With Easter fast approaching, Kiwis are gearing up for a well-deserved holiday break. But what about their fur family members?

Whether you're planning a pet-friendly getaway, booking a kennel, or hosting an Easter egg hunt at home, keeping your pets safe and happy helps make for a stress-free and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

From travel tips to treat smarts, PD Insurance offers helpful advice to ensure four-legged family members can join the celebration with toys, treats, and an Easter egg hunt of their own.

“Easter’s a time for joy, but it can hop into chaos for pets if we’re not careful with anything from toxic treats to travel risks potentially upending the egg basket,” said Michelle Le Long, COO of PD Insurance.

“By following some simple steps, Kiwis can keep the holiday fun going and hopefully avoid those unexpected vet visits.”

The classic roadie

For a growing number of pet parents, Droolius Caesar and Mittens McSnuggles get to tag along on holiday. In fact, a 2024 PD Insurance survey found 24 per cent of Kiwis bring their pets on holiday.

When this is the go-to (and it’s a roadie), good tips include confirming pet-friendly stops and carefully checking fencing and pet-friendly amenities at your destination. Take a little easily accessible food and water for potential delays.

Summer might be drawing to a close, but don’t be lulled into a false sense of security never leave pets in cars. Heat kills fast, even on cool days. That’s not all; beware of hot footpaths or tarmac. Test these barefoot, because if it is too hot for you, it’s also too hot for them.

While driving, it’s a sound plan to secure pets using travel carriers or harnesses to avoid distractions or crash hazards.

Pet hotels (Kennels/Catteries)

Kennels and catteries provide a valued service for pet parents on a getaway. Forming a relationship with the people who run your local one builds trust and can help providers develop an affinity with your pets, particularly if they become regulars.

Le Long said she’s even encountered a fair few who provide season-specific treats for their guests (chocolate-free, naturally).

For first timers, she advises scouting pet-focused Facebook groups and checking online reviews.

“It is all about your pet’s happiness, comfort and safety. And your peace of mind,” she said.

Visit ahead to meet staff and inspect facilities and be sure to update vaccinations and flea treatments. Pack toys and unwashed clothing with your scent for comfort and ease them in with a relaxed drop-off.

Staycation with friends/family

Wherever possible, it may be preferable for a relative or neighbour to host your pet while you’re away.

“For many pet parents, this is the gold standard,” said Le Long. “But for many, it is a bit of a long shot. You’ll need great rellies or really close friends for a start!”

She recommends getting started with a pre-Easter playdate while making sure all the necessities go along with your furbaby. That means leashes, food, water bowls, and bedding.

“Help your pet settle in by playing in the new space before you jet off. And do leave a ‘manual’ outlining any quirks or tips on habits and expectations like 5pm walkies.”

Professional pet sitters are a further option, and if this is the go-to, Le Long again advises careful ‘vetting,’ along with setting feeding, play, and check-in schedules, along with detailed notes on food, exercise, and vet info.

It’s Easter and that means FUN (and lots of treats)

Easter egg hunts aren’t just for kids and with the right approach, furbabies are often safely brought into the celebration.

Le Long advises pet-safe twists.

“Human snacks can turn festive into frantic,” she said. “So you do want to ‘treat’ them right.”

Skip chocolate eggs, as theobromine is toxic and can kill dogs and cats. Use pet-safe toys or treats (e.g., kibble-filled eggs) for a fun hunt. Hide them low and secure, avoiding (for example) high shelves for cats to leap from or loose items, which could present a choking hazard.

And keep a close eye on goings-on to avoid overeating or fights in multi-pet homes.

No-nos include grapes and raisins, which are toxic to dogs and often in hot cross buns, along with onions, garlic (upset stomachs), and fatty meats like ham (pancreatitis risk). Dairy, lollies, and alcohol?

“That’s a hard pass as pets can’t handle them and it’s just not a good idea,” said Le Long.

On the ‘yes-please’ you can spoil them with vet-approved Easter treats such as freeze-dried liver, frozen yoghurt, homemade tuna treats, watermelon cubes and much more.

“Just remember to introduce new treats gradually and in moderation and watch for any signs of allergies or sensitivities,” Le Long said.

Whether you’re road-tripping with Rover, boarding Sir Meows-a-Lot, or hosting a backyard egg hunt, plan ahead. And for those who managed to get away, expect a joyful reunion on your return and be sure to have a rewarding treat ready for their excitement.