For many, this is the busiest time of year, and for those with pets, travel arrangements may have to be made. If boarding isn?t an option, what should be done when pets aren?t welcome at the in-laws, or other family arrangements?
First, it can be very frustrating when pets aren?t welcome at someone else?s home, especially when you love them so much! After all, it is easy to think, who wouldn?t love Puddles Schmoopykins? That said, there are things that need to be considered from the other side. First, it is the host?s home and their rules should be respected. Someone in the home might be severely allergic, afraid of dogs, or simply just not like the hair associated with a pet.
The best way to approach the problem is to try and reach a compromise with the person (or people) you are staying with. Be calm, and discuss that this pet (or pets) is part of your family, and that you would appreciate if they were welcome on your trip. Be proactive and offer solutions that will make you and the host happy. For example, keeping the pet(s) crated as needed, or keeping the pet(s) in one room only is a welcome compromise. If the location works for this, keeping the pet outside is another option (only if it is safe, with fencing or a well-trained pet).
If there is no way that the host is willing to allow pets into the home, consider the length of your trip. Boarding the pets nearby is a great way to see them often and not worry about being far away from them. Another option is to consider other friends or family that live in the same area. Maybe they will be willing to host your pets for a few days!
If the host says yes, always keep in mind that you are a visitor and should treat their home with respect when it comes to your animals. Be prepared for accidents, barking, the zoomies, and any other habits your pet has that the host is probably not used to. Cleaning up after pets is a must, both in the house and the yard. Always be sure to thank the host for welcoming your pets as well!
I have three dogs, and have experienced a lot of horrifying moments with my pups visiting my in-laws. My golden retriever broke the glass of a small end table (we paid to replace it), my border collie peed in the hallway during Thanksgiving, and when it?s time to visit my parents, the dogs are not allowed upstairs at all, and have to sleep in the basement (it?s a nice, finished basement). Last year, my husband and I pitched in with his siblings for getting his parents? carpet cleaned as part of their Christmas gift.
Even though pets are part of the family, unfortunately not everyone feels that way about them! Luckily, there are ways to make traveling with pets work when it comes to the most wonderful time of the year.
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This article was written by My Pet Saving?s contributor Melissa. She has a master?s degree in creative writing, owns several pets and runs her own online pet magazine. To learn more about this author check out the contributor profile page.
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Source: http://www.mypetsavings.com/2011/12/pets-as-guests-during-the-holidays.html
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