Pets play a vital role Used to be barracks?

The UK is still in the grip of lockdown restrictions and many people face some tough months ahead, with millions at home alone with only their pet for company.

The PDSA’S PAW Report has tracked pet wellbeing in the UK for the last decade. PDSA vet nurse Nina Downing says: “The latest findings highlight the vital role that pets play in helping to counteract the effects of loneliness for millions of people. Looking after pets helps to add structure to people’s lives, with the regular daily routine of feeding and exercise, as well as the physical benefit of taking them for walks and playing with them.

“It’s important that pet owners make sure to put in the effort to continue to meet our pets’ five welfare needs during lockdown. We can do this by feeding the correct diet,

providing a suitable living environment, providing companionship if appropriate, maintaining their good health and giving them the opportunity to behave naturally.”

Nina continues: “Despite restrictions, your pet still needs just as much exercise as they normally would to keep them healthy. If it’s too cold or wet for playtime outdoors, play indoor games instead.”

For more advice on keeping your pet healthy during lockdown, visit: www.pdsa. org.uk/petsinlockdown

“Reading that Dudhope Castle in Dundee is up for sale reminded me of being taken there in the 1950s by my parents,” emails Angus Lockhart.

“There was a small zoo in lean-to cages on the side of the castle facing Lochee Road. A short distance to the east of the castle there were the foundations of a building. I was told it used to be a barracks then a museum, but it is no longer there. Maybe one of your Craigie regulars could confirm or possibly give more information.”