Article brought to us by Waggel
Going Away Without Your Dog? Experts Share the Best Care Options
Choosing the Best Care Options for Your Furry Friend While You’re On Holiday
Leaving your four-legged companion behind as you set off on holiday can be both an emotional and logistical hurdle. A recent study showed 47% of owners feel anxious when leaving their pet behind, but it’s even more challenging for the dogs—76% of whom suffer from separation anxiety.
Whether the owner is going away for a short trip or an extended holiday, it’s essential to ensure a dog’s well-being. To help with that, pet insurance experts at Waggel, with their extensive knowledge and experience, have provided insights to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy while you’re away.
Choose the Right Caregiver
Andrew Leal, CEO of Waggel, says, “The care person or facility is ideally one that your dog is comfortable with.”
Someone the Dog Knows
Finding a trusted family member or friend who already knows your dog’s routine, habits, and preferences can help maintain them and provide companionship. Depending on what’s more comfortable for your pet, the caretaker can stay at your home or take your dog to theirs.
Professional Pet Sitter
A professional sitter can visit your home multiple times daily for feeding, walking, playtime, administering medications, and overall companionship.
Andrew suggests, “Vet the sitter carefully and seek references. Ask for a secondary contact number or address in case you can’t reach them at their primary number.”
Kennel and Daycare
Kennels offer a specialized, controlled environment with 24/7 surveillance and other dogs to keep yours company. For shorter absences, consider a daycare.
Make sure to research multiple kennels and daycares, ask for recommendations, and look for good reviews, clean facilities, and caring staff.
Andrew says, “Try to keep sleeping logistics similar. If your dog is used to sleeping in a kennel, provide that.”
Preparing Your Home
“If you’re leaving your pet at home, set up an environment they are familiar with. With their owner gone, it’s best to minimize any other changes,” says Andrew.
Lock Up
Ensure your home is secure by closing windows, locking doors, and securing any potential hazards.
Stack Up Supplies
Provide ample food, water, medications, and toys. Ensure any medicines are clearly labeled and that the caretaker is briefed on how and when to administer them.
Comfortable Space
Creating a comfortable and familiar space for your pet is essential. Prepare a cozy area with your dog’s bed, blankets, and favorite toys. You can also use automated feeders and waterers so your dog doesn’t go hungry, even if the caretaker runs late some days.
Pet Cameras
Install pet cameras to monitor your dog while you’re away. Some cameras even allow you to talk to your pet and dispense treats remotely.
Reducing Anxiety
Andrew emphasizes, “Dogs can feel separation anxiety deeply. Providing emotional comfort is as essential as providing food, water, and bedding.”
Comfort Items
Surround your dog with familiar items. Try not to leave them with a new blanket or bedding. Also leave a piece of your own clothing with your scent to provide a sense of closeness to you.
Calming Aids
Leave picture frames with your pictures where the dog can see them, and consider adding a calming pheromone diffuser.
Andrew says, “At the end of the day, you know your dog best. Are there any situations your dog is uncomfortable with or any people he gets anxious around? Try to make sure your dog doesn’t have to face those while you’re not there.”
With the proper logistical, emotional, and health-related facilities, you can ensure your dog remains happy and secure while you’re away, and you can also enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
About
Waggel offers lifetime pet insurance with customizable coverage up to £15,000, including dental and unlimited video vet consultations. Members receive personalized support from UK-based vet nurses and access to free video calls with behaviorists and nutritionists. Claims can be made digitally, with payments direct to any registered UK vet practice. The company emphasizes simplicity and personalized service, aiming to provide comprehensive and hassle-free pet insurance.
Spokesperson Description:
Andrew Leal is the co-founder and CEO of Waggel, a digital pet insurance company aiming to transform the pet insurance industry by providing transparent, user-friendly services. After moving to the UK and completing an MBA, he co-founded Waggel in 2018 to address pet owners’ frustrations with traditional pet insurance providers. Waggel offers not only insurance but also a comprehensive well-being platform for pets, including a rewards program and access to specialists such as nutritionists and behaviorists.
Sources
Separation Anxiety statistics from CertaPet
Article brought to us by Waggel
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
