Author: Jessica Brody

Traveling around the holidays can be a headache; there’s always heavy traffic to contend with, and before you leave, you have packing to do and plans to work out. On top of that, if you’re a small business owner, you’ll need to have a vacation strategy in place to ensure everything runs smoothly when you’re gone. There are always a million things to take care of, and when you have a pet, finding the best care for him while you’re gone only adds to the stress. For most pet owners, their animal is like another family member, so it’s imperative to find the right place for them to stay when they can’t travel with you.

Fortunately, there are several options. From finding a pet sitter in your area to booking a spot in a pet hotel, there are many ways you can find great care for your little one while you’re away. Start by thinking about his needs; some pets have anxiety when their families leave and need a little more attention from a caregiver. Others have medical needs that have to be tended to, which might make a sitter who can come to your home the best option.

Keep reading for tips on how to find great care for your pet while you’re away for the holidays.

Look for a Pet Hotel

While pet hotels are on the higher end of things cost-wise, they can be very comfortable for your little one, with some even offering luxury services such as spa treatments. There are many affordable options around the country, however, and they often make sure your pet gets daily walks, eliminating the worry that your pup won’t get enough exercise while you’re away. It’s also a nice alternative to having a stranger come into your home as a sitter.

Hire a Sitter

If your dog suffers from anxiety when you leave or has medical issues that require attention, it can be easier to hire a pet sitter to come into your home. Just make sure you find the right sitter for your pet’s needs; they should be available for the majority of the time you’ll be away and well-informed about the best way to care for your pet’s medical issues. You might consider installing a pet camera that sends a live feed to your smartphone so you can check up on things while you’re away.

Try a Kennel

Kennels can be a very cost-effective option when you’ll only be gone for a couple of days; just be sure you understand their policies before booking your pet. For instance, some kennels will only give dogs outdoor time if you pay a fee in advance. Being knowledgeable about the care your pet will receive will help him stay happy and comfortable while giving you peace of mind.

Ask a Neighbor or Family Member to Help

If you have a close friend or family member — or a neighbor you feel comfortable in asking a favor from — consider leaving your pet with them. Since many people go out of town for the holidays or have people over, you’ll want to make sure their schedule will line up with your pet’s needs and that he won’t be in the way.

Finding good pet care when you have to go out of town can be difficult and stressful, so it’s important to take your time. Start as early as possible, keep your pet’s needs in mind the entire time, and set a budget from the very beginning. With a good plan, you can keep your pet comfortable and maintain peace of mind at the same time.

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