As every pet owner knows, going on vacation can be a mixed blessing. While we all long for time away from the ordinary, it often means leaving our fur babies behind in a kennel. And with the pandemic, this can add additional stress to your vacation. The American Pet Products Association reports that dog owners spend $322 on average to board their pets due to travel, while cat owners spend approximately $164. The same study (before the pandemic) noted that four percent of dog owners and two percent of cat owners have boarded their pets in the last six months, which is significant when you consider that there are 94.2 million cat-owning households and 89.7 million houses with dogs in residence.
Knowing that your pets are receiving the same kind of care they would enjoy at home can be reassuring while you’re away. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that both you and your pet have a pleasant experience.
Make sure vaccinations are up-to-date
Most kennels worth their salt will require a Bordetella shot to prevent kennel cough, as well as rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza pet shots. Your pet will probably also be screened for fleas and ticks before being admitted. Be sure to check what requirements your kennel requires and ask for document from your vet well in advance.
Be clear about your pet’s daily needs
If your pet is on a daily medication, be sure to write out how much they receive and at what times during the day. Also make sure they know whether the medication is given with food, in a pill pocket, or via some other device you and your pet have arrived at to make daily dosing easier and less stressful. Some kennels charge an extra fee to administer medications.
Don’t forget their favorite toys, their bed, their food, and your veterinarian’s contact number. It’s also helpful to leave them with a towel you’ve used recently that holds your scent. It can be very comforting when a pet is stressed to have your scent in the kennel with them.
In case of emergency
For that “just in case” scenario, inquire where they would seek emergency care for your pet should an accident or illness happen while they’re in the facility’s care. Some kennels will ask for you to sign a credit card authorization and a signed release to seek treatment form so that your pet doesn’t have to wait for veterinarian care in an emergency situation because you were unable to be reached.
Keep them calm upon their return
Picking up your pet from the kennel is always a jubilant experience for both the pet and the owner. This excitement can lead to stomach upset if you feed or water them too soon after returning home. According to the American Kennel Club, it’s best to withhold food and water for about four hours as their excitement at being home can trigger vomiting and diarrhea. If your pet seems thirsty, offer a few ices cubes rather than water. Once your pet has calmed down and rested, you can carry on as your usual daily routine.
Want more information? The International Boarding and Pet Services Association provides tips on how to choose the right pet care provider for you. At the Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic, we can provide you with a record of your pet’s shot history and any other documentation the kennel might require.
