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When You Will Be Away
by Karen E Nowak
Leaving your animals while being away for an extended period can cause
stress for all involved. Whether you will be away from home for a few days
or a few weeks, the fact remains the same, you will be breaking routine. Our
animals become accustom to routine, not only ours, but theirs as well. The
following guidelines will assist in a smoother transition for your animal
while you are away.
*Tell your animals ahead of time you will be gone. They feel what you
feel and will understand there is going to be a change.
*Assure yourself that you are taking care of their needs,
they will take their lead from you.
*If the animal is to be boarded at a facility, let them know their
stay there will be
temporary. If you are ok with it, they will be as well, again they will take
their lead from you.
*If a pet sitter is coming in while you are away, make sure they are
reputable, and your animal is comfortable with them. If you have doubts,
find someone else.
* If the animal is on medication, make sure there is more than enough on
hand.
*If you are unsure about how your animal feels about your leaving,
contact an animal communicator in advance of the separation and give both of
you peace of mind.
*Make sure the person who is taking care of them has a copy of pertinent
phone numbers.
* Post one list in an obvious location should someone new need to find
it.
*On your posted list you should have:
* More than one phone number where you can be reached.
*Two veterinarians phone numbers, should the first not be available.
*The phone numbers of back up people, should the original person not be
able to fulfill what is required of them.
* If the animal is on medication leave written information on how it is
administered and when, also where it will be kept.
*Make sure clear instructions are posted, with yours and your
animals wishes, should any life threatening situations
arise in your absence.
Your animal will do well if you take steps to ensure they are prepared.
How you are handling the separation will be felt by your animal. If you
place worry about their care into the situation, they will feel it. Send
love to them from your heart, letting them know all is well.
Should the reason you will be away be for a hospital stay, or another
stressful situation, share the emotions you are feeling in your heart. Let
them know this is stressful, but above all make sure they know they will be taken
care of, and that you are taking care of yourself. Make provisions should
you no longer be responsible for their care. It is less difficult on your
animals if you tell them what is going on and what you are feeling, than it
is if you try to "protect" them. If they are feeling what you are not
sharing or admitting to yourself, it is more difficult for both of you.
No matter what the situation is, the basic facts remain the same, it is
easier on you and your animal if you share what you are feeling, in
your heart.
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