While going on summer vacation is a much-needed break, there are times when bringing your beloved dog along may not be practical. This may be due to travel restrictions, destination limitations, or a preference for a pet-free getaway.
Making appropriate arrangements to care for your pet is essential if you leave your dog home during summer vacation.
Thankfully, dog owners have several options available. Suppose traditional boarding facilities or relying on a friend to care for your furry friend aren’t viable solutions. In that case, there are ways to create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog in their own home.
Following a few essential tips and taking the necessary precautions can ensure your dog’s needs are met, minimizing stress and promoting a smooth transition while you’re away.
Find a collaborative pet sitter
Leaving your dog behind when you go on summer vacation can be difficult.
However, a reliable pet sitter can be a good tool for ensuring your furry friend receives the care and attention they need while you’re away.
However, it’s essential to approach this as a collaboration rather than a service you leave your dog with. While you can gain from their professional insights, they should also be open to respecting your needs and preferences as a dog owner.
Take the time to research and choose a reputable and trustworthy sitter. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or even your veterinarian.
Wherever possible, work with a professional service, as they not only have experience caring for pets and interacting with owners, but they’ll also be insured if anything goes wrong.
Review testimonials or ask for references to check whether they will likely be responsible and compassionate collaborators in your dog’s care.
In addition, you should consider the season.
When traveling in the summer months, the sitter must take steps to keep your dog cool on hot days.
To prevent heat stroke and dehydration, ensure your sitter can fill water bowls regularly and switch on any ceiling fans throughout the house.
It can also be wise to teach your sitter how to use your air conditioning system. It can be wise to back up these detailed requests with documentation.
Use monitoring technology
Leaving your dog at home during summer vacation can be worrisome.
However, the rise of the digital landscape has brought with it some advanced technology you may find reassuring.
You can now monitor your dog remotely via mobile applications connected to pet cameras throughout your home.
There are a range of monitoring systems available at the moment. It’s essential to select one that aligns with your needs and budget.
Some have features such as two-way audio, which allows you to speak to your dog when you’re away if they find it comforting to hear your voice. Other platforms include night vision, motion detection, and the ability to capture photos or videos.
Read reviews of other dog owners before purchasing, and remember to test out the system before you start your journey so you can troubleshoot any issues.
One of the aspects that can be easy to overlook in respect of a pet monitoring system is the importance of a solid internet connection at home.
The last thing you want is to be unable to check on your dog because of a dropped signal or connectivity lag. A 5G service can be an excellent alternative to home wifi, as this technology provides a more reliable and consistent connection.
These systems operate from a single router hub and wirelessly connect to all the devices in your home without reducing performance.
This means that you may be less likely to experience disrupted monitoring feeds.
Prepare your home for your absence
Your home may currently be set up in a way ideally suited to a space you and your dog share.
However, it’s vital to recognize that some features may not be suitable for a dog spending long periods alone.
When planning to leave on summer vacation, it’s essential to prepare your home to ensure your pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being
Start by performing a safety check throughout your home in the days before leaving.
Ensure the space is free from hazards such as toxic plants, cleaning chemicals, or small objects that can be swallowed. Ensure that any breakable objects are removed from surfaces so they can’t be knocked off, creating additional injury hazards.
You should also set up designated potty areas. While a sitter may come to walk your dog a couple of times a day, this may not always be enough.
Set up pee pads or a litter box in a specific part of your home. If your dog isn’t used to these, you will need to spend a few weeks before leaving training them so you minimize accidents.
Don’t forget to Inform your pet sitter about the toilet routine and ensure they follow it to maintain your dog’s bathroom habits.
Final thoughts on how to leave your dog home during summer vacation
Going with your dog at home during summer vacation can be challenging, but with proper planning and preparation, you can ensure their well-being.
Collaborating with a reliable pet sitter who understands your dog’s needs and preferences is crucial. You may also find it helpful to utilize monitoring technology to check on your dog remotely and address any concerns.
Don’t forget to prepare your home before you leave by removing hazards and setting up designated toilet areas.
It’s important to think beyond your pet’s basic needs while you’re away. Remember that your dog will benefit from mental and physical stimulation.
Look into a range of enrichment toys and puzzles that can keep them occupied during their time alone.
Miles Oliver is a proud dog lover and an outdoor enthusiast. He often writes on his patio with a hot cup of tea and his 4-year-old border collie mix by his feet. When Miles is not working as an independent freelance writer, he is most likely mountain biking and roaming the great outdoors with his four-legged companion.
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