Vacationing with or without the animals?

July 15, 11:00 AMPittsburgh Animal Health ExaminerAlexis Jenny

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Does your beach allow dogs?  AP/ Robert F. Bukaty

The economy hasn't stopped most people from traveling this summer. Every time a pet owner leaves home for a while, a few concerns come to mind. Should the pets stay in a kennel or at a friend's? Should they stay at home with a pet sitter? Should they come along?

If they're coming with you, the first priority should be safety. Do they do well on planes? In long car rides? Do they behave well in pet friendly hotels? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then consider the practicality of bringing them along. Will it enhance your vacation or will the responsibility be a burden?

Most pet friendly hotels have limitations to their hospitality. Some, like Motel 6, allow only one pet per room. Also, the pet must weigh under 25lbs and never be left unattended inside the room. Some hotels only allow cats and dogs, and some allow only one or the other.

If it's not a pet friendly vacation, there are several other options. Pet sitters can be an affordable alternative to kennel boarding. Ideally, you should know and trust your pet sitter. If the sitter works for an organization, it should be a reputable company that has the proper insurance. Fetch! Pet Care is a growing network of insured pet sitters. They have various locations throughout the Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

Kennels, just like any place where animals come together in large quantities, can be risky for your pet's health. Your dogs will need Bordetella vaccinations before you can board them. This is also known as Kennel Cough, which is a common respiratory infection in dogs kept in highly populated kennels.

If you decide to board your pets in a kennel, it's best to be familiar with the layout of the kennel and the people who will be caring for your pets. Choosing a kennel for the first time can be challenging. Most kennels will welcome you to take a tour of their establishment and meet their staff. This is a great opportunity because it can provide you with the information needed to make a practical choice, and the peace of mind necessary to thoroughly enjoy your vacation.