Unfortunately, our pets can’t always join us on our travels. Whether you’re hiring a pet sitter or taking your pet to a boarding facility, proper preparation is key to ensuring they have the best experience possible.
Pet Care Options
Cross-country flights and delicate heirlooms at grandma’s house might mean your pet isn’t the ideal travel companion. If you’re wondering where to leave your dog during your vacation or how to arrange care for your cat while you’re on a weekend business trip, you have a few options:
- Pet Sitting: With a pet sitter, your pet stays in the comfort of their own home. You can hire a daily sitter who visits a few times a day for walks and meals, or an in-home sitter who stays with your pet, providing constant companionship and maintaining their routine. Pet sitting is a great choice for pets with anxiety or those who prefer being the only animal around.
- Pet Boarding: Boarding involves your pet staying at a facility outside your home, such as a kennel, doggy daycare, private in-home boarding, or even a luxury pet hotel. Boarding is ideal for social pets and may offer additional services like grooming. However, it might not be the best option for pets with behavioral issues or those who aren’t accustomed to kennels.
You might also find a trusted friend or family member who can take care of your pet in your absence. If that’s not an option, there are many professionals available to help.
When looking for reliable care, consider using accredited providers. The National Association of Pet Sitters can help you find a reputable sitter, while the Professional Animal Care Certification Council offers a directory of certified pet care facilities.
Once you’ve arranged care, it’s time to prepare for your pet’s stay.
What to Always Pack
Regardless of whether you choose pet sitting or boarding, there are essential items you should always pack for your pet:
- Identification: Ensure your pet wears a collar with a current ID tag, and consider getting them microchipped for added security.
- Care Instructions: Write down any specific needs your pet has, including how to prepare their food, what triggers their anxiety, or any bedtime routines they’re used to.
- Emergency Contact Information: Provide phone numbers for your pet’s veterinarian and a trusted friend who can be contacted if you’re unreachable.
- Medication: If your pet takes daily supplements or medication, make sure their caretaker has enough for the entire stay and knows how to administer it.
- Medical Records: Include details of your pet’s vaccinations, medications, allergies, medical conditions, and pet insurance information, if available.
- Collar/Harness and Leash: If your pet will be walked, pack a well-fitting collar or harness and a leash they’re comfortable using.
What to Prepare for Your Pet Sitter
If your pet will be staying home, there are still preparations to make:
- Guide to Your Home: Provide your sitter with instructions on where to find everything needed for your pet’s care (food, medication, grooming supplies) and how to navigate your home (alarm systems, off-limits areas, sleeping arrangements).
- Guide to Your Pet: Describe your pet’s daily routine, including their favorite walks, play activities, and feeding times. The closer the sitter can stick to their routine, the better.
- Pet-Proofed Home: Even well-behaved pets might act out when left alone for longer periods. Limit their access to food, valuables, and sensitive areas of the house.
- Stocked-Up Supplies: Make sure you have enough food, litter, medication, and other essentials to last the entire time you’re away. It’s also a good idea to have extras like shampoo and first aid supplies on hand.
- Entertainment: Provide your sitter with toys and chews that will keep your pet happy and occupied, especially if they’re prone to boredom or anxiety.
What to Pack for Pet Boarding
To help your pet feel comfortable while boarding, bring along a few familiar items from home:
- Pet Food: To avoid upsetting your pet’s stomach, pack enough of their usual food to last the entire stay, plus a little extra just in case. For example, if your dog is staying for a week, pack enough for eight days.
- Pet Treats: Include a few of their favorite treats, especially if they have dietary restrictions that prevent them from eating the facility’s treats.
- Comfort Items: Bring along a favorite toy, bed, or blanket that smells like home. Familiar items can help ease your pet’s anxiety in a new environment.
Conclusion
Following this checklist will help you prepare your pet for boarding or for their stay with a pet sitter. While being away from your pet can be tough, knowing they’re well-cared for will allow you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
P.S. If you decide you can’t bear to leave your pet behind, check out our tips for traveling with your dog or cat!