How to Comfort Your Pets When You Go Away

It is never easy for pets when their people go away.

Sure, sometimes it is possible to take them, but more often than not, it seems like pets are an afterthought for luxury hotels and packed trip itineraries. Sometimes this means leaving a distraught Buster or Hachi at home. Pet hotels can do a good job of getting little Libby some time with other dogs, but, even still, for dogs with separation anxiety, these trips can feel endless.

If possible, it is a good idea to get a close family member or friend to stay at the residence with the pet. A recognizable face and smell in the pet’s own home will give the furry friend some comfort in a place where it is most comfortable.

If having someone come to stay with the animal during your trip is out of the question, begin racking your brain for places you frequently take the dog to visit. This is an especially good idea if the visiting residence has dogs or cats to play with, as long as the pets already get along. This is less desirable than having a trusted relative come to the dog’s house to sit with them, but beats out a kennel any day.

If all of the above are absolutely out of the question, a pet hotel might be a good option. Hotels, like the ones run by PetSmart, do a great job of letting the pups out and giving them exercise and places to go to the bathroom. The hotels even have suites for dogs, where they can watch doggie TV. These hotels also accommodate cats.

As pet-parents, we want to bring our animals with us wherever we travel, but in cases where it is just not feasible, these are the best ways to occupy and comfort your dog while you are away.