By Monja Madan, Founder, PetWatch
As the holiday season approaches, residents are busy making plans to travel and reconnect with loved ones. For pet owners, however, the excitement often comes with a twinge of worry: “Who will look after my furry family member?” Ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety while you’re away doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little preparation and the right resources, you can set off on your holiday with peace of mind, knowing your pet is in good hands.
- Plan Ahead: The Early Bird Gets the Best Pet Care
In the UAE, holiday seasons often mean a surge in demand for pet sitters and boarding facilities. Start planning weeks in advance to secure the best care for your pet. Whether you’re considering a certified sitter from platforms like PetWatch or a trusted boarding facility, early bookings can save you from last-minute stress.
- Choose the Right Care Option
Every pet is unique, and their needs will influence your choice of care:
- Certified Pet Sitters: For pets who thrive in a familiar environment, consider a trained sitter who can provide care in your home. Check profiles of sitters and ask for reviews and training credentials. Using Apps that offer GPS tracking will give you more peace of mind.
- Boarding Facilities: Some pets enjoy socializing and might do well in a pet hotel or daycare. Ensure the facility is clean, sanitized, and spacious and has staff experienced in handling your pet’s breed and temperament. You must also ensure that staff give you regular updates on your pets.
- Create a Comprehensive Care Plan
Once you’ve chosen a sitter or facility, provide them with everything they need to keep your pet happy.
- Detailed Instructions: Share feeding schedules, medical conditions and medicine chart and times, exercise routines, and any special requirements.
- Medical Info: Provide vaccination records and details of your veterinarian, along with emergency contact numbers.
- Comfort Items: Familiar toys, blankets, or even a T-shirt with your scent can help soothe your pet while you’re away.
- Leverage Technology
In the UAE’s tech-savvy environment, apps like PetWatch make it easy to stay connected with your pet while you travel. Features like in-app chat and media sharing allow you to receive real-time updates, photos, and even videos of your pet enjoying their time, giving you one less thing to worry about.
- Prepare for the Weather
The UAE’s cooler holiday season is perfect for pets to enjoy more outdoor time. If your sitter will be taking your dog for walks, make sure they’re equipped with a leash, harness, GPS tracker, and reflective gear for early evenings. For indoor pets, ensure their living space remains cozy, especially on chillier nights.
- Don’t Forget Post-Holiday Reconnection
Once you’re back, make time to reconnect with your pet. Spend quality moments with them, whether it’s a long walk, playtime, or just a cozy evening together. It helps reassure them that their favorite person isn’t going anywhere.
The holidays are a time to relax and make memories, and with thoughtful preparation, you can do just that—while ensuring your pets are cared for and loved. So go ahead, book that trip, and enjoy every moment, knowing your furry companion is safe, happy, and eagerly awaiting your return.