If you're planning to go away and need to ensure that your pet is taken care of, several options are available for pet care. You could hire a pet sitter or use pet boarding services. However, your pet may require veterinary care and continuous monitoring, in which case medical pet boarding is available. In this post, our veterinarians at Redding will discuss medical pet boarding, how it differs from other options, and when you might need it.
What To Do With Your Pet When You Go Away
If you plan on leaving home for a while, you'll need to ensure your pet is properly cared for. There are three main types of pet care: pet sitting, pet boarding, and medical pet boarding.
Hiring a Pet Sitter While You Are Gone
Think of a pet sitter as a kind of babysitter but for your pet instead of a human child. You can hire a professional pet sitter or ask a friend or family member to care for your pet. The level of service from a pet sitter can vary. The primary role of a pet sitter is to check on your pet periodically, provide food, take care of their bathroom needs, and give them some social playtime.
Pet Boarding For More Consistent Care
Pet boarding is a service where you can leave your pets to be taken care of. It is also commonly known as a kennel. Over the years, the level of service provided in pet boarding facilities has increased significantly. Some places offer primary care for your pets, while others provide a range of activities to keep them entertained, similar to summer camps.
Additionally, some facilities provide spa-like services to pamper your furry friends. However, since the level of service can vary, we recommend that pet owners thoroughly research any facility before leaving their pets there. This research will ensure that each facility meets its standards and provides the best possible care for its pets.
Medical Pet Boarding If Your Pet Requires Veterinary Care
Medical pet boarding provides your pet with the same care as a normal boarding facility but with the added benefit of constant supervision by expert veterinarians and nurses. They will closely monitor your pet and administer any necessary medications on the same schedule your pet uses at home.
When does my pet need medical boarding?
We highly recommend medical pet boarding for pets with pre-existing conditions, especially young and elderly pets who require extra care or have existing medical conditions. A pet sitter or standard boarding facility may lack proper training to administer medications, especially those involving needles.
A major advantage of medical boarding is that the staff comprises trained professionals who can understand your pet's medical history, administer medication, and adjust doses if necessary. They also know what symptoms to watch for based on your pet's medical condition/history.
Requirements for Medical Pet Boarding
Most pet boarders require that pets be vaccinated with a list of required vaccines. While regular pet boarding may allow toys and bedding from home, medical boarding may not due to hygiene concerns. So, it's essential to double-check the specifics of the policies on medical boarding at your chosen facility.
It's always a good idea to bring any medication currently prescribed for your pet, as well as any food prescribed by a vet. Additionally, while medical boarding still requires vaccinations, it's best to confirm the boarding facility's vaccination policy for pets undergoing medical boarding.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.