Boarding Your Pet
Few of us look forward to taking trips or vacations leaving our pets behind. On the other hand, some pets do not travel well and making provisions for their care in our absence is the prudent thing to do. On those occasions when it is either inconvenient or not possible to take our pets with us, there are several options to be considered when deciding on their care in our absence.
(1) The length of time care must be provided, (2) they types and/or numbers of pets needing care, (3) the temperaments of the pets, and (4) any existing conditions that need to be addressed. All these factors should be considered when deciding on how to best manage the animals in your absence.
Certainly having friends or family look in on your pets periodically, or even taking them into their own homes is the first options most people will consider. Although familiar faces and/or surroundings can make your absence less stressful on your pets, there are no assurances that there will still not be some changes to their temperament and behavior. As the pet owner you are very aware of the likes, dislikes, and special needs of your pets, and it is your charge to select people you feel are responsible enough to carry out your wishes as it applies to your pets care.
Many people find it more convenient to engage the services of a professional pet sitter, who would come into your home and stay there in your absence. These people generally have extensive experience in dealing with pets who are somewhat out of sorts because their owners are away, and have established policies and/or procedures for most situations.
Dogs seem to accept changes much easier than do cats, and usually much easier to manage. Cats are more sensitive to their surroundings, strangers, and routines, and are more apt to flee when they become anxious or stressed. It is a wise idea to advise whoever is taking care of what they may expect. When faced with new surroundings or the presence of strangers our pets may not behave as expected. To have pets on leashes when outside (unless there is a secure exercise area), is a good idea. In some instances pet carriers or kennels may be needed.
Some veterinarians offer boarding services, or can refer you to one in your area that is well suited to the kind of pet you have. Most boarding facilities have a working relationship with local vets, and can offer the most secure and safest of options. All pets that are boarded should be current on their vaccinations. Distemper combination, rabies and upper respiratory tract infection vaccines are certainly recommended. Most boarding kennels will require written proof of vaccination and all applicable pet licenses prior to boarding your pet. Be sure to inquire as to these requirements to avoid unexpected complications.
Some veterinarians offer boarding services, or can refer you to one in your area that is well suited to the kind of pet you have. Most boarding facilities have a working relationship with local vets, and can offer the most secure and safest of options. All pets that are boarded should be current on their vaccinations. Distemper combination, rabies and upper respiratory tract infection vaccines are certainly recommended. Most boarding kennels will require written proof of vaccination and all applicable pet licenses prior to boarding your pet. Be sure to inquire as to these requirements to avoid unexpected complications.
If using a boarding facility, take your pet with you, and make several visits. If using a sitter, have them make several home visits so they are not a complete stranger when they come to stay. Unless provisions are made through a sitter or service, make Arrangements with your veterinarian to provide services should the need arise.
A little research, time and effort will go along way in reducing the stress upon your pets, and satisfy yourself that they will be well cared for until your return.
(1) The length of time care must be provided, (2) they types and/or numbers of pets needing care, (3) the temperaments of the pets, and (4) any existing conditions that need to be addressed. All these factors should be considered when deciding on how to best manage the animals in your absence.
Certainly having friends or family look in on your pets periodically, or even taking them into their own homes is the first options most people will consider. Although familiar faces and/or surroundings can make your absence less stressful on your pets, there are no assurances that there will still not be some changes to their temperament and behavior. As the pet owner you are very aware of the likes, dislikes, and special needs of your pets, and it is your charge to select people you feel are responsible enough to carry out your wishes as it applies to your pets care.
Many people find it more convenient to engage the services of a professional pet sitter, who would come into your home and stay there in your absence. These people generally have extensive experience in dealing with pets who are somewhat out of sorts because their owners are away, and have established policies and/or procedures for most situations.
Dogs seem to accept changes much easier than do cats, and usually much easier to manage. Cats are more sensitive to their surroundings, strangers, and routines, and are more apt to flee when they become anxious or stressed. It is a wise idea to advise whoever is taking care of what they may expect. When faced with new surroundings or the presence of strangers our pets may not behave as expected. To have pets on leashes when outside (unless there is a secure exercise area), is a good idea. In some instances pet carriers or kennels may be needed.
Some veterinarians offer boarding services, or can refer you to one in your area that is well suited to the kind of pet you have. Most boarding facilities have a working relationship with local vets, and can offer the most secure and safest of options. All pets that are boarded should be current on their vaccinations. Distemper combination, rabies and upper respiratory tract infection vaccines are certainly recommended. Most boarding kennels will require written proof of vaccination and all applicable pet licenses prior to boarding your pet. Be sure to inquire as to these requirements to avoid unexpected complications.
Some veterinarians offer boarding services, or can refer you to one in your area that is well suited to the kind of pet you have. Most boarding facilities have a working relationship with local vets, and can offer the most secure and safest of options. All pets that are boarded should be current on their vaccinations. Distemper combination, rabies and upper respiratory tract infection vaccines are certainly recommended. Most boarding kennels will require written proof of vaccination and all applicable pet licenses prior to boarding your pet. Be sure to inquire as to these requirements to avoid unexpected complications.
If using a boarding facility, take your pet with you, and make several visits. If using a sitter, have them make several home visits so they are not a complete stranger when they come to stay. Unless provisions are made through a sitter or service, make Arrangements with your veterinarian to provide services should the need arise.
A little research, time and effort will go along way in reducing the stress upon your pets, and satisfy yourself that they will be well cared for until your return.