Looking after your pets these Christmas-New Year holidays

Looking after your pets these Christmas-New Year holidays

Published on 15 December 2023

Dog and cat owners are encouraged to put preparations in place for their animals during the Christmas and New Year period.

Extra visitors to the area, summer weather and New Year’s Eve fireworks displays throughout the Gannawarra can make the Christmas and New Year period stressful for dogs and cats.

“Our pets are part of our family, so it is important to look after our animals during what is traditionally a busy time of year,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

Pet owners can complete some simple steps to make this time of year more enjoyable for their animals:

If you are going away during the Christmas holiday period and your pet cannot be properly cared for, please ensure they are placed in a boarding facility or arrange for someone to look after them. Ensure your pets have sufficient water, food and shelter from the heat and are provided with toys to prevent problem behaviours such as roaming and barking. If thunderstorms are forecast, ensure your pets are confined to your property. Plan ahead for New Year’s Eve fireworks displays scheduled for Cohuna and Kerang by ensuring your dogs and horses are in a secure location and are comfortable.

Pet owners who are having trouble caring or their pets are encouraged to contact Council on (03) 5450 9333 and discuss their options.

“Our friendly Local Laws team members are able to work with you in developing a solution that is best for both you and your beloved animals,” Mr Rollinson said.

For more information regarding responsible pet ownership, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/animals