Leaving your dog to go on holidays can be a worrying time for some owners. Your dog is a huge part of your family and going on an overseas holiday isn’t an option with your puppy so what can you do?

Here are some tips on getting the right care for your dog in your absence so you can enjoy your well-earned holiday:

Bring your dog – If you are going away in Ireland, this could be a good option and there are many pet-friendly hotels and homes. It is a great way to include your dog in your holiday and not have the added worry of leaving them at home. However, it isn’t always possible (especially if you are heading away for work or family occasions) so again, it depends. Do your research and see how you get on but if you are going abroad you will need to look at other options.

Professional pet sitting – Pet sitting is something that is available in Ireland and Pet Sitters Ireland can care for your pet overnight or on a check-in basis. The overnight pet sitting suits pets that may need that extra bit of comfort and care instead of an in and out service. However, this depends on your pets’ personality, age and health. They can visit your pet as many times as you need and they also provide a pet care journal, updating you on their visit which includes photos of your doggie with their sitter. There are lots of options available and you can contact Pet Sitters Ireland for more information on their website here.

Boarding kennels – Putting your dog into boarding kennels is another good option and if your dog has visited them since they were young it won’t be a big deal to them, and they may enjoy the change of scenery. Most dogs love the kennels and enjoy the social aspect, but it isn’t for every dog and we advise you do your homework on kennels before you sign your dog up. Ask for recommendations and make sure you visit the kennels, with your dog, too before the day you leave, to ensure you feel happy leaving them there. Find out more about dog kennels on the Pawshake website as they offer a one-stop shop for everything doggie related.

Ask a friend or family member to care for your dog – If you have willing family or friends, your dog could happily stay with them or they might do the checks throughout the day while you are away. Equally, you might have a neighbour who is willing to help, and you could offer to care for their dog while they are away, therefore, you are offering each other help. Dogs will like this arrangement as they will know the person and if it is a regular thing throughout the year, they will feel settled and happy.

You could also hire a responsible teenager for the week or two, to do the checks and one who you know and trust. The teenager will need to be experienced with dogs and feel comfortable going in and out to the property alone. If you have a teenager yourself, they may have a friend, who can do this for you, and this will help you leave your dog in their care. Don’t forget to leave instructions and everything they need to know to care for your dog.