How to Keep Pets Safe on Easter + Giving Pets as Easter Gifts
Easter is on the way. That means it’s time to think about two important topics: How to keep your pet safe on Easter and Should you give pets as Easter Gifts? Ready to learn more? First, let’s talk about pet safety on Easter. Here are some of our best tips.
Keep Easter Baskets Far Away from Your Pet
Easter baskets are fun for kids, but they can be downright dangerous for animals. Here’s why:
- An Easter basket isn’t complete without lots of chocolate candy. But chocolate is toxic to pets.
- Plastic grass is a commonly used Easter basket filler. Curious pets may try to eat the grass, which can create a blockage in the digestive tract.
- Some Easter baskets include stuffed animals. Many of those toys are not safe for pets. The stuffing, plastic eyes, and other pieces can cause damage if they are chewed and swallowed.
If Easter baskets are part of your holiday traditions, be sure to keep them far away from your pet. Otherwise, a fun tradition could turn into a nightmare.
Avoid Plants That Are Toxic to Pets
Spring is a wonderful time to enjoy beautiful flowers, such as the Easter lily. But that plant, like many others, is toxic to pets.
For your furry friend’s sake, keep those plants out of your house. Look at the ASPCA website to find out which other plants are dangerous to pets.
Don’t Leave Any Eggs Out
Kids love Easter egg hunts. But if pets are around, make sure all of the eggs get picked up. Otherwise, your pet could find the lost eggs and eat them.
If those eggs are real, they might have spoiled, making your pet sick. Or if the eggs are plastic, your pet might chew them and injure its mouth.
Don’t Give Your Pet Any Leftovers
Your fur baby may beg for scraps from your Easter feast. But don’t give in! Many of the foods you eat are harmful to pets.
Why Pets Aren’t Good Easter Gifts
Okay. We’ve talked about how to keep your pet safe on Easter. Now, let’s discuss why you shouldn’t give pets as Easter gifts.
Pets Are a Big Responsibility
Pets aren’t toys. They are living creatures that require long-term care.
That’s a big responsibility!
Sadly, not everyone who receives a pet as a gift is ready for that responsibility. As a result, they may have to take the pet to an animal shelter.
Pets Can Be Expensive
Taking care of a pet can be expensive. The cost of food, vet bills, pet care supplies, and more add up quickly.
If the recipient can’t afford a pet (or if your child is the recipient and you can’t afford it) the animal won’t receive the proper care. The poor pet might even end up in a shelter. Take a Look at our other Blog Post: Do You Know How Much Pet Care Will Cost You?
Rabbits and Chicks Aren’t So Easy To Care For
Rabbits Aren’t So Easy to Care For
Rabbits are commonly thought of as Easter pets. They also seem to have a reputation for being easy to care for, but that is not the case.
Although they’re great for the right people, rabbits are a lot of work. They require housetraining and plenty of exercise. They also love to chew, making it necessary to bunny proof their exercise area.
Furthermore, rabbits do best when living together. That means you would need to give the recipient at least two bunnies.
And with an average lifespan of 8-12 years, this isn’t a short-term commitment. Rabbit caregivers must be in it for the long haul.
Plus, rabbits aren’t good with kids. So, if you are thinking of getting one for your child, you might want to consider another pet.
Baby Chicks Grow Up
Just like rabbits, baby chicks are often associated with Easter. But once again, it’s probably not a good idea to give this pet as a holiday gift.
Remember, baby chicks grow into chickens. Is the recipient willing to care for this pet once it’s all grown up?
And even if the recipient is willing, is he or she able to provide the right care? If you aren’t certain, don’t give that person a baby chick for Easter.
In Conclusion
Keeping your pet safe on Easter is important. So be sure to take the precautions we’ve suggested in this article. They will help you avoid emergency situations. It’s also important to understand why pets don’t make good Easter gifts. Whether the recipient is your child, friend, or anyone else, it’s best to come up with another gift idea.
About the Author:
Savanna Westwood
Savanna Westwood is the Owner and Founder of The Savvy Sitter, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, LLC. She has grown up with animals all her life and enjoys spending time with them. Savanna has lived in the Winter Garden and Windermere Area for over 30 years. When she is not taking care of Fur Friends, one can find her reading, practicing archery, riding, and devising ways to provide additional and excellent services to clients. Savanna is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter with Pet Sitter International's CPPS certification and also holds certification in Pet First Aid and CPCR for Pet-Care Professionals.