Pet Care Advice For Pet Month

The start of an annual, month-long promotion of responsible pet ownership is only a few days away. National Pet Month begins on Saturday, (05 April) under the theme Great British Pets.

Last year almost 700 events were held across the UK during National Pet Month, raising around £69,000 for local pet and animal charities. This year, once again, pet food brand Iams is to be the main sponsor.

The Pet Health Council, (PHC) is using National Pet Month to provide some advice on choosing a pet:

1. Lifestyle: How would a pet fit into your daily routine? If you're out all day, or keep irregular hours, a cat may be a better choice than a dog. Cats can be independent creatures and if permitted can come and go as they please through a cat flap. Instead they can be house confined assuming they have space to wander and things to interest them - like scratching posts, toys and climbing frames - in which case you will need to provide a litter tray. Two cats may be better than one, as they can keep each other company, play and groom each other.

It's not right to leave a dog cooped up inside on its own all day, as this will give rise to destructive behaviour, potential depression and boredom. Only get a dog if you enjoy regular walks or running. Depending on its size, a dog will need to exercise every day for up to 30 minutes or more a day.

2. Space: Check before you acquire a puppy how big it will be when it's fully grown. Don't get a large dog unless you have a large home with a garden to keep it in!

3. Budget: Choose a pet that is within your budget. Boarding kennels or catteries, pet insurance, veterinary care- to include annual vaccinations, worming up to 4 times annually, flea and tick treatments regularly and other medical care, feeding and grooming are some of the costs you should bear in mind.

4. The best time to acquire: A new pet needs lots of caring that involves love, attention and a daily routine for feeding, training etc. to help it settle into its new environment. Make sure you choose a quiet period in your own life so you can devote time to making the pet feel at home.

5. Run the 'healthy pet' checklist: Before you buy, examine the animal closely for clean ears, clean teeth and breath, a clean and glossy coat, bright, clear eyes, normal length nails and a clean bottom. Also check that the animal is of normal or expected weight and that dogs and cats have been fully weaned and wormed.