A short-notice deployment can significantly impact your life and that of your pet. However, just like anything else related to a deployment or other temporary duty (TDY), the preparation work is everything when it comes to successful pet care.
Family is usually the best option for pet care, especially if something comes up short notice. As an example, a friend of mine had the chance to fill a school slot when the selectee got three broken ribs from a car crash. She had eight days to get everything together and find someone to look after her dog.
Fortunately, she had a brother with two kids and no pets. By the time she got back three months later, the dog was fat and happy, but she had to break her nephews' hearts when she took back 'their' dog. Those kids held a grudge for years.
Friends are great for short-term care. If the TDY is only a few days or a week or two, your caregiver can even stay in your home to give your pet a little more comfort. This is also a good solution for a ski weekend or other short trips.
Kennels can be a good option for Deployments and TDYs of any length. You have a care contract that can include everything. I do mean everything; not too long ago, one of my kids boarded their dog for a week. When she returned home, she discovered the kennel had not removed her collar for the entire time. It's not good for a dog with a short-haired, wiry coat. The sore on her neck healed quickly, but the owners tried to shift the blame since removing the collar regularly was not in the contract instructions.
Regardless of which option you choose, make sure you can cover the costs. Family especially wants to help out, but the cost of food adds up quickly, and a single trip to the vet can punch a hole in anyone's budget.
One final piece of advice: Plan ahead before deciding to adopt or buy a pet. If you are on a controlled tour or a staff job, then a last-minute deployment is unlikely. The same goes for training courses and service schools. Even with that, it's still best to have a friend or family member already signed up and ready to go before you begin looking for a furry companion.
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