Summer has finally come around, bringing with it plans for holidays and getaways with family and friends. For pet owners, it means upheavals and changing routines. Our furry friends are used to having us around and to our daily grind, so they’re very sensitive to the slightest change. That means there’s no way we can just leave them, guilt-free. Some of your options? Asking a neighbour to pop in to feed your cat, paying a friend to walk your dog or looking for pet-friendly accommodation when booking your holiday. Not an option? Leaving your pet home alone, neglected, whether you’re off for 48 hours or 2 weeks.

In Portugal, you may face up to 6 months in prison for abandoning your pet, as per the penal code and article 388 of Decree-Law No. 48/95, which has been in force since October 2014. Nowadays, there are so many options when it comes to making sure our pets are looked after, from cat or dog hotels to people who provide pet-sitting services, there’s no reason not to. Because, let’s face it, sometimes we need a break from the responsibilities that come with being a pet owner too! You know that distance really does make the heart grow fonder, so when you come back, you’ll be able to give them your full attention and appreciation.