MORE than 60 dogs had to be euthanased in the most recent storm season. Mackay Regional Council is warning pet owners to be more careful this season. From December last year to January this year more than 170 dogs were impounded. The holiday season is a busy time for everyone but pets especially can become stressed out.
Health, Sport and Recreation portfolio councillor Paul Steindl said owners needed to plan ahead before the storm season. "Inappropriate care over the holiday season, unwanted Christmas presents, faulty fences and not providing proper attention, result in pets straying from home and being impounded," Cr Steindl said.
"To ensure the safety of your pet while you're away on holidays, council encourages the utilisation of boarding kennels or arranging reliable friends and family members to provide proper care such as food, water, attention and exercise for the animal."Cr Steindl said the silly season was not all fun and games for pets like it was for humans, so owners should take care when celebrating.
"In December and January there are many Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations and storms happening around the region with loud noises such as fireworks and thunder that can upset pets."He said the best advice was to take care of your pet and make sure they felt safe. "To reassure your pets, place them in a secure area and check on them regularly," Cr Steindl said. To prevent losing your furry friends you should register them with the council or have them micro-chipped by your vet. You can phone 1300MACKAY (622 529).