When you need to go on a trip but cannot take your dog along for the ride, you will need to make plans and decide where it can stay. Dogs are hardy creatures but you cannot just leave them at home for days on end to fend on their own. A number of businesses have cropped up to fill this need over the years. Two of the more popular options include placing your pet in a dog boarding facility, such as a kennel, or opting for pet sitting services. The first option is often considered better for the following reasons.

Socialization

Think of canine boarding as camp for pets. Pet boarding facilities will allow your dog to have fun while you are on your own trip. With dog hotels and similar institutions, the pets are encouraged to socialize with their own kind. They will get to roam around new territory and meet (or sniff) other dogs. Dogs are social animals and will benefit well from this experience. With pet sitting, your beloved canine will only get to see the designated sitter.

Cheaper

Availing of dog boarding facilities is often a more practical option for pet owners. Kennels lower their prices to compete with the number of businesses offering the same services. Most pet sitters charge per visit and the charges can rack up quickly if you intend to be away for several days at a time.

Supervised by professionals

Trained staff with experience handling animals will be taking care of your beloved canine. Unless you have a relative or friend who can stay in your home while you are away, with pet sitting, you will have to settle with a person who will come by for a few hours a day. Leaving your pet in a pet boarding gives you some peace of mind that there are trained professionals always looking out for the well-being of your dog while you are away. You will not need to worry that your pet accidentally ends up in the streets. In case your dog gets sick or needs medical attention quickly, the staff can administer medicine or get them to a hospital immediately.

Added services

Like people, pets also like to get pampered. Another main draw with a boarding facility is that it can offer premium services that can address your pet’s needs, other than the basic food and shelter. More luxurious pet boarding facilities offer services that resemble those in a spa or hotel. Examples of dog spa services include dog grooming and massage. There are also facilities which offer wellness programs and dog training sessions. For the more lavish accommodations, it is possible to see rooms fitted with televisions or have several pets in the same room, like they are having a slumber party. The sky is the limit on what these kennels can offer pet owners. It just depends on what the owner is willing to pay for their pet.

Home away from home

Some pet owners may hate to admit it but they do want their pets to enjoy their time while their humans are away on their own business trip or short vacation. If you choose the right boarding facility, it can become like their home away from home. Your canine buddy will be able to relax and enjoy the company of their fellow dogs. There are studies that indicate that spending some time away from your dog will allow your pet to miss you. As a result, you will enjoy each other’s company more after the trip.

These are only some of the benefits for leaving your pet at a reputable dog hotel or boarding facility. Keep in mind that the success rate can still vary depending on your dog’s personality and the dog boarding facility you choose to use. Do your research and consider as many factors as possible to ensure that your pet enjoys its stay there.

This post was written by Robert Gold, an active blogger for Paradise 4 Paws, a luxury pet boarding facility located in Chicago, IL and DFW Airport, TX.

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. Dogs, cats, horses, what will be next? 10% of proceeds goes to support Corgi Aid.