Lots of us travel. And traveling when you have to leave pets behind can be stressful for us and them! It is also a big responsibility. Some pets handle owner travel better than others. Here are some tips to help your pet when you are away.
- Tell your pet when you are leaving, where you are going, when you are coming back, and who will be taking care of them. Tell them where they will be (home, another house, a boarding facility, etc..)
*If your pet is boarding, allow a couple short visits (day stays, one night, etc.) before the longer stays. This gives your animal a chance to familiarize itself with the place. Also, gives you a chance to see if you animal is happy and comfortable there. And it gives your pet a chance to see you ARE coming back for them.
- Home or facility, leave your animals with something that smells like you. Dirty clothes are the best. Even in the home, leave something that smells like you.
- Get them something special to be excited about! A new toy that you give when you say your good byes. When you say good bye this is a perfect time to remind them you WILL be back, and when.
- Try not to be stressed or anxious. If you are, they will sense this and they will be too! That’s why the new toy helps… it is something for them to be excited about.
- Make sure you have an emergency plan. Extra food, extended care, etc… if you get delayed coming home.
- Pet cameras – I love pet cameras, it makes me feel better to be able to check on them when I am away. Make sure they are ok. Make sure my pet sitter is coming when necessary. A little over the top, maybe. But my animals can’t take care of themselves so it is my responsibility to make sure they are ok while I am away.
