5 pet-sitting options

Ask yourself: How often will your dog get outdoor exercise? Does the kennel use your lead or provide its own? Does the kennel have an emergency plan to evacuate the animals in case of fire? What happens to your dog if he gets sick or injured? What's the policy for dealing with aggressive dogs? What vaccinations are required? (Reputable kennels will insist your dog be vaccinated against rabies, distemper and kennel cough.) How are the kennels cleaned between visits? Do the staff seem caring? Where will your animal be spending most of his time? How do the other animals react when you are checking out the place? Are dog beds placed up off the floor so water and waste material won't get on the animal? Can your dog jump over or dig under the fences? (Fenced areas for dogs should be at least 2.4 metres high.)

Advice: Visit several kennels well in advance of your departure. Good ones book up quickly. Go with your gut. You should be able to tell pretty quickly whether or not a particular kennel is right for your pet.

5. Vets
The scoop: Boarding your pet with your vet. Used mostly for cats, pets stay in caged kennels at an animal clinic.

Good for: Cats, birds, small dogs, and older animals who need medication or who have medical conditions.

Pros: Kitty is in a good environment if she gets sick or needs medication.

Cons: Not all vets offer boarding. Staff at busy veterinarian practices won't have a lot of time to spend with your pet. It's an unfamiliar place for your cat, which could increase stress. Animal clinics tend to be noisy as well, so if your pet doesn't cope well with stress, it may be best to find another option.

Price: $8 to $29 per cage. If you have two cats who get along, they can usually share one cage.

Ask yourself: How often will my pet be fed and her cage changed? Is there an extra charge for administering her medication?

Advice: Ask to see the area where your pet will be staying and to meet staff members who will care for your animal.