There are times when bringing your dog with you just isn’t an option. Believe me, I’ve tried! I’ve gone out of my way to include my pups in travel plans whenever possible. My dog Guinness was the ultimate road trip companion—we spent time exploring Colorado, Idaho, and Montana together. He traveled like a pro. But boarding? Not his thing. The noise, the unfamiliar smells, and the lack of personal space were just too much for him. If I had to travel without him, one of my pet sitters would take care of him.
That’s part of what inspired me to start a pet sitting business while living in Colorado. Dogs like Guinness, who thrive on peace and familiarity, often do better at home with a trusted sitter. He didn’t need constant supervision, just someone to feed him, walk him, and respect his need for quiet time—he was an introvert, just like me.
Benji, on the other hand, is the complete opposite. He’s a joyful, goofy boy who lives for social time. He’s great in the car—not because he’s calm, but because he’s thrilled beyond belief. He whines and chatters the entire time because he’s so excited. While that makes long-distance travel a challenge, it makes him a perfect candidate for boarding. He thrives on human interaction and loves hanging out with other dogs. In-home pet sitting wouldn’t be ideal for him unless someone was here 24/7. If left alone, even for a quick trip to the mailbox, Benji panics. His crate is his safe space—stuffed with blankets, his favorite toy, and a chew or two.
When You Can’t Take Them With You…
Whether it’s a family vacation, work travel, or an emergency, sometimes you need to make arrangements for your pup. So what’s better—boarding or pet sitting?
The answer depends on your dog’s personality, routine, and comfort level. And it also depends on how much preparation you’re willing to do ahead of time.
Let’s break it down.
In-Home Pet Sitting
✅ Pros:
- Your dog stays in their familiar environment
- Keeps a consistent routine (feeding, walks, medications)
- Less stress for anxious or introverted dogs
- Ideal for dogs who don’t do well in groups or with lots of noise
❌ Cons:
- Trust is critical—you’re giving someone access to your home
- More expensive if overnight or 24-hour care is required
- Less supervision if the sitter isn’t staying full time
- May not be ideal for dogs who need constant human interaction
Tip:
Always meet your pet sitter in person ahead of time. Make sure they are bonded and insured. Ask for references, reviews, and even a trial visit. Make sure your dog is comfortable with them, and that the sitter understands your pet’s quirks and needs.
Boarding Facilities
Pros:
- Supervised care, often around the clock
- Structured schedule with playtime, meals, and naps
- Good socialization opportunities for dog-friendly pups
- May offer extras like grooming, training, or enrichment
❌ Cons:
- New environments can be overwhelming for some dogs
- Exposure to illness (kennel cough, etc.)
- May not provide the one-on-one attention your dog is used to
- Can be noisy and overstimulating
Tip:
Tour the boarding facility ahead of time. Don’t rely on photos—go in person. Ask about daily routines, how playgroups are managed, and how your dog will be monitored. Many reputable facilities also require a temperament test to assess whether your dog is a good fit for group play. Schedule this in advance so you’re not scrambling the week before your trip. It’s also a good idea to schedule a trial overnight stay.
So… What’s Right for Your Dog?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some dogs thrive at home with a familiar couch and their usual walk route. Others need the stimulation and attention a well-run boarding facility can offer. Knowing your dog’s temperament, comfort level, and routine is the key.
Guinness loved calm and routine—he was happiest at home. Benji, with his boundless energy and people-loving heart, thrives in a boarding environment where he can soak up attention all day long.
Final Thoughts:
Whichever option you choose, planning ahead is essential. The more prepared you are, the more comfortable your dog will be. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Schedule a meet-and-greet with potential pet sitters
- Tour boarding facilities in advance
- Ask about temperament tests or group play evaluations
- Pack familiar items (blankets, toys, food, meds)
- Leave clear instructions and emergency contacts
Most importantly, listen to your dog. You know them best. Whether it’s a quiet home with a trusted sitter or a fun-filled boarding adventure, the goal is the same: keeping them happy, safe, and loved while you’re away.
P.S. If you missed last week’s post all about traveling with your dog, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. From car safety tips to what to pack for your pup, it’s a must-read if you’re planning a road trip with your furry copilot. 🚗🐾 Read it here
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