Sometimes the most stressful part of going on vacation is not the choice of which hotel to stay at, but rather the choice of what to do with your pets. So...here are some things to consider. 

Kennel or Pet-sitter?   Whether you use a pet-sitting service, give a neighbor a key to your house, or board your pet at a kennel is up to you. Only you know best how your individual pet is likely to react to a stranger entering your house or being kept in an unfamiliar place without you. Take some time to think about your absence from your pet's point of view. Test your pet. Find out how your pet adapts to long hours alone. Some pets, especially cats, get bored and create mischief like knocking down plants or tearing window screens. Dogs tend to chew things and make messes in the house. If you are going to be gone for more than three days, your pet may be safer in a kennel, where it cannot get lost or hurt. On the other hand, some kennels may create stress for your pet, especially if your pet has never been boarded before or if they have not been boarded in a long time. Your pet's immune system could become weak, allowing them to catch colds or other illnesses. It is important to get your pet used to being alone without you. Occasionally boarding your pet at a kennel is a healthy thing.

What if I choose a Pet-sitter?   Pet-sitters come to your home once or twice a day to care for your animals. This is a convenient option if you have birds, fish, and other animals that cannot be taken to a kennel. It may be cheaper to allow a neighbor to have the key to your house (and maybe you can trust a neighbor a little bit more with your personal possessions), but an experienced pet-sitter may have more responsibility for your pet's needs. A professional pet-sitter should be licensed, bonded, and insured. This means they have a business license, a security bond, or insurance policy to cover accidents, and a liability policy. When hiring a pet-sitter, always ask for references and have them meet your pet before you go away. You should be asked to sign a contract and a form giving the sitter permission to seek medical care for your pet if necessary. Be sure to provide the name and phone number of your preferred vet. Include a listing of any medications your pet may be on, and how and when to give them.

What if I choose a Kennel?   All kennels should require current vaccine information, both for your pet's safety and that of the other pets. Rabies, distemper, and bordetella are the critical ones, although some boarding facilities may require more. The leukemia vaccination is recommended by most kennels, although it is optional. Some vaccinations may not be recommended for some dogs due to breed, age, medical conditions, etc. Ask your veterinarian. Conditions vary at all kennels. Some kennels crate your pets, while others have private runs. Some kennels are strictly indoor, while others provide indoor and outdoor facilities. You should visit the kennel before boarding and ask to see where your pet will be staying. Things to look for are cleanliness, the size of the kennels, and privacy for your pet. It helps to comfort your pet if you bring a bed, unwashed towel, or unwashed t-shirt with your scent on it. Be sure to ask about medication. Some kennels will not give your pet medication, while others may charge extra. If your pet needs insulin, make sure the kennel has a refrigerator accessible for the insulin. Also ask about special diets. Some kennels may not cater to your pet's special diet needs. You should be asked to sign a contract. Be sure to leave a list of emergency numbers.