Dogs and cats have an extremely short attention span, which is why they make such a big deal out of you leaving the house. Whether you leave for a few hours or a few days, they feel anxious because they don’t know when you’ll return. The next time that you leave, do a few things to keep your pets happy and healthy.
Arrange for a Dog-Walker
If you take an overnight trip or one that lasts for a few days, hire a sitter or walker ahead of time. A pet sitter will actually live in your home and take care of your pets, while a walker will stop by and take your dog on a few walks every day. They can also make sure your pets have plenty of food and water.
Turn on the Radio/Television
Turning on the radio or television provides sounds that distract your pets and make them feel like they are not alone. There are even apps you can download to an old phone, tablet or computer that will turn on the radio at set times throughout the day.
Hire an Exterminator
Insects like roaches and ants can actually make your pets sick. When you’re not home, you have no way of knowing if those animals are ill. Before heading out on a trip, you can always learn more about pest control, or hire an exterminator to do an inspection of your home and remove any insects found.
Install Detectors
Carbon monoxide can affect pets in the same way it does humans, which is why you should install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order too. Your neighbors may hear the alarm and call the fire department when you’re out of town.
Create an Activity Space
Pets need plenty of activity every day, but they may not be active enough when you’re out of the house. Try creating an activity space designed just for your pets. Put up a scratching post or cat tree for your cats and leave plenty of toys out for your dogs.
Apply Flea Medication
Your dogs can pick up fleas and ticks when playing outside with your dog walker, and they can bring those insects back into your home to infest your cats. Before taking your trip, visit your veterinarian to buy flea and tick medication for every pet in your household.
No matter how much time you spend away from your home, you can keep all your pets happy and healthy with things like flea medication and activity spaces.
