Health
pet boarding
while you’re away the pets play!
Tired of feeling guilty every time you go on
vacation and leave your furry friend behind?
These days there are many options in local pet
daycare, lodging and in-home pet sitting services.
The summer is typically vacation time for most
Americans and pet owners start worrying about
what to do with their furry companions. Many
hotels cater to pet owners and for a small fee
will allow you to bring your furry friend with you.
Make sure you talk
to your veterinarian
and check that all
vaccines are up to
date and your pet is
fit to travel whether
is by car or plane. Pet
sitting is a growing
service industry
and there are several companies serving Polk
County. Make sure to ask for recommendations,
testimonials, proper licensing and proof of
insurance. You may want to use this option if you
have multiple pets or need to pick up mail or have
your plants watered also. The issue of privacy may
deter some pet owners from using this option.
Boarding your pet is an important decision,
especially if your pet is elderly or has special
medical needs. For example; diabetic pets need
personnel trained in proper administration and
handling of insulin whereas cardiac patients need
trained medical supervision. I recommend you
tour several facilities and that you board your pet
for a day well in advance of your vacation. That
Meet the Doctor
way you will have the ability to judge the care
and your pet’s response. If the facility offers day
care then a day trial will uncover how your pet
will react towards attendants, lodging and other
dogs. When selecting a facility consider those
with a transparent management, where there
are cameras and your pet can be visited by other
members of your family while you are away. In my
practice I’ve incorporated a unique pet lodging
area called the World Suites. Your pet will enjoy
treadmill and spa treatments. Puppy cams will
give you peace of mind and will make you feel
closer to your pet.
The reason I designed this level of care is because
I wanted a place that will meet my personal
standards of pet care for my dogs Hans & Daisy.
Otherwise, I know I will not enjoy my vacation
and worry constantly about their well being. For
short trips I count on my relatives to check on
my pets. My advice is to plan ahead, check your
options and take your pet to your veterinarian
for a quick spring check up.
For a peek at the unique World Suites visit us at
www.osahvets.com.
Mitsie Vargas DVM, CVA, CTCVMP is an author
and owner of Orchid Springs Animal Hospital.
She was named FVMA’s Veterinarian of the
Year. You can reach her at drv@osahvets.com,
@osahvets on Twitter or her Facebook page.
the personalized
attention and care
i n a luxu r i ous
atmosphere. Our
one-of-a-kind
suites offer many
amenities including
moonlight walks,
pool time, doggie
Orchid Springs Animal al Hospital
615 Overlook Drive
Winter Haven
863.324.6964
osahvets.com
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