Caring for Older Pets While You’re Away

Leaving our pets behind when we’re away can be a stressful experience, especially when they’re older or have special medical needs. Senior pets, in particular, require extra attention, and finding the right care for them while you’re away is crucial. Whether it’s a trusted sitter, a reliable friend, or a dedicated boarding facility, ensuring your pet’s well-being should always be the top priority.

Why Senior Pets Need Special Attention

As our pets age, their health and daily needs change. Senior pets, typically those over 10 years old, often deal with chronic health conditions, mobility issues, or require medication. Leaving them in the care of someone who doesn’t understand these needs can lead to unnecessary stress for both you and your pet. That’s why choosing the right care option is so important.

1. Finding a Reliable Pet Sitter

One option is to have a pet sitter come to your home, where your pet will remain in their familiar environment. This can be a great option for older pets, as it eliminates the stress of travel and unfamiliar surroundings. However, it’s essential to find a sitter with experience in caring for elderly or unwell animals.

Key Considerations:

Experience with senior pets: Ensure the sitter understands the specific needs of older pets, from administering medication to recognising signs of discomfort.

• Daily routine: Ask the sitter to maintain your pet’s usual routine, including feeding times, medication schedules, and any necessary health checks.
• Communication: Choose someone who will keep you updated with regular check-ins and photos of your pet.

2. Asking a Trusted Friend or Family Member

In some cases, asking a trusted friend or family member to care for your pet can be an excellent solution. The benefit of familiarity can make the transition easier for your pet, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing someone you trust is watching over them.

Key Considerations:

• Comfort level with medical care: Ensure your friend or family member is comfortable administering medication or addressing any health needs your pet may have.
• Familiarity with your pet’s behaviour: Choose someone who knows your pet’s temperament, especially if they’ve interacted with your pet before, making the experience smoother for both parties.

3. Choosing a Boarding Facility for Senior Pets

Mainstream boarding facilities can sometimes feel daunting or unsuitable for older or unwell animals. Many boarding kennels are loud, busy, and more geared towards younger, energetic pets. However, for older pets with higher needs, this environment may not be the best fit.
At Vetmed, we understand the unique care senior pets require, which is why our hospital boarding services provide a more relaxed and calm atmosphere. Our smaller-scale boarding design reduces stress for pets, ensuring they stay as comfortable as possible.

Vetmed’s Senior and Hospital Boarding: Quality Care for Older Pets

At Vetmed, we always keep our patients at heart, especially when they’re elderly or have specific medical requirements. Our hospital boarding offers:

• Fewer kennels and animals: This allows us to maintain a serene environment, free from the noise and stress of large-scale boarding facilities.
• High-level hygiene standards: Our facilities are designed to minimise stress and maximise cleanliness, ensuring a safe, comfortable stay for your pet.
• Air-conditioned indoor facilities: Your pet will be kept comfortable, no matter the season, with climate-controlled boarding.
• Qualified vet and nursing team on-site: With veterinary staff always in attendance, we are equipped to handle pets with chronic illnesses, those recovering from surgery, or any pet who may require medication or additional monitoring.

For elderly pets, including those with mobility issues or incontinence problems, our hospital boarding ensures your pet receives the highest level of care while you’re away.

Is Vetmed Boarding Right for Your Senior Pet?

If your pet is over 10 years old, suffers from chronic health conditions, or needs daily medication, choosing a boarding facility like Vetmed can offer peace of mind. With experienced veterinarians and a nursing team ready to attend to your pet’s needs, you can enjoy your time away knowing your pet is in the best hands.

When Should You Choose Hospital Boarding?

Not every situation requires hospital boarding, but it is the ideal choice when your pet has:

• Chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart conditions.
• Medication requirements that need to be administered at specific times.
• Mobility or incontinence issues that require special attention.
• Post-surgery recovery where close monitoring is essential.

Let Us Help You

At Vetmed, we believe your pet’s comfort and health should never be compromised. Our boarding services provide a calm, supportive environment, perfect for senior pets with higher needs. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or an extended period, your pet will receive personalised, high-quality care every day they’re with us.

If you’re preparing for a trip and are concerned about your senior pet, contact Vetmed today to discuss your pet’s specific needs and how we can help.

Vetmed: we are here for you and your pet

For more information and personalised advice contact Vetmed. We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pet’s health and well-being.

Vetmed offers comprehensive pet care services, with four clinic locations across the Eastern Suburbs and the Northern Beaches, including Lindfield, Randwick, Forestville, and Northbridge.