Do You Have A Plan P?

Have you ever wondered what you would do if you’ve been rushed to hospital and your pet was locked or trapped at home with no one to help.

Sadly, gone are the days where we lived in small communities and left our doors unlocked, knowing full well our neighbours or friends nearby would be there to help.

So what’s your back-up plan just in case?

Your dog might be your closest friend giving unconditional love, and your cat, your TV couch companion, but unfortunately they can’t fend for themselves if they’re locked inside your home.

Do you have a trusted friend or family member nearby who you would entrust with your house key, or have a spare key hidden just in case?

Consider this, what if you are suddenly taken to hospital. Do you have someone who would gladly watch your dog, or feed your cat?

Sadly, this is an ever-growing problem as more and more people live isolated lives.

Cats are very territorial and often stress when moved out of their regular environment.

Neither dog nor cats fare well without water; depending on temperatures, a couple of days at most.

If you’re living alone and can afford it, try using a pet water fountain in your home. At least in an emergency this ensures your pets are hydrated and even if you cook special food for them, using a perpetual feeder is not a bad idea for emergencies as well.

Keep a notice on your fridge with AWLQ’s number for friends, neighbours, family, or emergency care workers.

Ensuring your beloved companion pet is cared for in an emergency will not only potentially save their life but also give you peace of mind, just in case.

Something to think about...

No animal enjoys being moved from their regular

environment, especially cats, and especially when it’s from their loving owner’s home.

So if your pre-planned hospital stay is for only one or two days, having someone like a neighbour or family friend to feed your pets in your own home would be better for the pet, rather than trying to relocate them into foster care.

Ensure your pet is well cared for when the unexpected happens.

Article supplied by the Animal Welfare League QLD