Keeping Your Dog Safe When You’re Away from Home

Leaving your dog behind when you head out of town can be tough, and it’s natural to worry about their well-being while you’re away. However, keeping them safe and comfortable is straightforward if you make the necessary arrangements beforehand, letting you travel with peace of mind. Discover how to prepare before you go to keep your dog safe when you’re away from home.

1.   Choosing Care Arrangements

One of the first things to consider is who will look after your dog. You have several options, and you will know best which one best suits your pup’s personality and needs.

Keeping your dog in their comfort zone reduces their stress about being left, so consider leaving them in your home. For shorter stints, you might ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check in regularly. If you’ll be away for more than a day, you can hire a full-time dog-sitter who can provide company, maintain routine and respond immediately should an emergency occur. Caregivers can send live photos and video updates to provide reassurance.

Alternatively, if your dog enjoys socializing with fellow furry friends, a well-run kennel may be a better fit. These organizations offer professional care for pups in a safe setting, where everything is geared towards ensuring their wellbeing. Make sure to check the facilities and read reviews beforehand to ensure they’re reputable and suitable. The best boarding kennels offer personalized care. and maintains a clean, comfortable space for your pet.

2.   Organizing Your Home

Before leaving, consciously make your home as dog-friendly as possible. In times of stress, they may act out and behave out of character, so be prepared for anything to keep them properly safe. Secure any hazardous items that could be harmful, such as cleaning supplies, electrical cords, or small objects that could be swallowed, placing them out of reach or in childproof cupboards. You can set up the environment to help reduce stress, keeping the TV on low or playing music and making the bed extra cozy with a familiar-smelling blanket.  

If you’re feeling anxious about leaving your dog, technology can be a lifeline. A pet camera lets you watch your dog from your phone or other device while you’re away, giving you peace of mind whenever you need it. When connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, using a VPN for iPhone or Android will help ensure the sensitive data on your phone stays safe, so you can monitor them while on the go without compromising your security.

3.   Maintaining a Regular Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, and keeping their schedule as consistent as possible will help them feel more secure while you're away. Make sure your caregiver knows when to feed your dog, when to walk them, and if there are any special needs or preferences they should consider. Keeping the essentials and playtime consistent with their usual routine helps to prevent stress and confusion.

4.   Preparing for Emergencies

You shouldn’t assume the worst will happen, but you must be ready for all eventualities to give yourself proper peace of mind. After all, emergencies can happen at any time, no matter how well you prepare.

Share important details with your dog’s caregiver, such as medical insurance details and your vet’s contact information. Remember to communicate any particular needs your dog has, such as allergies or medical conditions, and describe typical warning signs that something isn’t quite right. If your dog is on medication, leave instructions about how and when it should be administered.

5.   Protecting Your Dog

Making sure your dog is properly protected can provide vital reassurance should they run off while being looked after. Fit a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information and organize microchipping. Microchipping your dog is one of the best ways to ensure they can be identified if they get lost, because this is permanent and cannot be accidentally lost or removed. Taking these small but important steps can make a world of difference in helping reunite you with your dog if something goes wrong.

By taking these steps to prepare, you’ll ensure your dog’s safety and comfort while you're away, and in turn ensure your freedom to enjoy your time away without constant worry. You can rest easy knowing your pup is in good hands.