Why mischievous pets seem to misbehave more over Christmas holidays
PET owners are being urged to spare a thought this Christmas for their furry, feathered and scaly companions.
RSPCA Victoria animal care manager Liz Walker said animals tended to become naughtier over the festive season.
“We get so wrapped up in the preparation and then on the day we get into food comas, and they see it as a perfect opportunity to be more mischievous,” Dr Walker said.
She said while owners needed to be vigilant year-round, it was particularly critical over the holidays.
Dr Walker said it was important to think about food-based presents under the Christmas tree, such as chocolates and nuts, which are harmful to the animals, because they can smell them.
She warned tinsel lovers of the choking hazard and fairy light fans of the potential for the cord to be chewed — recommending enrichment toys for distractions and cord protectors.
Dr Walker said checking social media and the newspaper for fireworks displays could aid preparations for pets with noise phobias.
“You can lock them up or buy them a thunder T-shirt (a snug top which combats anxiety),” she said.
She said putting out lots of freshwater bowls was vital to beating the heat and essential for long days spent on their own.
Dr Walker also reminded owners to keep their pets’ microchip details up-to-date and ensure their council ID tags were on at all times.
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She said those considering buying a pet for a Christmas present should do their research.
“I would give a gift voucher (from the RSPCA) and let the person pick their own animal when they want to in their own time.
“You need to be very sure that’s what they want and they are ready for the time and financial commitments and that they are actually allowed to have one.”
Petbarn also had a few tips for the warmer weather.
These included ensuring pets were well-hydrated by popping a couple of ice cubes into bowls to keep the water cooler for longer, maintaining shade and avoiding exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
The pet retailer recommended maintaining the animal’s coats, applying pet-friendly sunscreen if needed and looking out for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, lethargy, salivation and vomiting.
PET SAFETY
• Don’t put food-based presents under the Christmas tree
• Make sure plenty of water is available, especially when they are left on their own
• Check local listings for fireworks and lock animals inside when fireworks are happening
• Be careful of choking hazards, including tinsel and fairy lights
• Ensure pet remains hydrated, maintain shade and avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day
• Maintain the animal’s coat, apply sunscreen and look out for signs of heat stroke
• Resist giving pets food scraps
• Update microchip details and council ID tags