Home Alone?

As a young man I loved the movie “Home Alone”.  In the movie the main character’s parents are so focused on getting ready for their big trip that Kevin, is forgotten and left home alone. Initially Kevin believes it is his wish come true to no longer have his family around. His excitement soon disappears and  he finds himself fending off potential robbers.  I hope this blog is a reminder to consider your pets in your vacation plans. With some advance planning you and your pet can have a safe and stress free time and no one will be forgotten home alone.

Tip#1 – Look into Pet Sitters and Boarding facilities in advance.

It is surprising how fast boarding facilities and pet sitters get booked.  If you make plans in advance, you will have your first choice of who is looking after your pet. This will allow you to enjoy your vacation knowing your pet is safe and loved.

Tip #2 - Provide Emergency Information
Having the following information on file can alleviate unnecessary panic in case of an emergency.:

  • Phone number where you can be reached.
  • Name and phone number of someone near the boarding facility who has the authorization to make health care decisions if you are unable to be reached.
  • Name and phone number of outside veterinarians who have permission to provide information if there are questions that arise about the medical history and care of pet.

 

Tip #3 - Prior Check of Health Records

Check your pet’s health records to confirm that vaccinations are up-to-date. The typically recommended core and noncore vaccination requirements for boarding animals are as follows:

Dog’s Core:

  • Canine Distemper
  • Infectious Hepatitis
  • Canine Parvovirus
  • Rabies
  • Bordetella often required to board your pet. It prevents Kennel Cough

Noncore:

  • Canine Parainfluenza

Cat's Core

  • Feline Panleukopenia
  • Feline Herpesvirus
  • Feline Calicivirus   
  • Rabies

Since vaccination immunity can take days to weeks to fully develop, to provide pets with their best chance for protection, vaccinations should be given two to four weeks before they enter the boarding facility.

Tip #4 - Help Ease the Stress
Leaving your pet at a boarding facility can be a very stressful event for both you and your pet, especially if this is the first boarding experience. the following suggestions to help Here are a few suggestions to reduce any transition anxiety.

  • Arrive at the facility before the final closing minutes of the day in case there are questions.
  • Bring the pet’s own food, clearly marked with instructions for feeding amount.
  • Label any medications clearly and include instructions for the dosage.
  • Bring a blanket, towel, or shirt that reminds them of home.
  • Bring a favorite toy.

Tip #5. Things to consider with a Pet Sitter

When talking with prospective caregivers, pet parents should direct their focus on obtaining information from the answers to questions such as the following:

  • What services do they offer? For example: grooming, walking, training, exercising, playing, cleaning up after pet, taking pet to appointments, taking pet to veterinarian if it gets sick, live-in services?
  • Will they provide a written contract that explicitly identifies responsibilities, services, and fees charged?
  • Do they carry commercial liability insurance that covers accidents and negligence? Can they provide written proof? Are they bonded? Can they provide proof?
  • What training do they have for this position? For example: CPR, First Aid?
  • What is the back-up plan established for continuing the care of your pet in case the sitter becomes ill, has car trouble, or has other difficulties that keep them from their responsibilities? How do you interview this person? What are their qualifications?
  • Can they provide a list of references along with the contact information that includes client names and phone numbers?

To Your Pet’s good health,

 

Dr. Barry