Top 5 Boarding Options for Your Pet
When you’re about to set off somewhere, your pet will demonstrate a sixth sense, in particular when you intend to leave them behind. Your pooch will start looking down as you pack your bags, or your feline will plant itself firmly on your lap the moment you begin to prepare your luggage. Before you leave for a business trip or holiday, boarding your pet is an unavoidable decision to make. Here are the top 5 options.
1. Pet Sitting
There’s no better way to combine the professional and the person than pet sitting. Many dogs and cats feel uncomfortable in unfamiliar environments, so hiring a sitter to feed, walk, and play with them is a good choice. You can have the sitter stay in your home while you’re away or just come by once a day to give your pet food and water as well as provide any other services needed.
2. Kennels and Catteries
If you have a dog, it will be safe and protected at a boarding kennel. The best facilities are monitored and supervised 24/7 to prevent incidents. Dogs that are sociable and friendly will love staying at a kennel. Kennels have a schedule that’s observed to reduce stress. The staff will observe exercise regimes, behavior, food intake, and other issues. They can contact a vet to examine a dog that’s having problems.
If you have a cat, don’t choose a cattery where the animals come into contact. Cats don’t like being put in the same space as other cats unless they are from the same family. Keeping them separate is a key safety precaution to make sure they don’t fight. When choosing a facility, look for a spacious confinement area equipped with hiding places, litter boxes, and amenities like food puzzles and fun toys.
3. Pet Hotels
Hotels are especially suitable for young animals because they get as many toilet breaks as they need and the right amount of attention. If your dog is likely to get depressed or destructive when you’re away, don’t leave them at home. Pets that are prone to suffer from separation anxiety will feel well in a hotel. If you want only the finest for your pooch or kitty, don’t hesitate to look for and locate a pet hotel in your area.
4. Boarding in a Sitter’s Home
Another option is taking your pet to a sitter’s home before going away. Ideally, the sitter should live in your area. Your pet’s needs will determine whether to go for the first option suggested here or for in-home boarding. The latter option will allow a friendly canine to socialize with other dogs under a reliable professional’s supervision, with frequent interaction and personal attention.
One important advantage of in-home boarding over getting someone to come to your home or stay in it is the price. In-home boarding is more affordable. There’s also the added security factor. It’s not always possible – or reasonable – to trust a sitter with the keys to your house.
5. Relative, Neighbor, or Friend
Finally, should none of the above options appeal to you, there’s this tried and true approach. If you know someone who’s absolutely in love with your cat or dog (or whatever your pet maybe), think about asking them to drop by to feed and play with them the next time you go on vacation. It’s not enough to love pets though. The person should be aware of at least some pet care basics. Do exercise caution if your cat is prone to marking ‘territory’ or your dog tends to get overly enthusiastic and wild. If your neighbor, relative, friend, or coworker also has a pet, assure them you’ll return the favor one day. Get them something nice when you’re on holiday as a token of appreciation.
Final Thoughts
If none of these options work for whatever reason, book a pet-friendly hotel in your destination of choice. It can be fun to travel with your pet sometimes, so one of these hotels will be a good choice. Pet-friendly hotels are different from pet hotels in that the owner stays with the pet, whereas the pet is alone in a pet hotel. If you are camping or otherwise spending time outdoors, your dog will enjoy being with you. Check whether the site is pet-friendly in advance.