Hello! I would like advice on how to take care of our dogs when we go away. We have two dogs in our house. We are going away for 4 days, and wonder if they would be happier staying at home alone (with a dog sitter making visits 3 times a day) of if they would be happier being boarded at a kennel while we're gone. Any advice? Thanks!

I distrust those that claim to really understand what is going on in those furry little heads. I would vote for the sitter as long as you know the person well, and they share your ideas of proper dog care. If you don't let your dogs run loose, eat table food, and sleep on the furniture, make sure the sitter doesn't think it is OK.

Kennels are a mixed lot. I am very happy with the one we use occasionally. Still, it is different people, a different place, and maybe different food. The kennel may house the dogs separately denying them play time with each other that they enjoy. If you use a kennel, check it out. If you are not welcome where the dogs are housed, it may be filthy and flea infested. Do not leave your dogs in one that fails to demand documentation of being up to date on shots.

Usually we take the puppies we are raising for the dog guide school with us when we travel. If not, they often visit other people in the program. Here is a link to a picture of a friends Lab enjoying a visit with the Shepherd we had that year, http://www.photolocker.net/images/La...lagretchen.jpg. Ella had other dogs in her house, but they were old ones that didn't enjoy puppy play.

Labman, thanks for the advice. The dogs in the photo are adorable!