Pet Care Tips for While You’re Away
Photo: Pete & Lynn
Whether you need to leave for a few hours or a few days, there are several things you need to keep in mind in regard to your pet. After all, they are nearly on par with children when it comes to taking care of them and ensuring that they are getting enough attention in your absence. Many pet insurance companies would advise you to hire a reputable pet sitter for longer holidays, as opposed to a boarding facility, as this is both more personalised and safer, health-wise. Unsure about what you need to plan for when you’re going away? Follow the guide below in order to provide your pets with the most comfort and lowest risk of health problems while you’re away.
First off, why should you hire a pet sitter over leaving your pet at a boarding facility? For one, the transition won’t be as difficult, since your pet will be able to stay at home where they feel happy, comfortable and safe. Boarding kennels are generally safe, but don’t offer the same warmth and individual attention that a pet sitter would offer. Also, there is less of a chance of your pet catching a harmful (and expensive-to-treat) disease if they stay at home, rather than be exposed to many different animals of varying medical backgrounds. There is also a lesser chance of stress-related behavioural problems, such as excessive licking or eating their own feces. These are generally caused by a sudden change in the pet’s environment, and with a pet sitter, your pet will be able to remain calm and relaxed in their own home with no other loud or sick animals bothering them.
One thing to keep in mind if you choose to go the sitter route, however, is that they really ought to have insurance for themselves, just in case something goes wrong. It’s also wise to have a pet insurance policy for your beloved pets in order to ensure their safety in case an emergency arises while you’re away. Leaving written consent for veterinary treatment in your pet sitter’s records can guarantee the best attempts at keeping your pet happy and healthy even during your absence.
What else should you plan for? Having an excess supply of food is beneficial to ensuring that your pet doesn’t ever have to go hungry (stored in an easy to find location for the sitter, though out of reach of your pet). Not to mention plenty of water. Experienced pet sitters will change the water on a daily basis, keeping it bacteria-free and fresh at all times. Changing the litter box or taking them out for regular potty breaks is also crucial in preventing bowel or urinary tract problems down the road.
There are certainly quite a few things you need to plan for while going away without bringing your pet along. However, with an experienced pet sitter and a stable pet insurance policy that will cover even unexpected emergencies that may arise while you’re gone, you and your pet will be prepared for even the worst case scenarios.
Related posts:
- Preventative Care: Keeping Veterinary Costs Low for Your Cat
- Exotic Pet Insurance – Basics and Tips
- The Importance of Regular Dental Care for Your Pet
- Keeping Your Furry Friends Safe: Pet Insurance in Australia
- Pet Insurance and Your Elderly Pet
This article is opinion only and should not be taken as financial advice.
Filed Under: Pet Insurance
