Going on a week-long trip can be thrilling, but leaving your pet behind can be stressful. To ensure their safety and happiness, you need to plan carefully. Here’s a guide to help you prepare and keep your pet happy and healthy while you’re away (how to take care of your pet while traveling).

Choosing the Best Care Option

You have several options for pet care while you’re away. The right choice depends on your pet’s personality, health needs, and comfort with new places.

1. Hire a Professional Pet Sitter

A pet sitter lets your pet stay in a familiar place while getting the care they need. A sitter can:

  • Visit 1-3 times daily, depending on your pet’s needs.
  • Provide fresh food and water.
  • Take dogs for walks or play sessions.
  • Clean litter boxes or cages.
  • Administer medications if needed.
  • Send you photo or video updates.

This is perfect for cats, small mammals, and reptiles who get stressed by new places. It’s also great for dogs that like one-on-one time.

Pet Sitter

For more information on finding a reliable pet sitter, visit Pet Sitters International.

2. Ask a Friend or Family Member

how to take care of your pet while traveling one solution is having a trusted friend or family member care for your pet can be comforting. They might:

  • Stay at your home full-time while you’re away.
  • Take your pet to their home.
  • Make regular visits, similar to a professional sitter.

This is a good choice for pets that already know and trust the person, reducing their anxiety.

3. Book a Professional Boarding Facility

Boarding facilities, kennels, and pet hotels offer 24/7 care. When choosing a facility:

  • Research and read reviews.
  • Visit in person before booking.
  • Check vaccination requirements in advance.
  • Ask about daily exercise, feeding schedules, and socialization opportunities.
  • Consider a trial overnight stay before your longer trip.

Boarding is best for social dogs or pets that need constant supervision. Many places now offer webcams for remote check-ins.

For more insights on choosing the best pet boarding, check out the American Kennel Club.

4. Use Automated Solutions for Independent Pets

If your pet can be left alone for long periods (like cats or fish), technology can help:

Automatic Cat Feeders
Dog Water Fountain
Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Treat-Dispensing Pet Camera

While these tools are helpful, they shouldn’t replace human care entirely.

Preparing Your Home Before You Leave

If your pet will stay at home, make sure their environment is safe and comfy:

  • Clean the Space: Remove small objects, wires, or toxic plants your pet might chew on.
  • Set Up Food and Water: Use automatic feeders and water dispensers for a steady supply of fresh food and water.
  • Provide Entertainment: Leave toys, scratching posts, or puzzle feeders to keep them mentally stimulated.
  • Install a Pet Camera: A pet camera lets you monitor their behavior and provides peace of mind.

Providing Clear Instructions for Caregivers

Whether you choose a sitter or boarding facility, clear instructions are key. Make sure to include:

  • Feeding schedules and portion sizes.
  • Medication instructions (if applicable).
  • Behavioral quirks, routines, and preferences.
  • Emergency contact details, including your veterinarian’s information.
  • For a guide on emergency pet care planning, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Packing Essentials for Boarding Facilities

If your pet will be at a boarding facility, pack these essentials:

  • Enough food for the entire trip.
  • Food and water bowls.
  • Comfort items like their bed or blanket.
  • Favorite toys to reduce stress.
  • Medications with clear instructions.
Daily Food Consumption By Pets

Reducing Separation Anxiety

Pets can feel anxious when left alone. To help them:

  • Stick to their routine as much as possible before leaving.
  • Spend extra time with them leading up to your trip to reassure them.
  • Consider using pheromone sprays or anxiety-relief products if needed like Adaptil Dog Calming Spray..
  • For more tips on pet anxiety, check out the ASPCA.

Arranging Check-Ins While You’re Away

Even with a sitter or boarding facility, updates can ease your mind:

  • Ask the sitter or facility to send daily photos or videos.
  • Use a pet camera to check in remotely.

Traveling with Your Pet

If you’re planning to take your pet with you on your trip, proper preparation is essential:

  • Check Airline or Travel Policies: Ensure your pet meets airline or train travel requirements, including pet carriers and health certificates.
  • Choose a Comfortable Carrier: Select a well-ventilated, airline-approved pet carrier, such as the Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring enough food, water, medications, and comfort items.
  • Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Use sites like BringFido to find pet-friendly hotels.
  • Plan Rest Stops: If traveling by car, schedule breaks for food, water, and bathroom needs.
  • Keep ID & Medical Records Handy: Carry a copy of vaccination records and ensure your pet wears an updated ID tag.
pets infographics
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic
pet travel infographic

Planning for Emergencies

Unexpected situations can happen while you’re away. Prepare by:

  • Ensuring your pet is microchipped and wears an ID tag with updated contact information.
  • Leaving an emergency fund or credit card authorization with the sitter or facility for veterinary care if needed.
  • Use a Tractive GPS Pet Tracker to locate lost pets easily.
GPS Tracker for Dogs
GPS Tracker for Dogs

Caring for Fish While Traveling

If you have pet fish, they require specific care while you’re away. Here are some steps to ensure their well-being:

  • Use an Automatic Feeder: Invest in an automatic fish feeder to dispense food at scheduled times.
  • Check Water Conditions: Perform a partial water change before leaving and ensure the water parameters are stable.
  • Use a Timer for Lights: A smart aquarium light timer can maintain a consistent day/night cycle.
  • Monitor Filtration System: Ensure your filter is functioning correctly and clean it a few days before your trip.
  • Have a Backup Caretaker: Ask a friend or neighbor to check in on your fish if you’ll be away for more than a week.
  • Consider Vacation Feeder Blocks: These slow-dissolving blocks release food gradually, providing sustenance for multiple days.
Automatic Fish Feeder for Aquarium
Automatic Fish Feeder for Aquarium

By taking these precautions, your fish can remain healthy while you’re away without requiring constant supervision.

Final Thoughts

The best pet care solution depends on your pet’s personality and comfort level. By planning ahead, you can enjoy your trip knowing your pet is cared for.

Have you ever left your pet while traveling? What pet care solutions have worked best for you? Share your experiences in the comments below!

pet travel essentials
Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet for Small Medium Cats Dogs

Looking for more pet travel essentials? Check out Amazon’s pet travel collection.