It’s to think of your pet like a member of your family and leaving for vacation without them can be tough but it’s often an unavoidable decision. Although many hotels nowadays allow pets, there may not be enough facilities for them where you’re planning to go.
You’ll want to ensure your pet’s happiness while you’re gone but that can depend on several factors, including what type of pet you have. For instance, a cat might be self-sufficient for a couple of days while a dog will require more love and attention.
With some smart preparation, you can help get your pet ready for your absence. Here’s what you can do to keep your pet happy while you’re away.
Hire a Pet Sitter or Board Your Pet
If you have a pet dog, you’ll definitely need someone to check on them every day if you decide to leave them at home. If your family members or friends already have their hands full, the next best option is hiring a dog sitter or boarding your pet.
Hiring a dog sitter for the first time might be a little stressful so it’s best to go with someone reliable and trustworthy. You can ask your family and friends for recommendations.
Have Someone They Know Near Them
Whether you decide to leave your pet at home with a sitter or board them, try to make sure a friend or family member they are familiar with visits them from time to time. Your pet will be relieved to see someone they regularly see.
If you go with the boarding route, make sure to introduce your pet to the place and people working there before it’s time to leave. This should make them feel comfortable.
Keep the Routine Normal
An immediate change in routine can be a big factor in stressing pets, especially when you’re not around. Write a note of your usual routine to whoever you leave your pet with, so they know what a usual day looks like.
Make sure they get to eat the same food, sleep with the same blankets, and have their usual toys to avoid stress from a change in routine. You can also get a dog sitting mobile app to keep an eye on your pet while you’re away.
Leave Your Pet with Familiar Items
A big advantage to hiring a pet sitter is that your pet’s surroundings stay the same, but if sending them somewhere else is unavoidable, give your pet a piece of home to take with them for familiarity.
This can include your dog’s bed, their usual foods and treats, one of your shirts or other clothing items, and most importantly, their special blanket.
Don’t Make an Obvious Goodbye
A huge mistake pet owners make when leaving their pet for a couple of days is making a big and emotional farewell. This only leads to unnecessary stress on your pet, making them think they’re being abandoned.
The best thing to do is keep the goodbye normal and short. Don’t save all the attention for the last day, instead spend more time with your pet on the days leading up to your departure.