With studies showing that pandemic pet owners are more likely to face challenges with their pet’s behaviour, this year’s National Pet Month will focus even more heavily on education and support.
Working with leading vet and pet professionals throughout the month, National Pet Month will share top tips and advice on companionship, behaviour, diet, health and environment.
With many of us taking on new pets during lockdown and the rise in first time owners, National Pet Month will have a strong focus on behaviour – one of the five key welfare needs of our animal companions.
Latest statistics from National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) show that pandemic pet owners are more likely to face challenges with pets due to our changing lifestyles in recent years. A study showed 27 percent of owners of dogs or cats acquired during the pandemic are experiencing unwanted pet behaviour, with 31 percent even concerned they may have to give up their pet as a result.
National Pet Month recognises this worrying trend and is working to change this by encouraging pet owners to reach out to vet and pet professionals for help.
“With three in 10 owners welcoming a new pet during the pandemic, there has never been a greater need for education and support around responsible pet ownership,” says Dawn Howard, NOAH chief executive. “With national lockdowns, restrictions on travel and social gatherings, loneliness has been at an all- time high, so it’s no surprise people have introduced a new pet. The benefits to our mental and physical health are proven.
“However, although recognising a pet is part of the family, some owners are struggling to adapt as we return to the workplace and start more regularly socialising again. In some cases, our pets are finding themselves back in rescue or suffering from separation issues.”
Dawn adds: “We need this to change. That’s why National Pet Month will be tackling important issues like separation anxiety, new owner worries and more during this year’s campaign. We want pet owners to know there is help available and encourage them not to give up on their pet.
“In many cases, there are simple steps an owner can take to improve a pet’s behaviour. Sometimes just one conversation with a vet or pet professional can make a positive difference for you and your animal companion.”
During this year’s campaign, National Pet Month will be staging live discussions on the five welfare needs through their social channels and will share a variety of owner and vet stories using #PetPawsitivity #VetPawsitivity.
Topics covered will include:
- Tips for employers on developing a bring your dog to work policy
- How to keep our pets active and healthy, including small furries
- The importance of vaccinations and pet dental health
- Caring for older pets, including canine arthritis management
- Knowing your pets’ normal behaviour and changes to look out for
To get involved in #NationalPetMonth for 1 April to 2 May, follow National Pet Month social channels and share your pet stories:
Or Follow www.facebook.com/joinscratchingpost for cat lovers and www.facebook.com/joinparkbench (for dog lovers).
