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Olympic accommodation crisis looms for Aussie pets
10 April
2000
A national survey has shown that around 500,000 Australian dog and cat
owners will attend the Sydney Olympics. Almost a quarter of these people
will be travelling to Sydney from interstate.
And the Petcare Information and Advisory Service is recommending that
pet owners going to the Olympics plan now for the care of their pet
while they are away.
"This September is going to be particularly busy and people need
to think ahead" Petcare Consultant, Dr Joanne Righetti said.
"School holidays coincide with the Olympics (15 September to 1
October 2000) and in peak times like this, boarding kennels and catteries
are booked well in advance."
There are several options to consider when deciding who looks after
your pet while you’re watching the world's best athletes compete for
gold. From asking neighbours, family and friends to choosing boarding
kennels/catteries to booking pet feeding services.
The costs of boarding kennels and catteries will vary depending on location,
the type or size of the pet, level of care required and the length of
stay.
When looking for an appropriate boarding kennel/cattery and before checking
in your pet, consider the following:
·Is the size of accommodation and individual shelter, the level of people
interaction and the amount of exercise offered appropriate for your
pet?
· Is the establishment clean (including kennels and litter boxes) and
well maintained with secure gates and fences?
· Does your pet need additional services such as grooming?
· Does your pet require a special diet? If so, do you need to provide
it?
· Is your pet up-to-date with the appropriate vaccinations?
· Has your pet had an appropriate flea treatment?
Ask your vet or the relevant Boarding Kennel Association in your state/territory
for a recommendation or look in the Yellow Pages. You may want to consider
a home feeding service if boarding is not an option for your pet. Your
vet may be able to recommend a service. If not, look in your local newspaper.
It is important to check the credentials of the individual and phone
referees. It is also worthwhile to advise your vet and give authority
for the person to seek veterinary treatment for your pet in your absence.
"Consider the level of care required for your pet and the length
of time you will be away. Pets need human company and interaction and
should not be left alone for long periods of time" Dr Righetti
said.
Of the 500,000 dog and cat owners who said they will be attending the
Olympics, 76% are from New South Wales, 12% are from Victoria, 5% are
from Western Australia, 4% are from Queensland and 4% are from South
Australia. Sixty-eight per cent of pet owners going to the Olympics
are married, 68% have children and 53% live in a household with children.
Reference: Newspoll Market Research, March 2000