Keeping Your Pets Comfortable and Safe During Easter Festivities

Easter is a joyous occasion filled with family gatherings, festive meals, and vibrant egg hunts. However, the lively atmosphere, unfamiliar visitors, and new scents can be overwhelming for pets. As responsible pet owners, it’s important to prioritise their comfort and safety during these celebrations. Below is a practical guide to help you enjoy Easter with your pets while keeping their well-being in mind.

Plan in Advance

A little forethought can make a world of difference in ensuring your pet feels secure and content during holiday events.

Create a Relaxing Retreat

Set up a tranquil spot where your pet can retreat if the hustle becomes too much. This could be a spare room, a quiet corner with their bed, or a crate if they are used to it. Stock this area with their favourite toys, a familiar blanket, and a water bowl. Calming aids, such as pheromone sprays, can enhance this safe haven. Ideally, this retreat is somewhere your pet already goes to naturally or has been trained to visit, so they know to use it.

Stick to Their Routine

Pets are creatures of habit. Keeping their meal times, walks, and play sessions consistent can provide a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.

Pet-Proof Your Space

Easter decorations like plastic eggs, ribbons, or small ornaments can pose choking risks. Ensure such items are placed out of your pet’s reach and clean up any rubbish quickly, especially since Easter tends to mean chocolate, which can lead to health hazards if ingested by dogs.

Manage Guest Interactions

The influx of visitors can be intimidating for some pets, especially those who are shy or anxious.

Gradual Introductions

Introduce your pet to guests in a calm and controlled manner, starting with a few individuals at a time. Encourage guests to let the pet come to them instead of approaching suddenly.

Establish Boundaries

Use baby gates or closed doors to keep pets away from crowded areas. Make sure guests understand basic rules, such as avoiding feeding your pet table scraps or ensuring certain doors remain closed.

Monitor Stress Signals

Be aware of signs of stress, such as excessive panting, barking, or hiding. If your pet appears overwhelmed, guide them to their safe space for a break.

Adopt Calming Measures

Helping your pet relax during festivities can minimise their anxiety.

Natural Soothing Remedies

Pheromone diffusers, herbal supplements, or anxiety wraps like Thundershirts can be beneficial. Consult your veterinarian for suitable options tailored to your pet.

Engaging Activities

Keep your pet occupied with toys like puzzle feeders or treat-filled Kongs. These not only stimulate their mind but also release calming endorphins.

Exercise Beforehand

A well-exercised pet is usually calmer. Take your dog for a long walk or play an energetic game before guests arrive. For cats, interactive toys like feather wands can help burn off extra energy.

Prioritise Food Safety

Easter treats may be tempting but can be harmful to pets.

Avoid Dangerous Foods

Keep chocolates, hot cross buns, and onions well out of reach as they are toxic to pets. Have pet-safe treats available so they can join the festivities in a safe way.

Monitor Egg Hunts

Ensure your pet doesn’t have access to plastic eggs, foil wrappers, or small candies, which could be choking hazards.

Address Noise and Activity Levels

Loud gatherings and bustling environments can be overwhelming.

Control Noise

If the volume rises, move your pet to their designated quiet space and play soothing music or white noise. Keep them away from loud activities, such as children’s games.

Take Regular Breaks

Check on your pet throughout the day, providing opportunities for quiet play or a calming walk during quieter moments.

Prepare for Outdoor Gatherings

Hosting events outdoors introduces new risks for adventurous pets.

Secure Boundaries

Inspect fences, gates, and other enclosures to ensure they are escape-proof. Remove hazards like gardening tools or toxic plants.

Monitor the Garden

Supervise pets if your yard contains harmful plants. Ensure food or drinks aren’t left unattended, as these could pose risks.

Be Ready for Emergencies

Preparation can make all the difference in handling unexpected situations.

Emergency Contacts

Keep your vet’s contact details and those of the nearest 24/7 animal hospital handy.

First Aid Essentials

Assemble a basic pet first aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. Familiarise yourself with pet-specific first aid techniques.

After the Celebration

When the festivities end, take steps to help your pet decompress.

Eliminate Hazards

Clear the area of leftover food, wrappers, or small decorations that could be harmful if ingested.

Offer Reassurance

Spend quality time with your pet to help them relax and return to their usual routine. Keep an eye out for any signs of lingering stress or discomfort.

A Joyful, Pet-Friendly Easter

With some planning and attentiveness, Easter can be an enjoyable time for you and your pets. By creating a safe environment, managing interactions, and keeping their needs in mind, you can ensure a happy, stress-free holiday for your furry friends.

And, if you feel that your festivities may be too much for your furry pals, or you are planning a trip away, pet boarding is a great option.  Choosing a quality dog boarding & cattery facility like Yarra Valley Pet Resort means you can have a great Easter and feel comfortable knowing your fur-baby is being well looked after as well.  Get in touch today to book their Easter stay.