It was a pet owner’s worst nightmare: We left our beagle-lab mix, Chloe, with a colleague while we jaunted off to the West Coast (pre-pandemic). Just hours after we left, Chloe bolted from the unfamiliar-to-her home in Arlington and was lost for nine days.
Much of our vacation was spent on the phone coordinating search-and-rescue efforts from afar. Someone found her hiding in their backyard and called Arlington Animal Control, and although she was dehydrated, tired, dirty and scared, she went on to live a long, happy life with us.
But every time we went on vacation after that, we either took her with us or had a pet sitter come to our house, where we knew she was comfortable and safe.
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An increasing number of resorts, Airbnbs and vacation spots are pet-friendly, but sometimes it’s just not possible to bring your dog or cat on the road with you. When that’s the case, you have a few options — primarily boarding your dog somewhere or hiring a pet-sitter.
Your goal should be to spend your vacation relaxing, confident that your best furry friend is happy and cared for. Your pet-owning friends or neighbors may be able to give you some initial recommendations for your pet, but you should still do your own research and preparation.
If you choose to board your dog at a kennel, doggy day care or another boarding facility, there are a few critical things to look out for (aside from price), according to the American Kennel Club:
- Be sure to schedule a tour in advance so you can see the facilities, including, especially, where your pet will be sleeping and spending most of their awake time.
- Find out what certifications or memberships the facility has, and how recently the facility was re-certified.
- Check online reviews and ask for references.
- Make sure the facility seems clean, sanitary, securely fenced and that there is enough staff on site.
- Find out what happens if your dog has any unexpected needs, such as a medical emergency.
- Try to observe staff interacting with animals on site.
- Consider letting your dog do a trial night at the facility before your trip.
If you choose to hire a pet sitter to come to your home, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters has these tips:
- Try to develop a relationship with the pet sitter before you leave, including having them visit your home to meet your pet. Make sure the pet sitter knows where all relevant supplies are and what to do in an emergency.
- Check online reviews, the pet sitter’s website (if they have one) and ask for references.
- Make sure the pet sitter has a back-up system in the event that an emergency makes it hard to care for your pet. (You may want to set up a back-up system with a neighbor or friend, for extra security.)
- Ensure that the pet sitter has, at a minimum, liability insurance.
- Sign a contract in writing so both you and the pet sitter understand the requirements, payment terms and communication expectations.
Either way, be sure your pet's microchip and pet tags are both fully updated. Here's more from the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria on why it matters.
