Dog sitter, boarding house or familiar?

Summer, travel, weekend trips – all exciting programs, but as a dog farmer, the question always arises: what if we can’t take the dog with us? It is not an easy decision because we want our favorite to be safe, loved and comfortable when we are not with him.

The three most common solutions are: dogs, dogs or a friend / acquaintance. Let’s take a closer look at which one provides what and when the best choice can be.

Dog sitter – attention and calm in your own environment

A dog sitter is like a babysitter for dogs only. He’s coming to your house, or he’s moving in for a few days, and the dog can stay in his own home, his usual environment. It’s a huge advantage for a lot of dogs, especially when they’re sensitive, hard to deal with, or not getting along with other animals.

Good sitters visit the dog several times a day, feed him, walk him, play with him, and even give him medicine if he has to. And a lot of them send you photos, videos, so you can relax.

For which we love:

• Individual attention is given to your dog
• You don’t have to move, you can stay home.
• Minimum stress, familiar odors, environment

Which is not always ideal:

• More expensive than other solutions
• It must be hard to find a quick free sitter
• Some dogs fear aliens.

Dog Pension – hotel for dogs, professionals

Dogs are places where there are more dogs at the same time and are provided by trained staff. This may be an indoor or garden bed and breakfast, depending on how much we want our dog to move, play.

It’s a great opportunity for dogs who like being in the company of other dogs, and they’re good at new places. Good pensions keep a schedule, pay attention to feeding, moving, and often have a veterinary background.

For which we love:

• Professional staff, routine, security
• Dogs, socialization
• Various services: walking, playing, supervision

Which is not always ideal:

• More dogs = more noise, more stress for more sensitive dogs
• Not all pensions are quite hygienic or demanding
• Less personal attention

Famous request – cheap but uncertain

Maybe the most common solution is asking a friend, relative or neighbor to look at the dog while we’re away. This is obvious and nice for the first time – the dog may already know the person, and there is no need to leave him to a stranger.

But it is important to consider whether the acquaintance really understands the dog’s signals. Do you know what to do if something goes wrong? Do you have enough time? If these are not fulfilled, unfortunately it can be a bad experience for the dog (and also for the owner).

For which we love:

• Cost effective or even free
• A familiar person may be less afraid of a dog
• Flexible, friendly solution

Which is not always ideal:

• No expertise, experience
• It must be uncomfortable if something goes wrong.
• Sometimes they don’t take it seriously enough.

Which one do you choose?

That depends on your dog’s personality and how long you’re leaving.
If you’re shy, you have a hard time adjusting and sticking to the usual environment, then a sitter can be the best.
If you are active, friendly and well-adjusted, a trusted pension can also be a great experience for you.
For a short time, in a familiar environment, a close friend can help – if you’re sure he’s reliable and can really listen.