| Today a staggering 50% plus of UK households | | | | immune system. |
| own a pet, from cats and dogs to snakes and | | | | With all the benefits pets can offer their owners |
| birds; it seems we love having pets share our | | | | and friends, what is stopping you adopting a furry |
| homes with us. People own pets for different | | | | friend into your home? Well, to be honest pets |
| reasons, predominantly for companionship, but | | | | can cost an unexpected fortune. A massive |
| also for children, security and to show them off! | | | | £73m was spent last year in the UK, just on |
| It is not just a recent fad either, throughout | | | | pampering dogs! |
| England's long and established history, pets have | | | | Unfortunately rising vets' bills can be too much for |
| played crucial parts in family lives. Cats are | | | | some owners, therefore, if their pet gets |
| renowned mice and rat catchers, which made | | | | seriously ill or injured; the only option for this 7% |
| them essential in combating the bubonic plague, | | | | of owners is regrettably drastic. Britain's dog |
| and dogs "man's best friend" have always been | | | | owners spend over £800 million on vet fees |
| associated with royalty. | | | | each year, with the average cost of treatment |
| Currently there are around 9 million pet cats in | | | | weighing in at £154 a year. To make |
| the UK, and over 7 million dogs. Figures suggest | | | | matters worse, over half of dog owners in the |
| that our feline friends are more popular than | | | | UK suspect some vets inflate their fees by |
| canine critters due to our hectic working lives | | | | recommending non-essential treatment. |
| becoming increasingly complex, therefore | | | | In conclusion a pet is a fantastic addition to any |
| independent cats are more favourable than more | | | | home or family. Don't be afraid to be adventurous |
| dependant dogs. Surprisingly more exotic pets are | | | | and go for more unusual pets if you can provide |
| on the increase, such as snakes, reptiles and | | | | the care and attention required. Encourage friends |
| tropical fish, despite these animals requiring more | | | | and family to play and care for your animals, |
| attention and specialist demands. | | | | since it is mutually beneficial for everyone, |
| There is growing recognition that pet ownership | | | | especially the pet! However just bear in mind |
| can have a real impact on our physical and | | | | exactly how much any animal can cost each year, |
| psychological well being. Owning pets can benefit | | | | regardless whether or not it needs to visit the |
| people of all ages. Simply taking your dog on a | | | | vet. If an animal does need medical attention or |
| walk or playing with cats around the house is a | | | | treatment, do not feel pressured into purchasing it |
| form of exercise. Petting and stroking animals has | | | | from the vets itself, shop around, and especially |
| been proved to lower blood pressure and reduce | | | | look on the net. By following these tips, keeping a |
| heart rates. Additionally having a pet can help | | | | pet can be amazing, enjoyable and relatively cost |
| speed up recovery times and build up a child's | | | | effective! |