Navigating the Joys and Challenges of Pet Ownership and Travel
As a proud new pet parent, I’ve learned that balancing home life with the desire to explore the world can present some unique challenges. When we recently adopted a puppy, I kept hearing comments like “I thought you wanted to travel” or “You know it’s going to be harder to travel with a dog at home.” And while that may be true for some pet owners, I personally haven’t faced too many obstacles when it comes to traveling with my furry companion.
The secret? Meticulous planning and backup plans. By anticipating my pet’s needs and considering all the options, I’ve been able to embark on adventures without leaving my beloved pup behind. In this article, I’ll share some of the most popular choices when it comes to finding accommodation for your pet while you’re traveling, as well as some insider tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
Asking the Right Questions
Not every pet is the same, so it’s essential to ask yourself a few key questions before making a decision about their care. Can your pet be left alone for a few hours at a time, or do they require 24/7 attention? Do they do well with other animals, or would they fare better on their own? Are they crate trained? Do they get comfortable with strangers quickly, or would they be happier staying in their own home?
Answering these questions will help you determine the best solution for your furry friend. For example, if your pet is social and enjoys the company of others, they might thrive in a boarding facility or with a pet sitter who has other dogs. But if your pet is more independent or anxious, they may be happier staying in the comfort of their own home with a trusted house sitter.
Relying on Family and Friends
One of the most popular options for pet care while traveling is asking family or friends to house-sit. This can be an especially great choice if your pet is already familiar with the caretakers. My partner’s parents, who are retired, are usually our first call when we’re planning a trip. Our dog knows them and their home, so he’s immediately comfortable and at ease.
The pros of this option are that your pet is with a familiar person and it’s generally more affordable than other solutions. The cons are that there’s no insurance coverage and your pet may have limited socialization opportunities unless you have other pets in your circle.
Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter
If you’re hesitant about leaving your pet with someone else, you might consider in-home pet care. This involves hiring a professional pet sitter who will stay in your home while you’re away. The benefits of a house sitter are great if you can find someone you trust. Your pet gets to stay in a familiar setting, which can reduce stress, and you have the added security of someone on-site overnight to deter potential break-ins.
To find a reliable house sitter, you can check out services like Rover or Trusted House Sitters. Be sure to thoroughly screen and interview potential pet sitters before making a decision to ensure the safety of your home and pet. Pricing for this varies greatly depending on your geographic region, but can be more expensive than some other options.
The pros of in-home pet care include a built-in house-sitter and your pet staying in a familiar environment. The cons are that you must find someone you trust to be in your home, and there’s still the potential for limited socialization unless you have other pets.
Boarding Your Pet
If you can’t find a house-sitter you trust, another option to consider is boarding your pet at a facility. These facilities typically have trained staff to look after your pet’s needs, providing them with food, exercise, and socialization opportunities. Be sure to research different boarding facilities in advance, check their reputation, and visit the facility to ensure it meets your expectations.
Some boarding facilities even offer webcam access, allowing you to check in on your pet remotely. However, keep in mind that your pet must be crate trained for this option, as most boarding facilities crate the animals overnight. Ask your vet for recommendations of good boarding facilities in your area.
The pros of boarding include socialization opportunities, the ability to check in on your pet, and many facilities having insurance coverage. The cons are that your pet must be crate trained, and they may experience some stress in an unfamiliar environment.
The Intensive Option: Board and Train
If you’re looking to come home to an even better-trained pet than when you left, you might consider a board and train program. These intensive programs typically range from 1-2 weeks and involve your pet staying at a training facility, where they’ll receive specialized instruction and care.
While this is definitely the most expensive option, it can be a great choice if you were already considering training for your pet. The pros are that you’ll return to a better-behaved pet, but the cons are the high cost and the unfamiliar environment for your furry friend.
Veterinary Boarding: Best for Medical Needs
Another option to consider is boarding your pet at a veterinary clinic or animal hospital. This is an especially good choice if your pet has any sort of health issues that require specialized care or monitoring. The pros are that your pet will be in the best hands for their medical needs, but the cons are the high cost and the unfamiliar environment.
Budgeting for Pet Care
Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to consider pet care as part of your overall travel budget. I always have it as its own line item, as the costs can vary greatly depending on your location and the type of care your pet requires.
Preparing for the Unexpected
When it comes to leaving your pet in someone else’s care, preparation is key. Make sure to provide clear instructions on your pet’s routine, dietary needs, and any medications they require. Consider leaving emergency contact numbers and a list of nearby veterinary clinics, just in case.
I also highly recommend microchipping your pet and using a QR tag that allows you to easily update the contact information as you travel. This way, if your pet were to escape or get lost, someone could quickly get in touch with the right caretaker.
Embracing the Journey
Traveling as a pet parent can seem stressful if you’re feeling unprepared, but with the right knowledge and a little bit of planning, it doesn’t have to be. By exploring the various options and choosing the one that best suits your pet’s needs, you can confidently embark on your adventures, knowing your beloved furry companion is in the best hands possible.
So, pack your bags, leash up your pet, and get ready to explore the world together! And when you need a little help keeping your home clean and tidy while you’re away, don’t forget to check out the professional cleaning services offered by Adam Cleaning – they’ll make sure your place is spotless when you return.
