Pet Safety During the Festive Season

The festive season brings with it celebrations, long-awaited vacations, and time spent with loved ones, it's important not to overlook the safety and well-being of your pet.

At Auto&General, we understand that your pet safety is part of the family. Here are some key tips to ensure your pet stay safe and comfortable even when suddenly happens.

1. Fireworks safety

Despite the regulations prohibiting the use of fireworks, many individuals continue to use them during festive celebrations. Below are steps you can take to ensure your pet’s wellbeing:

· Calming Medication: To give your pet the best chance of remaining calm, consider giving them calming medication well in advance, preferably earlier in the day, to allow time for it to be effective.

· Enough Exercise: Physical activity throughout the day helps to release pent-up energy, preventing them from becoming overly energetic in the evening. A tired pet is less likely to react frantically to the noise and disturbances caused by fireworks.

· Secure the Home: All windows and doors must be closed and locked. Ensure that your pet cannot access any gates, burglar bars, or other escape routes, as their instinct may drive them to seek shelter elsewhere.

· Create a Calming Environment: Transform the atmosphere inside your home into a sanctuary. Close the curtains, dim the lights, and play soft, soothing music.

· Use a Safe Space: If your pet feels at ease in a crate, consider making this their designated retreat. The confined space of a crate can provide a sense of security, offering them a quiet, familiar environment during moments of heightened stress.

· Provide Distractions: For dogs, chewing can serve as a calming mechanism. Offer them a favourite chew toy, a Kong stuffed with peanut butter, or other engaging interactive toys to help divert their attention and ease their anxiety.

2. Beware of Holiday Hazards

While holiday treats, decorations, and gifts add to the festive atmosphere, many of these can pose a risk to your pet. From tinsel and ornaments to seasonal plants such as poinsettias and holly, certain decorations and foods can be toxic or dangerous if ingested. Keep these items well out of reach of curious paws.

3. Intense Summer Heat

The height of summer coincides with the festive season, the heat not only affects us but our pets. Just as we take precautions with sunscreen, shade, and hydration, our pets require the same care and attention.

Here are some essential tips to help keep them cool and comfortable during these warm months:

· Constant Access to Fresh Water: It is important to provide an abundant supply of cool, fresh water throughout your home or holiday accommodation.

· Access to Shade: Make sure your pet has easy access to shaded areas outdoors.

· Favour Shaded, Grassy, or Paved Areas: When outside, aim to keep your pet in grassy or paved areas that are consistently shaded.

· Keep Them Occupied Indoors: When temperatures soar, it’s often best to keep your pet indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Ensure that you have plenty of stimulating activities on hand—interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or even a cool, cozy resting spot to keep them entertained and cool.

· Monitor for Signs of Heatstroke: Be vigilant for any signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or uncoordinated movement. If any of these symptoms appear, contact your veterinarian immediately to ensure your pet receives the appropriate care.

As the festive season gets into full swing, ensuring the well-being of your pet allows you to truly enjoy the holidays. An additional way to take care of your pet is with Pet Insurance from Auto&General, we’ll be here for you when suddenly happens. Our plans cover a range of incidents from surgery and hospitalisation to vet visits, get a quote.

From us here at Auto&General, happy holidays.

Auto&General is a licensed non-life insurer and financial services provider.

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