Keep your pets safe this holiday season

The holiday season can be overwhelming for animals and a full house can be quite intimidating. There’s a lot going on, and plenty of trouble to get into. Here are a few suggestions for how you can put your pet at ease and keep them safe so that they can enjoy this time as well.

  • Make time during the day to simply spend time with your pet and keep to their normal routine as much as possible.
  • Make sure they have a safe and comfortable retreat area away from the hustle and bustle.
  • Noise can scare your pet. Christmas crackers and corks popping could panic your pet.
  • Please choose pet specific food treats. Human food can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, or worse, poison your pet or become a medical or surgical emergency. Beware your pet getting into chocolate, nuts, fatty foods and bones.
  • Buy your pet’s Christmas present from a reputable pet shop or veterinary clinic, and keep your pet away from children’s toys.
  • Keep them away from decorations and wrapping paper, electrical cords and lights.
  • Several festive plants are attractive and poisonous to cat, including lilies and poinsettia.
  • Keep your pets cool. If you’re outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of water. NEVER leave your dog in the car or any enclosed space where they can overheat. Animals that get too hot can die – fast.
  • If you’re going away and taking your pet, make sure they travel safely and securely, have rest and toilet breaks, and the opportunity to have a drink.
  • If you’re leaving them in boarding facilities, make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date. Don’t leave it until the last minute! If you find your pet is due for a vaccination whilst you’re away, call your vet now to book an appointment.
  • If you’re leaving them at home, make sure the person staying with them or checking on them daily has yours and your veterinarian’s contact number on hand. 
  • If your pet has a prescription medicine or diet, check that there will be enough to cover your time away.

Last but not least, help spread the message that pets are for life, not just for Christmas. Never support the giving of animals as a surprise gift.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

Otaki Animal Health

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