By Leila Dorari
When going on vacation, most often you have to leave your pets behind. This usually makes it hard to relax and enjoy your time away from home, because you will constantly worry about whether your dog is lonely or eating properly. Worst case scenarios will roll out in your head, such as your dog escaping to try to look for you. The fact is that you want your pet to be comfy and safe when you’re not there. This is why you should make sure that you have things planned out for them ahead, so that they have a pawtastic vacation as well.
What is the best kind of care for your dog?
It goes without saying that you want your dog to get the best care while you’re not with them, and there is a variety of options out there to get just that. What is essential is to find the place that works the best for your dog, and that is the one that closely resembles the environment in their home. If you have a nervous dog that is your only pet, there is a high chance that they won’t feel secure when there are other dogs around. However, while your dog’s happiness is important, it isn’t your number one priority. The most important thing is to find a way to keep your dog well cared of and safe.
Take your dog to a friend or family
Does your dog love your friends or family? Then why not ask them to take care of your pup in their own home while you are away. Chances are that they are going to have a great time, and it’s a better alternative to asking your friends to stay over at your place. You need to make sure that you do all that is possible to make the whole experience convenient for your friend/family member as much as for the dog, especially if you aren’t paying them for it. It’s a great bonus if your friends/family already have their own pets or kids.
Leave your dog with a pet sitter
If you think it’s the best to leave your dog at home, then you might want to look for a pet sitter. It’s usually the best idea to look for a professional one. Today, it’s easy to find a responsible and cost-effective caregiver for your pet while you’re on your summer vacation, business trip or maybe honeymoon. You’ll be looking for someone who has good experience, is always available to take care of your pet’s needs, and who can regularly check on them.
Due to your dog being in its own habitat, there won’t be many security risks to worry about. Their routine is unlikely to change much, and they’ll be taken care of properly. A website that you can make use of, which was originally made for parents to find someone to take care of their children, is care.com. You can also try at the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.
Board your dog at a kennel
When someone says “kennel”, you might be thinking of rows of small and uncomfortable cages filled with unhappy dogs. While there are still places like these, the fact is that modern dog kennels have changed a lot, and there are those where you can take your dog and make sure that they get the best accommodation possible. According to Cooltre Pet boarding professionals, you can find kennels that are clean, spacious, and offer a variety of accommodation and entertainment for your pet. A standard kennel still provides you with an individual cage or room for your pup, but if your pet is properly socialized, they will be provided with a lot of playtime with other “guests”.
The fact, however, is that every kennel is one-of-a-kind, so it is essential that you research them beforehand. Read reviews and get references from people that you trust in order to make a decision which kennel works right for you. One of the good things about kennels is that they tend to be a cost-effective yet quality solution.
Leave small comforts
If you are leaving your dog at home, with a sitter that will occasionally check on them, make sure that they have something with your scent on it to comfort them, such as an old t-shirt. You should also leave them with something to keep them occupied, such as a treat-dispensing toy or a pet-safe bone. Your sitter should know to refill the treats, and you could ask them to leave the radio on, if your dog is used to noises.
Leaving your dog behind when going on a vacation is hard. The good thing is that there is a number of options that you can go for that will provide them with an environment that will keep them safe and occupied so that they have a little vacation of their own.
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Author Bio:
Leila Dorari
Leila Dorari is a freelance writer and self-improvement enthusiast from Sydney. Currently, she is spreading the word about the benefits relocating to a new city can bring to one’s career and personal development. In her spare time, she is either window shopping or exploring new ways to make her life more meaningful. http://www.mediagurus.org.au
Feature Photo by Victor Grabarczyk on Unsplash
Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
