The SPCA is urging people to make sure their furry friends are well looked after this holiday season.
Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
The organisation's chief executive Andrea Midgen said she had heard scary stories about people who go away leaving their pets tied up at home, and the friends who are supposed to come and feed them do not find the time to do so.
"It's really important to make sure you have someone you can absolutely trust. Ideally they've met your pet beforehand and know a little bit about them.
"Try not to change any of the [pet's] routines ... before you go away, so they're familiar with their surroundings, where they sleep, what food they're getting, those sorts of things."
Ms Midgen said if owners did not have anybody to rely on to feed pets, they should be put in a cattery or kennels.
She said those who take their pets with them on holiday also need to be aware of the animal's needs, to make the journey smoother.
"It is important to take regular breaks to ensure the animals have a chance to get out of the car and move around, and also to make sure they are not getting too hot or dehydrated during travel."
Cats do not travel as well in cars as dogs do, but whatever animal you take with you, it is important to make sure they are safely contained in the vehicle.
"It's really important ... that a pet not contained in a crate or something like that that [has] a harness because if there is an accident they become like a missile."
If you have been given an unwanted pet for Christmas, she said people should approach family or friends to see if they would like to take it, but if that does not work, the SPCA has further options.
