With Easter holidays a popular time for taking a short break, residents are encouraged to take steps while they away from home to protect the welfare of their pets.
Here are some easy steps responsible pet owners can take to ensure pets stay safe.
Hire a pet sitter
Keep pets happy within their familiar environment and have a pet sitter care for them at home.
Use a pet boarding facility
Consider leaving your pets at a boarding facility where they will be cared for in a secure environment.
Train your pet to be home alone
If you need to leave your pet at home, make sure they are used to being left alone for long periods of time prior to going on holidays.
Ensure regular check-ins
Organise a responsible person to check on pets at least once a day to provide feed, fill water bowls, change litter trays and exercise if required.
Speak with your immediate neighbour
Advise your neighbour of your plans to be away and provide contact details in case of an emergency.
This may also reduce neighbourhood complaints around excessive barking should this occur while you are away.
Provide mental stimulation
A sand pit or shell pool filled with a variety of toys can provide mental stimulation for your dog and reduce instances of excessive barking while you are not at home.
For additional advice surrounding dog behaviour speak with a dog trainer or veterinarian.
Ensure your pet is registered and microchipped
New dogs can be registered online with an easy online form and payment options.
Cat registration is not a current requirement of Council.
Update registration details
Pet owners are encouraged to update their pets’ details prior to going on holidays to ensure they can be easily identified and returned, should they escape from home.
Visit Council’s website for more information on responsible pet ownership.
