WHERE will this holiday season find you?
Will you be spending a traditional holiday with family and friends or will the lure of fresh powder tempt you to the slopes? Or is it the sound of turquoise waves crashing into white sandy beaches that catches your attention this Christmas season?
Whatever your fancy, be it a vacation away from home or a family gathering, it takes a bit of extra planning when you have a dog - or two - in the home.
If you are heading for the slopes and can't bear the idea of leaving your four-legged loved one at home you will be pleasantly surprised to find that many hotels at ski resorts allow pets in their guest rooms. But please don't take it for granted that all hotels do. Common sense says it's always best to inquire about bringing Fido along when making a reservation rather than be disappointed at check-in time to find out that Fido can't join you in the room. Be aware that most hotels add an extra charge for dogs in the room but in exchange offer fun dog-related services like a canine room service menu, plush doggie beds, turn-down service and more.
If flying to warmer destinations is your idea of a Christmas getaway it will mean Fido stays home. You have a couple of options for what to do with your furry friend in your absence. If you're lucky you have family and friends who are acquainted with your hound and will happily take over the responsibility of their care while you are away. For the rest of us, vacation time means our dogs are left in the care of relative strangers.
Kennel facilities are a popular choice but please don't leave this to the last minute. If the facility does not meet your dog's needs while you are away you could come home to a dog that is stressed and has developed separation anxiety as a result of your last-minute boarding decision. Make plans in advance to call and check out the facility of your choice and bring your dog along. If your dog reacts negatively or seems stressed at the loud barking that usually accompanies such places there's a good chance he won't have a good experience if he stays for any length of time.
Another type of boarding facility is less kennel-like and more home-like. Dogs are not kept in single kennel runs lined with chain linked fencing but are allowed to mingle in social packs within a secure area. This arrangement allows the dogs to engage with each other, which minimizes the stress of being away from home. They are sort of like a dude ranch for dogs. Again, some dogs love this environment and others are not comfortable, so take the time to check things out ahead of time.
Another option is the in-home board or pet sitter. A sitter can be arranged to come to your home and stay with your dog full-time or have a series of visits made throughout the day, ensuring your dog's needs are met. This is the best option for dogs that are either unfamiliar with their family leaving for a length of time or easily stressed out in their owner's absence.
Have the pet sitter meet your dog a few times before they show up to care for them, maybe even take them for a leashed walk. This allows the dog to accept a new member into their pack, albeit a temporary one, which minimizes stress. Be thorough about the care you wish your dog to have and leave explicit written instructions. If Fido gets walked at 8 a.m. every day and is fed at noon, make sure the pet sitter knows these details and follows these instructions. If the dog's routine remains as close as it can to the usual one, the less likely it will feel stressed and anxious in the owner's absence. Dogs prefer routine when it comes to their care and safety, they like variety when it comes to play, walks and social time.
Whether you are hitting the slopes, the beach or the rum and eggnog in front of the fire, make sure you make plans for Fido's comfort and safety over the holiday season.
