Traveling with your dog

You are allowed to take your breeder dog on vacation with you if the dog is not needed by Guiding Eyes during the period you are gone. If you have a stud dog, inquire with the Brood Stud Manager 10 days before, and re-confirm 2 days before, your departure that the dog will not be needed while you are gone. If the dog will be needed, he will stay at the Breeding Kennel for the duration of your trip. If you have a brood dog that comes into heat while you are on vacation, you will be expected to promptly transport her to the Breeding Kennel.

Arranging for a sitter

When you must travel, but cannot bring your dog with you, you are responsible for using the sitter network to locate an approved sitter. Breeding dogs cannot be boarded at the Breeding Kennel except in cases of family emergencies.

The sitter network is comprised of foster families that have agreed to sit dogs in their homes. The dogs get the same quality care and training that they receive at home, and they are not exposed to viruses and pathogens from outside kennels. Periodically, the Brood/Stud department distributes a list of approved sitters and contact information to the foster volunteers.

It is vital to plan and arrange for a sitter well in advance of vacations and trips, especially during peak travel periods, summers, and holidays.

If the sitter has another dog in their house, it is prudent to arrange a play date before the planned sit. It allows the sitter to make sure your dog will be a good house guest while you are away, and that the dogs are compatible.

Using out-of-network sitters

It is acceptable to use a sitter not in the network only if they have been educated in the care and safekeeping of our broods and studs.

Out-of-Network Sitters:

• must be familiar with proper leash walking, feeding, and safety
• must be prepared to transport the dog to the CDC, should the need arise, for breeding, heat cycles, or vet appointments
• may not have another dog in the home that is unhealthy, not fully vaccinated, or unable to interact appropriately with the breeding dog

You provide to sitters:

• the dog’s food, leash, and any special toys
• any necessary medications
• any other equipment the sitter may need
• the procedure for obtaining medical care if needed
• all necessary contact information regarding emergencies, health issues, or a lost dog
• transportation to the sitter and drop-off and pick-up times that are mutually agreed upon

Guiding Eyes sitter notification

You must e-mail the Brood/Stud Program with complete information prior to taking the dog to the sitter, including the name, location, and contact information for the sitter and the dates that your dog will be with the sitter.