16 Feb QUICK TIPS ON CARING FOR YOUR PETS

Pets are great company, especially when we’re unwell or feeling down. To help you care for your pets and understand their needs, we’ve put together some information.

CARING FOR YOUR PET DOG

Your dog needs a weatherproof kennel. It should be kept clean and dry with washable rugs or blankets for comfort and warmth. A weatherproof kennel protects your dog from wind, rain, the sun, and hot and cold tempretures.

Your dog should be fed twice a day. Breed, age, size, and energy level all factor into how often dogs should eat and how much. Dry kibble and/or wet canned food is a nourishing diet for your dog. Always make sure your dog has an adequate supply of fresh water too.

Dogs need regular exercise. Walk them at least once a day or let them run in an off-leash dog park. Use positive reinforcement and rewards like pats and dog treats to train your dog. Do not hit your dog, it causes stress and can increase aggression.

Your dog needs annual vaccinations and general health checks. Your vet can also advise you about flea, tick and worm prevention. To prevent unplanned or unwanted puppies desex your dog as soon as possible. The Animal Welfare League NSW may be able to help out with some of the cost of desexing your dog, contact your nearest volunteer branch.

CARING FOR YOUR PET CAT

Most cats are happy indoors. If you allow your cat outdoors, bring them inside at night to protect wildlife. Cats are playful so provide your cat with toys to chase, boxes/bags to hide in, a sunny spot to sleep in, places to climb and a scratching post. Your cat will also need access to a litter tray which needs to be cleaned regularly and kept in the same spot away from their food and water.

Cats should be fed twice a day. There are many quality commercial foods available at your local supermarket. Always make sure your cat has an adequate supply of fresh water.

Your cat needs annual vaccinations and general health checks. To prevent unplanned or unwanted kittens desex your cat as soon as possible. The Animal Welfare League NSW may be able to help out with some of the cost of desexing your cat, contact your nearest volunteer branch.

CARING FOR YOUR PET BIRD

Birds need to be able to spread their wings, so check you have the correct size cage for your bird. The cage should be stainless steel and cleaned every few days. Use natural perches and position cage out of direct sunlight, rain and wind. Feed your bird diet of natural and commercial food.

CARING FOR YOUR POCKET PET

If you have a pet other than a dog, cat or bird, such as guinea pigs, rabbits or ferrets visit the RSPCA website for tips on caring for your pocket pet.

HAVE A PET EMERGENCY?

Contact your local vet or visit RSPCA NSW to find out what they recommend in an emergency.

NEED HELP WITH PET DESEXING?

For help with pet desexing or to locate your local Animal Welfare League NSW shelter, call (02) 8899 3333 or visit Animal Welfare League NSW.

YOUR LOCAL HOMES NORTH OFFICE

For a copy of Homes North’s Caring For Your Pets Fact Sheet call into your nearest Homes North office.