Weighing Out The Benefits: Friend, Sitter, And Kennel

Leaving your pup at home can be a stressful time for the both of you; but, unfortunately, you cannot always take your dog on every trip. When you leave home you basically have three options for your pooch. You can leave him with a friend or family member, hire a sitter, or take him to a boarding kennel. Each option has its own pros and cons; so, based on your pets needs, one may work better than the others.

Leaving your dog in the care of a friend: If your dog is familiar with the person, then this can help ease his stress. But, what are the arrangements? Is your dog going to stay at that person’s home, or is that person going to drop by and feed your dog? Your friend’s home can be an unfamiliar environment to him. It can cause added stress if he is already stressed about you going away. However, if your friend can spend quality time with the dog, then you know that your dog will get love, attention, and exercise. Does your friend have other pets? If so, you need to make sure that your dog will get along with the other household pets. You are trying to make your leave as easy as possible for you, your dog, and the friend. If you ask your friend to look after your dog every time you go away, then he or she may start to resent the responsibility. Don’t always assume that your dog is a welcomed member of that person’s family.

Leaving your dog in the care of a sitter: The best thing about sitters is that your dog does not have to leave his natural environment. Sitters come to your home and take care of your dog. They feed him, play with him, and makes sure he gets plenty of exercise. How much time will the sitter devout to your dog each day? If the sitter just drops by to feed him, then his stress and anxiety may be elevated. Sitters are also strangers. Before you hire a sitter, make sure your dog gets along well with him or her. Sitters should have proper training so they know what to do if your dog is not acting well.

Leaving your dog at a boarding kennel: If your dog loves other dogs, then he may love boarding. Kennels are a good place for your pooch to socialize with others. However, if he is frightened easily or does not get along well with others, then a kennel can add to his stress. Kennels are a new environment, not like being at home, so you should know how your dog reacts to new places. Kennels should be clean, and the staff should be friendly. They should also devout plenty of time to your dog each day.

Before you make a decision about where you want to leave your dog, you should get recommendations for sitters and kennels. Schedule an interview with the sitter prior to your departure. Watch to see how he or she handles your dog. Is that person taking notes? A good sitter will be listening to your every conce
including diet, exercise, medication, etc. If you are considering a kennel, then schedule an appointment to check out the facilities before your departure. Is there an adequate number of staff? Will your dog get the attention he deserves?

No matter where you leave you dog, you should make the transition as easy as possible. Whoever takes care of your pooch should be willing and able to continue his daily routine. If he eats at specific times each day, then that routine should be carried on while you are not there. Anything that can be familiar to your dog while you are gone always helps ease his stress.

If you are taking a trip, then research all your options. Consider your dog’s temperament. Would he be better off at home, in a familiar place? Of does he like to be around other animals? You want to ensure that your dog is comfortable for your entire absence. Sometimes a friend can provide familiarity, while other times your pooch is better off at home. Whichever you choose, you can bet your dog will be happy to see you when you return!