You love doing everything with your precious pet, but it’s not always possible to bring them along. If you’re going on a trip or somewhere that isn’t pet-friendly, it can be stressful to figure out how to take care of your best furry friend while you’re gone. You have a few different options when it comes to pet care, each with their own pros and cons. We’re breaking them all down for you so you can travel with ease.
The first option would be to simply enlist a friend or family member to look after your pet. This is usually the best way to keep your furry friend at ease because they’re being taken care of by someone they know. Friends and family tend to be more familiar with your pet’s specific needs, so they can provide even better care. Plus, most are happy to do you a favor, so it won’t cost you a penny.

If you can’t find someone you know, your next option would be to hire a professional. There are tons of sites out there, like Wag! and Rover, that make it easy to book someone. These sites let you schedule walks and can even help you find someone to stay with your pet full-time. Prices vary based on how much time is spent with your dog, but the prices are generally pretty affordable. Your pet may feel a little confused with a new face in the house, but these sitters are trained animal lovers who know how to handle them.
If your pet tends to be a little more high-maintenance, you might want to consider sending them to a kennel. These are by far the most expensive option, but they also provide the highest level of care for your pet pal. Each kennel is different, but some allow you to bring some of your pet’s normal food and a toy or two to make them feel as at home as possible. Some of the more high-end kennels even offer spa and grooming services to really pamper your furry friend.

When you get back from your trip, it’s always helpful to bring a small toy or treat as a little “I’m sorry” gift for leaving your pet behind. So while it’s always difficult to leave your pet at home, there are plenty of ways to make sure they are well taken care of.