Finally, you’ve booked that dream vacation. Everything is set—travel plans, check! But can you ensure peace of mind about your furry friend while enjoying your holiday?

For pet parents, this is often a significant dilemma. While pet-friendly travel has become more common, it can still be challenging. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to ensure your pooch stays safe, happy, and well cared for while you’re away. The key is to provide your dog’s caretaker with clear and detailed instructions and to minimize disruptions to your dog’s routine. This approach helps reduce the chances of your pup feeling sad or abandoned.

Here, we’ll guide you through essential steps and various options to ensure your dog has a positive experience while you enjoy your dream vacation or road trip.

Preparing for Your Dog’s Stay

One of the easiest, quickest, and most cost-effective solutions is to ask a trusted relative or friend to care for your dog. This works particularly well if they already know and love your pup. However, keep in mind that caring for a pet—especially an older one requiring medication or special attention—is no small task. Make sure the person is comfortable with the responsibility.

If friends or family are not an option, there are plenty of alternatives, such as professional boarding facilities or pet sitters. Each has its benefits, depending on your dog’s needs and your budget.

In Your Own Home

Among the options, this is often the most expensive, with costs ranging from $75 to $200 per day depending on your location. However, leaving your dog in the comfort of their own home can be ideal, particularly for senior dogs, puppies, or anxious pets.

Commonly referred to as house sitting, this service minimizes disruption to your pet’s routine and ensures they receive personalized care. Additionally, it reduces the risk of exposure to unfamiliar dogs, making it a safer option for pets that may not do well in social settings.

With Family and Friends

Costs for this option typically depend on what you agree upon, and it is often less expensive or even free. Since your furry friend is already familiar with your family and friends, they may feel as though they are on a mini vacation themselves—unless your pet is particularly routine-driven.

Family and friends can be an excellent choice if they are familiar with your dog’s routine and are willing to follow your care instructions. Regular updates from them can also provide you with peace of mind during your trip.

At a Reputable Sitter’s Home

The cost of boarding with a professional pet sitter typically ranges from $50 to $150 per day. This option is particularly beneficial for pets with separation anxiety, as they receive consistent love and care in a home environment.

Many sitters provide a comfortable and stimulating environment, including human interaction and playtime with other dogs. This level of engagement can distract your pet from feeling stressed about your absence and help them adjust to the temporary change in surroundings.

At a Vet or Kennel

This option is usually more budget-friendly, costing between $50 and $140 per day. Boarding facilities like kennels are well-known for accommodating pets while their owners are away.

However, if your dog is unfamiliar with the facility or staff, they may feel uneasy. Kennels are generally better suited for confident, social dogs that adapt easily to new environments.

Modern boarding facilities often offer more spacious accommodations and individualized care compared to traditional, old-school kennels. If you’re unsure about which facility to choose, seek recommendations from other pet parents in your area.

Keep Your Pet’s Care Guide Updated

Dog sitters and kennels caring for other dogs will want to know if your pet’s vaccinations are updated. You should be concerned if the facility or dog sitter does not require updated vaccinations. Vaccines can keep your dog and other dogs safe from various transmittable diseases. Your care guide should also include the following important matters:

  • Your dog’s favorite toys and games
  • The type of treats to offer and how many
  • The number of times they should walk
  • How often their water should be changed
  • The times they should be fed and the amount of their food
  • Information about their vet and groomers
  • What to do in case reactions and triggers could occur
  • Amount and schedule of their medication
  • Any allergies and health concerns
  • Emergency contact information
  • Closest emergency vet

Schedule a Trial Day or Meet-and-Greet

Imagine being a child dropped off at daycare without any preparation—it’s a scary thought! Naturally, you wouldn’t want your dog to experience this kind of anxiety. That’s why scheduling a “meet-and-greet” or a trial day is essential.

This allows your furry friend to become comfortable with their sitter or environment before your departure. Ideally, plan the trial day a few weeks in advance to give your dog time to familiarize themselves with the new person or place. This step can also provide you peace of mind, as you’ll see firsthand how your dog adjusts.

Some facilities, such as local dog daycare centers, even require a trial day before accepting overnight stays. If you’re opting for house sitting, consider a brief drop-off—perhaps while you run errands or grab a coffee—so your pup can get to know their temporary caretaker.

Pack Your Pet’s Favorite Things

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Whether your dog sitter will be staying at your home or your pet will be at another location, having all your pup’s essentials packed and organized is crucial. Consolidating your dog’s belongings in one spot reduces the risk of forgetting something important.

This preparation also ensures you’re aware of any supplies that might need replenishing, such as food. Running out of essentials while you’re away is the last thing you want.

If your pet is staying somewhere unfamiliar, include comforting items from home. Pack their favorite bed, toys, food, treats, and perhaps a piece of clothing like a sock or shirt with your scent. Items like a GPS collar and calming aids for separation anxiety may also help reduce stress.

If you don’t already have one, consider purchasing a special blanket for your dog before your trip. Let the blanket absorb the familiar scents of home to provide extra comfort. Avoid rushing to pack their things at the last minute; preparing in advance can help minimize your dog’s anxiety when you leave.

Spend Time on Training

In the weeks leading up to your trip, dedicate some time to reinforcing your dog’s training. Polishing their obedience skills, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” can make them easier to manage for their caretaker and reduce any behavioral issues while you’re away. This is especially useful if you travel frequently, as it ensures your dog remains well-behaved in various situations.

Pets Are Inn offers a welcoming and cage-free environment for your furry friend while you’re away. Rest assured, your pet will receive plenty of cuddles and care. Contact us at 972-424-8400 or email us at petsareinnplano@sbcglobal.net to book your pet’s stay.