In an ideal world, your pets would go everywhere you go and even more. Maybe they’d tag along to the grocery store, movies, or even to work. But in reality, people have jobs and other commitments that simply don’t leave room for a dog or cat. But that doesn’t mean you can’t travel with your pets or leave them with someone else during the holidays. The good news is that there are plenty of holiday pet boarding tips for a successful stay.
In fact, pet boarding is a great solution when you are traveling out of town this holiday season. It provides a place that feels like home while you’re away. Read on for everything you need to know about pet boarding during the holidays.
What is Holiday Pet Boarding?
Holiday pet boarding is exactly what it sounds like: temporary boarding for your pet during a holiday or other time when you aren’t able to take them with you. It’s a way for people to travel (or enjoy a family event) with the ease of knowing that someone is taking care of your pet. While pet sitting is another option, it often doesn’t provide the same amount of care as boarding.
Someone else watches your pet and makes sure they’re fed, exercised, and well cared for. Depending on the boarding facility you choose, your pet may stay there for a few days or a few weeks. Holiday pet boarding prices may or may not be the same as other times of the year. You will need to contact your pet boarding facility to learn about holiday rates and availability.
Why Board Your Pet During the Holidays?
Are you traveling this holiday season? There are plenty of reasons why you should consider pet boarding for your cat or dog. Consider why this option may be beneficial for you:
– Accommodates Your Schedule – If you travel for work or have another reason that you can’t get home during the holidays. Boarding your pet during this time can make it easier to adjust your schedule. It always brings you peace of mind without constantly worrying about your pet.
– Avoid the Stress of Finding Care – If you know you’ll be spending the holidays away from home with no other option for care for your pet, you may feel a lot of pressure to find someone to watch them. Not everyone can watch your pet, and you may not feel comfortable asking family members or friends. Pet boarding is the perfect solution.
– Save Money on Vacation – Having to take your pet along on vacation can get expensive, especially if you’re traveling by plane. If you’re planning a cruise, you’re almost guaranteed to have to pay to have your pet on board. In some cases, pets aren’t allowed on board at all. Taking your pet on vacation can get expensive, but paying for holiday pet boarding can be much cheaper.
How to Prepare for Pet Boarding
Is boarding the right option for your cat or dog? If this is the case, you’ll want to prepare for the process. Here is how to get your dog or cat ready for you to jet away:
– Make Sure Your Pet is Up to Date on Vaccines – Make sure your pet is up to date on any vaccines they need to be healthy, especially if you’re boarding during the holidays. You don’t want your pet to pass anything on to other pets at the facility.
– Make Sure They’re Microchipped – This is especially important if you don’t know where your pet is being boarded. If they get lost, they’re more likely to get returned to their home if they have a microchip.
– Plan a Visit Before You Go – Don’t forget to take a tour of the facility. This can make or break your experience and first impression.
– Leave your Pet Some Comforts of Home – This is especially important if your pet has anxiety issues. Things like a familiar blanket, bed, or toy can help ease their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable.
Holiday Boarding Tips for Pets: Right Place for Your Pet
Choosing a facility is not a decision to make lightly. You want to ensure this facility is reliable and trustworthy. After all, you want to leave your fur baby in great hands.
– Check Reviews and References – Read reviews for boarding facilities in your area, and ask other people if they have recommendations. You can also contact the boarding facility to ask them questions about their services and prices.
– Ask About Vaccine Policies – Different boarding facilities have different policies regarding how often your pet needs to be vaccinated.
– Consider Accommodations – Some boarding facilities only board dogs and cats while others also board other animals like birds, ferrets, and even reptiles.
– Ask about the Cost – Boarding facilities charge per animal, so make sure to account for any pets you have at home.
– Consider Location – Make sure the boarding facility is easily accessible and convenient. This will especially make it easier when you return home from vacation.
Boarding Vaccines for Cats and Dogs
Many facilities have a vaccine requirement for cats and dogs. You’ll need to make sure your pet is up-to-date on the following:
– Rabies – This is a vaccination that is required by law for all dogs and cats in almost every state. It’s recommended that you have your pet vaccinated at least once a year. Rabies is a virus that can be fatal.
– Bordetella – This is the most common vaccine given to dogs, especially if they’re boarded at a kennel. It’s a highly contagious bacterial infection that can be serious if left untreated.
– Canine Influenza – This disease is relatively new, and it’s highly contagious. It’s also extremely serious, so you should have your pet vaccinated if they’ll be boarded.
– Felv/FIV Tests – If you have a cat, ask if the facility performs a Felv/FIV test. These tests help determine if your cat has an infection from a feline immunodeficiency virus or feline leukemia virus.
– Preventative Care – Boarding can be stressful for your pet, so make sure you ask about any preventative care your pet should have while in the care of the facility.
How to Help Holiday Pet Boarding Anxiety
It’s quite common for pets to have separation anxiety. While it feels hard to leave your cat or dog when you go away, these holiday pet boarding tips can help:
– Bring Smells and Sounds from Home– You can bring a small blanket or toy that smells like home with you when you drop your pet off. You can also leave a recording of yourself talking so they can be calmed by your voice.
– Send their Favorite Treats – Some facilities have dogs that play together, which can help combat anxiety. You can also give your pet a treat to help them feel more comfortable.
– Consider Anxiety Medication or CBD for Dogs and Cats – If you believe your pet has anxiety, talk with your veterinarian about the best treatment options. Your vet may recommend medication, diet changes, behavior training, or a combination of these. In some cases, you may be able to ease your pet’s anxiety with CBD.
Thanks to its anti-anxiety properties, CBD may help your pet feel less nervous. However, as with humans, all pets respond to CBD differently. As with any medication, always talk with your vet before giving CBD to your pet.
Holiday Pet Boarding Tips: Contact Animal Care Center
Taking your pets to a boarding facility is a great option for people who are traveling during the holidays and don’t want to leave their pets alone. However, you can also find a pet sitter in your area, who can come to your home and watch your pet while you’re away.
We hope that these holiday pet boarding tips help bring you peace of mind. Please contact us to learn more about our boarding options.
