When going on vacation, deciding what to do with your pet can be challenging. In this blog, our Marina del Rey veterinarians provide advice on handling your dog while you are away.
Where to Leave Your Dog While on Vacation
At Shane Veterinary Medical Center, we understand that choosing the right place to leave your furry friend while you're away from home can be a tough decision. Whether going on a vacation for a few weeks or a business trip for a few days, you must find suitable care for your dog. Researching the available options in your area and the features each service provides can make your decision-making process easier.
Dog Boarding Facilities
Pet boarding facilities today offer a wide range of services, including clean kennels, lots of love, and attention.
These services can vary from pet spas and doggie summer camps to medical boarding for pups that require extra care and attention.
The price points for these services can range from affordable to extravagant.
When deciding on a boarding facility for your dog, it is recommended that you visit a few different places in your area and choose one that best meets your pet's needs and your budget.
Features of Dog Boarding Facilities
Pricing is a reliable reflection of the quality of service provided at a dog boarding facility. If you wish to have your dog pampered with plush, hotel-like amenities such as comfortable sofas and TV sets, you should expect to pay a higher fee. On the other hand, if you opt for a standard facility with spacious crates and fenced dog runs, the cost will be lower.
If you want your furry friend to have an active and exciting experience while you are away, a dog camp may be the perfect option. Many dog camps across the country offer ample outdoor time for your canine to explore and participate in activities like swimming and playing with other dogs.
Care at Boarding Facilities
Most pet boarding facilities offer standard care, which typically includes certain basic services.
- A clean, roomy kennel for your pup to sleep in
- Exercise time outdoors before breakfast so your dog can stretch their legs
- Breakfast served in the kennel
- Out-of-kennel playtime in the middle of the day to allow your pup to burn some energy
- Dinner served in the kennel
- Evening bathroom break
Other Commonly Available Services
If you are looking for something a bit more special than a standard boarding facility, many facilities also offer the following services:
- Specialized veterinary care
- Training
- Grooming
- Shuttle services to and from the facility
Hiring a Dog Sitter
If you are looking for a dog sitter, it's important to ask for a list of references and qualifications. The cost of hiring a pet sitter will depend on the type of service you choose. Having a dog sitter can also help make your home look occupied and deter potential intruders. If you hire a live-in pet sitter, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is being taken care of, even at night.
Extra Services Available From Some Pet Sitters
If your dog requires more care than just feeding and being let out a few times a day, some pet sitters offer additional services such as:
- Training
- Grooming
- Frequent walks
- Housekeeping
If you're looking for a more affordable pet-sitting option, consider asking a friend or family member to care for your furry friend. This way, your pet will be in the company of someone they know and trust and will likely feel more comfortable in a familiar environment, depending on whether they're being looked after at your home or the sitter's.
Boarding Your Pet at Shane Veterinary Medical Center
At Shane Veterinary Medical Center, we understand the stress and anxiety about leaving your dog sick or recovering while on vacation.
Our goal is to help put your mind at ease by providing your dog with the care they need while you're away. We provide complete medical boarding services for pets including dogs and cats who require medication and/or monitoring.
Our Marina del Rey dog boarding facility provides:
- Administratio of medications as specified by you
- Comfy, cozy beds for each guest
- Climate-controlled kennels
- Individual space for each pet
- Clean towels, blankets, and bowls
- Separate boarding area for cats
- 24/7 monitoring
- Grooming
- Short daily walks
- Special diet accommodations
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.