apartment. So I'll be around majority of the time, but occasionally will have to leave her alone for 2-3 hours. Can you recommend some ways for me to help her relax while I'm gone? I know to have toys and fresh food/water in the area where she'll be. Any other ideas - I'm planning to use a security gate to keep her confined to one room while I'm out. *She's a mini dachshund about 1 year old.

next part of my question: Living on the 3rd floor, it will be necessary for me to carry her up and down some stairs to go for walks (no elevator). Trying not to be overly concerned about having her in one hand and walking down the steps, hopefully I can manage ok. But do you know of maybe a collapsible carrier that I could use to hold her, in case I would need to steady myself by using one hand on the railing? Looking forward to your replies. Thanks, Greg