Our pets love us. There is no doubt about it and we certainly love them, but when we decide to take a vacation, the next question is “What will we do with Fido, or Fluffy?”

I'm miss my parents.

There are three choices. You can either choose to board your pets in a well established kennel (or your Veterinarian’s office may offer these services which is good since your Vet is familiar with you and your animal’s health), you might opt to pay a family friend to watch your pet while you’re gone, or you may decide to take your pet with you.

Take me with You, Please?

If you choose the first option, make sure to sleep those last couple of nights on a baby blanket so it has your scent. You would then send this baby blanket with your pet to the kennel so he/she won’t feel so out of his element and will think you are close by. It offers comfort to your pet when they can smell you. You would also want to make sure to include a favorite toy or two along with their usual diet and instructions on how you feed him/her.

I have my bags packed, my favorite Mousy and my yarn ball. I'm ready!

If option two sounds better and would keep your pet happier by being in his/her own home or in the home of someone they know and already love, still do the baby blanket trick and be sure, again, to leave detailed instructions on how your pet is usually fed and how much.

The last option may well have Fido or Fluffy bursting with joy! Some animals just love going anywhere with their pet parent. Anything is better than sitting by the door, forlorn, waiting for Mommy or Daddy to come home again. You see, where we humans will understand that someone who leaves will return eventually, a dog or cat does not. Humans will entertain themselves with television, reading or such but your pet will either wait the long hours till you return or show displeasure at your leaving by chewing your shoes or pooping on the carpet.

Please Don't leave me Momma!

If taking your pet with you on vacation is your choice, then here are some good tips to caring for him/her when they start their journey.

1. If traveling by vehicle (car, motor home), make sure you leave windows open about two inches (at least two windows to create a cross breeze) when you are not in the vehicle with them. Park in the shade. Remember that animals can suffer heatstroke the same as a human. You would never leave your baby in a hot car so the same rule applies to your pet. If gone more than a few minutes from the vehicle, make sure to leave a bowl of water so your pet can remain hydrated (two bowls or three if you plan an extended stay away from the vehicle).
2. Consider a solar powered fan that hangs on the partially open window to keep your pet cool while in the car or motor home.
3. If flying and boarding your pet for the flight, freeze water in a bowl to place inside the pet carrier. This will prevent water spilling everywhere while you are getting him/her settled and will have melted by the time he/she is loaded into the cargo bay allowing for a cool drink. Also, place tape around the carrier door to prevent others from opening it, letting your pet loose and make sure the carrier is clearly marked in at least three areas with your name, address, phone number and pet’s name.
4. Carry a copy of your pet’s most recent health certification. This would include shot records and it is always a good idea to keep your Veterinarian’s number with you.
5. Make sure that wherever you have planned to stay, your pet is welcome too. Many hotels offer rooms that welcome your pet. Be sure to show your appreciation of these pet friendly accommodations by cleaning up after your pet.

Let’s face it. We love our pets and want to include them as much as we can in all aspects of our lives. Choose the best option for your pet when you’re making travel plans. Keeping Fido and Fluffy safe and happy are the top priorities. And don’t forget to take lots of pictures to commemorate your vacation. Enjoy!