Many owners would love to take their dogs with them everywhere, but this simply isn't always possible. Here, our Cumming veterinarians share some options for where to leave your dog while you're away on vacation.
Where to Leave Your Dog While on Vacation
Deciding where to leave your canine companion can be stressful, especially if it's your first time leaving them alone for more than a day!
Doing a little research into the options available near you, and what features each service offers, can help to make your decision easier.
Dog Boarding Facilities
Today's pet boarding facilities offer a range of services, with clean kennels and lots of love and attention.
Services range from pet spas and doggie summer camps to medical boarding for pups who need extra love and attention, with price points that range from extravagant to affordable.
If you are in the process of deciding which boarding facility to take your dog to, be sure to check out a few different places in your area to find a facility that best suits the needs of your pet, and your wallet.
Features of Dog Boarding Facilities
If you want your pup to enjoy an active adventure while you're traveling, a fun camp experience may be ideal. Dog camps across the country offer loads of time for your dog to explore outdoors, as well as added facilities in some cases for swimming and playing with other dogs.
Aside from that, more expensive boarding options might have a more luxurious lounge area for your dog to rest in when it isn't out playing!
Care at Boarding Facilities
Standard care at most pet boarding facilities will include:
- Playtime outside of the kennel in the middle of the day
- Dinner served in the kennel
- Evening bathroom break
- A clean, roomy kennel for your pup to sleep in
- Exercise time outdoors before breakfast so your dog can stretch their legs
- Breakfast served in the kennel
Other Commonly Available Services
If you are looking for something a bit more special than a standard boarding facility, many facilities also offer the following services:
- Specialized veterinary care
- Training
- Grooming
- Shuttle services to and from the facility
Hiring a Dog Sitter
When interviewing for a dog sitter be sure to request a list of references as well as a list of qualifications. How much you will pay for a pet sitter will depend upon the level of service you choose for your pet.
Dog sitters can help to protect your home by keeping your place looking lived-in to any passers-by. Hiring a live-in pet sitter will allow you to rest assured that someone is caring for your home at night.
Extra Services Available From Some Pet Sitters
If your dog requires more care than just feeding and being let out a few times a day, some pet sitters offer additional services such as:
- Training
- Grooming
- Frequent walks
- Housekeeping
A cheaper option for hiring a sitter would be to find a friend or family member who would be willing to look after your companion. This way your pet will be with someone familiar, likely in a familiar environment (depending on whether your sitter watches your pup at your house, or cares for them at their own house).
Boarding Your Pet at Crestview Animal Hospital
At Crestview Animal Hospital, we understand that it can be stressful to leave your pet - especially if they are ill, or when they are recovering from a procedure or surgery.
Our goal is to put help put your mind at ease by providing your dog with the care they need while you're away. We provide complete boarding services for pets including dogs and cats who require medication and/or monitoring.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.