Show your pet a little love in April

THE UK is known for its love of all things furry, feathery and even scaly – so much so that the whole of April has been named National Pet Month.

And that makes it the perfect time to brush up on information about your pet, have a check-up with a vet or even treat them to something a wee bit special.

Supported by animal welfare charities, professional bodies, pet businesses, schools, youth groups and pet lovers, National Pet Month is now in its 28th year.

Its aims are to promote responsible pet ownership, show the great benefits of living with pets and raise awareness.

Pets have such a massive impact on our lives – who doesn’t feel better after play time with their dog? – but it’s too easy to take them for granted.

Most people focus on training, diet and grooming but often bad habits can slip in.

Animals need time and attention and they give it right back to the people around them, which is what makes it such a great relationship.

So use this year’s National Pet Month to make sure that your companion is eating and drinking well, getting regular exercise and activity, is well-groomed and being given lots of affection. Here’s a few interesting facts that may help you get to know your pet a bit better:

Cats can jump as much as seven times their own height. Birds must eat the equivalent of at least half of their own weight every day.

Aside from the obvious greyhounds and whippets, Jack Russell Terriers are one of the fastest dog breeds.

One human year is equivalent to 25 hamster years. Studies have shown a pet can make you less stressed, lower your blood pressure and reduce your chance of getting heart disease.