Pet hotels do roaring holiday trade

She recommended that owners who have to leave home for a long period board their pets.

"They can be under observation, so any diseases can be detected and intervention done in time," Dong said.

"However, the pets must be properly vaccinated and have active antibodies for common diseases before they are put in a communal living environment," she added.

For owners who have to leave their pets at home, Dong suggested they set up a surveillance camera to monitor their behavior and deal with any emergency.

"Enough space should be available for them at home, and sufficient food and water should be prepared and within the pet's reach, along with some toys," she said.

House calls by friends or professional care should be arranged, especially for dogs, at least twice a day, Dong added.