We get many questions about Pet Sitters and Boarding your Australian Labradoodle when families go on vacation. The below is an article that veterinarian Dr. Susan Wright wrote for Manor Lake.
You’ve been looking forward to the family vacation for quite some time, but unfortunately an important part of your family can’t go. This can cause a mixed bag of emotions including feeling guilt at leaving your four legged friend behind, feeling fear that they won’t be looked after properly, dreading having to find them a carer, all mixed together with the excitement of finally having a holiday. Here are a few ideas to help you calm down and deal with the situation, so you’ll all be happy.
The best scenario for your dog when you go away is to have a good friend or relative, who loves your dog almost as much as you do, come and stay at your place. This is by far the least stressful solution for your dog, and they’ll be able to keep an eye on your house at the same time. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible so you need a backup option.
You could send him to your friend’s or relative’s home for his own little vacation. Do you have someone that would welcome your dog into their home while you are gone? He will feel more comfortable with someone he already knows rather than with a stranger.
If that is not feasible either, then you can find a dog minder that you can pay to stay in your home, or to take your dog into theirs. The number one criteria for this sitter are that they must genuinely love your dog. Once that has been confirmed, everything else can be worked out. You’ll be able to tell if your potential sitter is a dog lover when you first meet them, and your dog will let you know if he likes them too.
Some people confine their dog to an area where they can’t make a mess or cause too much damage, and have a person look in on their dog once or twice a day while they are gone. Being alone for so long can make your dog anxious, and this can in fact be dangerous for your do. If your dog suddenly becomes ill or injured, he can be left to suffer for a long time, until his next scheduled visit from his carer.
Another good option is to use a boarding kennel for your dog. If you need to find a kennel, how can you really be sure whether it is suitable for your dog? The only way is to visit the establishment, and thoroughly check it out. Make sure it is clean, and meet the people who will be caring for your dog. It’s important that you make sure your dog isn’t going to be kenneled with unfamiliar dogs from other families. This has been known to result in fights, and severe injuries to the dogs involved.
Although the kennels may not look very luxurious, that may not matter too much to your dog. If he has shelter, a soft bed, and some playtime every day, he’ll be fine for the time you’re away.
Leaving your dog when you go on a holiday can be as stressful on you as it is on your dog. Make plans for your dog well before you leave, so that you can spend your vacation without worry or stress over the wellbeing of your dog. You both deserve it.
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