Dr David Neck is the president of the Australian Veterinary Association’s small animal special interest group reminds readers that Thursday is World Animal Day.
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is encouraging Australians to give their pets some extra pampering next week to celebrate World Animal Day.
Australia has one of the highest incidences of pet ownership in the world, with 36 per cent of households owning a dog and 23 per cent of households owning a cat.
World Animal Day is set aside to celebrate the importance of animals, whether they’re our pets, a working dog or just providing a source of wonder in the wild.
Companion animals in particular play a special role in keeping our lives happy and healthier. Looking after them in return is an important responsibility for pet owners.
More than 91 per cent of pet owners report feeling very close to their pet, reinforcing that pets are an integral member of the family unit. More than 83 per cent of Australians have owned a pet at some time in their lives and of the people who do not own a pet, 53 per cent would like to own one in the future.
Companion animals in particular play an important role in keeping Australians healthy and happy, and have been shown to contribute to an active and healthy lifestyle.
Research has shown that people who own pets visit the doctor less often, have lower cholesterol and blood pressure and deal better with stressful situations.
On World Animal Day, show your pets how much you appreciate them. Take your dog on a walk and throw a frisbee around or buy your cat a new toy. Better still, take your furry friend to the vet for an annual health check, to keep them in top shape.
It may not sound like fun for your dog or cat, but vets often pick up painful conditions like arthritis or dental problems during regular checks. Animals often suffer in silence, so it’s important to make sure they get a regular once-over from their friendly local vet.
World Animal Day started in 1931 to highlight the plight of endangered species. October 4 is significant in the Christian calendar as the feast of St Francis, the patron saint of animals.