Pet Sitter.............Obviously the first option which was to have a person visit every other day is not going to work with a dog. However, it may work if you have a person or persons come in to let your dog out and feed and walk two or three times a day. A friend or several friends or family members could do this, taking turns or you could hire a pet sitter. A pet sitter could become a bit pricey if they are coming to your home three times a day for a week or so. It is an option however, but your dog would still need to be comfortable being alone for longer periods of time and overnight.
Considerations when employing a sitter
Other preparations I think should take place is to take the dog to the pet sitters for a visit before being left. This way the dog will not be completely in unfamiliar territory. I say, take a look around outside to make sure that the backyard is secure if they have one, so the dog can go out in the yard and not get out under the fence. It’s always a good idea to bring all of the dog’s familiar things. Blanket, bed, toys, bowls and of course their leashes and harness or collar.
And one of the biggest things I run into all the time is someone coming in looking to get food for the dog they are looking after, having no idea what it is because the pet parents didn’t leave enough food or treats for the dog. Make sure you have left the sitter more than enough food and treats or at the very least, leave them the info of what food your pet eats and where to get it. This applies to the cat as well.
And it is a good idea to remember that your dog could easily be upset for a few days and not want to eat or have a bout of the scoots. Let the sitter know that this is a possibility and it isn’t anything to really worry about unless it persists. In this case your emergency contact info should be very clearly given and who your vet is, their phone number and their address.