Residents encouraged to consider their pets

Charters Towers Regional Council is urging locals to consider their pets during the upcoming storm and festive season.

Fireworks and thunder can be very distressing for your pets and they are more likely to cope if they are in an environment where they feel comfortable.

Councillor Bernie Robertson, whose portfolio includes Pest and Animal Management, is encouraging residents to prepare when a storm is approaching or fireworks are planned to reduce the risk of their pets running away.

“Pets are at higher risk of becoming lost as a result of loud noises, with many digging under or jumping over fences to escape from properties.

“In the event that they do run away, having animals microchipped and registered means that if you are separated from your pet, there is a much greater chance that you will be reunited,” he said.

Following are a few tips to prepare your pet during storm season:

Create a safe and secure space for all of your animals away from visual stimuli.  For dogs a pet crate or quiet room which shields them from lightning is ideal. Make sure outside food and water bowls are heavy or weighed down, allowing pets continued access without them being tipped out. Keep cats indoors. Don’t tether your pets if they are outside during a storm as this can lead to injury if they try and break free.

“After every storm Council receives a spike in the number of reports about lost and found pets. Some animals are traumatised from the ordeal. and.

“When your pet doesn’t have identification it can make it very difficult for your four-legged friends to be returned home,” said Cr Robertson.

Living in North Queensland, we must also consider our climate and how hot it can get in summer, especially for our furry friends.

Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so a supply of fresh, clean water is essential when it’s hot or humid outdoors, as well as providing a shady place where they can get out of the sun.

More information on how to keep your animals safe can be found at: https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/what-we-do/provide-animal-care-advice/pet-tips-for-summer