Planning a Holiday?
Click here to for more information about Paws On Paths Pet Sitting and Feeding Services
Attempting to plan a holiday can be difficult, when you are unsure how to arrange care for your dog or pet.
Who should I go with? A Pet Sitter, Dog Walker or Boarding Kennel?
Pet Sitter: Pet Sitters can stay in your home, and attend to your house and pets needs. Although most Pet Sitters, do also have other jobs or study to continue with during the day, your pet will get used to it’s new routine and look forward to your Pet Sitters arrival home. This service can be particularly useful if your pet has specific requirements. E.g. Needing constant medication or special dietary requirements. Sometimes these details can be lost with larger organisations such as Boarding Kennels. In these cases you can also insure that your pet receives any additional treatment from your preferred Veterinarian while you are away. Paws On Paths employs Phoebe Miller as our much loved Pet Sitter. Please contact info@pawsonpaths.com.au for any enquires regarding our Pet Sitting Services.
Boarding Kennel: Kennels can offer you great peace of mind if your pet is prone to escaping! Most good Kennels team dogs up with similar breeds and/or personalities so your pooch can have a constant play mate. Vet nurses are commonly employed in Kennels, this is always handy should there be a medical emergency. If your pet requires continual grooming, these services are usually provided as some Kennels have additional on site Groomers and facilities. Paws On Paths would recommend you find a good Kennel if you are wanting to travel for more that 3 weeks. Please note that your pet must be fully vaccinated (most importantly, Kennel Cough for dogs) to be accepted in to a Kennel. Vaccination Certificates will be inspect on arrival.
Dog Walker: Most Dog Walkers are usually very flexible, and are generally happy to tailor packages to suit your pet’s needs. Should you be going away for a short period of time, this may be your best solution. For longer holidays, you may want to consider teaming up a Pet Sitter and Dog Walker. Dog Walkers can care for your pets, water your garden, collect you mail, and put your rubbish out. You can select options such as, group walks, individual walks and group outings to parks. A good dog walker will do their best to exhaust your dog while you away. With this in mind, once your dog has returned home he/she should be more interested in sleeping, rather than fretting as to your where-about's.
In general, for all these services – you should expect to pay anywhere from $20 - $40 per day (dependant on size and temperament or your pet).
So how do I find these services?
You can never beat word of mouth. Speak with your friends and family. Are they aware of any good services with in your local area? As we all know, the internet is a great source of information. Try searching on OzDoggy. Should you choose to go with a Boarding Kennel, make sure you visit the premises. Don't be put of by constant barking or howls, this is natural under these circumstances. Check that the runs are clean and dry, insure they have a substantial out door exercise area, and take a peek at the food preparation area. Should you opt for a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter, your local Veterinarian should hold contact details of some they may recommend. In most cases, time permitting – arrange to meet your Dog Walker or Pet Sitter well in advance. You should take your dog for a walk with them, on your regular ‘track’ so they can see how your pet reacts to particular commands, and situations.
Whom ever you choose to care for you pet, it is most important that you are comfortable with them. Don't be afraid to ask for references. Your pet is important to you, so make sure you have chosen the right individual that you are the most at ease with.
What do I do when preparing my pet for its care giver?
Boarding Kennel: If at all possible, try to take your dog for a good walk before it is time to drop him/her off. If your chosen Kennel allows personal items to accompany your pet (e.g. Toys, Bedding, Treats etc) make sure it is all clearly labeled with your pets name, and your contact number. It’s always a good idea to include a piece of clothing that smells of you. Wear an old t-shirt or jumper the day before you leave, so it takes on your scent. When your pet goes to sleep for its first night away from home, this can double as some extra warmth and as a ‘security blanket’ that smells of you. Make sure you have any medication if need, your vaccination certificates, and any directions for specific dietary requirements.
Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: Make sure arrangements are made for where you will leave your key (if applicable). Leave everything for your Dog Walker or Pet Sitter, in one spot. Include Veterinarian contact details, treats that are to be given, leads, bowls, food, toys, your contact details plus a contact number for one or two family members or friends - in case of emergency. If your Dog Walker or Pet Sitter is looking after your home, it may be a good idea to draw up a calendar and include dates for when the bins are to be put out, medication to be given, plants to be watered etc.
And lastly – Have a great holiday!
