Keeping your pets safe this holiday season

It’s holiday time and in the excitement about festivities and fun it may be easy to forget the effects holidays can have on our pets. 

“There are many pets in our area and this is a reminder for owners that holidays can be a stressful time for pets, so now is a good time to think about your animal’s welfare,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. “High volumes of visitors, loud noises and parties mean it is important for residents to look after their pets ensuring we all have a great holiday season.”

“With all the activities, excitement, fireworks and summer storms animals can become overwhelmed and do tend to wander from their home. It is important that all pet owners have secure fences and gates to ensure pets cannot escape when distressed,” said Cr Doolan. 

A great way to ensure your pets are safe when you go away is to have someone looking after them at home in the holidays. This is a good way to make sure your pets are getting fresh food, water, regular exercise and attention, and don’t go wandering. 

If you are travelling with pets this summer, make sure they are restrained safely in the car or on the ute and be mindful of hot temperatures inside your car or on ute trays. Ensure you give your pets regular rest breaks during your trip so they can stay hydrated and stretch their legs. 

It is also important to remember animals cannot eat all the yummy treats and foods we do, so please be aware of the festive foods you may like to give your animals to avoid unnecessary illness for your animals and visits to the vets.

If you are planning on committing to a new pet please remember that puppies and kittens may be a nice Christmas gift but are a lifelong commitment with responsibilities including microchipping, desexing and registering your animals.  

Consider adopting a pet from a pound or shelter to reduce pressure on resources and reduce euthanasia rates. Council’s Webpage and Facebook Page have a list of animals available for adoption, alternatively you can phone council Compliance Officers to enquire on (02) 6849 2000. 

“Pets are part of our families as well, so please ensure you take responsibility and keep them safe over this holidays period,” Cr Doolan concluded. 

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Last Updated: 14 Dec 2023