Pets are part of the family and can sometimes make traveling hard or at least challenging. Should you take them with you? Do you leave them at home and have someone come in and take care of them? Or do you board them at a kennel? It can be quite a dilemma. Here are some tips for travelers that may help you decide what’s best for your pet.
Leaving Your Pet at Home
Some experts point out that this is often the least traumatic way of leaving your pet when you go on vacation. While your pet’s routine will be somewhat different, it won’t be the huge change that boarding would be. If you go this route, see if you can hire a neighbor, friend, or family member with whom your pet is familiar.
If your pet has not interacted with the caretaker before, take some time before your vacation to let your new caretaker get to know your pet(s). Then take your caretaker through the routine. Writing it down to help them remember all the steps is important, but do take them through the routine in person at least once.
There are some cons to leaving your pet in your home. For example, some people are uncertain about having another person in their home when they are gone. Also, if there’s an emergency or problem, a pet staying in your home may not be discovered right away and would have to be transported to the vet.
Boarding
Boarding’s biggest asset is the availability of vet care. If necessary, your pet will have access to veterinary care at a professional boarding kennel. You can also schedule a bath or flea treatment while you’re gone so your pet is clean and ready to go when you pick him/her up.
Some cons to boarding are the expense and the possible trauma to your pet. If your pet gets anxious easily or is very attached to you and your routine, then boarding can be anxiety-producing.
Taking Your Pet With You
If you decide to take your pet with you and you are sure that all destinations (hotels, your final vacation spot, etc.) accept pets, then you will have a different type of preparation to do.
For one thing, getting your pet groomed very well before travel is a good idea. He or she will be more comfortable for travel that way (especially if the grooming involves clipping to keep him/her cooler), and your pet will be less likely to leave hair in the car and where you’re staying.
If your pet is coming with you, he/she will need a carrier. A travel crate or carrier is ideal and keeps your pet safer if he/she bounces around loose in the car. Also, some hotels require or prefer that your animal is crated or in a carrier.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet requires some planning. First, make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations. Second, pack everything your pet will need, including food, water, toys, and a bed. Third, find a pet-friendly hotel or rental property in advance. Fourth, make a list of people you can call in case of an emergency while you’re gone. And finally, have fun and enjoy the time with your furry friend! These tips should help you decide what’s best for your pet when you travel this summer.
