Vacations are happening across the country right now, as summer is beckoning with all of its glory. But this time of year generally leaves families struggling with what to do with their pets while they are away.

Most families assume boarding their animal is the most cost effective answer, but is it, really? And is it the only option?

Pet Boarding vs Pet Sitting

There are pros and cons to each of these options - for both you and your pet. Knowing your animal is key to making the right decision.

Boarding

You can board your dog at a friend or family member’s house, but sometimes this causes confusion and anxiety in animals and they try to run away and find home. Make sure that the caretaker you choose is prepared to watch your furbaby well.

A Pet Hotel

Most pet boarding facilities now pride themselves on being more hotel-like than boarding-like. Gone are the days where animals are kept in a kennel 24/7 only being let out for exercise a handful of times a day. Most pet spa boarding facilities have cameras where you can watch your dog play all day.

A large benefit of boarding your pet is that you know without a doubt your pet is being watched. There is no wondering if a pet sitter showed up due to unforeseen circumstances.

Pet Sitting

Pet sitting can come in many forms, but all happen within your own home, meaning that you can rest easy knowing that your pet is in his environment. Yes, you will be missed, but at least the comforts of home will remain the same.

The Best Dog Walker says hiring a pet sitter or having someone sleep at your house while you are gone provides the following:  

Reduced Risk of Getting Sick: Pets that are left in a boarding facility are more likely to get sick due to exposure to other dogs who may be infected. It is not uncommon for dogs to come back with highly contagious symptoms including fever, lethargy and a cough, needing antibiotics. Leaving your pet with a sitter will greatly reduce any risk of illness.

Stress Free Experience: When pets are away from their owners, they can experience separation anxiety. This can be even more likely when pets are put in a boarding facility and is extremely common in rescue pets. Although most facilities promise quality playtime that can relieve anxiety, a pet sitter can provide them with the undivided attention they need to feel less stressed out.

Minimal Changes: The anxiety your pet may feel can be exacerbated by a change in atmosphere and schedule. When it comes to schedule, a facility will feed and care for your pet on their schedule. When you hire a pet sitter, you can leave them with a schedule to let them know when your pet is fed, taken for walks, etc. Keeping them on this schedule will help them to feel calmer.

Increased Communication: Another one of the benefits of hiring a pet sitter is increased communication. A pet sitter will be able to provide you with updates in the form of emails, text messages, etc. All this will contribute to your peace of mind making you feel more relaxed as well.

Pet Sitters Can Multi-Task: Not only will a pet sitter take care of your pet, they can also take care of your house. Having someone around will help to deter theft. And while they’re at it, they may be able to check the mail, water the lawn and perform other small household tasks as needed. Of course, these services may cost extra so be sure to talk with the sitter about fees if you would like additional services included.

Your Pet is in Good Hands: Professional pet sitters are certified by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International. This certification means they have a comprehensive knowledge of pet health and behavior and have received first aid training. Their first aid training helps them to determine the difference between emergency and non-emergency situations and assures they know how to react in either case. The one on one attention they provide your pet also ensures that they will notice unusual behavior and be able to act on it quickly.