The organisers of National Pet Month have hailed its success in raising awareness of key issues in the pet sector and providing support for owners.
Co-ordinated by trade association UK Pet Food and the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), the month-long campaign aimed to celebrate the vital role pets play in people’s lives while championing the importance of responsible ownership. Running from April 1 to May 1, this year’s campaign highlighted five key welfare needs – companionship, behaviour, diet and health, and environment
Topics included the joy of adopting rescue pets, featuring insights from Dr Sam Gaines of the RSPCA, plus a guide to the growing number of pet-friendly retail spaces. Advice and support for owners navigating pet bereavement was also featured, as well as the role played by charities such as Pets As Therapy (PAT) and the need for more pet-friendly housing in the UK.
Further support was offered to pet owners on training, socialisation and nutrition, with input from UK Pet Food and advice on small animal nutrition from Claire Hamblion of Supreme Petfoods.
This year, organisers also worked closely with the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS), which shared the science behind why pets make our lives better and across the UK.