Preparation List For When You Are Going To Be Away From Your Animals For An Extended Period of Time

Leaving your animals while being away for an extended period can cause stress for all involved. Whether you will be away from home for a few days or a few weeks, the fact remains the same, you will be breaking routine. Our animals become accustom to routine, not only ours but theirs as well. The following guidelines will assist in a smoother transition for your animal while you are away.

*Tell your animals ahead of time you will be gone. They feel what you feel and will understand there is going to be a change.
*Assure yourself that you have taken care of their needs, they will take their lead from you.
*If the animal is to be boarded at a facility, let them know it will be temporary. If you are ok with it, they will be as well, again they will take their lead from you.
*If a pet sitter is coming in while you are away, make sure they are reputable, and your animal is comfortable with them. If you have doubts, find someone else.
*If the animal is on medication, make sure there is more than enough on hand.
*If you are unsure about how your animal feels about your leaving, contact an animal ommunicator in advance of the separation and give both of you peace of mind.
*Make sure the person who is taking care of them whether they are staying at you home or checking in during the day that they have a copy of pertinent phone numbers.
* Post one list in an obvious location should someone new need to find it.
*On your posted list you should have: * More than one phone number where you can be reached.
*Two veterinarians phone numbers, noting which is your primary vet.
*The phone numbers of a back up people, should the original person not be able to fulfill what is required of them.
*Medications and information on how they are administered and when, if the animal needs it.
*Where the medication will be kept.
*Make sure clear instructions are posted, with yours and your animals wishes, should any life threatening situations arise in your absence.

Your animal will do well if you take steps to ensure they are prepared. How you are handling the separation will be felt by your animal. If you place worry about their care into the situation, they will feel it. Send love to them from your heart, letting them know you all is well.

Should the reason you will be away be for a hospital stay, or another stressful situation, share the emotions you are feeling in your heart. Let them know this is stressful, but above all make sure they know will be taken care of, and that you are taking care of yourself. Make provisions should you no longer be responsible for their care. It is less difficult on your animals if you tell them what is going on and what you are feeling, than it is if you try to "protect" them. If they are feeling what you are not sharing or admitting to yourself, it is more difficult for both of you.

No matter what the situation is, the basic facts remain the same, it is easier on you and your animal if you share what you are feeling and is in your heart.