Unlike us, our furry family members don’t look forward to the holidays, they don’t like change, and they don’t like it when their family is gone and they especially don’t like strangers in their space.
If you’re an animal parent, you know what a worry it is when planning a trip away, and quite often this anxiety may lead you to procrastinate, because you’re so worried about your pet that it becomes easier to just stay put.
So this year you’ve planned and decided that you’ll be going away, and now it’s time to plan where you’ll be taking little Fluffy. We have a few options listed below:
Take your pet with you: When booking your flights, book a ticket for your pet too – after all he/she also deserves a break! Before you book, research the restrictions as some breeds are not allowed to fly. Then, book early – only a number of animals are allowed on each flight. You will also have to call to book your pet in, and find out the requirements needed in order for them to fly.
Place your pet in a kennel: Although this option can be expensive, there are wonderful kennels that can provide warm and loving care. They have the comforts that a pet needs, and can be very homely. Just be warned: They do tend to get booked up pretty quickly.
Pet sitters: If you have decided that taking your animal out of its comfort zone is too much, why not get a pet sitter to come and babysit? Pet sitters are often a cheaper option and a great alternative to kennel care. A pet sitter should be the friendly and loving face your animal can trust, watch your pet, keep on training him/her and take your dog on walks.
Hire a dog walker: This is the least expensive option available. A dog walker coming by twice a day will make sure your dog has food and water and take him/her on walks. This option is only advised if you are going away for a short period of time and if your dog only needs to run and play twice a day.
Either which option you decide on, we do advise that your animal has pet insurance, as no one knows your pet better than you and you can never be too sure of what could go wrong while you’re not there.