As pet owners, we understand how difficult it can be to leave your pet behind when you need to travel from Lancashire. It’s natural to worry about your dog or cat being in unfamiliar surroundings. At Rowan Vets, our veterinary team recognise that, at times, making alternative care arrangements is unavoidable.

To help you feel more confident, our vets have created this guide to explore the best pet care options while you’re away, so you can relax and enjoy your time, knowing your companion is in safe hands.

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Pet sitting options

There are several options for petting sitting arrangements—and at Rowan Vets we understand that one size doesn’t fit all, as each pet and situation is different. Below are the most common options and what our vets recommend.

• A friend or family member: The most ideal option if they’re trusted and familiar to your pet. Being cared for at home by someone they know can help reduce stress, especially for cats or small pets who aren’t used to travelling. The downsides may be varying levels of expertise or availability
• Professional sitter: Care provided in your home or through daily visits, helping maintain your pet’s usual routine and environment. This option reduces stress through familiar surroundings and personalised care. However, this can be more expensive and requires trusting someone with home access.
• Boarding kennels or catteries: Purpose-built facilities providing professional care for dogs and cats in a structured environment. Pros are trained staff, regular routines, and secure accommodation, with cons of unfamiliar surroundings that may cause stress more sensitive pets, especially cats.
• Pet boarding in a carer’s home: A home environment with a registered carer, which can suit pets who prefer a quieter setting. This provides more relaxed, home-like setting with fewer animals, but may be less regulated with varying levels of experience between carers.

How to choose the right care for your pet

Choosing the right pet holiday care in Lancashire, or further afield, depends on your pet’s personality, health, and routine. Some pets are more adaptable and social, while others may find new environments stressful. The team at Rowan Vets recommend considering your pet’s temperament, age, health, and routine when planning.

What to look for in a pet care provider

Our vets in Preston recommend doing your research on the following depending on which option you choose:

• Can you visit the facility or meet the sitter in advance?
• Will they provide updates and readily available communication?
• What experience, licence or qualifications do they have?
• How often will your pet be exercised, fed, and given company?
• What is their emergency plan and insurance cover, including access to a vet in Lancashire?
• Are vaccinations and parasite prevention required?

Preparing your pet for time away

Preparation is key to helping your pet feel safe and settled while you’re away. Make sure their caregiver has clear instructions on feeding, routine, exercise, and any medical needs, along with access to familiar items like bedding or toys to reduce stress. Providing up-to-date contact details, including your vet in Preston, will also ensure your pet is well supported in case of an emergency.

If you’re unsure which option is best for your pet, our team at Rowan Vets are here to help with tailored advice based on their individual needs.

Book a pre-travel appointment