National Pet Month launches 2021 campaign
The theme of this year's National Pet Month Campaign is 'Pets and People: Caring for Each Other'.
Veterinary practices are being urged to set up online fundraisers for UK pet charities and rescue centres as part of National Pet Month (April 1-May 3).
As the nation starts to ease out of lockdown, National Pet Month (NPM) aims to celebrate life with pets, highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership and recognise the positive impact of pets on our mental and physical health.
This year's theme is ‘Pets and People: Caring for Each Other’, and practices are being urged to share the hashtags #NationalPetMonth21 or #NPM21 in your social posts, tagging NPM and other relevant organisations.
Previously a registered charity, NPM has been restructured as an educational awareness community for pet lovers. The UK NPM campaign will, however, continue to run from April to May every year.
“This means we can dedicate all our energy to education, which is where our passion and expertise lies,” explained Michael Bellingham, NPM spokesperson and chief executive of the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association.
“We will continue to spread important messages around responsible pet ownership and how to keep our companion animals happy and healthy all year round. We'll also bring you inspiring and fun pet stories through our social channels and website, plus lots of advice and support from our vet and pet professional colleagues.”
He continues: “Making these changes enables us to encourage our amazing community of pet lovers, to help spread the message on responsible pet ownership and continue to raise vital funds for their favourite UK pet welfare charities and organisations.
“These are difficult times, and these charities need our support now more than ever.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
