Pet Care Tips

Going out of town this Holiday Season?
Well, give yourself peace of mind by making sure that your pet is safe and secure!

While most are purchasing plane tickets, making hotel and car arrangements, or buying new winter clothes, pet lovers are debating on who they will leave their loved ones with. Many boarding facilities and/or pet sitters are great options when it comes to this decision. Here are some useful tips:

Boarding Facilities

• Tour the kennel/boarding facility (inside and outdoors) to make sure you are comfortable with the accommodations.
  - Will your dog stay in a crate or in a small room?
  - Does your cat have a safe area to roam?
  - Is the facility heated/air conditioned?
  - Is it clean, indoors and outdoors?
  - Is there a covered area and securely gated fence surrounding the area where your dogs will be let out to play and potty?
• Find out if pets are required to be up-to-date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention.
• Ask how many times and for how long your pet will be let outside to play and potty, and if daily walks are provided.
• Find out when the animals are fed and if you can bring your own pet food/treats.
• Get recommendations from friends or neighbors, and find out what they liked/disliked about the facility. Check references and accreditations.
• Ask what would happen in case of emergency—what veterinarian services are provided? Also, make sure that they are required to contact you for approval of services necessary.
• When you finally reach the moment of dropping off your pet, leave a favorite bed or toy, to provide comfort during the time away.
• Make your good-bye short and sweet; if you linger or seem sad, your pet will pick up on your feelings and may get upset too.

Pet Sitters

• Check references and accreditations.
• Have a home visit prior to your trip, to make sure that your pet feels comfortable with the pet sitter.
• Get recommendations from friends or neighbors, and find out what they liked/disliked about the pet sitter.