With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, the holiday travel season is upon us. If you plan to travel this year, you have probably made your arrangements. Now is the time to double check - have arrangements been made for your dog? Deciding whether or not to travel with your dog may be a tough decision. Many of us do not want to leave our dogs behind, but sometimes it's in their best interests.
Traveling With Your Dog: If you plan to bring along your pooch, then each stage of your trip needs to include plans for your dog. If you will be visiting many places where your dog is welcome, bringing him along can work out well. Learn how to plan it right, from transportation to accommodations.
Boarding Your Dog: You may decide that the trip is not ideal for your dog. Unless you have a friend or family member who can watch your dog, boarding is probably the most economical solution - especially since cost is on just about everyone's minds right now. Go with a reputable and clean kennel. Between canine influenza and the unknown path of H1N1 swine flu, the last thing you need is to worry about is your dog's health.
Hiring a Pet Sitter: If I can't bring my dog, then a pet sitter is my preferred choice. What's better than letting your best friend enjoy the comforts of home? While the cost of a pet sitter is typically more than boarding, many owners feel that it's worth the expense. Find a great pet sitter that understands your dog's needs.
Put yourself in your dog's shoes to help you pick the best option. Regardless of your choice, plan ahead to ensure a happier trip for everyone involved. And, be safe.
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We have found if your holiday travels will be taking you to a home that doesn’t do well with dogs, it is best to leave them at a kennel. To find a good one in your area, ask your vet or check out the American Boarding Kennel Association online for their recommendations.
Always remember if you do take your dog with you, have copies of his shot record on hand and make your preparations for your pet as you would for you and your family. Pet safety is essential when traveling with your dog.
My child hood dream was to have a Neuf!! I have one now and she is like one of my kids. Such a loving, loyal and patient friend. Adores kids! They are one of the best breeds to have(if you have the room!!)
It’s hard to leave the dog at home. Another option is to take the dog with and find a doggy day care that will allow you to board the dog for the day to play with other dogs while you visit.
love ur letters.its a joy to be able to share my love for my two havanesen girls with you:lola is white and gray and gift from my son,year and a half.i call her the tigress because she is the boss. and maddie is black and white with beautiful white chest ,legs and tip of tail. a lady friend rescue her and we adopted and call her the wise one.she’s four and thinks she’s lola’s mom and is constantly pleasing her.they have become perfect companions and friends for last 6 months and are never apart.they sleep with me,displace me to the edge of the bed and wake me up whenever they feel like it to play and cuddle.i am never happier then when the first thing i see in morning is their faces over me and feel their kisses. hope i have not bother u too much with my story,because,as u can see i am quite ga-ga over them i am their “grampa”,.,.,.
Having worked at a veterinary hospital with a dog boarding facility, I think it is safe to say that a qualified pet sitter would be a person’s best bet if they go for vacation.
Don’t get me wrong, no one mistreats the pets at a boarding facility. The point is that they are not the least bit comfortable. Nothing is familiar, and it can be stressful.
A majority of the dogs seemed “stressed”. It almost makes the boarding facility feel more like prison.