Dogs And Holidays - What Do I Do? 

With the world hopefully beginning to open up more and more over the next few months, some of you may be looking forward to some time away on holiday.  

But, this raises the question of who will look after your dog whilst you are away from home?  Here we explore a few of the most popular options for you to consider;

Kennels

This is one of the more traditional methods used to care for your dog whilst you are on holiday. It generally consists of several kennels in a block, usually with an outdoor run attached to each one. There are some regulations in place that all licensed boarding kennels must adhere to;

- Ample space for your dog to stand up and move around freely
- Access to their sleeping area at any time they choose
- Dogs must be housed individually unless they are sharing with another dog from their own household
- Access to water and enrichment such as toys
- At least one walk out from their kennel per day

It should be remembered that these are only minimum requirements and some kennel providers may be able to exceed these guidelines.

Home Boarding

Home boarding establishments are becoming increasingly popular as they tend to offer a more homely approach which can be more inviting for your dog. Like kennels, home boarders should be registered with their local authorities and licensed. In doing so, this goes some way to ensuring that they are reputable and will take care of your dog well.

Their guidelines state that your dog must be housed within the home and also have the option to be separated into a room of their own if required. This is especially important for home boarders who accept more than one dog at a time, or those that already have their own dogs in the home because if an outbreak of contagious illness was to occur, there would need to be enough space to isolate dogs away from each other to prevent the illness spreading throughout them all.

Dogs that go to home boarding establishments must also be exercised at least once per day in line with their age, health and breed requirements.

House Sitters

House Sitters come to your own home to care for your dog instead of your dog going to them as they would for home boarding. This can be really beneficial for dogs that are nervous, or not comfortable with other dogs as it keeps their routine much more recognisable for them as they are in familiar surroundings.

This can also be a more cost effective option if you have multiple dogs or other pets at home too, as most house sitters will be able to take care of other pets too. You also have the added bonus of someone looking after your property whilst you are away as well.

Although house sitters do not need to be registered with the local authorities and they do not have guidelines set out for them like kennels and home boarders do, it is imperative that they at least have insurance in case of any issues. After all, you are trusting them with two of things that are most important to you in life, your dog and your home.

Friends & Family

Some of us have the luxury of having dog loving friends and family members who are willing to take care of our dog's in our absence. However, just because we know and trust them does not necessarily mean that this is the best option for your dog.

For example, if your household is generally quiet and calm and this is what your dog is accustomed to, then they may struggle to go to a friend/family members house that has young children or multiple dogs and is a little bit more hectic. This is not to say that these households are not great dog owners, they are simply very different to what your dog is used to which may well be stressful for them.

Take Them Too!

There may be occasions where it is an option for your dog to join you on your holiday! There are now loads of different options including caravans, camping, cabins, cottages, hotels and B&B's that are dog friendly. In fact, there are actually places available to book that are specifically for dog owners only, which are really geared up with your dog in mind.

If your dog is sociable and is likely to enjoy exploring somewhere new, then why not let them come along with you? They are sure to have lots of fun just like you will!

Whichever option you decide to go for, always make sure that it has your dog's best interests at the forefront. A dog who is anxious in new situations, may not enjoy going on holiday with you and instead would prefer to stay in their home with someone they know and trust.

To keep up to date with my latest blogs, you can find me on Facebook: Charlotte Garner - Canine Author