What to do with pets left at home for holidays?

Though Grandma may welcome the kids with open arms as families travel for holiday visits, bringing along the family pet may elicit a different response.

So what do you do when your canine buddy or feline pal can't join in the holiday fun? Here are some options:

Boarding Boarding is particularly popular among dog owners, but pet lovers advise booking early as slots in kennels and veterinarians' offices fill up early.

"I will take Gus [a bull mastiff] to Doguroo," said Stuart Krauss, a resident of Atlanta's Buckhead neighborhood. "He likes to play and enjoys the company of other dogs, so the social environment for him when he goes there is a lot of fun." Doguroo is one of many facilities in metro Atlanta that offer a variety of boarding and care services.

"We are a full-service dog care facility," said Doguroo co-owner Eileen Kelly.

"We've also partnered with Petwell Veterinary Service, which is in the same building we are," she said.

Kelly's company, like many others, requires boarding candidates to visit in advance to determine their compatibility in a canine group environment. Quality facilities also require proof of vaccines.

"We board both dogs and cats," said Lauren Lough, a veterinarian assistant at Briarcliff Animal Hospital. "Cats, unlike dogs, don't generally like to get out and play with other cats.

"But we do have the option of a daily 'happy hour,' if the pet owner wishes, so their cats can have exercise and interaction with a human," she said.

"Like the cats, the dogs also have time to get out. They can play in a covered run and are let out to use the bathroom -- generally twice daily -- or when needed," she said.

Professional pet sitters Pet sitters can be found through mutual friends or on websites such as www.petsitters.org.

"I have a longtime pet sitter I've worked with for many years," said Norcross, Ga., resident Laura Mason, the owner of an American tabby and a border collie.

Friends A good friend who gets along well with a pet may be the most economical option. There are multiple bonuses: You know the person, and the pet knows the individual, as well. Just make sure the friend is aware of where the food is kept, how much the pet eats and drinks daily, and whom to call in the event of an emergency.

Taking them with you If you do take Fido and are traveling by plane, talk with the airline about charges and potential hazards during transport. Air flight can be potentially traumatizing, and many airlines require sedation for the pet.

If you're driving, it can be fun, or a nightmare, pet owners said. Cats generally don't enjoy car rides, unless socialized from youth. If you're traveling in a car with an older, inexperienced cat, keep the cat safe in a kennel. Don't forget to bring a small portable litter box.

Generally, dogs see road trips as a fun outing.

"I always make sure I bring along doggie treats, chew toys and a pallet," Krauss said. "Sometimes soothing music can add to the experience. I've found it helps keep my dog calm. The important thing is to try and make them feel as much at home as possible, even though they're not." Another important consideration is if you're planning any overnight stays at a hotel.