Are you leaving home soon and wondering what your pet will think while you’re gone? As a pet owner, it is completely normal for you to think not just about the logistics of your pet’s care while you are away, but also whether they are bored, sad, or scared. Professional pet sitting is an excellent alternative to boarding that provides more than just food, water, and potty breaks for your pet. It can give them the full staycation experience!
However, to help your pet have a great time while you are away, you will need to do some planning ahead of time. Making a few smart choices in the weeks leading up to your trip can provide your pet with the enrichment and resources they need to thrive until you get back. Make sure you do these few things before you leave to create the ultimate summer staycation for your pet while you travel.
Find a Sitter You Trust
First and foremost, take the time to find a pet sitter you trust with your animal. It is smarter to go with a reputable business over a private individual for many reasons: years of experience, insurance protection, reliability, and even pet CPR training.
Once you find your preferred choice, schedule some visits before you leave. This gives your pet time to become familiar with visitors to the home so that a new, familiar human entering while you are gone is an exciting event, not an anxiety-inducing one.
Break Down the Basics
Staycations are meant to be a great time, but you still need an underlying structure to keep things on track. Make a list of all the most important tasks your pet needs, such as feeding and potty breaks, and the times of day these activities happen in your pet’s routine. Your sitter will appreciate knowing exactly how things work in the house, and your pet will stay calmer when their routine isn’t broken by your departure.
Upgrade Living Arrangements
Your pet deserves some luxurious upgrades to enjoy while you are away. They will likely be spending more time sleeping than usual since you are not around to engage with them, so consider upgrading their beds or blankets before you leave. Just give them enough time to get used to the new items prior to your departure date.
Buy New, Exciting Treats
Everyone loves to fill their staycations with treats, and the same is true for your pets. From trying a new brand of snacks to buying a few toys to be revealed during your absence, there is no shortage of ways to bring a spark of joy to your pet.
However, take every necessary measure to prioritize safety. If your pet has destructive habits, it may not be wise to leave new toys with them, as they may tear them apart and ingest some of the pieces. This does not mean they cannot have new toys! Only that the pet sitter should pick them back up before they leave. You know your pet best, so work with your sitter to come up with a toy and play plan that suits your dog or cat’s personality.
Plan Something Interesting
One of the best things you can do for your pet’s mental health and mood while you are away is make sure they stay active. Spending time outside in the sunlight can make them happier and more energized, and pet sitters offer basic potty breaks and walks as part of their services. However, some also provide services that can add even more excitement.
For example, does your dog have a favorite park nearby where they enjoy playing? Plan a visit into your staycation itinerary. Do they love to chase the water from the hose? A quick play session might be all they need to feel excited and happy for the day. Remember that exercise and new smells can tire your dog out, so they stay calmer and sleep better while you are gone. When getting to know your pet sitter, brainstorm some ideas for activities your pet would enjoy during their staycation.
Every Day Is a Reward With a Trusted Northern VA Pet Sitter
There is no need to be stressed about what will happen to your pet while you are on a trip if you plan ahead. And with a little effort upfront, your animal’s lazy days at home can turn into an exciting staycation that will keep them perky and joyful until your return. Paw Pals Pet Sitting offers numerous pet sitting options in your home, or you can even send your pet to stay with one of our trusted sitters! A new environment or a complete stay-at-home arrangement can be an exciting change of pace, so contact Paw Pals to set up a staycation schedule that suits your pet.
