Don’t Wait to Book Vacation Pet Care for Spring Break

With spring vacation just a few weeks away, many local families have already booked vacation travel. But sometimes the family pet is forgotten in this advance planning.

“With all area school districts on the same schedule for spring break this year, pet sitters and kennels are expected to completely booked,” says Traci Simo of Canine Company, Wilton-based at-home pet services provider. “To be sure your pet is in the hands of a professional while you’re away, it’s important to book pet care now or as soon as you lock in your travel plans.”

One question pet parents must consider is whether to board their pet at a kennel or have a pet sitter come to their home. “We believe in-home care is the better choice for most pets,” she says, citing three major advantages:

• Pets are most comfortable in their normal, home environment. While some dogs enjoy the excitement of the kennel, many become stressed when left in a strange place. This can lead to health issues like vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
• Just as with the human flu, canine flu has been widespread in recent months. In-home care reduces exposure to canine flu and other highly contagious diseases that can be dangerous for young and older dogs.
• Regular pet sitting visits provide the added advantage of home security. When there is a car in the driveway and newspapers or mail is being taken indoors each day, it looks like someone is home.

“Not all pet sitters are created equal,” says Simo. “Look for someone who is trained in animal behavior, certified in pet first aid and CPR, as well as bonded and insured -- like our Canine Company pet sitters, who have the full resources of the company behind them.”

About Canine Company

Born of a family’s love for dogs, Canine Company has been helping families keep their dogs and cats healthy, safe and happy for 35 years. The company serves pet parents across New England, New York and New Jersey with the Invisible Fence® brand systems, Manners dog obedience training, and mobile grooming and pet sitting in select markets. Its charitable Canine Love™ campaign supports pet rescue groups and donates pet oxygen masks to first responders. For more information, visit www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-3647.