How Malaysians can have a jolly Christmas holiday with their pets

For many first-time pet parents, the holiday season can bring many challenges. — Adobe Stock

The pandemic has inspired many people to adopt pets as they seek companionship during the various lockdown measures. For many of these first-time pet parents, the holiday season can be a daunting time, says a pet food company.

“The holidays can pose extra challenges for pet parents – whether it’s the new, festive decorations that dogs think are chew toys, or the logistics of travelling across the country to see family,” Mars Petcare said in a statement.

For those who plan to travel with their furry friends, the company said there are some things to take note of.

“Many people travel to see family and friends for the holidays, and some may be doing so with furry friends. It’s important to keep your pets’ day-to-day needs in mind and pack a bag just for them, including key items like food, water containers, waste bags and a pet-friendly first aid kit,” the company said.

If anything, travel stakeholders are anticipating a rise in pet travel in a post-pandemic world.

It was an observation made by in a recent global trends report from Hilton. This trend, according to the study, is due to the fact that more households adopted a pet during the pandemic.

“Certain markets in Asia Pacific – like China, Australia, Thailand, Japan, the Philippines and Singapore – are also reporting increased spikes in pet ownership,” said the report.

The report added that pet owners are looking forward to “prioritise their pets’ happiness more than before”.

Hilton also revealed that the “pet-friendly” booking filter has been the third most used search filter on the hospitality group’s website.

If you’re planning to travel with your pet this holiday period, there are many properties in Malaysia that allow animals in.

Typically, small to medium-sized dogs and cats which are already housebroken or trained are allowed at some hotels, resorts, homestays and home-sharing businesses.

But above all, Mars Petcare said it’s all about keeping your pets comfortable during your vacation.

It said that while many first-time pet parents are ready to celebrate the holiday season with their furry friends, it’s important to remember that celebrating with animals also introduces new things to them, and that we should always be wary of what they are.

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