Going on holiday can be a great way to relax and enjoy some time away from work, but if you're leaving your dog at home it could cause some undue stress.

Research from Rover.com has revealed that Brits are holidaying abroad less due to their beloved pets, with 70% (from a survey of 1,000 dog owners) vetoing holidays since getting a dog.

This often comes down to owners worrying about their dog, with 64% of owners saying they can’t bear to be away from their pets for more than a few days.

Additionally, owners worry that their dog spends their time crying for them (46%) and waiting at the door for their return (41%), with one of their biggest concerns being their dog getting lonely (40%). 

With this in mind, Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist, has shared a few tips for people to prepare their dog for them going on holiday.

5 tips to prepare your dog for you going on holiday

Familiarise your dog

When leaving your dog to go on holiday, it's vital that you do your research to ensure your dog is left in safe hands.

If you’re hiring a vetted pet sitter, take your time to read through their reviews and arrange a few short visits or trial stays to allow your dog to get used to their new environment and caregiver.

Carefully observe your dog’s response, and look out for any signs of stress, such as pacing, panting, or them acting like your shadow.

Based on how your dog reacts to the situation, make the assessment on whether this option would be a good, suitable fit for your dog.

Maintain Routine

To help your dog adjust to their new environment, it’s important to try and maintain their routine as much as possible.

To do this, make sure you provide the caregiver with detailed instructions about your dog’s day-to-day habits and routine, including feeding times, walk schedules, bedtime, and any medication requirements.

Keeping the routine consistent will help to reduce any anxiety for both you and your dog.

Get FUR-SICAL

This is beneficial for all dogs, but particularly if your dog is suffering from separation anxiety.

Ask your dog’s sitter to ensure they are well exercised to help release some of your dog’s energy - energy that they might otherwise put into worrying about being left.

A well-exercised dog is also more likely to settle in your absence than one who is raring to go! Similar to the benefits that physical activity has on humans, exercise has a positive and calming effect on the mental wellbeing of our dogs.

However, always ensure they consider your dog’s life stage and physical capabilities, and tailor their exercise accordingly.

Comfort is key

If your dog is staying in a new environment whilst you are away, to help make them feel as relaxed as possible you can try leaving familiar items such as your dog’s bed, blanket, or their favourite toys.

Even if they are being looked after in your own home, leaving them an item of your clothing with your scent on can also help provide comfort and a sense of security in your absence.

Practice Makes Pur-fect

If you know you have a trip coming up, it’s a good idea to start preparing your dog for your absence well in advance.

Building up their independence is crucial so they can feel comfortable and relaxed rather than anxious.

An easy way to initially practice this is to use a light barrier such as a baby gate, so your dog can still see you but is physically distanced from you.

Once they are able to relax in this context, gradually increase the time you spend away from home to help your dog get used to being alone.

Adem Fehmi, said: “It’s natural to worry about leaving your dog behind when you go on holiday. However, with proper planning and care, you can ensure your dog remains happy and healthy in your absence – and even feel like they’ve had a holiday of their own!”

“With this in mind, hiring a trusted, vetted home sitter can be a great option for pet care when you travel. Based on your dog’s specific needs and temperament, you can decide whether you’d prefer the sitter to stay in your house, or alternatively, they can offer your dog a home-from-home experience.

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"Whichever you choose, always be sure to meet up with your sitter prior to any holidays, and allow your dog the opportunity to get to know them."

“A vetted home sitter will be able to cater to your dog's individual needs, follow any daily routines you have in place, and help your dog to feel as stress-free as possible in your absence.

"To help ensure peace of mind, always discuss and leave clear details of any specific requirements your dog has, including details of what their usual day-to-day looks like, favourite walking spots, food, and ways you offer them attention.”