It is certainly not uncommon to plan a family vacation, the travel, the accommodations, packing, where we are going to go, what we are going to do . . . did we forget something. Oh yes, what do we do with our pets? We love our pets. But they don’t allow pets where we are going. Now what? Of course we have to find somewhere to take them, or someone to watch them–but what is the best option?
In the past, we always had someone, usually family, to come in and care for our dogs. A few years ago we were in a situation where we had to leave them in a kennel, with orders that the 3 of them had to remain together. It seems that they had good care and we had them vaccinated well before leaving so they were still in perfect health when we got home. However, 2 of them were so angry at us for a good two weeks after we returned home! One of them was a Golden (they don’t get mad at anyone).
My sister has two cats that have been left alone while she is gone and had friends and neighbors come in to feed them daily. Cats usually need minimal care but it is not to say that they do not miss their family terribly. It is true that dogs tend to need more attention and interaction with their loved ones but even though they may not show it as well or as often, cats do need to know someone who loves them is nearby. They are not much for change and definitely will miss you, just as dogs do, when you are gone.
When going away, try to leave something of yours with your own scent on it in their sleeping area and other areas of the home where your pet spends a lot of time. I have heard of some people leaving a radio on for "voices" so your pet does not feel totally alone. I personally do chose the option of leaving our pets in their own home environment so there is less stress for them while you are away. Have someone they know and love as well come in to tend to them, feed them, play with them and (if dogs) take them out. Be sure they have their favorite toys available and (just a suggestion, as silly as it may sound) a recording of your voice may be a good idea that your “sitter” can play for them when they come to visit, which will remind your pet, you’ll be back soon.
If you really don’t like leaving them at home there is the option of the kennel. These days a kennel is more like a spa for dogs, and can be costly, but the pampering they will definitely get. That was just always one of my least choices for personal reasons. Actually at this point, we have all little dogs, each with their own car seats so, except maybe in rare occasions if we win a cruise or something equally wonderful, our puppies will be traveling with us.
It is not uncommon to find so many accommodations that accept pets. And they can all adapt to traveling with you. So, if you can, take your beloved pets with you. You will have much less stress not worrying about how they are when you’re gone; they will not be stressed thinking their family left them.
