You might be wondering: Home / Industry / Study Shows Dog Owners Struggle to Enjoy Vacations Without Their Pets

The survey revealed that 40% of participants frequently worry about their dog’s well-being while traveling.
Pets are often regarded as cherished family members by many individuals.
However, not all family members can accompany adults on vacations or trips far from home.
A recent study has highlighted that dog owners miss their pets so much that it can considerably diminish the pleasure of their travels without them.
This research was conducted by Talker Research,a company specializing in polling and research services aimed at generating data-driven insights and headlines in both English and Spanish.
The researchers carried out two online surveys involving a total of 2,000 dog owners between April 28 and May 5, 2025, and again from June 11 to June 16, 2025.
The results showed that nearly half (40%) of respondents consistently worry about whether their dogs are okay while they are away. Additionally, over one-fifth (22%) admitted that missing their dogs affects how much they enjoy their trips. On average, pet owners think about their furry friends approximately thirteen times each day when traveling.Interestingly enough, it takes an average of just under an hour for them to start feeling homesick for their pets. Moreover, around one-fifth of those surveyed have requested pet sitters to video call them so they could see and interact wiht their dogs during the trip.
This survey was commissioned by K9 Hotels Luxury Pet Hotel which was established in Fanwood, New Jersey in 2005 and currently operates across forty-seven locations including Chandler and Scottsdale.
The Prescott area boasts several boarding options for pet owners such as Doggie Dude Ranch located on Willow Creek Highway.This facility has been serving the community for over four decades as Prescott’s original dog boarding establishment. They offer various services including animal boarding (for dogs, cats & small animals), daycare facilities and also grooming services. Long-term pet boarding is also available here.
KJ Skiby who owns this facility shared insights regarding some questions posed during the Talker Research study concerning whether clients wish to communicate with their pets via phone or video calls while away on vacation.
“It’s less common than you might expect,” Skiby noted. “For new clients I always recommend a complimentary first-time daycare session so they can see how enjoyable it is indeed here; this helps both the owners feel at ease knowing where they’re leaving them.” He added that often upon returning for subsequent visits many dogs show excitement upon arriving back at the facility due to having made new friends there.”
However some clients do reach out daily when they’re away; “Usually our established relationship makes these calls unnecessary because most times our guests are too busy enjoying themselves,” Skiby explained further adding “I assure them there’s no need for concern.”
Caring For Dogs While Owners Are Away: A Priority
The findings underscore how crucial it is for dog owners to ensure proper care is provided while they’re gone which helps alleviate anxiety surrounding leaving pets behind during travel plans.
Pet parents often express concerns regarding whether animals receive adequate exercise socialization mental stimulation affection etc., leading up towards departure dates.To assist with tracking care details related specifically towards each animal behavior notes feeding instructions medication management etc., care cards may be utilized linking directly back towards specific kennels housing particular animals.
Skiby elaborated saying “One major concern we encounter involves compatibility issues among different breeds.” When such situations arise he mentioned noting these instances down using ‘DNP’ (do not pair) tags ensuring those pups remain separated until acclimated properly into playgroups designed specifically tailored around individual needs.”
Many pet parents experience guilt associated with leaving behind beloved companions; “Frequently enough it’s more challenging emotionally on behalf of humans than actual canine counterparts,” he remarked adding “dogs inherently thrive within packs thus regular visitors help socialize newcomers easing transitions immensely.”
Another local option Wags Pet Resort located along East Florentine Highway specializes exclusively catering solely towards canine clientele offering group playtime outdoor courtyards training sessions spa treatments etc.
Kerry Hunt General Manager commented regarding feelings experienced by customers when departing from furry friends stating: “It truly varies based upon attachment levels formed between owner & pup.” Some individuals find relief knowing quality care awaits allowing relaxation throughout personal getaways whereas others prefer constant access thru live-streaming cameras monitoring suites occupied by pooches.”
Hunt continued explaining emotional aspects involved saying: “Dropping off your fur baby feels akin sending off your child into kindergarten especially if it’s first time visiting us.” She emphasized importance reassuring families showcasing facilities providing tours highlighting commitment ensuring top-notch service delivered consistently across boardings.”
Concerns also arise surrounding overall health nutrition being provided whilst staying away from home base—at Wags patrons supply own meals prepared according specifications outlined beforehand e.g., morning lunch evening feedings treats if applicable.”
Meanwhile Woof Woof Ranch situated along East Cheyenne Springs Highway run privately owned Giselle Hall alongside her husband accommodating up-to thirty-five canine guests simultaneously.
Hall shared common worries expressed amongst clientele include issues like lack-of appetite hyperactivity around other pups adjusting difficulties adapting pack dynamics typically accustomed single-dog households previously experienced prior stays elsewhere.”
Her observations indicate roughly one-third check-in regularly seeking updates concerning acclimatization progress made as arrival indicating strong parental instincts similar caring behaviors exhibited toward children wanting only best outcomes possible nonetheless circumstances faced daily life challenges encountered together moving forward positively!
There exist numerous strategies available enhancing overall wellbeing amongst beloved companions primarily focusing strengthening bonds forged between human caregivers & respective pooches involved therein!
“People should strive kindness fostering connections nurturing relationships built trust,” Hall advised emphasizing importance understanding emotions conveyed through interactions occurring naturally throughout everyday experiences shared together!”
The Talker Research study also compiled lists generated reflecting desires expressed among pet parents outlining activities believed contribute happiness levels seen within furry companions ranging extended walks endless ball tosses spacious yards homemade meals ample attention carrot treats large chewable bones rope swings swimming pools available playtime opportunities offered regularly!”
“Pets truly become part families so we empathize deeply understanding anxieties felt whenever traveling unable bring along beloved four-legged pals,” stated Steven Parker co-founder K9 Hotels expressing reassurance customers receive peace mind knowing exceptional staycation awaits loved ones left behind awaiting return journeys ahead!”
By Betsey Bruner | FBN
Courtesy Photo:The Woof Woof Ranch in Prescott Valley accommodates up-to thirty-five canine guests!