Christmas is a time for family, celebration, relaxing, children playing and traveling. Certainly, the holiday season means a lot of different things for everyone. Some people celebrate in a traditional fashion while others choose to take a vacation or change their holiday plans on a yearly basis. Regardless, most people will travel in some sort of fashion during the holidays. Unfortunately, holiday traveling may pose a very significant problem for many pet owners.
Most people consider their pets to be a part of the family, even like their children! However, it is not always possible to take their four legged “children” with them on vacation, business trips, or even to visit some relatives for Christmas. Most pet owners have experienced a situation when they simply could not take their pet with them. You have several options for leaving your pets behind and feel confident they will be cared for properly. If you are very fortunate, you may be able to arrange for a friend or relative to “pet sit” in your home while you are away.
You could also arrange for your pet to stay at a boarding kennel. This is probably the safest option since well designed kennels are safe and secure. Additionally, many boarding facilities are associated with veterinary clinics and are staffed with trained professionals to care for your pet. Despite the fears of some owners, most pets settle into boarding life very quickly. It is a good idea to board your pet for a weekend or short stay to see how they do before leaving them for an extended stay. One or two short stays at a kennel will help your pet adjust to being without you and get used to the boarding facility and staff.
It is an extremely good idea to take your pet’s own food along with them. Anytime a pet eats some other food they are very prone to gastrointestinal upset. Another helpful tip for making your pet’s stay easier is to take along your pet’s favorite blanket and chew toys. It’s also a good idea for owners to take an article of clothing, worn by a family member, to leave their pet with a familiar smell of the family. Most facilities will cater to each pet’s special quirky needs like getting a treat at a specific time of day. Be sure to ask the kennel staff about your pet’s behavior and appetite. Many pets that are unaccustomed to boarding will have a decreased appetite during their stay. This is normal, but frequent, short visits will help reduce your pet’s anxieties.
To find the right facility for boarding your pet, start with recommendations from friends, neighbors and your veterinarian. All reputable boarding kennels should require all pets to be current on their vaccinations. Some kennels will also administer mandatory flea medication to ensure the facility does not develop a flea problem. Regardless, boarding your pet could actually be a positive experience for you and your pet. A lot of pets really seem to enjoy boarding, especially if they visit regularly.
Socially, boarding your pet can actually be good for them. It allows them to become socialized to other people as well as other pets. It gives them a chance to develop some independence which is a very good quality to possess. Pets that have their independence are much less likely to have behavioral problems.
Separation anxiety has become a very common problem among house pets and only one of several behavioral issues caused by poor socialization.
Therefore, if you are feeling nervous about boarding your pet, remember how beneficial it can be for your pet. Also, it is highly recommended that you visit and tour the boarding facility. You should know what the facility looks like inside where your furry family member would be staying
Hopefully, all of your concerns will be put to rest by finding out how wonderful your pet will be cared for in a nice, professionally staffed boarding facility. If you have any concerns about your pet, see your veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy and happy life.
