RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP

Basic needs for pets

• Provide a nutritional and balanced diet for their animal. If you are in doubt, consult your vet, who will know any health conditions for your pet, and be best placed to advise you.
   

• Maintain a clean, cool and fresh supply of water for their pet. Like humans, animals need water to stay hydrated. Water should be placed away from heat sources and changed regularly.
   

• Provide appropriate accommodation which settles their animal and allows them to feel safe, secure and happy.
   

• Ensure they have the means to pay for all veterinary appointments and treatments. This will most likely include taking out pet insurance. Please do not just put in place the cheapest level of cover. We recommend you speak to your vet, who will be able to advise on the correct level of cover required. Pet insurance isn’t the only option available, some owners save a regular amount each month to use for funding of any future treatments. Visit the petcalculator below to help you work out how much a pet will cost – before giving one a home.​​​
   

• Make sure their pet is able to exercise appropriately for their needs. This is important not just for physical health, but mental health too. Before you adopt an animal, research their exercising needs.
   

• Be mindful of the environment their animal lives in. What may appear as harmless to humans could be fatal to an animal. Shut all non-animal food away, and be careful regarding what your animal may come into contact with, for example, poisonous plants, electric cables, etc.
   

• And most importantly, afford their total love and commitment towards their animal, regardless of any medical conditions and habits. An animal is for life.

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​There is a wealth of information about pet ownership and welfare on the National RSPCA website, link below.​