If you are going to be away from home, figuring out what to do with your pet can be one of your biggest challenges. Kennels, pet sitters, family members, and resorts are all potential solutions, but which one is best? For most people, the choice comes down to sitters or kennels. However, to make the right choice for your pup, you will need to think about their health and wellness, tolerance to stress, and mental well-being, too.
While kennels can be a viable option for some families, professional pet sitters remain a superior alternative for most situations. If you have never tried one or are still on the fence, here are the main reasons to consider trusting a sitter instead of dropping your dog off at a kennel during your trip.
Stress Reduction
One of the most impactful facets of choosing a pet sitter over a kennel is the amount of stress your dog will be exposed to. Kennels can be loud, busy environments, sometimes with dozens of dogs all in a small and claustrophobic space. Even if you request that your pup be provided with alone time (if they do not play well with others), they will likely be sleeping in a crate that is just one of an entire row of crates, all with other dogs in them.
This environment can cause your pet’s stress levels to skyrocket. They may feel unwell or scared, which can lead to a negative experience. They may be safe, but they also might not be happy.
Conversely, a pet sitter keeps your dog away from the cacophony of a kennel. They can focus on playtime, treats, and connection instead of other dogs, unfamiliar scents, and noisy environments.
Safety and Comfort
Another benefit of a pet sitter is safety. Even well-managed kennels simply cannot control for all factors; a visiting dog may bring Kennel Cough, even if they are vaccinated and not showing symptoms. The facility can harbor bacteria that make your pet nauseated, and the staff may be so busy that they do not notice if another dog is monopolizing access to the water bowl.
Pet sitters allow pets to remain comfortable inside their own homes, where they are safe from sickness. They retain access to all the resources they need, including food and water, without competition. There are no other dogs to scuffle with, and they remain under the watchful supervision of a sitter.
Personalized Care
Does your dog prefer to have ten minutes of playtime before they can settle down for the night? Do they only drink fresh water and turn their nose up at bowls that have been sitting on the ground for a while? Your pet is allowed to have quirks, but kennels are not efficient at fulfilling those needs.
Conversely, a pet sitter can provide care that is geared toward your furry friend’s specific personality and habits. They work with you to create a schedule and set expectations, so you can go on your trip knowing that your pet will enjoy their normal routine based on their specific needs.
Trust
You want to be able to trust any person who is taking care of your pet, but your dog also wants to trust you! Dropping a pet off at a noisy, stressful kennel can fracture the bond you have established with your furry friend. Instead, consider welcoming a pet sitter into your home, where you can show your dog that this specific person is a trustworthy part of the family. This can breed excitement to see their new friend when it is time for you to leave, rather than anxiety and fear.
Good Habits
You have likely worked hard to cultivate polite habits in your dog. Did you know that spending time at a kennel can undo some of that work? Stress, discomfort, and a lack of constant supervision can allow your pet to fall back into bad habits (or pick up new ones). Your dog may chew (on objects or even themselves) as a way to cope with your absence in the new environment, or they might do nothing but bark. These behaviors can linger even after they return home. Utilizing a pet sitter helps to cement your pet’s training and stop bad habits before they start.
See Why Pet Sitting Is the Better Choice
Whether you plan to be out of the house for just a few hours longer than normal or a multi-week vacation, making sure your pet is cared for in the interim is one of the most important decisions you can make. Contact Paw Pals to see how our trusted pet sitters can provide a comfortable, exciting environment for your dog. We provide personalized care, and all of our sitters are even trained in pet first aid, so you know your beloved furry friend is in great hands.
