Pet Solutions Helpline: Preparing for a Vacation

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

© All Things Dog Blog
Home Alone
Quiet Time=Crate Time

Dear All Things Dog Blog:


We are going out of town and my neighbor is taking care of our dog. He is a 6 year old rescued Lhasa Apsa who is very good in the house until he is left alone after dark. My neighbor will not be spending the night. I think it is better for him to stay in his own home vs being at a kennel for 15 days. When we are home at night Stanley is completely calm and sleeps all night. Is there something we can do to soothe him while he is here at night alone or do you think he will get used to it after she shows up every morning? Do you think the kennel is better for him; they do love him there and they are there all day. 

After dark, he urinates on something of mine every time!


S.M.

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Dear S.M.:

Assuming Stanley likes his crate/kennel, it may be best to have your neighbor continue his routine, sleeping in the crate. This will also protect your home from his nighttime oopsies.

If you have a local boarding facility where outdoor playtime is provided frequently, this may be a better option if Stanley is social and would enjoy the company of other dogs during playtime. If this is not an option and you choose to have your neighbor care for him in your home, let's look at some thoughts on that topic. If you are concerned about separation anxiety, here are a few ideas:

• Leave some dirty Tshirts (that have been worn by you or his favorite human) around the area he will have access to. This will be a comforting smell to him.
• Encourage your pet sitter to exercise him as much as possible. A long walk will do a world of good, if this is possible. Perhaps even a neighborhood kid could be available if your neighbor is not up to this much activity. A tired pup is not as anxious or bored.
• Leave calming music playing; perhaps a radio channel with classical or "elevator" music would work.
• For several days before you leave, try to give Stanley as much activity as possible--new smells, fun outings, and plenty of long walks. If you leave him home a tired and satisfied dog, he will handle the time much better.
• Make sure your neighbor knows that this would not be a good time to share new treats. Some pups get upset tummies easily, and you certainly don't want this to be a mess your neighbor feels obligated to clean up.
• If your dog is used to a certain treat reward, after a bathroom break, for instance, your neighbor can certainly continue this routine to make sure he stays on track.
• Practice coming and going frequently before you leave for your trip. Praise and reward your little one when you return to a quiet house without destruction.
• When you leave for the actual trip, do so without a lot of emotional ado. This will only serve to get your furry friend off to a uncertain start, as he will read your emotion. Leave the same as you would if you were returning in 10 minutes.

Finally, because your pup cannot dial 911, be sure you have a smoke detector installed and activated with a fresh battery in the area he will be spending his time. Leave a sign on a front window indicating you have a dog in the home and where he will be. Many pet stores sell small window clings that you can mark your pets on.

Best wishes for a fun trip, and please hug your pup for me too!

Happy tails,