Workers - Don’t Forget Your Pet
As most people return to the school/work routine today, the RSPCA urges pet owners to remember their responsibilities. Many animals will have become used to human contact during the holiday period - once that is taken away bad behaviour can result. Separation anxiety and the barking, whining, digging, chewing and escape attempts that goes with it is one of the most common reasons dogs are surrended to the RSPCA.
How can you avoid your dog going through this trauma?
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Keep up the exercise - the more tired your dog is, the less it will misbehave.
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Buy your pet mentally stimulating toys that will keep him or her occupied throughout the day.
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Make sure fencing etc is secure - anxious dogs will try to escape.
Recognising ‘busy lifestyle’ is one of the most common reasons people dump pets, the RSPCA now provides doggy day care. We care for and exercise your pooch while your at work. It’s a great solution for busy professionals and families.
Of course, even if your dog does not have a problem with seperation anxiety, there are still many issues to think about as you return to work.
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Make sure all hazards are secured/put away - this includes poison, pools, dams, sharp items.
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Further to this, make sure all holes in fencing or sheds are secured. Freeing curious animals who are stuck in fencing is one of our most common call outs.
RSPCA spokesperson Aimee McKay says if you are simply not coping with your pet- think about surrending your dog or cat to the RSPCA.
‘We are always absolutely packed at our shelters - in fact last month, we received over 500 cats alone - however we would rather an owner surrender their pet to us than let the animal be neglected. It’s a tragic consequence of our ever hectic lifestyles - unfortunately far too many times, pets are not the priority.’
‘We expect that in the next few weeks, as people go back to work and school, they’ll realise they can’t fit a pet into their lives, and the RSPCA will be ready and waiting.’
Add comment January 29th, 2007