Autumn is a lovely time to get away. Whether you’re heading off for a half-term break, enjoying a quiet weekend away or escaping for some late-season sunshine, knowing your dog or cat is being properly cared for can make your trip much more relaxing.
If your pet is coming to stay with us at Hollybank Cattery & Kennels, a little preparation beforehand can help make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
From keeping routines consistent to making sure we know about any individual requirements, here are some simple ways to prepare your pet for their autumn stay.
Make Sure Their Vaccinations Are Up to Date
Before any kennel or cattery stay, it’s important to check that your pet’s required vaccinations are current.
Don’t leave this until the day before you’re due to go away. Check their records in advance and speak to your vet if you’re unsure about anything.
Having everything organised early means one less thing to think about as your holiday approaches.
Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible
Dogs and cats generally benefit from familiarity and routine.
In the days leading up to their stay, try to keep feeding times, walks and bedtime routines as normal as possible. There’s usually no need to make major changes simply because they’re going into boarding.
The calmer and more familiar things feel beforehand, the easier the transition can be.
Let Us Know About Their Individual Needs
Every pet has their own personality.
Some dogs are incredibly sociable, while others prefer a little more space. Some cats settle quickly into new surroundings, while others may need more time and reassurance.
Before your pet’s stay, let us know anything that can help us understand them better.
This might include their usual routine, temperament, likes and dislikes, feeding requirements or anything that can help make them feel more comfortable.
Tell Us About Any Medication
If your dog or cat requires medication, make sure you discuss this with us before their stay.
Provide clear information about what they need, when they need it and any other relevant instructions.
It’s also sensible to make sure you have enough medication to cover the entire boarding period, with a little extra where appropriate in case your plans unexpectedly change.
Prepare Their Food Requirements
Changes in diet can sometimes upset a pet’s stomach, particularly when they’re already adjusting to different surroundings.
Make sure we know about your pet’s normal diet, portion sizes and feeding routine, along with any allergies, intolerances or special dietary requirements.
The more information we have, the easier it is for us to maintain a routine that feels familiar to them.
Make Sure Your Contact Details Are Correct
Before heading away, double-check that we have the correct contact information for you.
It’s also a good idea to provide details for an alternative emergency contact who will be available while you’re away.
If you’re travelling abroad, make sure the contact details you provide will still work while you’re out of the country.
Don’t Make Goodbyes Stressful
Leaving your pet can be emotional, particularly if it’s their first time staying away from home.
However, a long and anxious goodbye can sometimes make the experience harder.
Try to remain positive and relaxed when dropping them off. Your pet can often pick up on your emotions, so treating their stay as a normal and positive experience can help.
Once you’ve said goodbye, you can head off knowing they’re in experienced hands.
Think About the Autumn Weather
Autumn weather can be unpredictable, with colder mornings, wet days and darker evenings all becoming more common.
If there’s anything we should know about how your pet copes with colder or wetter conditions, please tell us.
Older pets in particular may have different requirements, and we’re always happy to know as much as possible about their individual needs.
Booking During October Half-Term?
School holidays can be a popular time for pet boarding, particularly around October half-term.
If you already know you’re going away, it’s always worth arranging your pet’s stay as early as possible rather than leaving it until the last minute.
Getting everything booked and organised means you can concentrate on planning your holiday without worrying about where your dog or cat will be staying.
First Time Staying With Us?
If your dog or cat hasn’t stayed at Hollybank before, it’s completely understandable to have questions.
We want owners to feel comfortable about leaving their pets in our care, so please speak to us about anything you’re unsure about before their stay.
Providing us with plenty of information about your pet also helps us get to know them and understand what makes them happy and comfortable.
Enjoy Your Autumn Break Knowing Your Pet Is Being Cared For
Going away should be something you look forward to, not something you spend worrying about.
With a little preparation beforehand, you can help make your pet’s stay as straightforward and comfortable as possible.
At Hollybank Cattery & Kennels, we’re here to provide a safe and welcoming place for your dogs and cats while you’re away, giving you peace of mind that they’re being looked after.
Planning an autumn getaway or October half-term break?
Get in touch with Hollybank Cattery & Kennels to check availability and arrange your pet’s stay with us.
We look forward to welcoming them!
