25 June 2011
The health and welfare needs of over ten million cats, dogs and rabbits across the UK are not being properly met. This is the finding of a landmark report from leading veterinary charity, PDSA, which for the first time measures the wellbeing of our most popular household pets.
The PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report produced in conjunction with YouGov, is the largest report of its kind. Over 11,000 owners were ‘scored’ (out of a possible 100) on how well they are looking after their pets according to the five welfare needs, that is environment, diet, behaviour, companionship and health, as defined by the Animal Welfare Act. As a nation, owners scored an average of 63 out of a possible 100, with 48% of participants falling under the average which highlights a significant need for improvement in certain areas of animal health and welfare.
In terms of which species is currently looked after the best, dogs may no longer be man’s best friend; cats currently top the list, closely followed by dogs and hopping into third place are rabbits, whose wellbeing needs are the least understood of all the companion animals surveyed.
PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing Report has highlighted some significant issues facing the nation’s pets.
Rabbits
Cats
Dogs
PDSA believes that its groundbreaking report will help owners to be more aware of what really makes their pet healthy and happy. PDSA Director of Veterinary Services, Richard Hooker, says: “Our report reveals that there is much work to do to raise awareness of what pets need to live healthy and happy lives. Only by doing this, can there be a positive impact on the standard of wellbeing for animals in the UK. This is not a finger wagging exercise, it’s about finding out how pets are living today, identifying areas of concern, and supporting owners who want to do the best for their pets.”
To download a copy of the report visit www.pdsa.org.uk/pawreport