Make Sure Your Pet Has a Great Holiday While You Are Traveling
During the holiday season many people travel to see friends and family. Whether it is a day trip or a week long venture, if your pet is unable to take the trip, your options for care include boarding or pet-sitters that come directly to your house. Planning ahead of time for your pet's care will decrease last minute stress when leaving.
Boarding Pets. If boarding this Holiday season, pets should be current on their Rabies and Distemper vaccination. For dogs, Bordetella vaccine is important to prevent an upper respiratory infection commonly known as kennel cough. Don't wait until the last minute to vaccinate as your pet will not have full immunity from the vaccine for at least 1-2 weeks. Some kennels require other vaccines, so make sure to ask as soon as possible.
Pet Care Options. Kennels and home pet-sitters can get booked quickly. Make sure to set up your pet's care as soon as you have the dates set. If you are unable to find someone to care for your pets, dog training facilities or pet-sitters may take on a small number of pets at their business or home for boarding. Also neighbors or high school students with pet experience may be happy to help out.
In Home Care. If you are having a pet-sitter come to your house, make sure you set up an appointment to do a walk through of the daily routine before you leave. Prior to leaving, make sure you:
- Have plenty of food, so the pet-sitter does not have to purchase any.
- Refill any medications prior to leaving.
- Leave clear instructions on your pet's daily care.
- Provide emergency contact information.
- Give instructions detailing if they can not be reached what medical care is authorized, and how the pet sitter is to pay for any emergency care.
Emergency Care. Most veterinary clinics are closed on Holidays so emergencies go to local emergency clinics. The two closest emergency clinics to Zimmerman are in Coon Rapids and St. Cloud. Most Veterinary Clinics and Emergency Clinics require payment at the time of service.
The Holidays are a great time for family and friends to gather. And with some planning, ensuring that your pet has a stress-free Holiday is easy. Your pet will thank you.
Disclaimer: This written content is meant to be educational and is not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian about medical advice for your pet.