When leaving home for a spell, whether it’s for business or pleasure, the big question of how to keep your dog safe and comfortable while you’re gone is a big concern for many pet owners.
If you can’t take your beloved pup with you on your trip, finding a dog sitter or signing up for dog boarding services are the next popular options. But, which one is better?
Each type of pet care offers its own set of pros and cons, but remember that every family and pet is different. What is best for one may not be the best for another. It’s important to first assess the behavior and personality of your dog before choosing the best means of care for YOU.
In the past, pet boarding didn’t offer the cushy amenities that many facilities offer today. If you have an ingrained skepticism of old school cold concrete and steel cages, you can throw that sentiment out the doggy door.
What does modern dog boarding offer? Don’t think of it as boarding- think of it as your dog’s own luxurious vacation. Dog boarding businesses offer a wide spectrum of services professionally tailored to help ease your dog into a new environment, with comfortable, clean personal space, one-on-one & group play, air conditioned indoor/outdoor play areas, flexible scheduling and even veterinary care onsite for emergencies.
Some establishments double as a dog daycare, so if your dog is already used to going to daycare each week, ask your provider about boarding services. That way, your dog is already used to the environment and handlers, making the transition way easier.
If your dog hasn’t been to daycare, talk with dog boarding centers that require you to bring your dog in before your trip. This gives you and your pup a chance to “sniff” out the digs, get used to the surroundings and plus, a reputable business will want to assess your dog’s behavior to determine if its a good fit for both parties.
This consists of finding an individual who can either a) come to your house to take care of your dog or b) you keep your dog at their house while you’re gone.
Of course, your dog will receive one-on-one treatment and feel comfortable- especially if kept at home. But, many factors have to align in order to get the most beneficial environment for your dog.
How well do you know the sitter? Sometimes it can be time consuming and nerve wracking trying to find a person that you can trust- even a friend. There’s just something comforting about a boarding facility that can prove reliability with customer testimonials and background checks.
Will your dog get enough play time? Daily walks and catch are enjoyed by any dog, but is it guaranteed like it is at a reputable dog boarding center with professionals that specialize in dog socialization?
Overall, it comes down to what is the best match for your dog. If you can find the sitter that meets all of your needs, without a time consuming search, then great. If not, dog boarding is a licensed and certified option, with modern amenities professionally chosen to ensure a stress-free environment and plenty of play time!
