Easter Safety Tips from Your SPCA

The SPCA for Monterey County advises that rabbits, chicks, ducks and other popular Easter pets are poor choices when given as Easter gifts.  Recipients of these live pets are often unprepared or unwilling to accept the responsibility of caring for these pets and as a result, humane societies and animal shelters across the country receive thousands of these unwanted pets when the novelty wears off.  In addition, while cute and cuddly, these animals are extremely fragile and are easily, even if unintentionally, injured by children.  Leg and spinal injuries are very common when the pet is accidentally dropped.   

The SPCA suggests that a cuddly stuffed toy animal is a better choice than a live animal when giving Easter gifts.  The SPCA offers adoption gift certificates for those who want to give unwanted rabbits and chicks a second chance at a lifelong home after the holiday excitement has worn off.

Pet owners should also take care to keep candy away from curious pets.  Chocolate can make pets sick and tin foil and cellophane wrappers can be hazardous if swallowed.  Some popular plants—including Easter lilies—are highly toxic to pets and can easily prove fatal if eaten. Check out the full list of toxic flora and make sure that your home and yard are free of these dangerous plants.

For more holiday safety tips, please click here.

SEASONAL SAFETY TIPS

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Disaster Preparedness for Pets and Livestock

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