That awkward time of year again - which dog/s to take on holiday and which to kennel

Which dog or dogs do I take on holiday with us

In years gone by it was easy.

Fingal and Skye were inseparable. We either took them both or neither.

When we got Breagh she was the odd one out so she came away with us when only one dog was managable.

That's the way it's been for a few years but now things have changed and we're off to the holiday cottage on Saturday.

Things have changed becaue we no longer have Fingal but we have Skye (15) Breagh (6) and Mij (8 months)

I've a double kennel booked for a week.

Do I take:

Breagh:

The cottage has been her second home for years.
Her recall is perfect
She knows the place inside and out.
She's OK with sheep and deer.
She's fine hopping in and out of the car.
She is happy left in the cottage or the car.

Skye:

He's deaf so whilst he's fine at home I'm concerned about him out and about.
In and out of the car will be a struggle.
Deer and sheep and obvious recall issues.
Too much walking for him.

Mij:

There's a good chance he could be a nightmare in a 'new' place.
He still chews
Sheep / deer - unknown at this stage

Mij also came away last time for the weekend so it's his first go at kennels.

So Mij stays.

Do I take Breagh or Skye ?

Part of me wants to take Skye as it may be his last holiday but part of me thinks that he'd enjoy a rest. Mij would also benefit from having his big buddy with him and Breagh would be the easiest to take.

When I use my head it's Breagh all the way but using my heart I'd like to take Skye to our cottage as he's never been because of Fingal.

Lunchtime tomorrow I'm taking Mij and Skye to the kennels but if I let my heart rule my head I'd likto take Breagh an Mij.

I just feel it's too much for Skye

I vote Skye... but then on the other hand it may be too much for him. But then again, if he's the only dog going it may be a nice break for him too

I'd love to take Skye Azz.

It's a big wild open loch side with deer and sheep and he's deaf.

He's also never been before because he needed to stay with Fingal who could never have come.

Mij must stay - it's his first kennel trial.

I have to think about who is best staying with Mij.

I take all my dogs on holiday with me even when I had 6, bought a caravan to make taking it easier, I don't have to worry about dog hairs were they shouldn't be and it doesn't take long to give it a good clean when I am home.

Heart over head Phil - I know how much you would love to take Skye, but heart over head says take Breagh.

Skye does not know the area and being deaf will not help him, plus he is used to being left, albeit previously with Fingal. My thoughts are best leave him with Mij.

I know that whatever you do you will worry that you will have done the wrong thing, but Mij has to have his first trial at kennels whoever he is with. And I think that it will be better for Skye to be left for the reasons I have mentioned above.

Good luck in whatever you decide.

Here's my opinion for what it's worth.

Take Breagh, it's easier all round for all the reasons you've stated.

If your gut feeling is that it's too much for Skye, then it probably is.

Mij can have a first go at the kennels, which is always a good idea, just in case he has to be kennelled in an emergency.

It's your holiday and doing what's easiest all round will ensure that you relax more ( I hope )

Whatever you decide, have a fabulous break x

From my Skye to yours ..... Heart says Skye, head says breagh! Have a great break whatever you decide. P.s brilliant names

I'd say Skye,but then I would
Breagh is the only real answer though when it comes down to it.Besides Skye is the best babysitter and he'll take care of the pup.Try not to feel bad,you deserve a break
Enjoy

Thanks folks

Decision made I feel.

Mij came away with us visiting family a few months ago and Skye came the time before that.

Breagh will come this time and Skye can have a week's rest looking after Mij. He might even teach him some manners lol

They all get turns at coming with us depending on where we go but I feel with 4 kids (3 small) to keep an eye on, Breagh is the best option this time around.

I'll be sure to add some pics once we're home.

Good for you Phil
Be sure and take them back some pressies