F.Y.I.

PETstock partners with Qantas Frequent Flyer

PETstock has launched a new partnership with Qantas Frequent Flyer giving its customers one Qantas frequent flyer point per dollar spent, and 5 per dollar spent on repeat purchases.

The announcement:

Caring for pets is set to become even more rewarding as Qantas Frequent Flyer and PETstock launch a new partnership.

From today, PETstock customers can now choose to earn Qantas Points when shopping online or from hundreds of PETstock stores around Australia, expanding on the existing PETstock Rewards program.

Qantas Frequent Flyers will earn 1 Qantas Point per dollar spent at PETstock and 5 bonus Qantas Points per dollar spent when making repeat purchases of participating brands stocked in store or online.

Pet owners will also be eligible to earn Qantas Points on PETstock’s wide range of eligible services including grooming, puppy school and veterinary services.

PETstock CEO, Shane Young, says the company is thrilled to partner with such an iconic and trusted Australian brand to bring more value to their customers.

“With over 6.9 million households now owning a pet across the country, we are always looking for ways to add more value to the lives of our dedicated pet parents. Partnering with the Qantas Frequent Flyer program is an opportunity for our customers to choose how they’re rewarded when they shop, either through our existing PETstock Rewards program, or now, by earning Qantas Points,” says Shane.

“We want our customers to be able to see the value of shopping at PETstock, not only for our extensive product range and renowned expertise of our staff, but because they can benefit from earning money back when they shop through our loyalty program, or earn Qantas Points to redeem on flights, hotel stays or on restaurants just to name a few.”

Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth said the opportunity to earn Qantas Points while shopping and caring for their pets would be popular among frequent flyers.

“Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world and adding more value to the growing spend on pets is great news for our members,” said Ms Wirth.

“Frequent flyers significantly boost their points balance every year through everyday spending like shopping at Woolworths and filling up at bp, and now they can earn points on their pet care too.”

Customers can earn Qantas Points at PETstock by joining PETstock Rewards and linking their Qantas Frequent Flyer details to their account before shopping in store or online. As part of the new partnership, customers will be able to join the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for free when shopping at PETstock.

Participation in the PETstock Rewards Program, including eligibility to earn and spend PETstock Rewards and Qantas Points, is subject to Terms and Conditions.

As part of the announcement, PETstock ambassador and dog behaviourist Lara Shannon has compiled her top tips on how to make holidaying and travelling a seamless experience with pets.

Australians have always been well known to love travel. As we see more Australians heading away on holidays than ever this year(1), we may also see a rise in pet travel with 23 per cent of Australians(2) already taking their pet along with them.

Booking accommodation and activities

As you prepare for your holiday, one of the most important considerations is where you and your pet will be staying. Remember to book pet-friendly accommodation with secure fencing so that if you have to step out, you’ll know that they’re secure and safe in your absence.

If you’re not into hotels, motels or AirBnB’s, camping is another fantastic, low-budget option. Many pet-friendly campsites only allow for leashed pets, so remember to bring an extra-long leash so they can wander but are secure and never too far from sight. It might also be a good idea to use a reflective collar or leash so that they’re visible at night.

Accommodation locations may have specific rules regarding pets, like not being allowed inside your room or in certain public spaces, so be sure to do your research. If booking social activities involving your pet, ensure there are dog friendly spots nearby such as beaches and parks.

Prepping your pet for the holiday

Travelling requires your pet to adapt to stressful and unfamiliar environments, so it’s important to develop their socialisation skills and practice any crate training or car travel prior to any trip. You can develop your pet’s socialisation skills by introducing them to new experiences. Whether that’s going on a first road trip to familiarise them with car travel or to a different dog park than normal, these novel experiences, along with positive rewards and feedback, will help them feel comfortable with adapting to change.

If your pet is not familiar with using a crate, take the time to crate train your pet in the familiar environment of your home, ensuring they have enough time to feel comfortable and safe when inside.

If you believe your pet displays anti-social behaviour to strangers, signs of separation anxiety, or any behaviour that might impact your ability to travel comfortably, consult with your local vet or pet behavioural expert to receive extra help and preparation. Consider if bringing your pet is the right thing to do, as there are a number of options such as boarding facilities, pet sitters or even family that you can consider to look after your pet.

Packing the essentials

A daunting task for first time pet travellers is deciding what you need for your trip. Formost cats and dogs, you won’t regret buying a sturdy collar and leash, as well as a spare set if anything happens to the first. Be sure to update your pet’s microchip details and their ID tag on their collar, so that your pet can be identified at any time if they do go exploring.

To help with transportation, source a good-quality, ventilated carrier that is big enough for your pet to stand and sleep in. If you are planning to use a car, ensure you have the correct belts or secure carrier, so that they can be safe when driving as unrestrained pets can be dangerous for both the pet and the driver.

Depending on the length of your trip, you should also remember to bring comfort items such as toys, blankets and training pads, as well any medications if applicable. For fussy pets, bring along their favourite dry food or treats.

Remember, if your pet has food for specific dietary requirements, bring more than you think you need.

Consult a vet

Prior to travel, you should book an appointment with a qualified vet for a check-up and to ensure their vaccinations and parasite control are up to date and relevant to the areas you are travelling to, they can also help you decide whether your pet is in its best health for travelling, no matter the length of your trip.

If travelling overseas, research your destination’s specific requirements and their regulations for quarantine, vaccinations, parasite treatment, and microchips. Consulting your local vet will also help determine the best course of action for your trip and your destination. Always have a plan in place to cover any unforeseeable circumstances by locating a vet at your destination.

On the day

– Double check your pet bag for all the essentials i..e food, treats, water bowls, waste bags, leash and any medications.

– If possible, tire out your pet so that they have less energy for the trip. If you have a dog, go for a long walk or if you have a cat, bring out a new toy.

– Leave an item with a familiar scent in your pet’s carrier so that they always have a connection to you. This could be an old t-shirt or blanket.

– Pets can sense human energy, so be as calm as possible on the day so that they feel relaxed.

– Travelling with pets may take more time than usual. If you have a strict travel schedule, leave yourself ample time for anything that might happen along the way.

(1) ABS, Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia

(2) Pets in Australia: A national survey of pets and people

Source: Communicado

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