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Christmas not always a time of joy for pets

Latrobe City has urged pet owners going away on holidays to make sure arrangements being put into place for their pets are adequate.

By Latrobe City Council - 20th December 2005 - Back to News

Latrobe City has urged pet owners going away on holidays to make sure arrangements being put into place for their pets are adequate, as every year lots of pets are found wandering the streets over the holiday period.

Latrobe City’s manager local laws, Peter Fraser, said that where pets are staying at another premises such as a neighbours, pet owners should check that there will be adequate fencing, and that the animal will feel comfortable in their temporary environment.

"Christmas may be a time of great joy for mankind, but for man’s best friend, the ‘holiday’ season often means being left behind, and that can be a pretty stressful event for a pet," Mr Fraser said.

"In the best-case scenario, the family pets have been booked into kennels so there shouldn’t be a problem. However, at Christmas time kennels are usually full, and sometimes at the last moment, a neighbour is asked to help out.

"It’s wise to have a ‘trial run’ when a pet is going to be looked after by someone else or at another premises. It’s also important to leave very clear instructions on who to contact should there be a problem looking after the pet, or what to do if the pet goes missing," Mr Fraser said.

Latrobe City mayor, Cr Lisa Price, urged people to think carefully before purchasing a pet for Christmas.

"The little puppy might looks very cute in the pet shop, and the tiny kitten might be adorable, but in just a few short months they will both be fully grown, eating larger meals, and needing regular immunisations, grooming and exercise. Have you got the time to devote to a pet, perhaps for ten years or more?" Cr Price said.

"There were many factors to consider before buying or adopting an animal.

"Pets can be costly, time-consuming, and may not easily fit into your current or future lifestyle. People need to consider the time they may spend away from home. Are they out at work all day and will the animal be lonely or bored, which can lead to destructive behaviour.

"Pet ownership is a great responsibility and your animal is relying on you to provide a safe and secure environment," Cr Price said.

Mr Fraser added that it is vital to ensure pets are properly registered and microchipped.

"It might also be worth considering putting a temporary contact number on your pet’s collar and tag to ensure that the temporary owners can be traced should it end up impounded," Mr Fraser said.

If an animal is lost or missing during council office hours, contact 1300 367 700. If an animal is lost or goes missing during the Christmas and New Year closure, or out of hours, contact 0408 512 953.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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