2020 Ultimate Christmas Checklist

With the silly season upon us once more, VetShop Australia has created the ultimate list (and checked it twice!) to ensure you and your pet are prepared this Christmas.

 

Have you got enough food?

To ensure delivery before Christmas, we recommend you place your order before December 12.

 

Place your order by December 12 to ensure delivery before Christmas

Check out our range of dog food here.

Check out our range of cat food here.

 

A dog is lying on a blanket next to a decorated Christmas tree

 

Is your pet going in to boarding?

Reputable boarding facilities will require your pet to be fully vaccinated before they are allowed to enter boarding. You will need to provide proof your pet has been vaccinated either before or upon your arrival. Vaccinations can take some time to become effective, so make sure you book your pet in for their booster early enough. Most boarding facilities recommend that your pet is vaccinated around 10-20 days before they are scheduled to arrive, but you should check with your boarding facility when you book.

Your pet may also need to be treated for worms, and have a flea and tick preventative applied. Your boarding facility should inform you about what your pet will require before they are allowed to stay.

If your pet isn't a big fan of being away from you, giving them a new toy when they arrive at the boarding facility might help to distract them when it is time for you to leave. You might also consider leaving your pet at home and having a house or pet sitter stay at your house to care for them.

 

A cat is looking up through the branches of a brightly lit Christmas tree

 

Are you travelling with your pet?

By car

Make sure you pack your pets favourite toys to keep them entertained for the drive, include a well-stocked first aid kit just in case, pack any medication your pet may require, and you should select a suitable car harness or carrier to ensure your pet is safe and secure.

You can view our range of toys for dogs here.

You can view our range of toys for cats here.

You can view our range of first aid supplies for dogs here.

You can view our range of first aid supplies for cats here.

You can view our range of car harnesses for dogs here.

By plane

Before taking to the skies, confirm any requirements with your airline which may include providing vaccination records, using airline approved carriers and restrictions on what can be placed in the carrier with your pet.

 

A black Pug in a red harness and red bow tie is sitting in front of a Christmas tree

 

Are you staying at home?

If all of the family is coming to your place this Christmas, your pets will be happy to have you around, but might not be so keen on all of the new smells and noises that come with having a packed house. To keep your dog entertained, why not try keeping them busy with a slow feeder bowl or a treat-dispensing ball?

Some pets can become quite anxious over the silly season. Extra guests, summer storms and New Years Eve fireworks are common triggers of anxiety in pets. For more tips on helping your pet with anxiety, you can view our article here.

Summer can present some unique dangers for dogs. Read our article on how to keep your pooch safe this summer here.

 

A ginger cat is lying on a blanket in front of a Christmas tree

 

Is your pets microchip and ID tag up to date?

In the chaos of Christmas, it is easy for a pet to slip out an unlocked gate behind an unwitting visitor. Before you set up that spare room or pack the car for your holiday, check your pets microchip details and their ID tag (if they wear one) are up to date so your furry friend can be reunited with you quickly.

 

A puppy in a red and white outfit is playing with red Christmas baubles

 

Did you remember to get your pet a present?

According to a recent survey by Purina, 82% of Australian's will buy their pet a present this Christmas. Are you a pet gift giver? If you have already spoilt your furbaby with enough toys this year, why not buy them a new bed or bowl? Check out our range of dog accessories and cat accessories to find the perfect gift for your pet.

 

VetShop Australia would like to wish their customers and their pets a very merry Christmas

View our range of Stocking Stuffers here. There are over 100 items to choose from and they are all under $20!

 

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