Remember the hit movie a few years ago where the kid is accidentally left to fend for himself at home when his family goes on a winter vacation? “I would never let that happen to my child,” you say...
But, you’d be surprised how many loving pet “parents” leave their little darlings behind and go on a trip without the careful planning their pets need, and deserve.
If little Tabby or Benji could tell you what to do when you travel, it would make things a lot easier! Fortunately, our host Megan Blake gives us some great pointers in this week’s show based on her years as a seasoned traveler:
Keep your pets routine as normal as possible. If you walk your dog for an hour twice a week, make sure that he still gets that type of interaction while you’re gone.
Some pets have severe separation anxiety, which can cause them to act out and destroy furniture or other personal items. To avoid this, talk to your vet and see if your pet needs anti-depressant aid while you’re away.
If you hire a pet sitter, make sure your pet likes the person—and be sure to discuss number of visits, duration, and level of interaction the sitter has with your pet. For that extra level of security, check out officially licensed and insured pet sitters.
If you choose a boarding facility, be sure to tour it first. Check for cleanliness, smells, noise and degree of interaction. Make sure your pet’s accommodations are comparable to yours.
Pets have the potential to suffer more from separation anxiety than humans do, so make sure you plan your pet’s care with the same attention you give to your trip. Be sure and choose the best option for your pet. If they are high-attention, try using a pet sitter, a friend, or go the extra mile for a pet hotel. If your pet is pretty shy, ask a friend to drop by to take care of your pet’s basic needs.
Whoever takes care of your pet while you’re away, make sure you have interviewed them prior to leaving. Always make sure they have your contact numbers, vet’s number and a basic understanding of necessary foods, medication and favorite toys.
HERE’S THE POOP
Pet sitters aren’t usually like baby sitters where you have to worry about their boyfriends coming over and not being focused with the job at hand. The best reasons to use a pet sitter are…
It reduces the pet’s separation anxiety.
Your pet stays on their normal diet and exercise routine.
It gives you peace of mind to know your house and pet are safe and sound.
Pets have the potential to suffer more from separation anxiety than humans do, so make sure you plan your pet’s care with the same attention you give to your trip. Be sure and choose the best option for your pet. If they are high-attention, try using a pet sitter, a friend, or go the extra mile for a pet hotel. If your pet is pretty shy, ask a friend to drop by to take care of your pet’s basic needs.
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