Going on holiday is a great way to relax and unwind, but it can be stressful to think about what to do with your pet. You want to make sure they're well-cared for while you're away, but you also want to find a solution that's affordable and convenient.
There are a number of different options available for holiday pet care in the UK, so you're sure to find something that's right for you and your pet.
Getting Started
Before entrusting your furry friend to a pet care service, conduct thorough research. Start by asking friends, family, and fellow pet owners for recommendations.
Word-of-mouth referrals often offer valuable insights into reliable pet care services that provide genuine care and attention.
Additionally, explore online reviews and testimonials to gain a broader understanding of the experiences other pet owners have had with potential service providers.
What are your options?
Luckily, there really are quite a few options to choose from, each offering different models for care, payment and extra benefits.
- Kennel or cattery: This is a traditional option that's been around for many years. Kennels and catteries provide a safe and secure environment for your pet, and they often have staff who are experienced in caring for animals. However, kennels and catteries can be expensive, and some pets may find them to be stressful.
- Pet sitter: A pet sitter is someone who will come to your home to look after your pet while you're away. This is a great option if you want your pet to stay in their own familiar surroundings, and it can be more affordable than kennelling or boarding. However, it's important to choose a pet sitter who is reliable and experienced, and who you feel comfortable leaving your pet with.
- House-sitting: This is a similar option to pet sitting, but the house-sitter will also stay in your home while you're away. This can be a great option if you have a pet that needs medication or special care, or if you have a large home that needs to be checked on regularly.
- Dog walking or cat sitting services: If you only need someone to come and walk your dog or feed your cat while you're away, there are a number of services that can help you. These services are usually more affordable than kennelling or boarding, and they can be a great option if your pet is relatively independent.
No matter which option you choose, it's important to do your research and find a provider that you feel comfortable with. Ask for references, and make sure to visit the facilities in person before you book.
By taking the time to find the right holiday pet care for your pet, you can ensure that they're well-cared for while you're away.
Here are some additional tips for finding the right holiday pet care:
- Start your search early. The best pet care providers often book up quickly, so it's important to start your search early.
- Ask your friends, family, and vet for recommendations. They may know of a great pet care provider that you haven't heard of.
- Interview potential providers. Once you've found a few providers that you're interested in, take the time to interview them. This will give you a chance to ask questions and get a feel for their personality and experience.
- Trust your gut. If you have a good feeling about a provider, go with your gut. This is the most important factor of all.
With a little bit of research and planning, you can find the perfect holiday pet care for your furry friend. So relax, enjoy your holiday, and know that your pet is in good hands.
Other things to consider
You’ll want to make caring for your pet as easy as possible, and give your carer all the information they need to keep your pet happy, safe and secure.
The following information is really important to share with your pet carer, whichever option you choose:
- Vaccinations: Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date before you go away. This will help to protect them from illness while they're in the care of someone else. Let your pet carer know what vaccinations your pet has received and when.
- Food and treats: Your pet's food and treats will also need to be taken into account when you're calculating the cost of holiday pet care. Ensure that your carer has a clear schedule of what your pet eats, and when.
- Grooming: If your pet needs to be groomed, make sure to factor this into the cost as well. Pre-book any appointments to make life easier for your carer.
- Emergency care: It's always a good idea to have pet insurance in case of an emergency. This will cover the cost of any medical care that your pet may need while you're away. Ensure you have these details easily accessible for your pet carer so that they can respond quickly and accordingly in the case of an emergency.
