Why Leaving Your Pet at Home for Holiday Care Can Be Better Than a Boarding Facility

As a pet owner, planning a holiday involves a crucial decision: should you leave your pet at home with a trusted pet sitter or opt for a boarding facility?

While both options have their merits, keeping your pet at home under professional care can often be the better choice for their overall well-being. Here’s why:

1. Reduced Risk of Injury

Boarding facilities often house multiple pets together, which increases the risk of injuries due to scuffles, play fights gone wrong, or accidents in a high-energy environment. Even well-socialized pets can become overwhelmed and react unpredictably when placed in an unfamiliar setting. Keeping your pet at home with personalized holiday care ensures their safety, minimizing any chance of harm.

2. Lower Health Concerns

Kennel cough, parasites, and other contagious illnesses are common risks in boarding facilities, even those with high sanitation standards. Pets in close quarters with others have a higher chance of contracting infections. By staying at home, your pet avoids exposure to potential health threats, reduces their stress levels and the need for additional vaccinations or medical treatments.

3. Prevention of Bad Behaviours

Changes in routine, lack of structure/supervision and exposure to unfamiliar pets can lead to your pet picking up bad habits. Barking excessively, resource guarding, or increased anxiety can develop when pets are out in a situation outside of their comfort zone. At-home care maintains their regular schedule, reinforcing good behavior and reducing the likelihood of stress-induced habits forming.

4. Avoiding Overwhelm and Anxiety

Boarding facilities can be noisy, chaotic, and overstimulating. Even the most social pets can feel overwhelmed by the constant activity. This can lead to anxiety, loss of appetite, and difficulty settling when they return home. Staying in their familiar environment, with the care of a professional pet sitter, provides them with security and peace of mind while you're away.

If you decide that a boarding facility is the right choice for your pet, here are essential factors to consider to ensure their comfort and safety. Make sure you:

1. Take a Tour of the Facility

Check if the facility has good ventilation, is clean, how the staff interacts with the pets, how much shade and warmth your pet will have.

2. Ask About Staff Qualifications

Ensure the staff is trained in pet care, first aid, and handling different temperaments. An experienced team will recognize signs of distress and know how to respond appropriately.

3. Understand Emergency Procedures

Find out how the facility handles medical emergencies. Do they have an on-call vet? What is their protocol if your pet becomes ill or injured? Having clear answers to these questions can provide peace of mind.

4. Determine the Amount of One-on-One Attention

5. Clarify Additional Costs

Many facilities charge extra for special care, extra walks, or for photo updates. Get a clear breakdown of costs to avoid unexpected fees.

While boarding facilities can be a suitable option for some pets, leaving your pet at home with a trusted pet care provider can offer a safer, healthier, and more comfortable experience. If you do opt for boarding, doing thorough research will help you make the best choice for your pet.