Leaving your furry best friend behind when you go on a trip can be tough, both for you and your pup! But with a little planning and preparation, you can make the experience less stressful and ensure your dog stays happy and comfortable in your absence. Here’s how to make your departure easier on everyone:
1. Practice Makes Perfect:
Don’t wait until the day you leave to start prepping your pup. Start with short absences, like running errands or visiting a friend for a few hours. Gradually increase the duration to help them acclimate to being alone. This will help them understand that you always come back!
2. Stick to the Routine:
Dogs thrive on routine. Maintain their regular feeding schedule, playtime, and walks even in the days leading up to your departure. This consistency provides a sense of security and normalcy. If someone else will be caring for your dog, provide them with a detailed schedule to follow. If you start changing things up, the dog may fret days before you leave. Do not fuss with them excessively on your way out the door – this is just another normal day with normal things happening.
3. Create a Cozy Sanctuary:
Make sure your dog has a safe and comfortable space where they feel secure. This could be their bed, a crate, or a specific room. Ensure the area is clean, has familiar bedding, and their favorite toys are readily available. Consider leaving an item of clothing with your scent on it for added comfort.
4. Tire Them Out:
A tired dog is a happy dog! Before you leave, take your dog for a long walk, play a vigorous game of fetch, or engage in a mentally stimulating activity like puzzle toys or training. This will help them relax and reduce anxiety while you’re away.
5. Enlist a Trusted Helper:
- Friends and Family: If you have a reliable friend or family member who your dog knows and loves, consider asking them to pet sit.
- Professional Pet Sitters: Professional pet sitters can provide personalized care and attention in your home. They can follow your dog’s routine, administer medication if needed, and provide regular updates and photos.
- Boarding Facilities: While some dogs thrive in a boarding environment, others may find it stressful. If you choose this option, do your research and select a reputable facility with clean and comfortable accommodations, plenty of exercise opportunities, and attentive staff.
6. Rover to the Rescue!
Speaking of trusted help, Rover is a fantastic platform that connects pet owners with trusted pet sitters and dog walkers in their area. In fact, we’ve written about how wonderful the service is. You can find sitters who offer a variety of services, including:
- Dog boarding: Your dog can stay in the sitter’s home, enjoying a more personalized and home-like environment.
- House sitting: The sitter stays in your home, providing your dog with constant companionship and maintaining their normal routine.
- Drop-in visits: For dogs who are comfortable being alone for a few hours, drop-in visits can provide potty breaks, playtime, and companionship.
- Dog walking: If you just need someone to come by and walk the pups while others do the care aspect, Rover has you covered!
Rover allows you to browse sitter profiles, read reviews from other pet owners, and even schedule a “Meet & Greet” to see if the sitter is a good fit for your dog. This can provide peace of mind knowing your furry friend is in good hands.
7. Pack a “Doggy Go-Bag”
Whether your dog is staying at home or going elsewhere, pack a bag with all their essentials:
- Food and treats (Have you tried bully sticks?)
- Toys (puzzle toys are fantastic!)
- Medications
- CBD (we love VetCBD – use our affiliate link for a discount! Get 10% Off Your First Order! – BUDDY10)
- Bowls
- Leash and collar/harness
- Favorite toys and blankets
- Vet records (just in case!)
This puzzle feeder from Amazon (afflink) is amazing for keeping dogs entertained for a long time, offering a variety of ways to work out their brain.
8. Stay Connected (If Possible):
If your dog is staying with a sitter or at a boarding facility that allows it, ask for regular updates and photos. This can help ease your worries and reassure you that your dog is doing well.
9. Ease Back In:
When you return, give your dog plenty of love and attention, but avoid overwhelming them with excitement. Let them settle back into their routine gradually. Your dog is likely to be overstimulated and will need to be guided back into their normal life.
By following these tips, you can ensure your pup stays happy, healthy, and well cared for while you’re away. Bon voyage!
