Choosing the right care for your beloved pooch while you’re away can be a tough decision. Whether it’s a vacation or a work trip, ensuring your furry friend is well taken care of is paramount. Two popular options often come to mind: boarding your dog at a veterinary hospital or hiring a pet sitter to look after them in the comfort of your own home. Both choices have their own set of benefits and risks, and understanding them can help you make the best decision for your canine companion.
Benefits of Dog Boarding in a Veterinary Hospital:
- Professional Care: Veterinary hospitals have trained staff who are equipped to handle various medical needs and emergencies that may arise.
- Medical Attention: If your dog has special medical requirements or needs regular medication, boarding at a veterinary hospital ensures that they receive proper care and monitoring.
- Security: Veterinary hospitals typically have strict security measures in place, ensuring the safety of your pet during their stay.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your dog is in a controlled environment with professionals overseeing their care can provide peace of mind while you’re away.
Risks of Dog Boarding in a Veterinary Hospital:
- Stress: Some dogs may experience stress or anxiety in a new environment, especially if they’re not used to being away from home, spending time in a kennel, or hearing other dogs in nearby kennel spaces.
- Exposure to Illness: Despite the best efforts of veterinary hospitals to maintain cleanliness and sanitation protocols, there is always a risk of your dog being exposed to contagious illnesses from other pets. For this reason, facilities often require keeping your furry friends up to date on their vaccinations and parasitic preventions in order to board. Vaccinations that protect against upper respiratory infections (such as Bordetella and influenza) are especially important when housed near other animals.
Benefits of Having a Pet Sitter at Home:
- Familiar Environment: Your dog gets to stay in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and smells, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Reduced Risk of Illness: By staying in their own environment, your dog is less likely to be exposed to contagious illnesses from other animals.
- Home Security: Having a pet sitter stay at your home can also provide an added layer of security by giving the appearance that someone is present.
Risks of Having a Pet Sitter at Home:
- Reliability: Finding a trustworthy and reliable pet sitter can be challenging, and there’s always a risk of last-minute cancellations or issues.
- Limited Medical Care: While pet sitters can administer basic care and medication, they may not have the training or resources to handle serious medical emergencies.
Deciding between dog boarding at a veterinary hospital and having a pet sitter watch your dog at home ultimately depends on your pet’s individual needs, personality, and your own preferences. Both options offer unique benefits and risks, and it’s essential to weigh them carefully before making a decision. Whether you opt for the professional care of a veterinary hospital or the personalized attention of a pet sitter, the most important thing is ensuring that your furry friend is safe, happy, and well-cared for while you’re away.