While many dog owners want to bring their pets everywhere, this is not always possible. In this article, our Marcello Veterinary Hospital vets share ideas for what to do with your dog when you travel and places to leave your dog while on vacation.
Boarding Options For Dogs While You Are on Vacation
If you have anxiety about leaving your dog while on vacation, it is in your best interest to find someone to take care of your dog while you are away. You could bring them to a friend's house, or board them at a dog kennel during your vacation.
Most dogs are fine being left alone for one night, but puppies and specific dog breeds can't be left alone and need companionship. In this post, our vets will offer some insight into different options for pet care, and their advantages and disadvantages.
Leaving Dogs at Home While On Vacation
A majority of the time, dogs will be fine if left alone for one night and might not even notice your absence. If provided with enough food, fresh water, and toys, your dog can be left alone and be safe. Young dogs and new puppies shouldn't be left on their own for more than four hours. Puppies can get into trouble and harm themselves or your house if left alone.
We don't recommend leaving your dog alone for long periods because dogs are social creatures that need their owner's attention to feel safe and comfortable. They rely on you to make sure all of their care requirements are being met.
At Home With a Dog Sitter
A good option for when you have to leave your dog at home is to have a dog sitter come in every day to take them out for a walk, make sure your furry friend has food and water, and provide them with some quality one-on-one playtime and cuddles.
This is a good option that provides your dog with less stress because they are in an environment they are used to being in. This is also a cost-effective choice, especially if you have more than one pet.
You can either have a friend or family member that your dog knows come in and take care of them or have a professional come in and watch your four-legged companion.
Having someone your dog is already familiar and comfortable with can also help reduce their stress levels and make them feel more relaxed. A professional sitter knows everything about properly taking care of a dog and can make sure every need is being provided for.
When having a pet sitter take care of your dog, make sure they know all about your dog's habits, behaviors, and needs because every animal is different. Be sure to tell the sitter what time of day your dog eats, the specific amount of food they require, your dog's energy level, whether they have to be given medications at specific times, etc. We recommend providing your sitter with a guide to caring for your dog, so they know exactly how to meet all of your pet's needs.
Leaving Your Dog at a Friend's or Relative's Place
If your dog is comfortable going to other places, you could bring them to a friend's or relative's home when you go on vacation.
The benefit of this option is that your furry friend will have constant supervision and be provided with more attention. However, if they already have a dog that yours doesn't get along with, or if your furry friend doesn't like the person they are staying with, this can backfire and increase your pet's stress even more than if they were left by themselves.
If you would like to leave your pet at someone's house, we recommend dropping them off for a few days before you leave as a trial stay so you can make sure your dog feels comfortable. If this doesn't work out, there are other options for your furry companion.
Ensure the person you are leaving your dog with can meet all of their needs and is willing and eager to perform the task.
Boarding Facility For Dogs
Many boarding facilities welcome dogs as well as cats. Boarding facilities are the best option for pet care while you are on vacation.
Professionals at our boarding facility will make sure your dog is always, fed, hydrated, and supervised. We recommend calling well in advance to book your dog's stay to ensure there is availability and space for your four-legged companion.
While many dogs can have separation anxiety and might be stressed out by being left alone with strangers in an unknown environment, there are steps you can take to lessen their fears. You might choose to bring along their favorite toys, blankets, bed, or even a piece of your clothing. You can also do a practice run to make sure your dog gets along well at the facility, this also helps make them familiar with the setting.
It is important to communicate with the boarding facility to make sure they clearly understand all of your cat's needs, and that they offer all of the boarding services your dog requires.
You must be comfortable with the kennel you select. Ensure the place you are choosing is clean, well-run, and quiet. See if the facility you are selecting is dog-friendly with a separate boarding area for dogs and cats. You should check if the kennel is large enough so there is enough space for their food and bed. You may also want to see if it has features such as a window for your dog to watch outside, climate-controlled kennels, and quality one-on-one time with the staff.
Take the time to view the place your pet will be staying in from their perspective, to make sure your dog will be comfortable and well cared for in your absence.
Marcello Veterinary Hospital's boarding facility is dog friendly, and our professional and qualified veterinary team will ensure all of your dog's needs are being met, we will answer any questions you may have and offer trial stays to make sure we are the perfect fit for your pet.
The Benefits of Leaving Your Dog at Kennels
Wondering if leaving your dog at a kennel might be a good option for you? Here are a few of the benefits of leaving your dog at a high-quality, professional boarding facility while you are on vacation:
- Your dog will be supervised the entire stay
- Their feeding schedule will be the same as it is at home
- Your dog's kennel will be cleaned daily
- The staff will notice if your dog is not eating or if they are sick
- Good kennels offer calming and relaxing environments for dogs
- The staff can make sure your cat's medications are administered properly and on time
- You can call them to see how your dog is doing
At the end of the day it is your decision where you leave your dog while you are on vacation. Take the time to weigh your options and make sure you are choosing the best possible option for you and your furry companion.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.