Where Can I Go

The holiday season is over and hopefully things are starting to return to a new normal. While January rears its nasty head bringing us snow and frigid temperatures, our minds start to think about warmer climes, or just an escape from the long, dark days of winter.

But as we think and start to plan for a get-away, it’s also important to think about our four legged family members. Where will they stay safely while we get away for some rest and relaxation?

You may have recently adopted a new pet, or have acquired one from a family member who has become ill or passed on. If you are new to pet ownership you may have never looked into places where your pet would go if you were to get away.

There are many boarding kennels located throughout the province, but finding one that’s right for you and your pet can be challenging. The first and perhaps the best place to start is by asking for referrals from friends who have boarded their pets in the past. Not all facilities are suitable for all dogs.

If you have a small “lap dog” that is used to being picked up and carried about, he or she will no doubt not be happy in a large commercial kennel setting where he will be left in a crate with a run. If you don’t have a close friend or family member to leave your little one with, you will want to find a small boarding facility in a person’s home, where the pup will be treated as family and given all the comforts of his own home.

If you have a young pup that’s full of energy, you should locate a facility where there is ample room for him to run and have play sessions with other pups of the same size and energy level. Many of these facilities are located outside the city limits and you may have a drive ahead of you but, in the long run, your pup will be much happier.

If you have an older dog, or one that is on medication, you need to find a place that will adequately care for your pet and make sure that he receives his medication as directed and is given very moderate exercise. In this case a veterinary clinic that offers boarding may be your best choice.

If you have a large breed dog, you will want to look for a place that is suited for and equipped to handle larger pups. The staff will also be able to properly exercise him and be able to keep him safely enclosed in a large area.

When you plan your trip it’s a big decision and, if your pet is not used to being away from you, things can be difficult for everyone. If your pet is in a kennel and is not used to being crated, he may act out and cause a disturbance that will end up with you, or someone else in your family, having to pick him up and keep him in their home until you return. In this case, you may want to look into hiring a house sitter who will come and stay in your home to care for your pet while you’re gone. For older dogs or those who are not used to being with a number of other dogs, this may be your best option.

So, if you plan on getting away, do your homework first and find a suitable environment for your beloved furry friend. This should be a vacation for both of you, and should be enjoyed by both of you.

There are a number of people who offer boarding in their home, but make sure that a large number of pets are not being boarded at the same time and arrange for a tour of the place where your pet will be staying. Above all you need to feel comfortable with the person and the place that will be caring for your furry friend. Otherwise, neither one of you will enjoy your vacation time.

Take your time, ask lots of questions, and be sure that everyone will be happy, comfortable and safe.