Complete These 9 Tasks for Your Pet Before Taking a Trip

Your pet is not just an animal but a member of the family. You want your cherished fluffy, fuzzy or feathery creature well-cared for when going on a trip. To ensure your pet is happy and secure during your time away, make sure these nine tasks are completed before leaving.

1. Stock Health Items

Maybe you have CBD oil for dogs that your precious pups use regularly. Or maybe Fluffy needs monthly heartworm medicine or a cream applied to its paws every night. Maybe your cat needs daily allergy pills to prevent itching and sneezing. Whatever the need may be, make sure all medicines, vitamins, creams and shampoos are stocked. The last thing you want is a health scare while you are away because your pet ran out of medication. 

2. Research Caregivers

Hopefully you have a trusted love one nearby that can pet sit for you. However, not everyone is so fortunate. If you do not have someone to watch your pet, research sitters well in advance of your trip.

Ask friends, family and coworkers if they have any recommendations. Go online and research sitters in your area. Rover is a fantastic website that offers a variety of pet services, including pet sitting. You can see exactly what services each provider offers, their prices and reviews from previous clients.

3. Spend Time With the Pet Sitter

Once you have a sitter in mind, set up a meeting to introduce yourself and your pet. While the person may look great on paper, your pet may not jive well with him or her in person. Meeting beforehand gives you a chance to see who your pet gets along with the best. Plus, it gets your animal familiar with this person before you leave.

4. Make a List

Before you take off, create a detailed list for your pet sitter. It should include routines, food schedule, medicine schedule, where everything is stored, any sensitivities and emergency contacts. Be sure to list your vet and a nearby friend or family member on the contacts in case the sitter cannot reach you.

5. Stick to a Routine

If you have a well-defined or even a fairly lax routine with your pet, make sure the sitter sticks to that schedule as best as possible. Routine is especially important for your pets while you are gone. It is a way to reassure them that they are safe.

6. Supplies are Available

Make sure food and litter is stocked before you leave. Have all your pets’ toys and accessories clean and put away as well, such as blankets, bedding, leashes and harnesses.

7. Spend Extra Time Together

Whether you are spending a couple nights away or a couple weeks away, spend extra time with your pet in the days leading up to your departure. This shows your animals just how much you love them. While you may not be able to have a conversation with them, you can show them through your actions just how much they mean to you.

8. Leave Lights On

If the sitter will not be at your home during your entire time away, make sure they leave a light or two on for your pets while they are gone. Not only is this a source of comfort, but it also ensures the animals can see and get around while alone.

9. Keep a Comfortable Temperature

If the sitter is simply dropping by each day versus staying at your house, you may want to adjust the air or heat to save money. While you can do this to a certain extent, make sure you leave the home a comfortable temperature for your pets.

No matter where you are going on your trip, you want to be able to relax, knowing your pet is safe and happy. Taking these nine steps before you leave will help ensure your pet enjoys your trip as much as you.