It’s great when you can comfortably bring pets along with you on your travels. But it’s not always feasible. And both air and car travel with pets can be tough, expensive and needlessly hard on your furry friends. So, sometimes the best bet is to leave them behind.

When you do, though, you really want to be sure that they’ll be safe and happy while you’re away. Read on for our tips.

1. Update ID

First thing’s first – make sure that their tag and microchip information is updated and accurate. Just in case they get out, you want to know that they can easily be returned to you.

2. Keep Goodbyes Breezy

Many loyal pets can sense emotional stress in their owners, which makes them agitated as well. When leaving for a few days, treat it the same way you do when you leave for a few hours. There’s no reason to make them feel like something unusual or scary is happening.

3. On Board

For dogs especially, the best option is usually a good boarding facility. This way, your dog will have the company of humans and other dogs instead of being left alone for long periods. If you opt to board, be sure to do your homework, check reviews and do a walk-through of the facility to make sure it’s a good environment for your pet.

4. Sit and Stay

For many cats and some dogs, it makes more sense to have someone come to your home. If you know and trust someone you can stay in your home for the entirety of your time away, that’s the best possible option. But it also works perfectly well to have someone come by once or twice a day to feed, play  and give your pet a little love. Usually, this is a cheaper option than boarding and allows your pet to stay where they’re most comfortable.

5. Sitter Strategies

If you can have someone pet sit who already knows your pet, that’s great! If not, ask neighbors and friends for recommendations of individuals or services that they like. Whether you opt for a friend or a service, it’s important to have them come over before you leave to get the lay of the land.

Even if you tell the person everything they need to know, it’s a good idea to also leave behind written instructions. And it will also make things easier for the sitter if you leave all the necessary supplies in one place.

6. Emergency Prep

Whether you leave your pet with a boarding service or a sitter, be sure to leave behind the name and number of an emergency contact who will be in town while you’re away. This way, there will be someone to call if something happens. Ask your contact if it’s OK with them first and tell them the dates you’ll be gone. Also leave your veterinarian’s info and the name of your preferred emergency vet just in case.

7. Leave a Reminder

Regardless of where you leave your pet or with whom, be sure to leave them with something familiar that smells like you. This is especially important if they go to a boarder. Wear an old t-shirt or hoodie for a day and leave that with them to remind them of you.

8. Check In

You probably don’t need to check in multiple times a day, but don’t forget to be in touch with whoever is watching your pet. This will reassure you that they’re OK… and you may even get a couple cute pics.

Leaving your pets while you go out of town is not something to feel guilty about! It’s a perfectly normal part of being a pet owner. With a little preparation and care, you can enjoy your vacation while knowing that your furry friends are in great hands.