Care options for pets while on holiday

Pet owners are urged to provide adequate and responsible care for their pets over the holiday season.

Here is a list of care options for your pets while you soak up some rest and relaxation. Many pets find it difficult enough being away from their family, so the most comfortable and safe option should be provided for. Simply leaving pets alone with enough food and water is not a responsible choice.

 
1. Pet or house sitters
Most pets will find staying at home, in an environment and routine that they know, comfortable and reassuring. If you’re able to find a pet or house sitter that your pets are relaxed with and who you can trust, this is a great option. It also offers you some peace of mind since someone will be checking in on your home during a typically high crime season. The added bonus is that this is a professional relationship so the exact expectation can be defined up front when interviewing candidates. There are options to have sitters come by daily to feed, walk and play with your pets or have them stay in your house while you are away. Consider your pet’s normal routine and where they sleep while deciding. It’s always advisable to do reference checks to ensure you are leaving your pets in capable hands.

 
2. Kennels or catteries
If you prefer to use a more traditional kennel or cattery, be sure to do your homework to ensure you choose a reputable organisation. Keep your pet’s sociability in mind. This is probably not the right option if your pet suffers from a behavioural issue with other animals. Cats that are not from the same family should not be “housed” together and should rather be given their own private space, with ample stimulation and food and a secluded hiding place. Always consider your pet’s individual personality and needs when deciding which kennel or cattery is right for them. Only consider kennels and catteries that accept pets with up to date vaccinations and try paying a visit beforehand to look at the facilities. You can also look into boarding at your pet’s regular daycare or the vet if you have a sickly pet. For closer supervision, boarding at a kennel or cattery close to you holiday destination is also an option.

 
3. In-home pet boarding
If you look hard enough or are fortunate enough to know someone who knows someone, you may be able to find an in-home pet boarder – someone who accepts dogs into their own home to care for them while you go away. This allows your dogs to socialise with other pets while still being supervised by the pet sitter who should provide more consistent attention. Again, it’s imperative to do your homework.

 
4. Travel companion
If your travel plans are suitably pet-friendly, consider taking your dog with you. More and more getaway destinations are offering pet-suitable options. A quick search on the internet will help with this regard. Whether traveling by car or by air, you can find more detailed tips on what to consider by clicking on the provided links.

 
5. Neighbours, friends or family
You can resort to asking a friend, family member or a neighbour to feed your pets, give them clean water and play with them. Depending on your relationship you may find it more difficult to dictate instructions than you would to a hired pet sitter, but chances are the people closer to you will feel more love and affection towards your pets and hopefully give them extra special attention.

 
The best thing you can do for your pet is consider their individual needs and make the most appropriate choice for them. Make sure, if your pet is microchipped or has a dog tag, information is up to date before you depart. It may assist in a quicker reunion should they go missing. Always leave clear instructions regarding health care in case a medical decision needs to be made during this time (and make the necessary arrangements to settle bills in your absence). And finally, this is not the time to change your pet’s brand of food as it may cause an upset stomach if not done correctly.

Source:The Pet Food Industry Association of Southern Africa (PFI)