by Shelia West

Created on: November 27, 2008   Last Updated: December 23, 2008

It's so hard leaving a loved one behind. But what if that loved one is your dog or cat? Who will care for it while you are serving your country? Many military people don't think about this until faced with the problem of what to do with a beloved pet.

The best solution for the pet is for someone in the family to take him. However, even this can cause problems. Many pets do not respond well to changes in ownership. They have no way of knowing that it is only temporary. They may exhibit aggressive behavior which might frightened people, especially those with kids. To help alleviate this, the owner should try to let their pet get acquainted with the new family before the actual move. The more familiar the pet is with his future caretakers, the easier for all concerned.

Another solution would be to find a foster home for your pet. Check with your friends to see if any of them would be willing to care for the pet while you are away. Explain that you would pay for food and expenses, such as vet visits. Many times friends will be willing to help you out since they know that you will be back to get the pet. Again, let the pet get familiar with his foster home before you leave.

A third and more expensive solution would be to advertise for someone to care for the pet while you are deployed. You would have to pay for food and expenses, as well as some compensation to the caregiver. Check out the person before you just hand your trusting friend over to him or her. See what kind of living arrangements the pet would have. Ask for weekly updates and photos. And arrange for the pet to be seen by your vet every four to six weeks. That way you can confirm with the vet whether or not the pet is being cared for properly.

The last and least favorable solution would be a kennel. This is not a good place for a pet to live. A kennel should only be a temporary solution. If you must leave your pet there, continue searching for a better solution.

Pets give us unconditional love. Show your love for him by providing good care while you are away.

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