When you are going out of town and cannot take your
pet with you, it's important to make sure that your pet will be well taken
care of while you are gone. Here are some important points to consider:
Make sure the person or place that will be caring for your
pet takes the responsibility seriously. Ask for names of current customers
and give them a call. The kennel or pet sitter should be a licensed business
and be insured, especially if they will be coming into your home while
you are away. Discuss these matters with the caregiver before ever entrusting
your pet to their care.
If you select a boarding kennel, tour the facility before
leaving your pet there. It should be clean, safe, and the staff should
be friendly and caring. You will also want to make sure that they have
a rapport with your pet. It is very stressful to your pet to be away from
you and it will need someone who is understanding and supportive. Your
pet will get lonely without you and will need lots of extra attention and
affection.
If you choose a pet sitter or friend, they should come by
to meet your pet in advance to discuss the details of your pet's schedule.
If it is a pet sitter, you will also want to make sure that the person
who comes beforehand will be the same one who will be coming to care for
your pet while you are gone. Your pet will remember them when they come
back and not be as frightened or upset.
Whether you have someone come in to care for your pet or
take it to be boarded, make sure that they understand your pet's special
feeding and watering instructions. It is important to put this in writing
and to go over it with the person at the time you leave your pet or when
they come for the advance visit. Keep your pet on its usual diet, including
any supplements or treats.
Leave any important health records and your veterinarian's
telephone number with the caregiver. In case of an emergency, leave a number
where you can be contacted. Notify your veterinarian of your plans and
preapprove any kind of emergency treatment, should it be necessary. In
case of a friend or sitter coming into your home, be sure and let them
know of any potential hazards or problems in your home or yard. It is always
better to be overprepared than not prepared at all should something arise.
Keep a few of your pet's special toys available as well as
an article of your clothing, like a T-shirt or towel, that has your scent
on it. The smell will help to reassure your pet while you are away as well
as be something soft for them to sleep on. Before you leave your pet, talk
to them in a calm voice and tell them that you have to be away from them
for a while but that you will be back. They will probably comprehend more
than you might think.
All Rights Reserved
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in any form without the prior written consent of MILLER-ROTH. MILLER-ROTH shall not be liable for any errors in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
Get your own Free Home Page