Don’t forget to make sure your animals are looked after if you are heading away for the long Labour weekend .

Before you go away, take the time to think about what will happen to your animals while you’re gone. Plan ahead and ensure you have a good solution for your pets or livestock.

Wairoa District Council’s Animal Control team often receives calls from people who are concerned about animals that are left alone, without water or shelter, and often for days on end.

If you’re heading away and not taking your pets with you, a good solution is to take them to a boarding kennel or to a family or friend’s place, so they will have shelter, regular food and water and they can socialise with humans and/or other animals.

If you need to leave your pet alone for a day or two, ask someone to check in on them at least once a day and make sure they always have water and shelter.

If you’re taking your pet on your trip, be mindful that it can get very hot while travelling, so plan enough water and toilet breaks and please don’t leave your pet unattended in a car as the temperature can rise rapidly on a warm day, even with a window cracked open.

If you have livestock, it’s important, they’re controlled or secured while you’re gone so they can’t accidentally get out and cause a nuisance, especially near roads and highways.

If you would like more information, the Animal Control team is always happy to help. Head to www.wairoadc.govt.nz or phone 06 838 7309. Council staff will be available 24/7 over the long weekend and will follow up on any calls they receive.

16 October 2023

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