Alright, let’s talk about lookin’ after your critters when you’re off gallivantin’ on vacation. You know, them furry fellas need tendin’ to, even when you ain’t around.
So, what do ya do when you gotta skedaddle for a bit? Well, you got a few choices, none too fancy, but they get the job done.
- First off, you got them pet boardin’ places. Kinda like a hotel for dogs and cats, I reckon. They feed ’em, give ’em water, and let ’em run around a bit. Not the cheapest option, mind you, but some folks swear by it. They say it’s safe and the critters get looked after proper. But, I dunno, my old Bessie, she wouldn’t have liked bein’ cooped up with a bunch of strangers. She was a homebody, that one.
- Then there’s pet sitters. Now, these folks, they come to your place. That’s good for them cats that don’t like leavin’ the house, or them dogs that get all antsy in new places. Pet sitter comes in, feeds ’em, plays with ’em a bit, makes sure they ain’t tearin’ up the furniture. It’s a bit more personal, ya know? Like havin’ a neighbor pop in, but they’re gettin’ paid for it, so they’re more reliable, I guess.
- And then, there’s always askin’ family or friends. This is the cheapest way, for sure. But you gotta make sure they’re up to the task. Not everyone knows how to handle a critter, especially if it’s a high-strung one. And you don’t want them forgettin’ to feed the poor thing or lettin’ it out to run wild in the streets. Gotta be careful who you trust with your babies.
Now, some folks, they think they can just leave their dog home alone for a whole week. That’s just plain wrong, I tell ya. Dogs, they need company. They need to go outside and do their business. They need someone to scratch their ears and tell ’em they’re good boys. Leavin’ ’em alone for that long, it’s just cruel. They’ll get lonely, they’ll get bored, and they might even get sick. Don’t do it. It ain’t right.
If you absolutely gotta leave your dog for a few hours, make sure they got plenty of water and food. And maybe leave the TV on, or the radio. Somethin’ to keep ’em company. There’s them toys too, the ones they can chew on or puzzle out. Keeps ’em busy, I hear. But still, a few hours is the max. Don’t push it.
If you’re goin’ with a pet sitter, make sure you meet ’em beforehand. See if they get along with your critter. And give ’em clear instructions. Tell ’em what to feed ’em, when to feed ’em, how much to feed ’em. Tell ’em about any medicine they need. Tell ’em about their quirks and habits. The more information you give ’em, the better they can look after your furry friend.
And what about them cats? Well, cats are a bit different. They’re more independent, that’s for sure. But they still need someone to check in on ’em. Make sure they got food and water. Clean out their litter box. Give ’em a bit of attention, if they want it. Some cats, they’re affectionate. Others, not so much. You just gotta know your cat.
If you’re thinkin’ about takin’ your pup with you on your trip, maybe check out them pet hotels. They’re kinda fancy and made for critters on the go. But, truth be told, that ain’t for everyone. Sounds like a whole heap of trouble to me, draggin’ a dog all over creation when you’re supposed to be relaxin’.
And if you’re worried about your pets gettin’ all worked up while you’re gone, try gettin’ them used to bein’ alone before you leave. Start by leavin’ them for a little bit each day, then gradually increase the time. That way, they won’t be so shocked when you’re gone for a longer period. It’s like teachin’ a young’un to ride a bike, gotta start slow and work your way up.
So there you have it. A few things to think about when you’re plannin’ your vacation and you got critters to consider. Just remember, they’re part of the family. And they need lookin’ after, even when you ain’t around.
Don’t just dump ’em and forget ’em. That ain’t right. Treat ’em with kindness and respect, and they’ll be there waitin’ for ya when you get back. That’s all there is to it.
Tags: pet care, vacation, pet sitting, pet boarding, dog care, cat care, travel, pet sitter, leaving pets alone, responsible pet ownership
