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Noisy Fireworks No Fun for Pets
When celebrating Canada Day this year, remember that fireworks displays are no fun for pets.
The loud, unpredictable noise and flashing light from fireworks can be a source of stress and anxiety for many dogs and cats. As well, the metals and chemicals used in the manufacture of fireworks can be toxic if consumed by a curious pet.
The Saskatchewan SPCA suggests keeping your pets indoors on those evenings when fireworks are planned in your area.
Before the fireworks start, turn on the TV or play soothing music. Running the air conditioner or fan is another option.
Draw the curtains to help minimize exposure to noise and light, or take your pets to the basement, as far away from the unpleasant sounds as possible.
You might also consider providing a distraction for your pet such as a favourite toy or food treat.
Pets naturally seek small, enclosed spaces when they are feeling stressed. If your pet enjoys being crated, that may be a good option. Your cat may want to find her own special hiding space under furniture or on top of a cupboard.
Make sure your pets are microchipped and licenced, in case they manage to escape.
Your veterinarian may have other useful suggestions for a severely anxious pet.
One final note: Remember that noisy outdoor concerts and public events can also be very stressful for your pet.
Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Rabbits
The Codes of Practice are nationally developed guidelines for the care and handling of the different species of farm animals. They are intended to promote sound management and welfare practices through recommendations and requirements for housing, management, transportation, and other animal husbandry practices.
The
Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Rabbits was released in 2018.
You can view the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Rabbits by
clicking here.
Information was obtained from
www.nfacc.ca.
Bunnies and Chicks Can Make Easter a Disaster!
Easter is just around the corner, and some families may be considering celebrating this holiday, so often associated with bunnies and chicks, by getting a live, furry addition to their home.
“Please resist the temptation of picking up a rabbit at the pet shop just to surprise your kids on Easter Sunday,” warns Bob Van Tongerloo, CEO of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies. “Baby rabbits are adorable, but purchasing or adopting one is a serious decision, and, like any other animal, they shouldn’t be bought on a whim, or as a surprise gift.”
Each year, humane societies are flooded with Easter rabbits, bought to celebrate the holiday, often to surprise young children, but unwanted weeks or months later.
Domestic rabbits can be great pets: they can be litter trained, are playful and can bond with members of a family. But, like all other companion animals, owning a rabbit entails certain financial and time commitments. Rabbits, for example, should have regular veterinary exams and should be spayed or neutered – this will not only prevent unwanted pregnancies, but can help prevent certain diseases. Rabbits also need their nails trimmed regularly, and should be given appropriate chewing toys or blocks to file down their teeth, since rabbit teeth never stop growing. Rabbits also need human contact, and should have playtime outside their cage. Also keep in mind, domestic rabbits can live to be 7 to 10 years old.
Giving your children a chick is almost never a good idea, unless you live in a rural area and already have the proper environment to house a growing chicken. In fact, may municipalities do not allow the keeping of chicks in urban areas.
If your family has seriously considered obtaining a rabbit as a pet, and you are ready to commit to the animal’s needs, the CFHS encourages you to visit your local humane society. Many people are often surprised to hear that animal shelters have a wide variety of animals for adoption: in addition to cats and dogs, many shelters also accept rabbits, hamsters, mice, rats, guinea pigs, birds and others.
(Article exerpt courtesy of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies. Please visit www.cfhs.ca for further information.)
