Practice News
Christmas petsMonday 24th December, 2007
Christmas holidays are complicated when you have pets. What are you going to do with them? Do you take your pets with you or leave them behind?
Preferably you won’t do what some irresponsible holidaymakers do. Those who simply find a pet too much of an inconvenience and think nothing of dumping their cat or dog.
Leaving your pets unattended at home is also not an option. Such lonely animals often escape when the boredom of solitude hits. These stray pets often suffer injuries from accidents and they can become lost.
However, most people are very responsible and want to ensure their pets are safe while they are away. What are the options for Christmas care of pets?
Many people couldn’t bear to be without their pets when they go off for some rest and recreation. If you can take your pets with you then they will enjoy the change in routine as much as you.
If you are intending to book your dog or cat into a boarding kennel, then ensure you do so months before. Many boarding kennels and catteries book out for the Christmas and Summer holidays months in advance. Other holiday periods are almost as bad.
There are many reputable boarding kennels that will look after your pet very well while you are away. Get recommendations from friends and from your veterinarian, and visit the kennel if possible to satisfy yourself. Ask about feeding, playtime, and what happens if your pet gets ill.
Several organisations offer a home visit service for pets. With such services, the pets are left at home and the caregiver visits during the day to feed and exercise the pets. They will water your plants and also provide other services. For pets with the right temperament, this is a great alternative -it gives your home some security also -just tell the neighbours its happening!
However, be aware that your pet will still be alone for most of the day and many pets will not tolerate this. If your pet is very attached to you it may be not be content if you are gone for a long period and another alternative may be better if the house sitter stay in their home when they are away. The pets often enjoy the new face and the small change in routine. Naturally, the house sitter needs to have good credentials -many vets will have nurses who offer this service.
Alternatively, having your pets cared for at the home of a friend or relative is a good idea. If this is your preference, check that the fences will prevent your pet escaping. Why not take your pet to visit this friend a few times before the holiday so it can acquaint itself with their house and garden?
Worried about sending your dog to a boarding kennel or leaving it at home alone? How would you like to have your dog minded by a caring family who will take it into their home and spoil it, so you can enjoy your christmas break? Again contact your local vet for information on people who offer such a service.
No matter the system of care you use when you are on holiday, be sure to fully identify your pet with tags or a microchip. Should your pet roam while you are away, identification will assist in its return to you, otherwise you may never see it again!.
Remember that your pet will need to have its vaccinations up to date before being admitted into the kennels. For your pet’s protection, its vaccinations should be given at least 14 days before the date of boarding as the vaccines won’t cause immunity immediately. Check the kennels requirements -an additional kennel cough vaccine may be needed as well as their annual vaccination
If your pet is on medication of any sort e.g. arthritis , now is a good time to ensure you are well stocked with medication. Its also a good plan to worm and de-flea your pet on return from any of these places it visits over christmas
With a little forethought, you and your pets will have a happy holiday and you won’t be dogged by the hassles that hound many others
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