Going on Vacation? Tips for Leaving Your Dog Behind
Many pet owners find it hard to leave their pets at home when they go on vacation. You might worry about your pet’s happiness and health while you’re gone and feel bad about leaving them behind. But there are many things you can do to make sure your pet is happy and comfortable while you’re away. Whether you have a dog, a cat, or some other kind of pet, you can make the separation as easy as possible with planning and preparation.
In this article, we’ll tell you how to keep your pet happy while on vacation and make the time you spend apart as stress-free as possible for you and your furry friend.
Table of Contents
Tips for Leaving Your Dog Behind
Reduce Separation Anxiety
Dogs and their owners can have separation anxiety difficulty. It can be tough when you leave for a long time. There are ways to help your dog feel less anxious and have an easier time with the change.
Start by leaving your dog something familiar, like your shirt or a blanket. This makes them feel safe and at ease, because the smell reminds them of you. Also, giving your dog chew toys and treats can help keep him busy while you’re gone.
Getting your dog ready ahead of time is one of the best ways to deal with separation anxiety. Start by leaving your dog briefly and slowly increasing the time you’re gone.
This can help them get used to being alone and gain confidence in caring for themselves when they’re not around. Doing these things can help your dog feel less anxious and make it easier for them to be away from you.
Look for Sitter
If your dog is used to spending the day alone while you are at work, a dog sitter can be a great option for pet owners who want their furry friends to stay in the comfort of their homes while they are on vacation.
The dog sitter can be hired to stay at your house from night to day until you return. They will ensure your dog stays on the same schedule as if you were taking care of them by giving them regular meals, taking them for walks every day, and keeping them company.
Having a dog sitter is also convenient for you and your pet sitter because they can keep their regular schedules while caring for your pet. But if you can leave your dog with a friend or family member, both of you will find the change easier. When you need help, asking people you can trust, like family, friends, and neighbors, is always best.
If you don’t know anyone who can care for your dog, consider hiring a professional pet sitter. Set up interviews and call their references to make sure they are trustworthy before you hire them.
Give your contact information in case of an emergency, and call or video chat occasionally to see how things are going. By doing these things, you can be sure your pet will have well cared for while you are gone.
Look for a Boarding Facility
Dogs with high energy can benefit from staying in a boarding facility. Although the cost may be more than hiring a sitter, your dog will receive the loving attention it deserves.
Before choosing a kennel, you should consider the size of the runs, the amount of social time, the number of caregivers, and how they handle pets with special needs. If you do your homework, you can find a kennel where your dog will be safe, happy, and well-cared for while you’re away.
Like other kennels, allbreeds kennels is a professional facility that gives dogs a safe and comfortable place to stay while their owners are away. It is a safe, fun place to stay with fully licensed people, making the experience stress-free for you and your dog.
Invest in Devices
When you have a pet, it can be hard to leave it at home when you go out can be hard. Yet, you can put your mind at rest by investing in pet-friendly devices. There are many pet-friendly indoor cameras on the market.
You can check on your pet using these cameras, talk to them through a speaker, and even give them treats using an app. This way, you can still talk to your pet even when you’re not around as well. You can capture videos and create cute pet photo books using captured videos.
Change Your Dog’s ID Tag
Before leaving your pet at home, it’s also important to ensure their ID is up-to-date. This can help if your pet gets loose or lost while you’re away. Ensure the information on your pet’s tag and microchip is current, including any health problems they may have.
Some pet owners even put QR codes or URLs on their pets’ tags making their contact information easy to find. These steps can help you feel better about leaving your pet while away.
Maintain Normalcy for Your Pet
Your pet will feel more comfortable and less stressed while you’re on vacation if you encourage normalcy in their daily routine.
Give the person taking care of them a written schedule of what they do every day and instructions for how to care for them.
Ensure your pet has access to the same food, toys, and bedding they usually use. Any sudden changes could cause them to feel stressed. By keeping things normal, your pet can feel secure and relaxed while you are away.
Prepare the Essentials
Before going on vacation, ensure you have everything you need. This includes enough food and water to last the whole time you’re gone and any medicine your pet may need.
If you leave your pet with a sitter, tell them everything they need to know about your pet’s routines, when they need to go to the bathroom, and what their favorite toys and treats are. It’s also important to give them your phone number and the number of your vet in case of an emergency.
Increase Playtime
When you’re away, ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise and mental challenges. Leaving out their favorite toys or puzzle games can encourage proper playtime and keep them entertained, even if they don’t get as much opportunity to exercise as when you’re around.
Make your Home Safe for Dogs
Just like you would make sure your home is safe for a new puppy, you should do the same thing if you’re going to be gone for a long time and your dog will be alone.
When dogs feel anxious or stressed, they may chew on things. It’s important to keep anything harmful out of their reach to protect their health and keep your things from getting destroyed.
Crate-train your Puppy
Getting your dog used to spending time in a crate will help keep them out of trouble while you’re gone. Contrary to popular belief, a crate may be your dog’s safe and comforting place. It’s a great aid for you and your dog because Fluffy feels secure and comfortable in your absence.
Preparing your Dog for your Trip
When you go on vacation and leave your dog behind, it can be hard for both you and your furry friend. When you leave, your dog might not know what’s happening, which can cause anxiety and stress.
Having your dog meet the person caring for it before you leave on vacation is a good idea. This can help your dog get used to the new routine and surroundings, making a move easier for everyone. Before you leave, the dog sitter should spend the night with your dog to help them adjust.
Don’t Stress on Goodbyes
While leaving your pet for vacation, don’t drag out the goodbyes. Long goodbyes might be stressful for your pet. Instead, give your pet a quick and upbeat goodbye and a promise that you’ll return soon. Your pet is highly attuned to your mood, so maintain a cheerful disposition. Have a positive frame of mind, and you’ll be able to look forward to a happy & healthy homecoming with your pet.
Checklist for Your Dog
You must pack an overnight bag, whether you’re leaving your dog at a kennel, a friend’s house, or with a pet sitter.
- Include important phone numbers like yours, a contact number in case of an emergency, and the number of your dog’s vet.
- Bring your dog’s favorite toys, bones, food, and water bowls.
- Keep a leash for walking and one that is longer for exercise.
- Record your dog’s vaccinations and medications and how to use them.
- Bring a brush, nail clippers, and poop bags to keep your dog clean.
Bottom Line
Leaving your furry friend behind while you go on vacation can be hard and make you feel sad. But if you plan and get ready, you can ensure your dog is safe, happy, and well-cared for while you’re gone.
Using the tips, you can make a plan for caring for the pet that works well for you and your pet. Whether you hire a pet sitter or use boarding services, your dog’s health, and happiness should always be your top priority.
With the right care, you can go on vacation without worrying about your furry friend because they will be in good hands.
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