Should you board your dog or get a pet sitter?

With summer around the corner, many of us yearn to getaway. At the same time, we want to make sure our dogs get the highest possible quality of care. Regardless of the duration of your stay, you can board your dog at a kennel or hire a dog sitter. To choose the best option, you need to look at the pluses and minuses of each and then decide how your dog would do. As for sitters, they need to be members of an accrediting organization.

Advantages of dog hotels and kennels

At a boarding kennel, your dog will be safe and protected in a solid enclosure. The best kennels ensure constant monitoring and oversight to prevent incidents because there are many dogs in one place. Friendly dogs can socialize and enjoy their stay.

What’s more, pets at hotels and kennels must adhere to a schedule to limit stress as much as possible. The staff will watch their food intake, behavior, exercise levels, and other issues. They have access to vets, who can come and examine an animal that seems to be having problems. A hotel or kennel is an excellent idea for a dog with chronic health issues. If you choose to board them, you can look for the best facilities in your city on PetStay.com.

If the dog is young, a hotel is a great option. They will get sufficient attention and toilet breaks. Dogs that become destructive when their owner is away shouldn’t be left at home. Dogs that tend to experience separation anxiety will feel better in a hotel or kennel, where they get a lot of attention.

Downsides to boarding

Dogs that don’t adjust well to new surroundings might not fare well in a kennel. Some animal pairings and situations are problematic even though the staff makes an effort to ensure their charges’ comfort. Your dog might get into a fight with another dog and risk injury.

The staff might mix up blankets, toys, and food between the animals, with so many of them there. Finally, your dog might not take the diet change well.

Advantages of pet sitting

With pet sitting, your dog receives care and attention while staying in the comfort of their home. They are less at risk of incidents with no other dogs around. You can instruct the pet sitter to play games with your dog, train them, groom them, or anything else. You must tell them to contact you immediately if anything goes wrong. Of course, they will need a number to reach you. If you provide a cell phone number, make sure you’ll have coverage at your holiday destination. 

When is using a pet sitter not a good idea?

A sitter won’t be the best option for a very territorial dog and protective of its space. The sitter will need to spend some time in your home every day, so you need to trust them. Whether you can is another matter. Damage occurring when your dog is home alone isn’t out of the question. Moreover, booking a quality sitter can be challenging during popular travel seasons. In some cases, you need to book months in advance, but that goes for hotels and kennels too.

Other factors to consider when deciding whether to board your dog or use a pet sitter

You may not have thought about it, but the weather can be a factor in your decision. Let’s say you live in an area that’s prone to hurricanes or storms. The weather can keep your sitter from coming to your house or leave them stranded in an attempt to do so. Having a neighbor that you trust come and check up on your dog is a good idea.

The caregiver’s reputation is important too. If you’re considering a sitter, do some research on them. Running a background check can give you peace of mind knowing a person without a history of petty theft is entering your home. Ask the sitter for references as well. If all of this seems like a hassle, choose a hotel or kennel instead. 

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