As spring arrives and the days grow longer and warmer, what better way to celebrate the change in season than with our four-legged friends?

Here are some top facts about pets and pet ownership in the UK:

• There are 36 million pets in the UK, excluding aquatic animals.
• Roughly one in six households own a pet.
• 95% of households see their pets as part of the family.
• 95% of households care more about their pet’s welfare than their own.
• There are an estimated 13.5 million dogs and12.5 million cats in the UK.
• The top five breeds of dog in the UK are 1) Labrador Retriever, 2) Border Collie, 3) English Cocker Spaniel, 4) Cockapoo, and 5) Golden Retriever.

Pets play a significant role in our lives, providing companionship, a purpose to get up in the morning, and someone to talk to. This proved to be even more significant during COVID when we were all asked to stay at home and not to meet with friends and family. For people living alone, their pets are their lifeline!

Community Catalysts are supporting Community Micro-Enterprises offering help at home services including dog walking and pet care.

Throughout April, why not support National Pet Month: a unique campaign which brings together animal welfare charities, professional bodies, pet businesses, schools, youth groups, and pet lovers? The campaign is coordinated by National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) and UK Pet Food.

See more information about National Pet Month and how you can get involved.