Caring for your pets these Christmas holidays

Published on 20 December 2019

Pet owners are reminded to put preparations in place for their animals during the Christmas and New Year period.

Extra visitors to the area, summer weather and New Year’s Eve fireworks displays can make the Christmas and New Year period stressful for dogs and cats.

“Our pets are part of our family, so it is important to look after our animals during what is traditionally a busy time of year,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“If you are going away during the Christmas holiday period and your pet cannot be properly cared for, please ensure they are placed in a boarding facility or arrange for someone to look after them.

“Hot conditions also mean extra steps are needed to keep our pets cool, safe and healthy. Please ensure your pets have sufficient water, food and shelter from the heat and are provided with toys to prevent problem behaviours such as roaming and barking.”

Animal owners are also encouraged to make the final hours of 2019 and the start of 2020 as stress-free as possible for their animals.

“Cohuna and Kerang are becoming renowned for their New Year’s Eve fireworks displays, but the noise can be confronting for animals,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“Dog and horse owners are encouraged to ensure their animals are secure and comfortable during fireworks displays.”

Further information on caring for your pet during firework displays is available from the RSPCA Victoria website.

“It is also important to ensure your contact details for your animal’s microchip record are up to date in the event your pet goes missing,” Mayor Learmonth said.

If you are unsure of the microchip registry for your cat or dog‘s microchip record, please visit www.petaddress.com.au, contact Council on (03) 5450 9333 or visit your local vet.