As I mentioned yesterday, it's not always easy for me to leave my pets at home while I travel, even with some one checking in on them. Maybe for a few days, but when my husband and I went on a 10 day road trip in May, we were concerned that they wouldn't get enough social time with just a visiting caretaker.
So, we asked around and found this amazing independent boarding facility, Royalcrest Animal Spa. (I'm even hesitant to drop the name, for fear that it'll become so popular I won't be able to get my dogs in anymore!) The kennels were feet away from the caretakers home. Knowing that she was a long-time trainer and dog handler, I had no reservations about the place. But, then she told me about the intercom system that allowed her to monitor the dogs from her home, the special fan put in to block out storm noises, and the careful setup to keep strange dogs separated, I was further assured that it was a very safe environment. I liked that the kennels were on a small ranch, where it would be quiet and perfect for these old dogs.
And then, she told us about the long walks in the woods, the peanut butter bones at bedtime, and the home- made chicken soup that goes with their dinners, and I began to wonder if the dogs would ever want to come home.
I dropped them off on a Friday. Neither of them seemed to notice that I was leaving, what with their new neighbors the horse and the young chickens. (Lula looked so lovingly at those babies!) While I did miss them, I never worried. Still, I called a few days later to make sure that everyone was holding up ok. Their caretaker told me that Lyger was spending his days standing in the creek that ran through the pasture, and that Lula was birdwatching on their fenced patio. I think the dogs were having a better time on their vacation than we were on ours!
When it came time to pick them up, they were a bit tuckered out from their week at camp, but not stressed or overjoyed to see us. It was so reassuring to know that our dogs hadn't been anxious while we were away for so long.
As we loaded them up into the car, the caretaker petted Lyger, and said "Bye Mr. Furry". It was a small sign that they'd even bonded over their week together.
While you might not be close enough to visit Royalcrest, ask your friends and family if they have referrals to their favorite pet boarders or services. It might lead you to your pet's new favorite getaway.
