You have booked flights and hotels but there is a key family member to sort out.
Trusting someone to look after your dog or cat while you’re soaking up the sun can be stressful.
But with a little research and forward planning leaving a pet does not have to seem so daunting.
The basic options for owners are: leave a pet with family or friends, employ a pet sitter who comes to your home or who takes them in or use a kennel or cattery.
Leaving a cat or dog with a trusted family member or friend can be ideal.
Your pet will have met them and you know they are in safe hands.
Pet sitters visit or live in your home while you are away and look after your pet for a fee.
This has the added benefit of keeping your pet in their own home.
Alternatively, home boarders take pets into their own houses and look after them.
Kennels or a cattery may not be for every pet.
Cats tend to be more adaptable and long-suffering than dogs.
Many dogs find kennels isolating and hate being left alone.
If this is the case, a home environment will be best.
If you are planning to use kennels search in plenty of time as good places book up fast.
Ideally get a personal recommendation and check the kennel has a licence from the local authority, which should be renewed every 12 months.
Visit without an appointment and ask to look around. Check the living area is warm, secure, clean and dry, with plenty of comfortable areas.
Dogs who don’t know each other should not be able to make nose, paw or eye contact. Other dogs staring at them can be stressful.
A good kennel will ask lots of questions about your pet, including diet, to help keep to their routine. Many insist vaccinations are up to date.
Ask about insurance cover and procedures for contacting a vet and you in case of an emergency.
For more information visit bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/boarding kennel-advice- and-alternatives.
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