The festive season is a time of joy, but for families with pets and young children, it can also bring unexpected risks. Here’s a important reminder to take extra care during this time to ensure the safety of both our pets and children.
Supervision Is Key 
The holiday season often brings a bustle of activities. With children running around, pets may get stressed or accidentally injured. It’s crucial to supervise interactions between pets and kids at all times. Accidental rough play or unintended mishandling can cause harm. Encourage them not to chase or corner the rabbit. Don’t leave pets and young children alone together in unfamiliar environments.
No Carrying 
Teach kids and their parents that rabbits are prey animals and do not like to be carried. Sudden movements, roughly picked up, dropped, or mishandled can lead to accidental injuries. It is also advisable not to place them on furnitures to reduce risk of falls. Instead, teach little kids how to pet a bunny on the floor instead of lifting them off the ground and should the bunny hops away, young children should not chase or force the bunny to stay.
Dangerous Decorations and Food 
From glittery ornaments to festive cookies, these can pose hidden dangers to both pets. Kids might be tempted to feed bunnies with unsafe food or put decorations on them for fun which may stress/strangle/get tangled on bunnies. Make sure treats and foods are kept out of reach and educate both kids and other family members about the dangers.
Stress and Overstimulation 
The hustle and bustle of family gatherings, loud music, mahjong or large crowds can overwhelm bunnies, causing them anxiety. It’s important to provide pets with a quiet space where they can retreat when needed. Do setup a quiet area in your home where they can retreat in safety. Screaming and overstimulated children should not be in the same room.
Routine Disruptions 
The festive season often brings changes to daily routines, which can be stressful for rabbits. They rely on a steady schedule for feeding, naps, and quiet time. Try to maintain your pet’s normal routine as much as possible, and help visitors understand the importance of not disturbing the pet during this time.
Mind the Door 
With guests coming and going, doors often open and close. Bunnies are sensitive to loud noises and may startle at the banging of doors. It’s important to remind children to close doors softly & carefully and to check on pets before they leave or enter.
Rejecting kids’ requests to carry the our beloved pets, especially when they insist, can be tricky. The key to rejecting their request is to balance firmness with kindness. Always keep in mind the rabbit’s well-being and use those reasons to explain your decision, while acknowledging the child’s feelings. By setting clear boundaries in a gentle way, you can help kids learn respect for animals and understand their needs.
Let’s take a moment to be extra cautious, ensuring that everyone — both human and animal — stays safe during this time of celebration. Stay safe, stay aware, and cherish these moments with care.
For emergencies during CNY:
Westside Emergency
86 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore, Singapore
+6569310095