Easter is a time for family, friends, and of course, our pets. But human traditions like Easter eggs are not good for dogs, so how can your pets get involved? Here’s how you can make Easter a memorable occasion for every member of your household, including the ones with paws and claws.
1. Egg-citing Easter treat hunt
Involving pets in Easter egg hunts where you’re hunting chocolate eggs is a big no-no. Keep your pets far away from chocolate eggs. Instead, create a pet-friendly Easter egg hunt by hiding treats around your garden or home. Use brightly coloured plastic eggs to stash away treats for your dog or cat. Ensure the treats are suitable for your pet’s diet to avoid any tummy troubles.
Make the hunt extra festive by dressing your pet up in a cute Easter costume.
2. DIY pet-safe Easter baskets
Craft an Easter basket filled with pet-safe toys and goodies. Include cute bunny toys for dogs, catnip for felines, and interactive chew toys for birds and small animals. They cannot eat chocolate, but there are plenty of other safe and delicious treats to include in the basket for your cat, dog, bird, or small animal.
3. Give back to animal charities
Easter is about giving, so consider supporting a pet charity like the Petbarn Foundation. Donate funds or supplies to help animals in need, volunteer at a local shelter, or include items like the Petbarn Foundation Hedgehog squeaker toy in your pet’s Easter basket.
4. Easter Pet Picnic
Pack a picnic with pet-friendly foods and head to your local park or set it up in your own backyard. Include fresh veggies for small animals and tasty fresh food like The Nosh Project for dogs and cats.
5. DIY Easter treats
Get creative in the kitchen by baking homemade treats for your pets. Make sure to avoid toxic foods and only use pet-safe ingredients to make biscuits or frozen yoghurt pops. Shape them like Easter eggs or bunnies for a festive touch.
As you hop through the Easter long weekend, remember that the best moments aren’t the ones filled with the most treats or the fanciest toys, but those spent with our loyal companions by our side.
Frequently asked questions about pets and Easter
Can dogs eat hot cross buns?
No, dogs can’t eat hot cross buns. Many contain raisins, chocolate, or other ingredients which are toxic to dogs.
What happens if your dog eats an Easter egg?
Choclate is highly toxic to dogs. Chocolate toxicity may result signs such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Increased thirst/urination
- Restlessness or agitation
- Rapid breathing/panting
- Increased heart rate
- Tremors
- Seizures
If your dog has eaten Easter chocolate, contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary hospital.
Can you get Easter eggs that are safe for dogs?
There are many Easter-egg style treats that are safe for dogs! Egg-shaped biscuits that are decorated like Easter Eggs are a popular favourite.
Can you get Easter eggs for cats?
Unfortunately, Petbarn does not have any Easter egg treats that are safe for cats. However, there are plenty of delicious cat treats available that your cat will love.