When you have to go away for business or pleasure, what do YOU do with your dog?
Nancy knows she would not be able to sleep at night if her Pekinese Humphrey was in a kennel while she was on one of her frequent business trips. “I don’t want my dog in a cage,” she insists, “and what happens if he gets lonely? Who will be there to keep him company in the evening?” So Nancy has a college student live in her home to look after Humphrey while she’s away.
Sue figures that her Labs Jesse and James are fine with three visits a day from a pet sitter she uses every time she goes to Florida to visit her parents. “My dogs keep each other occupied, so the dog walker is really just there to get them outside for walks, feed them, and make sure the house hasn’t burned down!”
Marta’s Springer Spaniel Dolly loves staying at the kennel for extended periods of time – she goes to doggie day care there twice a week anyway, so its a familiar and happy place. The staff love her, and often keep her in the office with them so she can snooze in the sunny spot under the window.
There are actually a number of options for your dog’s care when you travel:
Take her with you. Many hotels now accommodate – even welcome – well-behaved pets. Visit DogFriendly.com for a directory of lodgings that are happy to give your dog a place to stay.
Boarding kennels, family-owned boarding facilities, and some veterinary hospitals.
Pet sitters or dog walkers who either visit your house at regular intervals or live in your house during your absence.
Relatives who are willing to care for your dog in your house or theirs.
Dog care swap – your dog stays with your neighbor or friend and her dog, and you reciprocate when she goes away.
Cost, cleanliness, reliability, and reputation are all factors, but more important is YOUR comfort level, and where you think your dog will fare the best.
So, which option has worked best for you and your dog?
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