As we prepare for vacation, we pack towels, baby food, and clothes, but we also need to make arrangements for our pets.

We have three dogs, three horses, two cats, four chickens, two ducks and a peacock (yes, I said a peacock) that we need looked after while we are away.

Luckily, we live next to my parents. They are great to watch over our “herd.” But, most people are not that fortunate. So you need to plan early for Fido.

If you have no family to look out for him, are you going to take him with you or are you going to leave him behind? If he is going with you, are you going to stay in a dog friendly hotel or are you staying with friends?

Always make sure Fido is welcome before you get there. When you get there, what are you going to do with him? Will he be with you at all times, or will you need to pack a crate for when you go out?

If you are going to leave him behind, where are you going to leave Fido? If you have a trustworthy neighbor or friend, you might be able to ask a favor or pay them to let your dog out several times a day and to care for him.

If someone is going to watch your dog, leave detailed information with them. Leave them ways to get a hold of you in the event of an emergency. This might be a cell phone number, hotel information, or they may be able to use Facebook to contact you.

Let them know what to feed him and how often. If he is on medication, have it laid out and ready for the sitter to give. Have his veterinarian’s information available. Make sure the sitter has the availability to pay for an emergency.

It may be a good idea to leave a credit card so they will be covered. If you can trust them with your best friend, you can trust them with a credit card.

If you are going to board Fido, decide where early. Good boarding facilities stay booked up. I like boarding at our veterinarian’s office, because they are prepared for emergencies and can take immediate action.

If you are going to use another type of facility, check to see what their emergency procedures are. If Fido gets sick or injured, do they automatically seek attention or do they contact you first.

Preparing early will make vacation better for everyone.

Remember, every dog deserves to be treated like a show dog.

Tony and Kate Barker are certified pet groomers who own and operate The BARKer Shop in Ironton. For questions, call 740-534-0088.