The Summer Holidays are almost here! As well as packing your suitcase, you may also need to prepare your dog for a pet sitter! Whilst some of us may be lucky enough to enjoy holidays with our dog, sometimes it's not always practical. Even if you're not jetting away for a summer break, you may still have some fun day trips planned. This may mean you'll be away from home for a longer period of time than usual…
Thankfully there are plenty of petting sitting options available to pet parents in the form of doggy day care, pet sitters, pet hotels and boarding kennels. So before you run around the house trying to find your passport, take a peek at our blog post today - it will help you prepare your dog for a pet sitter and ensure they finds these experiences as relaxing and enjoyable as possible while you're away...
FINDING THE RIGHT CARER FOR YOUR DOG
What will be the best type of pet sitting facility for your dogs character? This is one of the first things to consider when finding the right type of carer for your dog. Recommendations from friends, family or vet are a great starting point. Do bear in mind, their dog may have a completely different character and history to your dog though. One of the best ways to prepare your dog for a pet sitter is to always consider your dog's individual needs.
For example, if your dog isn't the biggest fan of other dogs, they may find boarding kennels, pet hotels or large-scale doggy day care more stressful, as there are likely to be multiple dogs. Finding a suitable sitter where your dog can be focused on one-to-one or with a smaller group / similar breed of dog may be worth considering.
As well as this, always do your research to ensure you're leaving your dog with a pet professional (license, insurance, pet first aid etc).
IMPORTANT INTRODUCTIONS
Visiting the location where your dog may be staying is really important. It's tempting to rely on online reviews, but where possible, it is strongly recommended that you take time to visit in advance of your dog's stay. It's obviously really important to view the facilities (cleanliness, happiness of existing dogs in their care etc) but there's another important point too. Observe how the carer interacts with your dog and vice-versa and discuss their stance on discipline. For example, positive reinforcement only. Your dog needs good rapport with their carer, not only for their wellbeing but your own peace of mind (you don't want to be worrying while you're away!)
As well as this, leaving your dog with the pet sitter for a shorter period of time in advance of a longer stay can be really worthwhile. Not only does it give your dog time to build up rapport with their new temporary carer, but it also demonstrates to them it's not permanent...you'll be coming back to get them!
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY DOG?
Changes to your dog's diet may cause upset tummies, so items like their regular food and any regular medication are obviously extremely important, but what else should you pack for your dog? Always liaise with the individual carer about bringing toys for your dog. You need to ensure your dog will be supervised with toys to avoid any potential choking hazards. If they are in a group setting, you want to avoid any potential territorial behaviour towards other dogs too.
Bringing an item of clothing with your smell or some of your dog's favourite blankets from home could be a great idea though! Having familiar smells close-by may help them feel calm while you're separated from one another.
Also ensure you provide the carer with clear contact details, should they need to speak to you while you're away.
KEEPING YOUR DOG CALM
Even when you've done the above to prepare your dog, it’s possible some may still struggle with separation anxiety. If your dog is likely to be one of them, you may wish to consider Dorwest Scullcap and Valerian Tablets. These are taken daily in advance of and during your dog’s stay. They are not a sedative but calms and relaxes your dog as the herbs are nervines. What are those? Well they:
"...help to support the natural calming pathways within the nervous system, making them useful in a variety of challenging situations."
Valerian Compound (a quick acting solution) is also another potential option for your dog in addition to the Scullcap and Valerian tablets. Would you like to learn more about whether these could be a great addition for your dog? Take a peek at our testimonials or contact one of the Dorwest advisors. They'd love to hear from you! They're on hand to discuss dosages and provide advice about if, how and when to use these for your dog.
SAYING GOODBYE…
So the day of your holiday has arrived. It's tempting to make a huge fuss of your dog when you're about to leave them with a pet sitter for the first time. Much like leaving your child at school, a swift goodbye works best. Dogs can really feel our emotions, so keep upbeat and remember it's only temporary. That’s not to say a favourite walk or an extra cuddle before you set off to the pet sitter wouldn’t be a good idea! It would certainly be welcomed by both you and your dog...
PREPARE YOUR DOG FOR A PET SITTER = HAPPY HOLIDAYS ALL ROUND!
So it seems with some good research and a bit of time set aside in advance, you can help prepare your dog for a pet sitter. This way you AND your dog can both enjoy your summer holidays, even if you're not together. Whilst you don't like to be apart, just remember the reunion won't be too far away. Bringing your dog a special holiday gift on your return? You may want to consider it...otherwise you may be given the cold shoulder!
For more information on any of our herbal pet remedies, get in touch with the experienced advisors in our team on 01308 897272, email info@dorwest.com or use our online contact form.Plus, get free UK delivery on orders over £50.
Please remember, you should always consult a vet if you are concerned about your pet’s health.
