Tips to keep your pet safe while you’re on holiday

The Midrand SPCA has a number of tips for pet owners who will be going on holiday for the festive season.

General manager at the Midrand SPCA Pam Pretorius said, “If you are going on holiday and you are not taking your pet along, please make adequate arrangements to make sure your pet is looked after and safe.”

• Book your animal into boarding: The Midrand SPCA recommended that anyone going on holiday book their animal into a local kennel that will look after the pet. Pretorius said these arrangements should be made very far in advance so it is best to do it immediately.
• Make sure you have responsible pet sitter: When hiring a pet sitter, the Midrand SPCA stressed that residents should find a trustworthy person who has good references when looking after your pet. “We’ve received reports of a pet sitter taking the job and never showing up. We get a call and struggle to gain access to the property in order to take of the animal. Please find someone you trust and is experienced.”
• Let your neighbours know that you are leaving: “Anyone going on holiday should let their neighbours know if they are going on holiday. This is a safety precaution so they know that a pet sitter is around.

“We know, for security reasons, you don’t want the whole world to know that you are gone. But let your immediate neighbours know so that they don’t think that you’ve abandoned your animal.”

• If you live in a complex, do not tell security to feed your animals: The SPCA urged residents living in complexes not to place the responsibility of pet care entirely on security guards or the gardeners. “The security guards at the complex work shifts. And they won’t be able to always be there to feed your animals.”
• Prepare ahead of time for fireworks: As New Year’s Eve approaches, residents should prepare ahead of time for fireworks and there animals’ reaction to the fireworks. “You know your animals and what calms them down. If they need extra attention or some form of medication then let the house sitter know, and prepare accordingly.”

Details: Midrand SPCA 011 265 9935.