Yesterday I wrote about what we’d do with our pets if an emergency called us away.
Do you know what you’d do? Do you have a plan in place? If not, I created a list of things to think about and prepare for ahead of time.
1) If you take your pets with you, will you have a place to stay that welcomes them too? If you won’t be staying with relatives (or can’t), make a list of pet-friendly hotels in the area. (Before you need them, but confirm the pet-friendly status still exists when you book your room.)
Use a site like Dogfriendly.com to help you find pet friendly digs.
2) If you can’t take your pets with you, do you have a close friend or neighbor who can watch them? Ask them even before an issue arises if they’d be okay assuming such a responsibility on short notice.
3) Even if you have a close friend or neighbor who’s willing to help, have the names of several pet sitters and/or boarding facilities handy in case availability proves an issue. That way if something comes up and your friend or neighbor can’t do it you’ll have options. And if any of the sitters/kennels are full, you’ll have fall backs.
4) Consider how much of a role you’ll be playing during the crisis. Will it be sizeable? Is where you’ll be staying going to host the wake reception? Is there a chance you’ll be tied up for an entire day (or several) dealing with various things that can arise? If so, and if your pets will be traveling with you, find out about pet care facilities in the area in which you’ll be staying.
Sites like Dogster and Catster or Petpop.com can help you locate them. Having some place for your pets to go where they’ll be safe for the day will ease everyone’s stress. (Also, some doggie day cares have play day features and pups might appreciate having time to romp and make new buddies.)
5) Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current and that you have vet records with you. (You’ll need them especially if you use boarding facilities.)
6) Make sure the tag on your pet’s collar has your cell phone number listed. This will prove especially crucial in rescuing your pet quickly should you become separated during your trip.
Related Articles
Planning for Your Pet in an Emergency
How to Choose a Boarding Kennel
Preparing Your Pet for a Kennel Stay
Leaving Your Pets in the Care of a Sitter
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