Planning a short getaway should be an exciting and stress-free experience. But if you’ve ever had to leave your home unattended for an extended period of time, you know how difficult it can be to manage all the details. From managing pets who can’t stay at home alone to setting up a security system, there are a lot of things to consider.
More importantly, failing to plan for your home during your absence could affect not only the success of your getaway but also your belongings and loved ones. So it’s time to consider smart strategies to keep your home and pets safe for the weekend. Bear in mind that some of these options will be ineffective if you stay away from home for longer than a couple of nights.
Have a plan for your pets
If you have pets who can’t stay at home alone while you are away, it is important to find a good kennel or cattery for them. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and don’t be afraid to take the time to visit the place before committing.
When looking for a kennel or cattery for your pet, you may want to contact the local animal shelter or animal rescue organization, as they are usually able to give referrals and advice. It is important to know that if your pet is used to staying at home while you are away, you may want to consider having them board in a familiar setting. Many boarding facilities offer a daycare service which ensures pets can build trust with the team. This way, your pet can become accustomed to the facility and can get used to the environment and the people who will be taking care of them while you are away. Having a familiar environment may also help reduce anxiety and stress levels for your pet while you are away.
If you have pets who can stay at home alone, like fish or chickens, an automatic feeder for chicken pens or for your fish tank can be helpful. Automatic feeders provide regular meals, so your pet gets their required food even when you are not around to feed them. However, it is important to make sure that the feeder has enough food for your pet for the entire duration of your getaway.
Don’t neglect your houseplants
You don’t want to come home to find your houseplants dead from lack of care when you're away for a few days. It’s important to plan ahead for the health and safety of your houseplants while you’re away. An automatic watering system can make a huge difference. Also, keeping your potted plants indoors during your getaway is essential, as this will protect them from unexpected weather events.
Manage your lights
Adding a timer to your lights is an easy way to make it look like someone is at home when you are not. This helps keep your property safe from potential intruders and gives the impression that there is an active presence in the home.
You can also use this to your advantage if you have motion-sensor lights outside. Having them set up to turn on during certain hours or times of day will help deter any potential intruders and give the appearance that someone is watching the property.
In addition, having a timer set up for certain indoor lights can help to create a more homely atmosphere, which can be especially beneficial if you have pets or house plants that you want to keep healthy while you’re away.
Add a security system
Adding a security system to your home is a great way to ensure your property remains safe while you are away. A security system can include motion-detection cameras, alarm systems, and even remote monitoring capabilities so you can monitor your home from any location. Not only does this help keep your property secure, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that if something were to happen to your property while you are away, it would be detected and monitored quickly.
Check-in with your neighbors
It’s always a good idea to let your neighbors know that you are going away. You don’t need to give them an itinerary, but it’s important to let them know that you won’t be around for a while. Doing this can help reduce risks to your property and also provide them with the opportunity to look out for any suspicious activities in and around your house. They may be able to notice and report any strange people or vehicles that may be loitering near your property. Additionally, they can keep an eye out for any packages delivered while you’re away and make sure they are safe and secure. Having your neighbors aware of your absence can provide a level of security to your home and peace of mind that it will be well looked after while you’re away.
Have a house sitter
For some people, leaving their pets alone is simply not an option. This can make it tricky if your pets can’t be boarded by a specialist carer. House sitters can care for your pets while you’re away. Not only will they feed and play with your furry family members, but they will also make sure that all pets are safe and comfortable while you’re gone. So they can get in touch with a vet if required.
Besides, house sitters can take care of any plants or gardens that need attention. As they sleep in your home, you don’t have to worry about your empty property attracting opportunistic criminals.
Enjoy your getaway!
After all the preparations have been made, it’s time to enjoy your getaway! Planning ahead and organizing everything you need to manage your property while away will give you the peace of mind needed to really relax and enjoy your time away. Remember that you’ve taken the steps to protect your property, so now it’s time for you to take care of yourself too. Have a great getaway!
Homeowners, plant parents, and pet lovers struggle to leave their homes for a few days. Unfortunately, when you can’t take your pets or plants with you, planning for your absence is essential to have a successful, relaxing, and enjoyable getaway!
*contributed post*
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