With Christmas and the New Year approaching, many of us are thinking of travelling abroad or heading home to see family and friends.
Regardless of whether you spend the holidays at home or elsewhere this year, it’s important to remember our furry, feathered and scaly friends and to be a responsible pet owner.
Be responsible for your pets
Here are some ideas to help with responsible pet ownership:
- Make sure your pet’s registration is up to date. Find out more
- Micro-chipping your pet means you are far more likely to get it back if it strays and is lost
- De-sex your pet to reduce health complications and avoid contributing to the stray population.
It’s coming up to Christmas, and if you are thinking about getting a kitten or puppy for yourself, your children or as a gift for a friend, make sure you or your friend is prepared to give the new family member all the care they will need for their lifetime.
You could also consider visiting one of Auckland Council’s three animal shelters to find one that would love a home.
Leaving on holiday
It’s likely your pet can’t stand the thought of you leaving them behind, and chances are you don’t want to leave them either. Before you hit the road, make sure you plan ahead.
If pet-friendly accommodation is not available at your chosen holiday spot, scout out trustworthy pet hotels or arrange for a sitter.
Make sure your cat has enough food, drink and stimulation, give your goldfish plenty of water, buy a fan for your budgie, and find the best sunlit spot in the house for your pet rock.
Tips for dog owners
Many places across Auckland are dog-friendly, but some restrict pets to leads or specific hours, or ban them to protect native birds. Check when the access hours are at your favourite beach.
Summer is the best time to get out and about for a dog but it’s also important to share the space with others by making sure to keep your dog under control at all times. Exercising off-leash is great fun, but if your dog won’t come when you call, it is better to keep them on-leash.
We all value our environment so always pick up after your dog and dispose of the waste appropriately.
Never leave your dog in a parked car, and always take extra care when travelling in cars with your pet this summer.
Provide shade and carry water for your pets too. Watch for signs of dehydration such as rapid panting, drooling, lethargy, loose skin or bloodshot eyes.
Most dogs love attention but sometimes it can get too much – especially when there are children around. Make sure to give your pet a break from children and/or excessive excitement, speak to children who may be new to your dog about how they should interact with it, and don’t leave children unattended with a dog.
You can read more about being a responsible dog owner on the Auckland Council website.
