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National Pet Month 2022: Help And Support For Pandemic Pet Owners
2 years ago 
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National Pet Month – April 1 – May 2, 2022
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.
With many of us taking on new pets during lockdown and the rise in first time owners, NPM will have a strong focus on Behaviour – one of the five key welfare needs of our animal companions.
Working with leading vet and pet professionals throughout the month, NPM will share top tips and advice on Companionship, Behaviour, Diet, Health and Environment.
Latest statistics from NOAH (National Office of Animal Health) 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% of owners of dogs or cats acquired during the pandemic are experiencing unwanted pet behaviour, with 31 per cent 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 NPM 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, NPM will be staging live discussions on the five welfare needs through their social channels and will share a variety of owner and vet stories. #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 – April 1-May 2, follow NPM social channels and share your pet stories.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/11668521/admin/
@nationalpetmonth
Follow www.facebook.com/joinscratchingpost (for cat lovers) and www.facebook.com/joinparkbench (for dog lovers).
Top 10 Tips For For Responsible Pet Ownership
- Think carefully before getting a pet and learn about its special requirements.
- Ensure your pet is sociable and well trained.
- Provide a nutritious and well balanced diet.
- Provide suitable housing and bedding.
- Clean up after your pet and worm it regularly.
- Protect against disease. Your vet can provide you with advice.
- Prevent unwanted litters and neuter your pet when appropriate.
- Groom your pet regularly.
- Control your pet and ensure it is properly identified.
- Take out pet insurance for dogs, cats, rabbits and horses to cover against unexpected veterinary fees and third party liability.
More from NOAH
- NOAH achieves Silver accreditation in Investors in the Environment (iiE) Programme
- NOAH comment on the Government response to the GB Veterinary Medicines Regulation
- Political perspectives at the NOAH Conference 1 February ‘Animal health and securing our future – a vital connection’: book now
- Make it your New Year’s Resolution to ‘Paws to Protect’
- New NOAH report on the contribution animal health makes to One Health and sustainability
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