Do you have to rely on friends or family when you travel or work
long hours? Senior dogs often need special attention. Routines
are very important as your dog gets older. If you are working
late, your dog won't understand why they weren't let out or fed.
If your schedule is less than routine, your older dog could
become stressed and confused.
Likewise, your travel can upset your senior canine. Putting an
older dog in a kennel is stressful because it is not their
routine. Leaving at a family members home will work but ask the
caregiver how well the dog really adjust to your absence and
their new surroundings. We did and found that our dog did not
eat at all during the weekend we were gone. Bringing a favorite
blanket or toy when boarding might have worked well in the past
but it does little to relieve the stress of your older friend.
It may be time to consider all the benefits that a professional
pet sitter with at home care can provide you and your dog.
Benefits for your dog Reduced Stress - Keeping the daily routine as
consistent as possible will help reduce the stress dogs normally
experiences when they know you are leaving. With a pet sitter
your dog can eat, sleep, and exercise in the areas that are the
most familiar to him.
Prevent Illness - Health concerns are always a worry
when you have to leave your dog with someone else. At home with
a pet sitter your pet is not exposed to other animals that may
be ill or carriers of parasites.
Tender Loving Care - All dogs love individual
attention. A pet sitter will provide this and more. Dogs can
become spoiled with all the personal attention and will attempt
to keep this going when the owner's return.
Transportation - For senior dogs being crated up and
moved to the relatives or a kennel can be traumatic. Since a pet
sitter either stays at your home or visits your dog
periodically, this stress can be eliminated.
Benefits to your family Security - A pet sitter can provide many benefits as a
house sitter such as picking up the mail, watering the plants,
and turning lights on and off at various times.
Peace of Mind - A professional pet sitter cares about
your senior dog when you can't. Your pet receives individual
attention, with walks and playtime so you can travel without
worries.
Not just for vacations A pet sitting service can be invaluable for the busy family
with a senior dog even when you are not traveling.
Scheduled Walks - During the day senior dogs need a
break. Many people can't get free from work so a pet sitter can
be arranged to get your dog out for his afternoon walk.
Appointments - Some pet sitters may provide a "doggie
taxi" service to help keep your dog's appointment with the
groomer or Vet without you losing a day's pay.
Unexpected Events - What if you're injured or sick? A
pet sitter can check on your dog or provide a daily walk until
you are back on your feet.
Check our nationwide directory at
www.olddogpaws.com for a pet
sitter in your area!
Copyright 2006 Dave Eckholm
Categories
