Animal Magic Which pet?
To celebrate National Pet Month, here’s our top tips for picking the perfect pet for you
ANIMAL MAGIC
If you own of one of the 57 million pets currently living in the UK, you will already fully appreciate how much your life is enriched by that animal sharing your home. That number equates to around eight million laps being warmed by cats in the evening, around nine million dogs getting excited at (whisper it) “walkies”, a whopping 36 million fish blowing bubbles in their tanks, and many, many more.
PAWS FOR THOUGHT
Even the most humble of pets can deliver short and long-term health benefits to us. Just the action of stroking a cat or a dog, for example, has a calming effect and can help to reduce blood pressure. Regular dog walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate that children can be less prone to suffer from allergies and actually have improved immune systems if they are raised in a home with pets.
Companionship is the key for many owners and this is particularly true for people living in isolation. A pet can provide a sense of structure and purpose to an otherwise empty day. Pets lift our mood, entertain us and encourage our nurturing and responsible side too. They also ground us – had a bad day? You’ll feel much better after the evening walk with your dog! Of course there is the social aspect of that particular activity too – a mutual love of dogs is a great icebreaker for conversations while you’re out and about.
Dogs bred and trained through charities such as Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and Guide Dogs are a daily reminder of the vital care an animal at home can bring to meet the specific needs of an owner. There’s evidence of the role animals can play in a diagnostic capacity, acting as early warning systems for certain conditions like diabetes, cancer and epilepsy.
THE PURRFECT PET FOR YOU
The reality of owning a pet can differ from expectations. Owners have a duty of care so before introducing pets into the home ensure you meet the needs of that animal in terms of environment, diet and health, behaviour and companionship. The PDSA offer a simple online guide for prospective owners based on personal circumstances ( WWW.PDSA.ORG.UK). Those dedicated to specific types of animals such as the Kennel Club ( WWW.THEKENNELCLUB.ORG.UK) and Cats Protection ( WWW. CATS.ORG.UK) will offer more detailed advice.
There’s plenty to think about – young animal or mature? The benefits and drawbacks of a particular breed? How much does your pet need space, exercise and time and attention? What are immediate or long-term costs? Do your research online and take advice from local pet professionals. Do include the staff of your local animal rescue, where you may even be able to offer a second chance to an animal in need.
Those same places will also help you to assess where best to source your ideal pet. Be it from an animal rescue, a professional breeder, a private sale or a shop, there’s a pet to suit everyone.