Going on Vacation? Here’s What to Do With Your Dog

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Updated for Summer Travel: Planning ahead is key—many dog care options require screening and fill up quickly this time of year.

Not every dog can go to daycare—here’s how to choose the right care option before you travel.

🐾 A Real-Life Situation

Summer is coming, and for many of us that means travel.

But if you have a dog, there’s always one big question before you leave:

What’s the best option for your dog while you’re away?

In my case, I didn’t always have family available—especially for trips longer than a weekend. That meant finding reliable care.

Willie is fortunate. He has the temperament for daycare and boarding, and he does well in that environment.

But I quickly learned something important:

👉 Not every dog is wired the same way.

Some dogs thrive around other dogs. Others are much happier staying at home with a sitter.

🐶 Dog Care Options When You Travel

🐶 Dog Daycare / Boarding

Best for social, active dogs who enjoy being around others.

Pros:

  • Exercise and socialization
  • Structured environment
  • Supervision throughout the day

Cons:

  • Not ideal for anxious or reactive dogs
  • Exposure to illness (like kennel cough)
  • Requires screening before acceptance

👉 Willie does great here—he comes home tired and happy.

🏠 In-Home Pet Sitter

A sitter stays in your home or visits frequently.

Pros:

  • Familiar environment
  • Less stress and disruption
  • Ideal for dogs who like routine

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive (especially for overnight stays)
  • Requires trust and planning

🐕 Boarding at a Sitter’s Home

Your dog stays in someone else’s home.

Pros:

  • Smaller, more relaxed setting
  • Often more personal attention

Cons:

  • New environment for your dog
  • Quality varies by sitter

🚪 Drop-In Visits

A sitter visits your home 1–3 times per day.

Pros:

  • Lower cost
  • Works for independent dogs

Cons:

  • Dog is alone for longer periods
  • Not ideal for dogs needing more interaction

⚠️ Before You Book: What Many Owners Don’t Realize

This part requires planning—and it can catch people off guard.

🧠 Temperament Screening

Most daycare and boarding facilities require an evaluation:

  • Trial visit or short assessment
  • Observes how your dog behaves with other dogs and staff

👉 Not all dogs pass—and that’s completely normal. It simply means another option may be a better fit.

💉 Vaccination Requirements

You’ll need proof of:

  • Rabies
  • Distemper (DHPP)
  • Bordetella (kennel cough)

👉 These are usually uploaded to your account before your first visit.

⏱️ Plan Ahead

  • Evaluations may need to be scheduled in advance
  • Vaccinations may require a vet visit
  • Facilities fill up quickly during summer and holidays

👉 Waiting too long can limit your options.

🎯 How to Choose the Right Option

Ask yourself:

  • Does my dog enjoy being around other dogs?
  • Can they stay alone overnight?
  • Do they need medication or special care?
  • How long will I be away?

👉 The best choice depends on your dog—not convenience.

🔗 Helpful Dog Care Services

🐾 Dog Daycare & Boarding (Northern California)

🐾 National Pet Care Platforms

Thank you for visiting my website. Willie and I appreciate every reader.Thank you for visiting my website. Willie and I appreciate every reader.

Curious how your dog’s age compares in human years? I put together a simple calculator here:
https://goodeyemike.com/how-old-is-my-dog/

Every dog is different.

Willie thrives in daycare—but many dogs would be much happier staying at home with a sitter.

The key is understanding your dog’s personality, planning ahead, and choosing the option that keeps them safe and comfortable while you’re away.

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