We all love heading off on an adventure, spending quality time with family and friends, or just getting away from everything and reconnecting with ourselves. Unfortunately sometimes this means we need to leave our beloved pets behind while we have our break. So what options do you have and what would be best for your pet? West Coast Pet Care Centre explore the options.
Friends and family members
This is a cheap option that many prefer but you’ll have to consider whether your pet will be staying in your home or in your family member’s.
- How will your pet feel having someone in their home?
- How will your pet feel being in someone else’s home?
- Are there other pets in the home your pet will stay and do they get along?
- Does your pet have health concerns that need managing?
- What would happen if your pet was to get sick/injured while you’re away?
- Can your relationship withstand something going wrong while you’re away?
While it is great to leave your pet in the care of someone you trust and respect, many relationships can suffer when an animal become ill or escapes.
Paying a pet sitter to feed and walk your pet
You’ll need to ask yourself the following questions:
- How will your pet feel having someone in their home?
- How long will this person spend with your pet?
- What happens to your pet when no-one is there (will your pet cry out for you and upset your neighbours)?
- What experience and qualifications do they have?
- Do you trust this person to provide the services you are paying for?
- What would happen if your pet was to get sick/injured while you’re away?
Pet care facilities
This is generally the costlier option as facilities spend a large amount of time and money providing suitable housing, exercise yards and staffing to care for all pets. Consider the following before you book your pet in:
- Are your pet/s fully vaccinated and able to enter a pet care facility?
- Do you know the opening hours of the facility you wish to use?
- Are you able to inspect their facilities and talk to the staff caring for the pets before dropping your pet off?
- Is the facility a member of any associations (like the Pet Industry Association of Australia)?
- What experience and qualifications do their staff have?
- What would happen if your pet was to get sick/injured while you’re away?
- What services are available for your pet to enjoy while there?
No matter which option you chose it is important to think about the pros and cons and have plans in place in case something goes wrong. While we never like to worry about things going badly, it will be far easier for the person you are trusting to care for your pet if they have some idea of your preferences. This is especially important for pets with special health requirements, or for pets that are in their twilight years.
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