Stress-free holiday pet care: a guide for pet parents

AdobeStock_462914230 (2)-1 As the holiday season approaches, many pet parents find themselves facing the challenge of leaving their furry friends behind. At TELUS Health, we understand that your pets are family, and we're here to help ease your worries. This comprehensive guide will ensure both you and your pet have a safe, enjoyable holiday season.

Preparing your pet for a stay away from home

Whether you're considering a boarding facility or a pet sitter, preparation is key:

Choose the right care option: Assess what works best for your pet - a sitter staying at your home, daily visits, or a boarding facility.
Seek recommendations: Consult your veterinarian, vet technician or a trusted dog trainer for reliable care options.
Do your research: Review potential sitters' or facilities' credentials, experience, and certifications.
Meet and greet: Arrange an introduction between your pet and the potential caregiver.

Essential information for pet sitters

Equip your pet sitter with all the necessary details:

Veterinary contacts: Provide your vet's name, location, and contact information.
Emergency protocol: Include an emergency contact and clear instructions for urgent situations. Consider leaving a credit card on file at your veterinary office while you are away.
Health information: Detail any allergies, injuries, or required medications.
Behavioral insights: Explain your pet's typical behavior, fears, and favorite rewards.
Daily routine: Outline feeding, exercise, and medication schedules.

Preparing your home for a pet sitter

If the sitter is coming to your home:

Familiarization visits: Have the sitter visit beforehand to acclimate your pet.
Positive introductions: Use welcoming body language and tone when introducing the sitter.
Gradual handover: If possible try inviting your sitter over for a few visits before they stay over in your absence, or invite them to come on walks. During walks, slowly transition leash control to the sitter.
Update contact info: Ensure the sitter can reach you. Or if you are travelling out of province/country provide the contact information of a trusted friend or family member who is local in case of emergencies.
Keep goodbyes brief: A short, upbeat farewell helps reduce anxiety for your pet.

Health and safety considerations

Prioritize your pet's wellbeing with these tips:

Maintain routine: Stick to your pet's usual schedule as much as possible.
Comfort items: Pack favourite toys, treats, and items with your scent if they are leaving their home.
Anxiety management: Consider anxiety-reducing options like pheromone products or calming aids recommended by your vet or vet technician. If needed, book an appointment with a vet to see if anxiety medication is appropriate.
Vaccination check: Ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, especially for boarding facilities.

Holiday-specific hazards

Be aware of seasonal risks:

Festive foods: Keep rich, spicy, and toxic foods out of reach.
Decorations: Secure wires, ornaments, and plants that may be harmful if ingested. If a pet is ever left unsupervised it’s best to put them in a crate or a room that doesn’t contain decorations. For your feline friend, be cautious with tinsel, ribbons, and holiday flower arrangements (many of which include lilies, a highly toxic plant to cats).
Noise sensitivity: Provide a quiet retreat for pets during loud celebrations. Have comfy beds in rooms safe from noise.

Choosing a boarding facility

If opting for a boarding facility, look for:

Spacious accommodations: Ensure adequate space for movement and rest.
Cleanliness: Observe hygiene practices and overall facility maintenance.
Staff-to-pet ratio: Ideally, there should be no more than 10 dogs per caregiver.
Exercise and socialization: Inquire about daily activities and interaction opportunities with the caregiver and other pets if your pet is social. If they are not social, ensure there is still opportunity for exercise, mental enrichment and socialization with trusted humans.
Emergency preparedness: Understand their protocols for health issues or emergencies.

Remember, thorough preparation and clear communication with your chosen caregiver are crucial for a stress-free holiday experience for both you and your pet. While we sometimes worry our pets are missing us while we are away from home, if they are set up for success they can have a fun filled holiday too.

At TELUS Health, we're committed to supporting the wellbeing of your entire family, including your beloved pets. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your holiday knowing your furry friend is in good hands.