Posted on: 26th May 2022

The start to this summer has a distinctly different feel to usual as the nation prepares to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – it’s an amazing achievement and promises to be an extended Bank Holiday of great festivities, exciting events and much merriment.

Just in case you weren’t sure when it is taking place (highly-unlikely, but we thought we’d check just in case!), the celebrations will take place from Thursday 2nd June to Sunday 5th June, with various Royal events including Trooping the Colour, RAF fly-pasts, the lighting of various Jubilee beacons across the country and a nationwide lunch in which all households are encouraged to come together to share good food, drinks and celebrations.

As you all prepare to participate in this proud Great British celebration, we thought we’d give you some tips on making sure that your pets are not only able to join in the festivities but are also kept safe throughout.

Here are our top pet safety tips:

Food safety

There are many food items that are poisonous to pets, so ensure that these are kept well out of reach from your pets, especially if you’ve set up outside tables, snack tables and so forth.

The following items are poisonous or potentially dangerous to dogs:

  • Onions, garlic and chives
  • Chocolate
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Corn on the cob
  • Avocado
  • Artificial sweeteners (Xylitol)
  • Alcohol
  • Cooked bones
  • Grapes and raisins

If you’d like to make something safe and special for your pets to have to celebrate the weekend, try one of the fantastic, pet-safe recipes here: https://www.puppyleaks.com/simple-dog-treat-recipes/

Hydration

The Bank Holiday weekend will hopefully be a warm, sunny affair spent mostly outside. Whilst this is ideal for celebrations, be aware of your pet’s hydration needs and ensure that their water bowls are constantly monitored for fresh water.

Shade

If indeed we’re lucky enough to have bright, sunny weather you’ll need to ensure that there is enough shade available for your pets, whether a spot indoors or outside under an umbrella or sun-shade.

Protecting them from too many people

It’s likely to be a bustling weekend, with crowds gathering in public spaces, lots of people at BBQs, and other people with pets out and about. Stay aware of your pet’s reactions, keep them on a lead if in public, put a muzzle on them if applicable and give them some time away from the crowds if things get too busy.

Ensuring they can be found if they get lost

Make sure your pet’s microchip is up to date and active, so that in the event of them going astray they can easily be found and repatriated.

Firework safety

It’s very likely that there will be fireworks at various points over the weekend. If you’re considering using fireworks, perhaps consider using pet-friendly silent options that are just as spectacular from a visual point of view, but don’t distress pets anywhere near as much as regular fireworks.

You can also anticipate ways to keep your pet safe and more comfortable in the event of there being loud fireworks. Pet calming products, keeping them indoors, and being with them can help ease the stress.

If you have any concerns about your pets and how to look after them over the Jubilee weekend please contact your local vet, RSPCA or Battersea Dogs Home for more guidance and advice.

Have a great, safe, festive Jubilee Weekend with your pet!

Celebrating Jubilee Weekend in Style with your Pet