Easter is a time of celebration, family, and delicious food. But while you’re indulging in chocolate eggs and festive feasts, it’s important to keep your furry friends safe from harmful foods and activities. In this blog, we’ll guide you through common Easter foods that are and aren’t safe for pets, share pet-friendly recipes for cats and dogs, and offer safety tips to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday.
Easter Foods – What’s Safe and What’s Not for Pets?
Common Easter Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets
Chocolate: A beloved Easter treat for humans, but chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious health issues.
Hot Cross Buns: A staple of Easter, these buns often contain raisins, sultanas, and currants—all of which are highly toxic to pets and can lead to kidney failure.
Easter Lollies: Many lollies contain xylitol, a sweetener that’s safe for humans but can be fatal to pets.
Fatty Meats and Bones: While it’s tempting to share leftover ham or lamb, fatty meats can cause pancreatitis, and bones can splinter and become choking hazards.
Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks: Both are toxic to pets and can cause severe health issues.
Easter Leftovers to Avoid
Dishes containing onions, garlic, or chives, such as stuffing or gravy.
Salty snacks or heavily seasoned meats.
Desserts made with artificial sweeteners, chocolate, or dairy.
Pet-Friendly Foods
Cooked, unseasoned meats: Turkey, chicken, or lamb (with no added salt or spices) can be a tasty treat for your pet.
Vegetables: Steamed carrots, green beans, or peas are great low-calorie snacks.
Eggs: Plain, hard-boiled eggs are safe in moderation and a fun seasonal option.
Pet-Safe Easter Recipes for Cats and Dogs
Get your pets in on the Easter fun with these easy and delicious recipes!
Dog-Friendly Treats
Peanut Butter Bunny Biscuits
Ingredients:
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
1 egg
1/4 cup water (add more if needed)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, peanut butter, and egg.
Gradually add water until the dough is firm but pliable.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use bunny-shaped cookie cutters to cut out treats.
Place on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes.
Cool completely before serving.
Carrot and Oat Bites
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
Place on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Let cool before giving to your pup.
Cat-Friendly Treats
Tuna Easter Eggs
Ingredients:
1 can tuna in water (drained)
2 tablespoons cooked pumpkin (remove skin and seeds thoroughly)
Optional: a pinch of catnip
Instructions:
Blend the tuna and pumpkin into a smooth paste.
Add catnip if desired.
Shape the mixture into small egg shapes and place on a plate.
Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
Chicken Broth Cubes
Ingredients:
Unsalted chicken broth
Instructions:
Pour the broth into Easter-themed silicone molds.
Freeze until solid.
Pop out and serve as a cool treat.
Sweet Potato Chews (for cats and dogs!)
Ingredients:
1 large sweet potato
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F).
Slice the sweet potato thinly into strips.
Arrange on a baking tray and bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through.
Cool and store in an airtight container.
Safety Tips
Keep pets away from unattended food and trash.
Designate a quiet space where they can retreat if overwhelmed.
Avoid using ribbons, plastic grass, or small decorations that could be ingested.
Look out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or unusual behaviour, and contact your vet immediately if you’re concerned.
Organise a DIY Easter Egg Hunt for Your Pets!
Create a special Easter egg hunt just for your furry friends! Here’s how you can set up this family-friendly activity:
Choose Pet-Safe Treats
Use the homemade treats from Section 2 or store-bought pet-safe snacks.
Avoid using any human foods that could be harmful.
2. Select Safe Hiding Spots
For dogs: Hide treats in your yard or around the house in easy-to-reach spots. Ensure there are no hazards like toxic plants or small objects they could swallow.
For cats: Place treats in more challenging locations, like on cat trees or behind furniture, to engage their hunting instincts.
3. Use Pet-Safe Containers
Use large, pet safe containers, avoiding small plastic items that can be destroyed or pose choking hazards. Ensure there are no sharp edges or parts they could chew off.
4. Encourage Participation
Show your pets the first treat to pique their interest, then let them sniff out the rest.
Offer plenty of praise and encouragement to make it a fun bonding experience.
Hop Into a Safe and Fun Easter for Your Pets
Easter is a joyful time, and with a little preparation, you can make it safe and fun for your pets too. By avoiding harmful foods, treating them to homemade goodies, and following our safety tips, your furry friends can join in the celebrations. And if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, leave your pets with us at Pet Resorts Australia.
At Pet Resorts Australia, we’ve spent over 15 years keeping pets safe and happy during holiday celebrations. Every Easter, our experienced team helps hundreds of families navigate the challenges of festive gatherings with their beloved pets. Whether caring for anxious pups at our facilities or advising pet parents on home celebrations, we understand the unique challenges this season brings. Drawing from our extensive experience in professional pet care, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you create a pet-friendly Easter celebration that ensures your furry family members stay safe and content.
Before the Celebration (1-2 Days Prior)
Setting your pet up for success starts with proper preparation. Create a detailed plan that includes:
Safe Zone Setup
Transform a quiet room or secluded corner into your pet’s personal retreat. Include:
Their favourite bed and toys
Fresh water and food bowls
A white noise machine or calming music
Pheromone diffusers (start these 24 hours before guests arrive)
A sign on the door asking guests to respect this as a ‘Pet Quiet Zone’
Holiday-Proofing Your Home
Easter decorations can be particularly tempting for curious pets. Conduct a thorough safety check:
Store Easter baskets and chocolates in closed cabinets
Secure artificial grass and plastic eggs in display cases
Replace real lilies (toxic to cats) with pet-safe alternatives
Create barriers around food preparation areas
Easter Foods Toxic to Pets
All forms of chocolate are highly toxic to cats and especially dogs
Hot cross buns and fruit bread contain raisins/sultanas that can cause rapid kidney failure
Xylitol, a sweetener in many products, can cause low blood sugar and potentially liver damage depending on the amount ingested
Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries
Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause severe reactions
Avocado can cause vomiting and diarrhoea
Any food containing alcohol can be lethal to pets
During the Celebration
Managing your pet’s experience during the event requires a balance of supervision and strategic planning.
The First Hour is Critical
Exercise your pet thoroughly before guests arrive
Keep them in their safe zone until the initial excitement of arrivals settles
Use positive reinforcement when introducing them to calm, pet-savvy guests
Food Safety Command Center
Designate a responsible family member as the ‘Pet Safety Monitor’ who will:
Watch for dropped food and clean it immediately
Ensure guests know not to feed your pet
Monitor water bowls and refreshments
Keep an eye on unattended plates and cups
Easter Egg Hunt Safety Protocol
If you’re hosting an egg hunt, consider:
Creating a separate, fenced area for the hunt
Using bright-colored eggs that are easy to count and find
Keep pets away from the egg hunt zone until the final check has been done
Conducting a thorough sweep after the hunt
Signs Your Pet Needs a Break
Learn to recognise stress signals early:
Dogs:
Excessive yawning or lip-licking
Whale eye (showing whites of eyes)
Stiff body posture
Cats:
Tail twitching
Ears flattened
Hiding in unusual places
Emergency Preparation
Keep this essential information readily available:
Your vet’s emergency number
Location of nearest 24/7 animal hospital
Pet poison hotline
List of Easter foods toxic to pets (with symptoms)
Basic pet first aid supplies
After the Celebration
The hours following a gathering are just as important as the event itself.
Systematic Cleanup
Do an immediate sweep for dangerous items
Check outdoor areas for dropped food
Remove and tidy up decorations
Inspect pet areas for signs of stress (accidents, scratches, etc.)
Recovery Period
Allow 24-48 hours of quiet time
Maintain regular feeding and exercise schedules
Monitor for delayed stress reactions
Document any concerns for future reference
Need a Safe Haven for Your Pet This Easter?
If you’re planning a large gathering, travelling for the holiday, or simply want peace of mind, consider letting your pet stay with us. Our experienced team provides a calm, supervised environment where your pet can relax away from the festivities. We maintain regular feeding and exercise schedules, and our staff are trained in emergency response. With locations across Queensland, NSW and Melbourne, we’ve got you covered. Book early to secure your pet’s Easter retreat.
Storm season can be particularly distressing for our furry companions. At Pet Resorts Australia, we’ve seen firsthand how thunder, lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain can trigger anxiety in even the most placid pets. Our years of experience providing luxury dog hotel and cattery services have taught us that preparation is key to helping your pets weather the storm.
Create a Safe Haven for Your Pet
Set up a dedicated space where your pet can retreat during storms. This might be a crate covered with a blanket, a quiet bathroom or even a cosy cupboard. Include their favourite bed, toys and items that carry your scent to create a sense of security when thunder strikes.
Use Distractions to Reduce Anxiety
Mask the sound of storms with calming music, white noise or television. Many pets respond well to classical music or programmes specifically designed for pet relaxation. Engaging puzzles and treat-dispensing toys can also divert their attention from frightening weather.
Minimise Sensory Triggers
Draw curtains to block lightning flashes and reduce the visual impact of storms. Consider soundproofing your pet’s safe space with blankets or towels to muffle the noise of thunder and rain. This simple step can dramatically reduce stress levels in anxious pets.
Maintain a Calm Presence
Pets are remarkably perceptive to our emotions. When you remain calm and go about your routine normally, you signal to your pet that there’s nothing to fear. While comfort is important, avoid excessive reassurance which might unintentionally reinforce anxiety.
Explore Anxiety-Reducing Products
Consider using a pressure wrap such as a Thundershirt, which provides gentle, constant pressure to help soothe nervous pets. Speak with your veterinarian about pheromone diffusers like Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats, which mimic natural calming hormones.
Maintain Regular Routines
Consistency provides security for pets, especially during unpredictable weather. Sticking to normal feeding, exercise and play schedules helps minimise disruption and prevents your pet from associating storms with changes in their routine.
Consider Behavioural Training Techniques
Professional trainers can help implement desensitisation strategies, gradually exposing your pet to storm sounds at low volumes and pairing them with positive experiences. Counter-conditioning techniques teach your pet to associate storms with treats or play rather than fear.
Ensure Proper Identification
Update your pet’s microchip information and ensure they wear a collar with current ID tags. Should the worst happen and your pet escape during a storm, proper identification significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion.
Consult Your Veterinarian
For pets with severe storm anxiety, your vet might recommend anti-anxiety medications or supplements. Natural options like L-theanine, tryptophan, or valerian root can help some pets, while others may benefit from prescription medications for extreme cases.
Consider Professional Boarding
Let storm season be one less worry on your mind. Pet Resorts Australia provides a safe environment where your pets receive attentive care, ensuring they remain happy and secure during challenging weather. Whether you’re travelling or simply need support during storm season, our experienced team is here to care for your furry family members.
While February 14th traditionally celebrates romantic love, pet parents know there’s another kind of love worth celebrating – the unconditional affection we share with our furry companions. This Valentine’s Day, let’s explore creative and heartwarming ways to show our pets just how much they mean to us. After all, who gives better kisses than a devoted dog or more loving purrs than a contented cat?
Creating a Spa-tacular Valentine’s Experience
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a day of pampering. Transform your home into a pet spa retreat with these tailored grooming experiences. Start with a gentle brushing session using the right tools for your pet’s coat type – slicker brushes work wonders for long-haired pets, while rubber curry brushes are perfect for short-haired friends. The act of brushing not only removes loose fur but also creates a bonding experience through touch.
For bath time, choose a pet-specific shampoo that matches your furry Valentine’s skin needs. Keep the water lukewarm and use a handheld sprayer or cup for more control. After the bath, wrap your pet in a fluffy towel and use positive reinforcement to make it a pleasant experience. Remember, some pets might prefer a dry brush spa day to a full bath, and that’s perfectly fine!
Complete the spa experience with careful nail trimming – always use proper pet nail clippers and keep styptic powder nearby just in case. For the ultimate luxury treatment, include a gentle ear cleaning and dental care session, turning necessary hygiene into a loving gesture.
Love is Best Shared: Planning the Perfect Playdate
Socialisation isn’t just about fun – it’s a vital part of your pet’s emotional well-being. This Valentine’s Day, arrange a special playdate with their favorite furry friends. Start by choosing compatible playmates based on size, energy level, and temperament. When introducing pets, pick neutral territory and allow them to approach each other naturally.
Take advantage of the Valentine’s season to explore new territories together. Plan a special hike on a pet-friendly trail, letting your companion experience new scents and sights. Pack a pet-friendly picnic and plenty of water, remembering to bring waste bags and any necessary weather gear. Choose locations that match your pet’s fitness level and remember to check trail regulations regarding leash requirements.
Sometimes the most meaningful moments happen right at home. Create a Valentine’s Day fort using blankets and pillows for an extra special cuddle session. Engage in interactive play with new puzzle toys or practice training exercises with heart-shaped treats as rewards. The key is focusing entirely on your pet, letting them know they have your undivided attention and love.
Treats from the Heart
DIY Delights
Nothing says love like homemade treats! Try this simple recipe for Frozen Peanut Butter Hearts:
Mix plain yogurt with natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
Pour into heart-shaped silicone molds
Freeze until solid
Store in an airtight container
For cats, create special Chicken and Catnip Hearts:
Blend cooked chicken breast with a pinch of catnip
Form into small heart shapes
Bake at 175°C until thoroughly dried
Cool completely before serving
Healthy Love Bites
Show your love while maintaining your pet’s health with these natural treats:
Always introduce new treats gradually, serve in moderation, and watch for any adverse reactions.Â
Planning a Romantic Getaway?
Remember, every day is an opportunity to show love to our pets, but Valentine’s Day gives us the perfect excuse to make it extra special. While Valentine’s Day is about celebrating all kinds of love, we understand that some pet parents might want to plan a romantic getaway with their significant other. If you’re planning to spend Valentine’s Day travelling with your partner, make sure your furry friend gets their own special vacation too!
Pet Resorts Australia offers luxury dog boarding where your pet can enjoy their own Valentine’s retreat while you’re away. Our professional staff provides personalised attention, plenty of playtime, and even special Valentine’s Day activities for their furry guests. Book early to secure your pet’s spot and enjoy your romantic getaway with complete peace of mind, knowing your beloved companion is having their own fabulous holiday.
The aroma of sizzling snags on the barbie, the clinking of cold drinks, and the sounds of backyard cricket—Australia Day celebrations are a classic tradition for many families, including their four-legged members. At Pet Resorts Australia, we understand the importance of protecting our furry friends during festivities. Celebrations can quickly turn into emergencies when pets consume the wrong foods. That’s why we’re passionate about prioritising our furry mates stay safe from potentially harmful foods that commonly appear at these gatherings. Let’s take a look at some of the most dangerous foods your pet might encounter during your Australia Day celebrations, and what you can offer them instead.
Hidden Dangers at Your Australia Day Barbie
Onions, Garlic, and Chives: The Sneaky Toxins
That classic combination of snags and onions might be an Aussie favourite, but it poses serious risks to our pets. These ingredients contain organosulfides, compounds that can cause severe damage to your pet’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia. Be particularly mindful of dishes like gourmet sausages, hamburgers, and party dips that often contain these ingredients.
Grapes and Raisins: Seemingly Innocent but Dangerous
While adding grapes to your fruit platter or raisins to your pavlova might seem harmless, these fruits can cause severe kidney failure in pets. Though researchers haven’t identified the specific toxin responsible, the risk is real. Keep an eye on fruit salads, cheese platters with dried fruit, and seasonal baked goods that might contain these ingredients.
Chocolate: A Treat for Us, Not for Them
That Tim Tam slice or chocolate pavlova might be irresistible to both humans and pets, but chocolate contains theobromine, which can be lethal to our furry friends. Dark chocolate is particularly dangerous due to its higher concentration of this compound. Watch out for desserts, chocolate-based drinks, and even chocolate-covered fruits.
Macadamia Nuts: Our Native Nut, Their Nightmare
Despite being an Australian native, macadamia nuts can cause serious problems for pets, including weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia. These nuts often appear in party cookies, cakes, and premium nut mixes. Keep these treats well out of reach of curious paws.
Avocado: Not as Healthy for All
While smashed avo might be a staple at any Australian gathering, it contains persin, a compound toxic to birds and some larger animals. Be mindful of guacamole dips, sandwiches, and salads containing avocado, especially if you have multiple types of pets.
Alcohol: Keep the Drinks Human-Only
Your pet shouldn’t share in the Australia Day drinks, even accidentally. Animals process alcohol much faster than humans do, leading to dangerous drops in blood sugar, body temperature, and blood pressure. Watch out for unattended drinks, and be careful with desserts containing alcohol, like rum balls or brandy sauce.
Cooked Bones: A Recipe for Disaster
While your dog might eye those leftover lamb chop bones hopefully, cooked bones can splinter easily, potentially causing serious internal injuries. This is especially true for chicken and rib bones from the barbie. Instead, consider having some pet-safe treats on hand.
Corn Cobs: An Unexpected Hazard
Those corn cobs from your BBQ might seem harmless, but they can cause serious intestinal blockages if consumed by pets. While the corn itself isn’t toxic, the cob can create a life-threatening obstruction requiring emergency surgery.
Pet-Safe Australia Day Treats
While many traditional Aussie Day foods are off-limits for our furry friends, there are still plenty of delicious and safe options to include them in the festivities! Here are some ideas:
Lean Meats
Small pieces of cooked, lean meat like chicken, turkey, or lamb (without bones or fat) can be a tasty and safe treat. Remember to keep it plain – no marinades, sauces, or seasonings.
Fish
Flaked, cooked unmarinated fish (boneless) can be a healthy and enjoyable treat for your pet.
Prawns
A classic Aussie favourite! Prawns can be a safe treat in moderation, but ensure they are peeled and cooked thoroughly. Important: Be mindful of your dog’s food tolerances, as some pets can be allergic to seafood.
Eggs
Scrambled or boiled eggs (without added salt or butter) are a protein-packed treat.
Veggies (in moderation and plain)
Carrots: Raw or cooked carrot sticks can be a satisfying and crunchy snack, keep them unseasoned
Sweet Potato: Cooked sweet potato (without skin) is a good source of fibre and vitamins
Pumpkin: Cooked pumpkin (without skin) is a great source of fibre and can aid in digestion
Green Beans: Steamed or boiled green beans can be a healthy and low-calorie treat
Frozen Treats
Blend plain yoghurt with pet-safe fruits like bananas or blueberries for a refreshing and cooling treat on a hot Australia Day.
Celebrate Safely with Pet Resorts Australia
Having a ripper of an Australia Day shouldn’t mean compromising your pet’s safety. Worried about your pet around party food and crowds? Planning a massive backyard barbie? Or perhaps you’re heading away for the long weekend? Pet Resorts Australia has you covered for every situation. Our premium facilities offer both doggy daycare and dog boarding accommodation services, providing your mate with a safe haven away from party hazards – complete with our own Australia Day celebration and pet-safe treats! Book online for peace of mind this long weekend.
Welcoming a puppy into your home is an exciting journey filled with cuddles, playtime, and unforgettable moments. However, it’s also a critical time for laying the foundation of good behaviour and social skills. Enrolling your furry friend in a puppy training program like Canine Evolution’s puppy school can significantly impact their ability to interact safely and pleasantly with other dogs and humans. Understanding the essence of early puppy training and socialisation will set the stage for a well-adjusted adult dog.
The Critical Window for Puppy Socialisation
Puppyhood is a delicate period when your pet is most receptive to new experiences, and there exists a ‘critical window’ that greatly influences their future personality and behavioural tendencies. Puppy preschool programs are designed to leverage this period by exposing puppies to various stimuli and social situations. Early socialisation in puppy school helps prevent the development of fear and aggression, making your puppy more adaptable and confident. By missing this key socialisation period, puppies may grow into anxious and socially inept dogs, leading to challenges that could affect their entire lives.
The Benefits of Structured Puppy Training
Structured puppy training programs like those offered at Pet Resort Australia’s training partner, Canine Evolution provide a multitude of benefits that extend well beyond the initial weeks of training. These programs are expertly designed to meet the developmental needs of puppies, ensuring they receive the right experiences at the right time.
1. Building a Behavioural Foundation: In a structured puppy school, the curriculum is tailored to build on each skill progressively. Starting with basic commands and socialisation in puppy preschool, each session builds towards more complex skills, ensuring a comprehensive behavioural foundation. This methodical approach helps puppies learn effectively and retain their training as they grow.
2. Socialisation Opportunities: A significant advantage of attending a structured puppy school is the opportunity for controlled socialisation. Puppies learn to interact with a variety of breeds, sizes, and temperaments under the supervision of trained professionals. This exposure is crucial in helping puppies develop social confidence, reducing the likelihood of aggressive or fearful responses as adults.
3. Prevention of Future Problems: Early puppy training helps identify and mitigate potential behavioural issues before they become ingrained. Instructors at puppy schools can spot early signs of aggression, anxiety, or fear and provide targeted interventions. This proactive approach in a structured setting can prevent many common behavioural problems that might otherwise require intensive correction later in life.
3. Support for Puppy Owners: Structured puppy training programs also benefit the puppy owners. These courses offer guidance on everything from nutritional advice to behavioural tips and provide a platform for owners to ask questions and share concerns about their puppy’s development. This support is invaluable, as it equips owners with the knowledge to continue effective training and care at home.
4. Establishing Long-term Good Behaviour: The habits formed during these early months can last a lifetime. Puppy preschool provides the groundwork for future training, setting the stage for advanced courses and helping puppies grow into well-adjusted, obedient adult dogs. This long-term perspective is essential for a harmonious relationship between dog and owner.
Structured puppy training at places like Canine Evolution’s Puppy School is an investment in your puppy’s future. It not only promotes a well-rounded developmental journey but also enhances the bond between puppies and their owners, paving the way for a lifetime of companionship and mutual respect.
Overview of Canine Evolution’s Puppy School
Canine Evolution’s Puppy School is meticulously crafted for puppies aged 10 weeks to 6 months for smaller breeds, and 10 weeks to 4 months for larger breeds. Held at select affiliated resorts, this puppy training program spans six weeks and costs $195 for six one-hour weekly sessions. The curriculum is designed not only to teach basic commands but also to instil confidence and proper social behaviours through structured interactions and varied environments. This early investment in your puppy’s education helps them grow into sociable and well-mannered dogs, ready to face the world with poise.
The journey through puppyhood is filled with opportunities for learning and growth, both for the puppy and the owner. By choosing a structured program like Canine Evolution’s Puppy School, you are setting the stage for your puppy to develop into a well-behaved and sociable adult dog. The lessons learned in puppy training are invaluable, providing a foundation of good behaviour and social skills.
Start Your Puppies Training Journey Now!
Are you ready to give your puppy the best start in life? Enrol in Canine Evolution’s Puppy School today and take the first step towards a rewarding journey of growth and companionship with your furry friend. For more information on puppy training programs at certain Pet Resorts Australia locations or to secure a spot in our next session, visit our website or give us a call. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in a well-behaved, confident, and happy puppy.
