- Vet reveals one unusual habit that helps pets cope when their owners go on holiday
Over three quarters (77%) of Brits are planning to go on holiday this summer, but while you’re packing your bags, experts are reminding pet owners not to forget about preparing their pets too.
New research from TrustedHousesitters reveals that more than half (53%) of UK pet owners worry their pets feel abandoned when they travel. But vets say small steps – like leaving familiar smells around the home, can help your pet stay calm while you’re gone.
“Everyone likes their home comforts, pets included!” explains Dr. Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS. “Pets thrive on familiarity and routine; it helps them to feel secure. Staying in an environment where they already feel safe will often mean they cope better when their owner is gone.”
Dr. MacMillan adds that pets take comfort from having the smell of their owner around, plus their own pheromones which they will have marked around the home. “Even small sounds like the ticking of the kitchen clock or hearing the hum of the boiler starting up in the morning will be cues that your pet associates with their home.”
Of course, owners should still leave a clean, welcoming home for any sitter, family, or friend coming to watch pets – but when it comes to helping furry friends feel secure, leaving a few familiar items with your scent can make a big difference.
Five vet-approved ways to help your pet stay happy while you travel
Dr. MacMillan recommends these simple yet effective approaches for pet owners heading off on holiday:
- Don’t deep clean before you go: “Consider leaving a couple of items of clothing that you have worn for them to smell and snuggle with. This will help them to feel comforted in your absence,” says Dr. MacMillan. Leaving your pet’s bedding, toys, and even some clothes destined for the laundry basket around can help them feel connected to you.
- Keep routines as normal as possible: Ask your sitter to stick to your pet’s usual feeding times, walk times, and sleep schedule. “Keeping your pet in a routine as close to their normal one as possible will help them to feel more settled,” advises Dr. MacMillan.
- Use calming aids if needed: “Consider using a synthetic pet pheromone product to help act as an additional calming agent in their environment. Plug-in diffusers are available, or you could use an impregnated collar or food supplement,” suggests Dr. MacMillan. If adding to your pet’s diet, make sure to consult your vet first.
- Brief your sitter properly: “Make sure that you leave your sitter with plenty of instructions so that they understand your pet’s daily schedule, likes and dislikes,” says Dr. MacMillan. Creating a simple welcome guide with all essential information helps your sitter provide the best care possible. Include emergency contact numbers (your vet, a trusted neighbour, and your own travel contact details), your pet’s medication schedule if applicable, feeding instructions, and notes about your pet’s favourite spots, habits and any little quirks that make a difference day-to-day.
- Minimise disruption: Try not to make big changes like moving furniture or changing pet beds right before you leave. Even if it feels messy to you, it’ll likely be comforting for your pet until you return!
For pets who struggle with separation, Dr. MacMillan suggests preparation is key: “If you normally spend a lot of time with your pet and they aren’t used to leaving your side, then you may need to do a bit of training before your trip. By getting your pet used to being left, you will reduce the risk of separation anxiety symptoms such as pacing, vocalising, destructive behaviours, and toilet accidents while you’re away.”
Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, agrees: “We’ve found that both pets and owners are happiest when pets can stay in their own home. It’s less stressful for the animal, and gives owners real peace of mind knowing their pet is relaxed and well cared for. It’s all about keeping that sense of normality even while you’re off enjoying your holiday.
“Pets are creatures of habit, and familiar scents like their owner’s clothing can provide real comfort when their routines change. While it’s important to leave a clean and welcoming home for any sitter, leaving a few well-chosen, familiar items behind – like a worn T-shirt or a favourite blanket – can go a long way in helping pets feel safe and settled while their owners are away.”
To connect with a pet sitter while you travel or for more expert advice for pet owners, visit https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/