Planning a summer getaway is exciting, but for pet owners it can also be frustrating, especially when you don’t have anyone who can look after your fur-baby while you’re off vacationing somewhere fun.
Thankfully, there are plenty of options, from sitters to boarding, etc., so you can enjoy your well-deserved time off free of worries and stress, knowing that your pet is safe back home.
Newsweek spoke to veterinarians and animal trainers to discuss the best choices for vacationing pet owners, and below are their top three suggestions.
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Pet-Sitting at Home
Hiring a professional pet sitter to care for your fur-baby in your own home is probably the most comfortable option for your pet.
“This allows your pet to stay in their own environment, keep a normal routine, and receive one-on-one care,” Dr. Liza Cahn, veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, told Newsweek.
Depending on your pet’s needs, this might involve several drop-in visits per day or a sitter who stays overnight or the entire duration of the stay.
Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian at Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, added that some vet clinic staff or techs may offer pet-sitting services, which could add a layer of trust and medical expertise, especially for pets with health issues.
However, the costs can add up quickly, and for pets who need constant attention, short visits may not be sufficient.
Boarding Facilities and Pet Day Care
For more social pets, a boarding kennel or day care with overnight accommodations might be the perfect fit.
Dion Studinski, founder of Ancillary K9 dog training, says these facilities can be ideal for pets that enjoy being around others. “Many offer group play, structured activities, and even dog ‘vacation packages,'” he told Newsweek.
But not all pets are cut out for the high-energy atmosphere of a kennel. Boarding can be stressful for pets with anxiety or medical conditions, and there’s always a risk of exposure to illness.
Home-Boarding with a Sitter
Another growing trend is home-boarding—leaving your pet at a sitter’s home rather than a traditional kennel.
Cahn describes this as a “middle ground” that combines the benefits of a home environment with personal attention. This setup tends to be more relaxed than a kennel and often more affordable than in-home pet sitting.
But every pet is different. “I always advise clients to match the environment to their dog’s temperament and training level, and to ask lots of questions before booking any service,” Studinski said.
Regardless of which option you choose, all three experts stress the importance of doing your homework first, including checking references, confirming credentials and considering a trial run before leaving.
Can You Take Your Pet on Holiday With You?
If you’d rather not part with your fur-baby, there are increasingly more pet-friendly vacation options; that is, if your pet is up for it.
“Road trips are one of the most dog-friendly choices,” Studinski said. “Your dog stays with you the whole time and you can plan stops for walks and play.”
Fox told Newsweek that destinations with outdoor access and pet-friendly amenities are her top choice. “I personally love hiking vacations or beach destinations like San Diego, Cape Cod, or the Hamptons,” she said.
Some hotels and accommodations offer pet beds, bowls and outdoor dining options. Taking your pet on vacation with you means that you must be prepared for any inconvenience, so you should ensure you always have their veterinary records, extra medication and a pet first-aid kit with you.
According to Cahn, although the idea of traveling with your pet might seem appealing, “logistically, it is often easier to leave them at home.”
Pets thrive on routine, and many can find travel unsettling, so the best way to ensure that you enjoy your time away is to feel confident that you are leaving your pets in good hands in their home environment, Cahn suggests.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your pet’s age, temperament, medical needs and your own comfort level.
Whether you opt for a cozy home visit, a social pet hotel or pack your pet in the car for an epic road trip, all the experts agree that what matters most is ensuring your fur-baby feels safe and cared for.
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