Remember your pets at Christmas (From This is The West Country)

Remember your pets at Christmas

5:00pm Saturday 26th December 2009 in News By Steve Sowden

THE Christmas holidays are a time for relaxation, celebration and a little bit of over indulgence, however it’s important to spare a thought for the family pet, who may find the celebrations a little overwhelming!

Jonathan Hamlet, store manager from the Pets at Home store in Yeovil, said: “The celebrations can bring a lot of extra guests in to the family home so it’s important to ensure that your pet isn’t distressed by the extra visitors.

“Cats and dogs can also be startled by the loud noises from fireworks ringing in the New Year so it’s worth investing in calming products for your pet. Here at Pets at Home you can find products such as Feliway, DAP or Serene UM which will help to keep your pet stress free.”

With the snow falling and the temperatures dropping there’s a temptation to stay indoors but man and his best friend need to make sure they stay active with regular walks outdoors. The cold weather can bring a number of extra considerations for pet owners to be aware of.

Small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs are especially vulnerable to the cold, ensuring their hutches are warm is vital.

Hutch huggers are designed to help regulate temperatures and are available in various sizes from Pets at Home. Water bowls can also easily freeze in the winter, leaving pets in real danger, so regular checks of their hutches is imperative.

Cat owners should take extra care with Christmas tree lights and tinsel, encouraging playtime with tinsel might seem like fun but ensuring your pet doesn’t eat any of the tinsel is very important for their health.

With the weather conditions causing disruption for everyone on the roads at this time of year, keeping your car free from snow and ice is essential, however it’s vital to remember that antifreeze is poisonous to pets and de-icer can also irritate their paws, so ensure that your beloved pets are kept away from both of these products.

Jonathan added: “The holidays are a time for the whole family, including the much loved family pet so make sure that they are kept safe and happy during the festive period.”

All of these products mentioned, and 1000s more, are available in-store and online at www.petsathome.com which can be accessed via the link on this page of our website.