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We do enjoy the companionship of our four-legged friends, which is why they’re in our lives. But, we can’t always stay with them. Travels, whether for work or pleasure, can leave us with the question: Should Fluffy come with, or stay here? This question is not so easily answered, since there are so many variables to calculate. Indeed, it is a matter of what is the most logical choice for your pup- not just what you want. And having said that, it is definitely hard for us to separate ourselves from our pups. And likewise, it can be hard for our pup to be separated from us for long periods of time. The bond we share is developed through our journey through life together. We eat, sleep, and share the same home and friends. Size may matter But unfortunately, our faithful friend can’t always join us. Throughout the world, “No dogs allowed” signs are posted up. Hotels and other housing accommodations are no exception to the rule. And even when they do allow pups, size may matter. There is a vast difference between your Scottish Terrier and a St. Bernard. When it comes down to it, the size of your pup may affect your ability to bring them with you wherever you go. There is also the point of activity ranges. Some pups are relatively docile and don’t mind lazing about. On the other end of the spectrum are the hyperactive rascals such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds who need enough room and a lot of excitement to keep them entertained. While we’ll miss our buddies, taking them with us on extended stays may not be best for a pup that won’t find the confines of an apartment or short-term housing very comfortable. So when searching for a place to stay for your extended stay, make sure you ask plenty of questions and do some research. 1. Are dogs allowed, and are all dogs allowed? 2. What provisions are provided for dogs, and is there a pet deposit? 3. Is there enough room for my pup to play and remain entertained? Moving around can get uncomfortable On the comfort note, keep in mind that pups are creatures of habit. They like things to happen on schedule and for everything to be in its place. The road, the new places, and even the new people can make a pup very uncomfortable. All these changes can give them anxiety, often resulting in territorial marking, diarrhea, chewing, and even depression. For pups, the solidity of the day is important. So if you’re thinking about disrupting your pup’s day, be aware of how your pup handles change. Sometimes, even we don’t like it. On top of your pup’s ability to adjust, there is the also the purpose of your stay to take into consideration. Most folks travel for business, and are often preoccupied with work. This leaves little to no time to really hang out with your four-legged friend. So you have to consider the fact that bringing them may just put them in a new place where they will be alone most of the time. You have to take into consideration your pup’s feelings, too. They may feel abandoned, even though you know that you will come back, they may not understand it. Now consider the comfort your dog seeks. 1. Is my pup an active dog, or will they be fine in a small area? 2. How well does my pup adjust to change? 3. Will I be able to be there to take care of my pup? If you’re not going to be able to ensure that your pup is happy during your extended stay, it may be best to leave them at home or with suitable accommodations. Puppy sitter This leads us to the second hardest part (the hardest is having to say goodbye for now)- weighing the logic of taking your pup with you to a new place for a short time, or leaving them in a place where they will be separated from you, and may be in an unfamiliar place anyway. There are services that offer puppy-daycare, but it is important to research and get recommendations before you trust your best friend to just anyone. If you’re lucky enough to have a good friend that you can trust (and your pup trusts) or a family that is willing to take care of your best bud while you take care of business, then that may be the best option for you pup if the journey may not be something that they’re going to enjoy. Remember that even though you may want your pup to join you in your travels, it isn’t always what’s best for them. Consider how your pup will feel and how they will handle the journey so that you don’t put them in a situation in which they’re only going to be uncomfortable. Take care of your pup, and make the best decision for them.
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