Vacations without the dog! Sooner or later, we all have to break down and admit that, once in a while, we have to go away without them. There are lots of options which are better or worse depending on your circumstances, your dog and just plain luck in finding the right option. Some of the options include:
House Sitter/Pet Sitter
This is someone who comes and stays at your place to take care of everything, including the dogs. This is our preferred option, because we have a houseful of pets and it ended up being cheaper to have someone stay than to come in often enough to walk the dogs. Many people find friends or children of friends a good choice (lay out the ground rules carefully in advance) and there are licensed, bonded pet care companies all over the country. We were fortunate enough to find a professional who even lets the dogs sleep with her, and we treasure her highly.
"Casual" Pet Sitter
This is someone who comes by a few times a day to walk and play with the pooch, bring in the mail, etc. Again, a friend or family member might be an option, or a professional service. Many colleges have listings of available students who can do odd jobs, such as pet sitting, as well.
Boarding Kennels
In my opinion, if you can't find that very special pet sitter, a good boarding kennel is the best, safest option. Make sure you are as comfortable as possible with the people as well as the physical setup of the kennel so that you can be assured that your dog will be both safe and as comfortable as possible (even though he'll be "treated like a dog"! ).
And, since some Basenjis are notorious for climbing chain-link fences (very common in kennels) a covered run is a good option. Another thing to check is what shots, etc. the kennel requires-the good ones will want full protection from communicable diseases including Kennel Cough. Make sure you can tour the kennel at least once to actually see where your dog will be staying. You want the kennel to be protected from people wandering in and out, but there shouldn't be any secret areas.
Also, some people have sainted friends or family who will take the dog into their homes and care for them while you're gone. It can be a real vacation for the dog if this works out. None of MY friends or family have ever offered...
No matter what, make sure your dog has as much identification as possible just in case they manage to slip away from their care giver, and that you leave as many "I can be reached at" numbers as possible. Our vet also recommends a signed statement authorizing emergency treatment, etc. --all worst-case-scenario stuff.
No matter what, once you actually get your dog set and get away on your vacation, you'll deserve the break!
(Editor's note: Make sure folks at kennels know and LIKE Basenjis!)
Article copyright © 2001 by Laura Whitney.
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