Love Island star and TV personality, Chris Hughes, is lending his support to Ceva Animal Health, manufacturer of Adaptil and Feliway, with the official launch of the first ever Pet Anxiety Month.
Pet Anxiety Month runs until the end of March and is a nationwide campaign to educate pet owners on the signs of anxiety in dogs and cats, help identify the cause of the problem and make changes both in and out of the home to support anxious pets. During March, pet owners are sharing their pet’s #PawsForThought anxiety stories on social media.
Pet lover, Chris, 25, has previously spoken out about his own mental health and anxiety, announcing his role of ambassador to Calm on World Mental Health Day last year.
Speaking about his involvement with Pet Anxiety Month, he said: “Our pets suffer with mental health issues, just like we do but not a lot of owners or carers realise certain behaviour is actually a result of anxiety, stress or even a fear of something.
“I have eight dogs on my family farm and I know a few of them have had issues with anxiety and fears in the past. Without knowing the signs, it’s really easy to put the symptoms down as bad behaviour. Our pets are really trying to communicate in the only way they can and it’s up to us to help.”
Chris continues: “It’s really sad that so many pets and owners are suffering in silence and that’s why I’ve become an Ambassador for Pet Anxiety Month. This campaign really means a lot to me and our message is simple #PawsforThought and join our mission to get pet anxiety recognised in the UK.”
Andrew Fullerton, technical manager and veterinary surgeon at Ceva Animal Health, adds: “With 50% of vets reporting an increase in dog behavioural issues in the last two years1, a campaign highlighting this fact should help improve animal welfare.
“Having spent 10 years as a vet in practice I know all too well how behaviour can get overlooked and be missed. Our pets use body language and behaviour in order to communicate to us that they are feeling anxious and stressed. Pet Anxiety Month will raise awareness and encourage owners to think about their pet’s emotional health.”
For further information, please visit www.petanxiety.co.uk or Pet Anxiety Month on Instagram or Facebook.
