Sign-up for Home Alone
Pet owners across the Moreton Bay Region and Queensland are being urged to register with the RSPCA Queensland’s Home Alone service.
Every year hundreds of animals are reported as being abandoned during school holidays. While some are, others have someone to care for them.
“The problem is the animals’ owners often neglect to notify neighbours and these neighbours report the matter to us,” said RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty.
“I would urge anyone who leaves their pets in the care of family or friends to register with our Home Alone service.”
Ease burden
The Home Alone service was set up to ease the burden on inspectors continually called to investigate possible cases of neglect and cruelty in holiday periods.
“Many people leave pets at home and rely on the goodwill of neighbours and friends to keep them fed, watered and exercised,” said Mr Beatty.
“The problem is often these friends forget or the animal escapes and we have no one to contact in case of emergencies.
Key contact
“With Home Alone people can register their pet on our website and leave the name and contact details of those taking care of the animal. That way we know who to contact in case of emergencies.”
RSPCA Queensland investigates over 19,000 complaints of animal cruelty and neglect annually. Reports of abandoned animals make up a large number of these complaints.
Register your details phoning 3426 9999 or visit rspcaqld.org.au/what-we-do/care-for/animals/home-alone-service
Stress check
During the commotion of Christmas and New Year it is important to check pets for stress. Provide a sanctuary away from the people and noise, put an adult is in charge of the dog and avoid giving food such as cooked bones, onions, garlic, sauces, chocolate, caffeine, nuts, avocado, raisins, sultanas, fatty and preserved meats.
In summer provide sufficient shade and water, do not exercise dogs in the middle of the day, do not leave pets in a hot car maintain health checks and make sure your pet is microchipped.
If you are leaving your pet at a boarding establishment, make sure it meets the code of practice for animal industries under the Animal Care and Protection Act (2001).