The holiday season is a joyful yet chaotic time filled with travel, visits with family, hosting gatherings, and endless to-do lists. For pet owners, this often means you have to make a decision about who will care for your pet if you need to travel this holiday season. Whether you’re heading out of town or simply expecting a busy schedule, choosing the right holiday pet care options ensures your pet stays happy, safe, and comfortable throughout the season.

Two of the most popular choices for pet parents in Newark, Delaware, are in-home pet sitting and in-home dog boarding, a cozy alternative to traditional kennel-style boarding. Both offer personalized care, but they suit different types of pets and different holiday schedules.

This guide will help you weigh your options, so you can confidently choose the best care for your furry family member.

 

What Holiday Pet Sitting Includes

Pet sitting allows your dog, cat, or exotic pet to stay in the comfort of their own home while a professional sitter visits daily or stays overnight. During the holidays, decorations, guests, and unpredictable schedules disrupt routines, and many pets seek the comfort and familiarity of home.

Benefits of Holiday Pet Sitting

• Reduced stress: When you keep your pet in their own environment, it helps them feel secure and allows them to maintain their regular routine.
• Great for cats and independent dogs: Especially those who dislike travel or adapting to new surroundings.
• Ideal for senior pets or pets with medical needs who need stability.
• Home security perks: Pet sitters can bring in packages, rotate lights, and keep your home looking occupied while you’re away
• Quiet and personalized care: Perfect for shy or anxious pets.

When Pet Sitting May Not Be a Good Fit

Pet sitting may not work well if your pet needs:

• More frequent and consistent company
• They have high energy that thrives on social interaction.
• You have a puppy who needs constant supervision or structured play.

If your pet needs more stimulation or if you’re traveling for longer periods, in-home boarding may be a better option for your holiday pet care.

What In-Home Boarding Provides

Instead of going to a large boarding facility, in-home dog boarding places your pet in a sitter’s home, offering a warm, relaxed environment where they’re treated like part of the family. This approach gives pets personalized attention without the stress of a busy kennel. Check out our in-home boarding services here.

During the holidays, in-home boarding can feel like a vacation for your dog. They enjoy companionship, playtime, and supervision while experiencing the comforts of a real home.

Benefits of In-Home Boarding for the Holidays

• A home away from home: No kennels, cages, or loud environments.
• 24/7 companionship: Your dog stays with a caregiver who offers supervision during the day.
• Social enrichment: Great for friendly dogs who love interacting with humans and sometimes other pets in the household.
• Consistency and structure: In- home boarding provides a predictable routine, feeding times, potty breaks, walks, and plenty of cuddles.
• Safe and comfortable: Perfect for pets who dislike isolation but don’t enjoy the stress of a traditional boarding facility.
• Holiday fun: Many pet sitters include fun things like cozy beds, holiday treats, or festive photo updates through apps like Pet Sitter Plus.

Potential Cons to In-Home Boarding

• Not really ideal for cats, who often prefer staying in their own home.
• May not suit dogs who are territorial or reactive toward unfamiliar environments.
• Availability can be limited, especially during the holiday season. This option provides more personalized care, so spots usually fill much earlier than traditional boarding.

Tips for Choosing the Best Holiday Pet Care

• Meet your sitter or boarding host beforehand to ensure it’s a good match.
• Ask holiday-specific questions about availability, routines, emergency procedures, and how many pets they care for at once.
• Book early: Holiday pet care options fill quickly—sometimes months in advance.
• Consider your pet’s comfort level with travel, strangers, and new environments.
• Pay attention to your pet’s behavior during meet-and-greets; trust their instincts.

Choosing the Perfect Holiday Care

Choosing the proper care option during the holidays depends on your pet’s personality, needs, and your travel plans. Some pets thrive staying comfortable at home with a sitter, while others enjoy the warmth and companionship of in-home boarding. By planning ahead, you can ensure your pet enjoys a peaceful, loving holiday season, even if you’re celebrating from afar.

Exploring your holiday pet care options early gives you peace of mind and guarantees your pet receives the attention they deserve while you enjoy your festivities. If you’re planning holiday travel, now is the perfect time to secure a trusted sitter or in-home boarding spot so your pet can enjoy their own holiday vacation.