pets Archives - Jetpets AU

How To Keep Your Pets Cool on Hot Days

Posted on January 1, 2019 by Jetpets

Summer is well and truly here, and while we love the warmer weather, the holiday season, lazy days by the beach and more, it’s important to remember to keep our pets cool, especially in hot temperatures.

Not sure what you need to do?

Here are a few great tips and tricks to help you keep your pets cool, hydrated and healthy during the warmer weather.

(And for our friends in the Northern Hemisphere, we haven’t forgotten you! Click here to read our top tips to keep your pets toasty warm over the cooler months. )

DIY ice treats:

If you’re after a fun way to keep your animals cool and hydrated, ice treats are a great idea to motivate your animal to drink water and stay cool in hot weather.

They are easy to make. Simply;

Place your pet’s favourite treats in an ice-cream container.
Fill with water. You may even like to add a little gravy powder for additional flavour.
Freeze.
Once frozen, tip the ice treat out of the container for your dog to enjoy the whole day long!

Kiddie pools:

If you have larger dogs, clam shell kiddie pools are an easy way to keep them cool when it’s hot outside. These pools are fun for your dogs to splash around, keep cool and drink plenty of water at the same time.

Just remember that if your pets share your yard with children, ensure you have all the necessary precautions in place, including fencing, in order to keep children safe around water.

Keep them indoors:

Summer is sure to bring some seriously hot days, so to ensure your pets are safe and healthy throughout these rising temperatures, it’s a great idea to keep them inside if you can, with the air-con on.

Smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and birds are especially sensitive to hot weather and should be moved inside at any sign of high temperatures. Make sure you drape their cages in wet towels and place them in a bathroom or laundry that has cool tiles. Always keep ice packs or frozen water bottles on hand for animals to lean against and to regulate their temperature. Of course plenty of water is a must as well!

Wet their feet:

Another great thing to do on those scorching hot days is to wet your pet’s feet and spray a light misting of water on them. This will dampen them so that their body temperature becomes cooler. Feet are a great body part to focus on cooling as many animals control their temperature through their feet.

Exercise your pets in the morning or late evening:

Just like humans, your animals are susceptible to sunburn, dehydration and overheating. Make sure you walk your pets in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is at its coolest point. A good idea is to take your pets to your local beach, creek or river so they can paddle to cool down and get refreshed!

Pet Behaviour Tips for Travelling Pets from Animal Behaviourist, Dr Jo Righetti

Posted on July 12, 2018 by Jetpets

Pet Behaviour | Jetpets | International Pet Transport | Pet Carrier

Dr Jo Righetti and her pup Chilli relaxing in the park

Interpreting our beloved pet’s behaviour can sometimes be a puzzling challenge for the untrained and until our dogs are able to talk to us, (fingers crossed for soon), it’s best to rely on advice from professionals. Dr Jo Righetti is one of Australia’s leading pet behaviourists and has been providing pet lovers with insightful professional advice on their pets for over 20 years.

With Dr Jo Righetti joining us as a sponsor for the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards 2018 we thought it would be a great opportunity to ask Dr Jo Righetti if she had any tips or advice for those wanting to travel with their beloved pets.

Relaxing your pet

Many pet owners report that when they are experiencing stress, often their pet will pick up on it and alter their behaviour. To ensure that your pet doesn’t take on your stress try to eliminate situations that cause you stress when at home with your pet.

Dr Righetti:

“Pets may pick up on your stress, so try to remain as calm as you can when travelling or preparing to travel. Make written lists and tick them off as you complete them. Double check your pet’s travel arrangements in the lead up to the day of departure. Check their ID. If you are confident in your pet’s arrangements, then you can relax and begin to enjoy your travel.”

Avoid sedation

You might think sedating your pet during transit could avoid anxiety or stress but in fact sedating your pet can lead to serious problems arising during travel. When a pet is sedated they are more likely to have breathing interference or a reaction to the medication. Sedation also results in pets not being able to drink water provided in their crate leading to dehydration risks.

Dr Righetti:

“Most pets do not require to be tranquilized during travel. If you have an anxious pet, discuss with your veterinarian ways to relax your pet without tranquilizers.”

Crate train before travel

Our pets can be more susceptible to stress and anxiety when placed in an unfamiliar situation such as a travel crate. You can show your pet that there is nothing to fear by spending some time crate training your dog. Jetpets can bring your travel crate to your door in the weeks prior travel to give you the time you need to acclimatise your pet to the pet travel crate.

Dr Righetti:

“Make your pet’s crate as pleasant as possible by introducing your pet to it in a gradual, positive way. Allow your pet to enter the crate on their own, enticing them with taste treats or a favourite toy. Place their bed or a blanket in there too. Each time they go into the crate, extend the time they spend there. Begin to close the door, taking care not to frighten your pet and, again, extend the time they spend in their crate.”

Watch our step by step crate training video

Introduce new stimulus slowly

Many of our clients use our services when they are moving interstate or internationally, often for a job or life change. Sometimes this can lead to a pet becoming uneasy in their new surroundings. Slow it down and introduce new environments or a new home to your pet gradually. This can lead to your pet becoming more comfortable in their new surroundings.

Dr Righetti:

“When pets have anxiety or stress about any aspect of life, the best way to deal with this is through desensitisation. This means gradual and controlled introductions to the frightening stimulus. If your pet is moving to an area without a garden, for instance, then get them used to new ways of exercising prior to this change. If you have to set up a new home, then you may find it beneficial to board your pet for a few days or have them stay with a friend, while you sort out your living arrangements. Then you can bring your pet into their new but more familiar area where they have their bed, blankets toys and food dishes. And, of course, the most important thing in your pet’s life is you! Stay as calm as you can. Keep your pet’s routines the same.”

Saying goodbye and saying hello

Saying goodbye to our pets to go to work can sometimes be difficult but what about if it is for a few days or even weeks? The trick here is to make it part of your pet’s routine well beforehand to avoid the puppy tears.

Dr Righetti:

“Say goodbye matter-of-factly to your pet. Practice beforehand if this is hard. Put your pet in their crate, say goodbye and quickly walk away. If your pet has had this done a hundred times before, they will not react. Plus, you can give them a treat to occupy them and make it positive. When you say hello, it’s difficult not to go over the top but this can create anxiety in your pet. So, keep calm and ensure you pet is healthy on your reunion and is safe when you let them explore.”

Pet Behaviour | Jetpets | International Pet Transport | Pet Carrier | Pet Problems Solved

Dr Jo is the founder of one of Australia’s most trusted dog behaviour websites petproblemsolved.com.au

Doctor Jo Righetti is the founder of the fantastic pet resource petproblemsolved.com.au. With loads of professional advice and information on pet behaviour its your number one resource for any pet problems you may need solved.

*major airports in Australia

Is your furry family member travelling?

Posted on March 13, 2018 by Jetpets

There’s many benefits in using a pet travel service.

Travelling within Australia or overseas? Need flights booked for your pet? Require a door to door service? Regardless of the travel scenario there’s countless benefits in using a pet travel service, rather than attempt to organise it yourself. Here’s just some of the benefits in having the Jetpets team arrange and look after your pet throughout their entire travel journey.

Place your pet in the care of pet lovers.

We know that you are trusting us to care for your much loved, precious family member. Our pet loving team includes pet travel consultants, resident vets and pet handlers, and we are specialists when it comes to pet travel.

We will take the time to get to know your pet and find out if they have any special requirements.

Pet welfare, comfort and safety comes first

Everything we do centres around the welfare, comfort and safety of your pet.

Our resident vets are located at transit lounge locations throughout Australia. For overseas travellers our vets can complete the entire vet work schedule and ensure strict country of entry requirements are met.

Your pet travel consultant will create your pet’s travel itinerary and provide valuable tips to get your pet ready for travel, as well as stepping your through the entire process.

Our transit lounges are conveniently located near major airports in Australia and provide a relaxing and comfortable environment for your pet prior to their flight.

Our team provides great advice on the best sized travel crate for your pet. You can hire or purchase an airline compliant travel crate from Jetpets. For travel within Australia you can visit a transit lounge for guidance on the best sized travel crate, or for overseas travellers a pet handler can deliver one to your home well before travel. Our pet handlers provide great advice on getting your pet familiar with their travel crate.

For door to door services our pet handlers will transport your pet in comfort in our air-conditioned fleet.

For indirect flights we offer a comfort stop service, ensuring that your pet is taken care of every step of the way.

We are there if things don’t quite go to plan. Sometimes a flight does get delayed or cancelled, or a pet may soil their travel crate prior to flight. You needn’t be concerned as a pet handler will attend to it. They will also be there to top up their water container.

We have a strict weather policy to ensure all pets travel comfortably and safely. We have a dedicated pet travel consultant who proactively monitors the forecast and in instances of extreme weather will change the flight time if necessary.

We select the best flight options

Wanting to travel on the same flight? We will do our best to accommodate this.

We have visibility of pet cabin space availability across our airline partners and will suggest the most direct flight option for your pet.

We monitor the weather and if your pet is travelling from or to a hot climate we will recommend a morning or night flight.

Peace of mind

You can have complete peace of mind knowing that your pet is in good hands with Jetpets, and we are accessible 24/7.

Value for money

With the level of expertise provided and care taken Jetpets represents exceptional value for money. There are also many complimentary aspects of our service that provide convenience to you and benefit your pet.

For interstate pet travel you can enjoy the convenience of our complimentary transit lounge to airport pick up and delivery service.

Terms and conditions apply.

For overseas travel our complimentary services include:

The convenience of our “front door” pickup by our trained pet handlers.
Pet handler home visit to assist in choosing the correct crate size for your pet, and leave it with you for pet familiarisation.
Our stay dry fleece mat provides an absorbent padded surface to keep your pet dry and comfortable in their travel crate.
Jetpets resident vets can complete a home visit and health check.
One-night boarding stay prior to travel.

Terms and conditions apply.

Jetpets Supports Australian Working Dog Rescue

Posted on September 1, 2017 by Jetpets

The Australian working dog is an icon of Australia. A symbol of our relationship with the land and the spirit of our working nation. Find out how Jetpets are pitching in to support organisations dedicated to saving these aussie hero’s.

Pet Transport Melbourne | Dog Transport | Working Dogs Australia | Jetpets News

AWDRI ambassador Lauren Vickers with one of their rescue pups.

Australian working dog breeds were engineered to be tough, loyal and above all else smart. The Heeler, the Kelpie, the Koolie and Smithfield were all bred to assist Australian farmers by herding cattle and farmers often say these dogs work harder than human workers.

Farmers often depend on the intelligence and versatility of these breeds to ensure their livestock is safe and their farms are thriving but what happens when these dogs are surrendered by their owners or a stray is brought in to the pound? How do these dogs find the right kind of home?

The AWDRI were flooded with well-wishers during the Sydney Dog Lovers show last month.

This is where AWDRI (Australian Working Dog Rescue Int) step in to save the day. AWDRI is a charity organisation that aims to save these dogs from being euthanised and promotes the rescue of working dog breeds all over Australia.

As a corporate partner to this organisation Jetpets offers help in saving these dogs from an uncertain future by providing assistance in relocating them to a foster home or in some cases their forever homes.

How your pet helps you to feel your best

Posted on May 1, 2017 by Jetpets

Our pets are great at getting us back to feeling our best! And, we’ll admit it, they’re pretty cute too!

Companionship

If there’s one thing we need besides food and water as humans, it’s companionship and love! Our beautiful furry friends provide both, in abundance! Animals are quite intuitive too, so they will know when you need company, or a lick on the nose.

Unconditional love

There isn’t a better feeling than to be greeted by your fur-family when you return from a long day at work! Whether you’ve had a bad day at work, or are going through a rough time in your personal life – your pet is still going to love you no matter what.

Get outside and moving

Leading an active and healthy lifestyle does more than tone your thighs, it also gives you boundless amounts of energy and can brighten your mood! Having a pet forces you to go outside and get moving! Not only will a walk with your pup allow them to get some much-needed exercise, it will also help you get your daily vitamin D boost, which will bump up your serotonin levels and help you maintain your mood.

Routine

When you’re struggling to find motivation, or are feeling a bit down-and-out, routine and responsibility help you get back to your best. Having to get outside every day to walk your pup, or having to head to the grocery store to pick up your cat’s favourite food can get you up and going again!

No questions asked

Sometimes we just need someone to listen. Having a pet is like having a friend who is always there for you, listens to all of your problems and just supports you no matter what. Sometimes we all just need to debrief and have a cuddle with our pets to make everything better again!

Easter Fun with your Pet

Posted on April 10, 2017 by Jetpets

We can’t believe it either, it’s almost Easter! The time of the year we get to indulge in chocolate and spend time with our loved ones (including our pets!) But how can you get your pet into the Easter spirit? Here are three great ways you can get them involved in your celebrations!

Dress ups

There’s no doubt that dress ups help us get into the festive spirit. Whether you like to go all out with your festive outfits, or you prefer subtle chic styling – dolling your pets up and having a little photoshoot is a great way to get them involved this Easter. If you’re having some trouble photographing your pets, read our top tips for getting the perfect picture every time.

Take a break

The Easter long weekend is a great opportunity to take a break, kick back and relax! Why not make the most of a few days off by taking your pet on some extra long walks, head to a new dog park, check out that local pet-friendly cafe you’ve been meaning to try or snuggle into bed and watch a few of your favourite films with your furry friend by your side.

Easter Egg Hunt

There’s no reason why your pet can’t be a part of all of the fun and games! Here’s a few ways you can get them involved in your Easter egg hunts!

Ice treats! If the weather’s still warm enough, head down to your local supermarket and pick up an Easter-themed cake mould and put together an icy-treat for your pet! Freeze some of their favourite treats in the water to keep them occupied for hours!
Grab your dog’s Kong and place some of their favourite treats inside, hide around the house or backyard, and watch as they get super excited when they find their Easter treats!
Many of us eat fish on Good Friday, so why not get your pets involved by sharing some yummy fish with them too! Cats in particular will love this special treat – from our experience a tin of tuna in spring water is a sure fire hit!

While we wish Easter was all fun and games, it’s important to keep your pets safe and away from any of the potential hazards that come with the holiday. Remember to keep any chocolates and sweets well out of your pets reach. Watch them around any decorations, and make sure to follow their cues – if they look uncomfortable in their new Easter costume, then take it off! Follow our guide and we promise, you’ll have an Easter you’ll never forget!

5 Great Cat Breeds For Families

Posted on March 20, 2017 by Jetpets

Introducing a new pet to your family can be an exciting time for everyone involved! Whether you’re a cat or dog person, we all know that finding the right breed to fit into your family can be a difficult task.

If you’re thinking of introducing a cat into your family, a great place to start is your local pet shelter or rescue organisation. While we at Jetpets believe the humble moggie makes a great family pet, these other breeds do too so check them out!

Ragdoll

With their piercing bright blue eyes, there’s no doubt that Ragdolls are one of the most adorable cat breeds out there! But it’s not just looks that makes the Rag Doll a great family pet, their temperament and personality makes them a perfect fit for young families. Ragdoll’s love to be around people, and are super affectionate! Their loving nature means that they’d shy away from conflict and prefer rather to snuggle up on their owners laps.

Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is the perfect breed for those fighting the dog vs. cat battle. If you’re introducing a pet into your family for the first time, it really can be difficult to decide whether a cat or a dog would be best suited for you. Luckily, the Abyssinian gives you the best of both worlds! Their favourite place will be by their toy basket. Grab their favourite toy and they’ll happily play a game of fetch with you! Like dogs, they love attention and affection too, and their playful nature means that they don’t shy away from boisterous toddlers!

Burmese

Burmese are a great breed for families who enjoy spending time at home! They are active and social, meaning that they would prefer to hang out with you at home, instead of exploring the neighbourhood. Their affectionate personality means that they mix well with children and dogs, (as long as they appreciate when your Burmese is looking for some down time!)

Persian

Persian’s fit perfectly into small families, especially with older children! Known for their short nose and perky ears, a Persian’s favourite place will be on your lap. They don’t require much playtime, so they’ll fit perfectly into a busy family. Just make sure you have time to show them some love and affection at the end of the day!

Birman

The undeniably cute Birman is a breed that will fit well into most family dynamics. Quiet but intelligent, this curious cat will always want to know what you and your family are up to. Birman’s love to be treated as one of the family, they’ll even let you carry them around like a baby! In the Birman’s books, any attention is good attention, which makes them especially great with children.

What breed did you choose when deciding on a new family pet? Let us know on Facebook!

It’s written in the stars …

Posted on February 10, 2017 by Jetpets

It’s Valentine’s Day – hooray! Ensure the dreamiest day of the year is one you’ll forever spend swept of your feet by falling in love with the pitter-patter of claws or the loving embrace of warm paws!

Finding your purrfect pet this Valentine’s Day is all but written in the stars. Allow your star sign to shed light on the most magical match for you and find a furry or feathered friend to fall in love with as fast as a shooting star.

The strength shown by those of Aquarius, Pisces and Aries signs demands a pet that’s equally wise and strong. Man’s best friend makes a great mate for these signs, with the kind and intelligent Labrador leading the pack. Loyal in relationships with a lot of love to give, these star signs are best paired with pooches that are affectionate and partial to a pat or cuddle on the couch.

Taurus, Gemini and Cancer signs adore the outdoors, as do the pets that suit them best. Adventurous and willing to give anything a try, dogs that leap and bound across grassy-green ovals or rabbits that explore a garden’s every inch are known to effortlessly win the hearts of these signs.

The creativity of those born to the Leo, Virgo and Libra star signs deserves to be met with an equally inventive pet. Rather than a traditional dog or cat, love thrives with these pet owners when met with animals just as exuberant as they are. Thinking outside of the box sees these star signs befriend colourful birds, cheeky ferrets and aquariums filled with exotic fish.

Resilient signs of Scorpio, Sagittarius and Capricorn are ideally suited to the confidence of felines. Comfortable in their own skin and content in their own company, cats similarly march to the beat of their own drum.

There’s no need to check into Heartbreak Hotel should your relationship status be solo this Valentine’s Day. If you allow your star sign to the loving arms of a furry friend of feathery pal, the unconditional love of a pet is all but a constellation away.

Finding your purrfect match!

Posted on February 9, 2017 by Jetpets

Are you, or someone you know, thinking about bringing a new pet into the family? We get it, falling in love with a pet is easy (trust us, we fall in love every day!)

When selecting a new pet for your family, there are a number of different options available, but we believe visiting a shelter or rescue organisation is a great place to start your search. When you rescue a pet, not only will you be giving a beautiful animal a second chance at a happy life, but the shelter or rescue organisation will also have a number of different breeds available, (including pure-breds in many cases,) as well as pets at all different stages of life, not just kittens and puppies. This means that the shelter or rescue organisation will be able to work with you to select the perfect pet to suit your family and lifestyle.

Ready to start looking for your ‘purrfect’ match? PetRescue is a great place to start.

PetRescue is a free non-profit service that connects rescue groups with adopters. With the awesome support of a growing community of pet lovers, PetRescue.com.au is now Australia’s most visited charity website, helping to save the lives of thousands of homeless pets every month. Better still? PetRescue work closely with our team here at Jetpets to transport rescue pets to ‘furever’ homes across Australia every day.