You’ve booked the plane tickets, you found the perfect place, and you pulled the suitcases out of the closet – it’s vacation time! As you’re packing, you notice your furry friend hop in the suitcase. A sad realization comes over you as you look into their hopeful eyes; you’re going to have to leave your pet behind.

If you’re going on your vacation and you can’t take your pet, you do have options. You can either bring your pet to a boarding facility or you can hire a pet sitter. There are pros and cons to both. But, boarding can be both physically and mentally exhausting for a pet. Many boarding facilities are busy, loud, and stressful. Furthermore, pets don’t always receive the proper attention and care at certain boarding facilities.

Hiring a pet sitter can be a better alternative. Pet sitters will come to your home at certain times during the day and evening to check on your pet. They will feed them, make sure they have enough water, let them outside, and provide them with love and attention!

Here are some reasons why hiring a vacation pet sitter is better than bringing your pet to a boarding facility.

Reduces Stress

Quite possibly the most important reason having a vacation pet sitter is better than boarding is the stress relief for your pet. Animals generally feel more relaxed in the comfort of their own home. Even if they will be alone for longer periods of time than normal, having the security of being home will help.

Some boarding places, like veterinary offices, have traditional boarding facilities with cold, uncomfortable kennels. While other boarding facilities will give five star hotels a run for their money, it is still a new, stressful place for a pet. Being away from their home in an unfamiliar space can be scary for a pet and cause increased anxiety.

Although pets generally experience stress when their owner is away regardless, being in the comfort of their own home will reduce that stress.

Maintains your pet’s Routine

Animals are creatures of habit. When you throw a wrench in their daily routines, they can become disoriented and anxious. A pet sitter can help maintain routine and a bit of normalcy in your pet’s life.

And, if your furry friend is on any medications, you will have peace of mind knowing they are receiving it on time!

Prevents Illness

Boarding facilities can be a breeding ground for germs and pet-to-pet illnesses. For example, dogs can catch kennel cough (also known as an upper respiratory infection) from being around other infected dogs or just being in a stuffy, crowded facility. Cats are also susceptible to upper respiratory infections.

Some pets can become so distressed at boarding places that they start to vomit or experience diarrhea. The stress can also reduce their appetite and cause them to lose weight.

With a pet sitter, there is far less risk of your dog or cat coming down with a cold. Of course it is not possible to completely prevent an illness, but at least there is less of a chance! Your pet will be in the safety and comfort of their own home.

Protects the Home

 In addition to being less stressful and safer for your pet, hiring a vacation pet sitter will help keep your home safe. Pet sitters can bring in the mail and newspapers. Mail or newspaper back-ups is a sign that you are away and will increase the chance of a break-in or robbery.

So, next time you are planning a vacation, don’t feel too guilty about leaving your furry friend behind! Hiring For Your Spot pet sitting service will reduce both you and your pet’s stress, prevent unexpected illnesses, and protect your home.

Contact us for all your pet sitting needs. Our trusted, animal-loving staff will ensure your pet is safe, happy, and well taken care of!