Millions of UK pets face loneliness, warns vet charity
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Christmas is now just a distant memory, days are short and cold, and pockets are squeezed after the festive season.
So it’s no surprise that 16 January marked ‘Blue Monday’, officially the most depressing day of the year. But it’s not just us feeling gloomy this January: millions of UK pets are facing long-term loneliness, warns leading veterinary charity PDSA.
Recent findings from PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report revealed that over two million dogs are frequently left alone for five hours or more on a typical weekday. Loneliness and boredom in dogs can lead to frustration and destructive behaviour.
PDSA vet, Rebecca Ashman, comments: “Ideally, dogs shouldn’t be left alone for more than four hours on a typical day, so it’s hugely concerning that millions are routinely left alone for longer periods of time. Dogs are naturally very social animals and need companionship. Loneliness can be very harmful to their mental wellbeing.
"Many dogs will have enjoyed the busy Christmas period with lots of company, and suddenly, when everyone goes back to work, they are back to spending much of the day alone.
“The PAW Report also found that 1.6 million dogs aren’t being walked every day and, worryingly, an estimated 94,000 dogs are never walked at all. Regular exercise is vital to encouraging positive interactions with people and other dogs, and avoiding obesity.”
Sadly, rabbits are suffering a similar life of loneliness and boredom. Despite being highly-sociable animals that should live with a companion of their own kind, a worrying 780,000 rabbits still live alone. Vets are also concerned about the high number of rabbits who are completely forgotten about.
Cats however, are solitary animals, naturally preferring to living alone. But PDSA figures show 2.3 million cats are living in homes with another cat, or cats they don’t get along with, potentially causing chronic stress and other health and welfare issues.
Rebecca added: “Ninety-three percent of owners told us that their pet makes them happy, so we are undoubtedly a nation who value and love our furry companions. But caring for a pet and ensuring you are providing for their needs can be very demanding. It’s important that you do your research before getting a pet, and make sure your chosen pet is right for you and your lifestyle. Your local vet is perfectly placed to help you with this important decision.
“Pet owners need to make sure they understand what their pet needs to be happy and healthy, and be certain that you can meet these needs on a daily basis. For example, do you have time to walk a dog every day? Do you have the space, resources and time to commit to two rabbits? While the nation may be feeling the ‘New Year blues’, it's important not to forget about keeping our pets happy too."
For free practical advice on how to keep pets healthy and happy, visit PDSA’s website www.pdsa.org.uk.
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