IT is an offence under the Abandonment of Animals Act for an owner to abandon an animal, whether permanently or not, in circumstances likely to cause suffering, so never go away and leave any of your pet animals without proper care.

Owners should arrange a dog sitter or boarding kennels to care for their pets while on holidays. Dogs usually adapt well to staying at a kennel, especially if they were introduced to it at a young age. However, the benefits of keeping your dog at home and having a dog sitter are that he will remain in familiar surroundings, he will get to sleep in his own bed, and he will not be stressed by the presence of other dogs.

Ask your vet and other dog owners for recommendations on boarding kennels and dog sitters. Once you have a list of kennels, it is a good idea to visit each one and ask to inspect the facilities. Make sure accommodations are clean, dry, and hygienic – and that kennels, cages, and gates are in good repair.

Ask to see where your dog will stay. Ideally, he should be provided with his own comfortable run. If the kennel operators are genuinely interested in making sure your dog is comfortable, they will be happy to provide you with a tour and answer any questions that you have.

QUESTIONS

If you arrange for a dog sitter, or hire a service, ask for references. Questions you should ask the boarding kennels include:

Once you’ve made your choice, book your dog’s stay well in advance of your trip. Kennels fill up during holidays and peak vacation periods.

Get your dog in to see the vet for vaccinations and shots well in advance, too, because some may take two weeks to take effect.

TOP TIP

Do not board your dog at a kennel that does not require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. If they are not checking to make sure your dog is healthy and disease free, they are not checking other dogs, either. You could be putting your dog at risk.