Easter Safety Tips for Your Furry Family Members

Easter brings joy, family gatherings and chocolate-filled celebrations to homes across the Northern Beaches. While we treasure these festive moments, our team at Barnstone Kennels and Cattery knows that holiday celebrations can sometimes be overwhelming for our four-legged friends. Here’s our comprehensive guide to keeping your pets safe and content during the Easter season.

Creating a Pet-Safe Haven

Your pet’s comfort should be a top priority during busy celebrations. We recommend setting up a quiet retreat where they can escape when things become too overwhelming. This might be a favourite room or a cosy corner with their bed, equipped with their favourite toys, fresh water, regular meals, and a familiar blanket carrying their scent. Adding some calming background noise, like soft music, can help create a more soothing atmosphere.

Easter-Specific Hazards to Watch For

Easter brings unique challenges for pet safety. Our experienced team has seen firsthand how common holiday items can pose risks to curious pets. Of particular concern are chocolate eggs and confectionery, which are toxic to both cats and dogs. Hot cross buns contain raisins that can be dangerous for pets, while plastic Easter eggs and basket fillers like artificial grass and ribbons present potential choking hazards.

We strongly advise creating a designated pet-free zone for Easter egg hunts and carefully accounting for all eggs and treats afterwards. This is particularly important for chocolate items, which can cause serious health issues if discovered by pets later.

Maintaining Routine During Celebrations

We’ve learnt through years of caring for pets that they thrive on consistency. Even during festivities, maintaining regular meal times, walking schedules, play sessions, and bedtime routines is crucial for your pet’s well-being. At Barnstone, we understand the importance of routine and replicate our boarders’ home schedules as closely as possible.

If you’re hosting events, consider arranging exercise or playtime before guests arrive. A well-exercised pet is typically calmer and better equipped to handle social situations. This preparation can make a significant difference in how your pet manages the excitement of the day.

Managing Visitors and Social Interactions

Holiday gatherings can be exciting but stressful for pets. We recommend introducing guests gradually to avoid overwhelming your pet, while establishing clear boundaries for interactions. Watch for signs of stress such as excessive panting or hiding, and ensure your pet always has easy access to their quiet space.

Consider using baby gates or closed doors to manage access to crowded areas. Brief your guests on your pet’s temperament and any specific rules, such as not feeding them table scraps or ensuring certain doors remain closed. These simple precautions can prevent many common holiday mishaps.

Calming Strategies That Work

Drawing from our experience with anxious boarders, we’ve found several calming techniques particularly effective. Engaging your pet with puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys can provide a welcome distraction, while anxiety wraps or thunder shirts can help particularly nervous pets feel more secure. Maintaining a consistent exercise routine leading up to celebrations and providing interactive toys that encourage independent play can also help manage anxiety levels.

Professional Care Options

If you’re planning a busy Easter celebration, consider whether your pet might benefit from a stay with us at Barnstone Kennels and Cattery. We provide a calm, structured environment with professional care from experienced staff, regular exercise and playtime, and peaceful surroundings away from holiday chaos. Our team offers individual attention and monitoring, along with customised care plans for anxious pets.

After the Celebrations

Once Easter winds down, it’s important to thoroughly remove all leftover treats and decorations, including checking outdoor areas for missed items. Return to normal routines promptly while monitoring your pet for any unusual behaviour. Your pet may need extra attention and reassurance during this transition period. Take time to assess your pet’s stress levels and use these observations to adjust plans for future celebrations.

At Barnstone Kennels and Cattery, we understand that every pet is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Our team is always available to discuss your pet’s specific needs and help develop a personalised plan for managing holiday stress. Whether you’re seeking advice on creating a pet-safe Easter celebration at home or considering professional boarding during the festivities, we’re here to support you and your furry family members.

Remember, our team at Barnstone Kennels and Cattery is always here to help with advice or pet care during holiday periods. Whether you need temporary boarding or simply want guidance on managing your pet’s holiday experience, we’re just a phone call away.

Wishing you and your furry family members a safe and happy Easter celebration!

For more information about our Easter boarding services or to book a stay for your pet, contact Barnstone Kennels and Cattery today.