How to Prep Your Pet for Your Vacation
There’s no bones about it: leaving your pet to go on vacation can be a little stressful.
Should you hire a pet-sitter? What about boarding them? Will they be okay while you’re away?
As a travel pro and a member of the armed forces, I’ve had to leave my pets behind many times, so I know how nerve wracking this can be!
And that’s why I’ve written a blog post all about how to make sure your pet is well taken care of while you travel.
Keep reading to learn how you can ensure your furry friend is a-okay while you’re away.
Your Pet Care Options
When it comes to pet care while you travel, there are generally three options to choose from:
Hire a pet-sitter (or ask a family member) to care for your pet at your home.
Hire a pet-sitter (or ask a family member) to care for your pet at their home.
Take your pet to a boarding facility to be cared for while you are away.
Let’s consider each of these options more closely.
Option 1: A Pet Sitter Cares For Your Pet at Your Home
This option is great for older pets or pets that don’t require much attention, such as cats (in some cases), hamsters, and other small animals.
Pros:
Your pet will stay in the comfort of their home surrounded by familiar sights and smells.
You won’t have to pack up your animals' food and other supplies; you’ll just need to leave a list of instructions.
You’ll find comfort in knowing that someone is looking in on your home while you’re away.
Cons:
Your pet might not get the social interaction, attention, and exercise they’re used to.
Your pet might need to be crated or confined for long periods of time.
Option 2: A Petsitter Cares for Your Pet at Their Home
This is a great option for pets who might require a little more attention while you’re away.
Pros:
Your pet will receive more attention and interaction.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your pet won’t be left alone for extended periods of time but also won’t be overwhelmed at a loud boarding facility with other pets.
Cons:
You’ll need to pack up all of your pets belongings and food.
Your pet might not feel comfortable in an unfamiliar place.
You won’t have someone looking in on your home while you’re away (unless you arrange for that through someone else.)
If you choose this option, consider a pre-vacation practice run/overnight stay for your pet. This will give them a chance to get comfortable in their new environment so that when they return for your longer trip, they’ll be a little more familiar with their surroundings.
And this will also give your sitter a trial run with your pet!
Instructions to leave for Pet Sitters
Regardless of whether the pet sitter comes to your home or not, you’ll need to leave her instructions to help her best care for your pet.
If you do go with this option, remember to leave a detailed list of instructions for your pet’s caregiver.
Here are a few question to consider as you write instructions for your pet sitter
What is your pet’s daily routine?
How much and how often and how much does your pet eat?
How often/how long to walk your pet (if necessary)?
When on walks, should they avoid certain areas?
Does your pet require a harness? Should you leave instructions on how to put it on?
Does your pet have any allergies or medical conditions?
When the sitter leaves, should she put your pet in a crate or confine it to a certain room in your home?
Additionally, be sure to leave any microchip information as well as the contact information for your vet.
Option 3: Your Pet Will Stay at a Boarding Facility
Boarding facilities are primarily intended for dogs, although some vet practices will board both dogs and cats.
These facilities are a great option if you can’t find a pet sitter or friend to watch your pet, and/or if you have a dog that enjoys playing!
Pros:
Many boarding facilities will let their guests play in a designated play area, meaning your dog will get plenty of socialization and exercise while you’re away.
Many facilities also have pet cams so that you can check on your furry friends while you’re away.
Cons:
Boarding can be pricey.
You’ll have to pack up your pet’s belongings. Many boarders require you to not only bring their food, but also their bedding.
Boarding facilities can be overwhelming for older or anxious pets.
Your pet might need additional vaccines.
Most boarding facilities will require you to provide proof of vaccination, and some require vaccines that your vet might not routinely administer, including the Bordetella and canine flu vaccines.
So, plan ahead and make sure that your pet is up to date on those required vaccines.
Lastly, not all boarding facilities are created equal, so be sure to do your research. Ask around and read reviews!
Your Pet’s Packing List
If you plan to board your pet or take them to a pet sitter, below is a packing list to consider.
Food
Medication (if needed)
Food and water bowls
Toys
Poo bags
Leash or harness
Cold weather accessories, such as sweaters or jackets (if needed)
Bedding
Vet information
Vaccine Records
Your contact information
An emergency contact and their information
To Sum it Up
Leaving your pet while on vacation can be stressful, but there are ways to make it a little easier–especially when you think ahead.
Remember: there are generally three options for pet-care while you’re on vacation: a pet-sitter who visits your home, a pet-sitter who cares for your pet in their home, or a boarding facility.
So, consider your pets needs and what works best for you when you prepare for your vacation.
And guess what! I have a free checklist to help you prep your pet for your vacation. Click here to check it out!
Lastly, if you’re ready to plan your next vacation, reach out! I’m happy to share my travel expertise with you!
Simply fill out this travel quote request form to get started.