If you’re thinking about or have already added a new pet to your household, then  you need to make sure it’s looked after properly.

 This will include set times for feeding, walks (if you have a dog) and grooming/bathing.  Animals adjust very quickly to a routine and once you have set that routine they find it very difficult to change.  If you have a dog, then he/she will require a once maybe twice daily walk.  This can mean getting up first thing in the morning to take him/her out and last thing at night.  Plus, you will have to do this in all weathers, which includes cold, wet and windy weather.

If you have a cat then he/she will have to be let out though having a cat flap. These can be found at Pampurred Pets and Pets Corner in the HIght Street. But fitting it can be a nuisance if you aren’t a DIY fan. So perhaps hire the services of a carpenter. 

If you own a dog there is a legal requirement for it to wear a collar with an identifying tag and when out for walkies you are required to clean up after your dog, especially in a public place.  

  If you have a dog, especially a puppy, he/she will need to be trained so that he/she obeys your commands.  It’s worth enrolling your pet in an obedience training programme. 

In respect to nutrition: both cats and dogs require a healthy balanced diet.  As with adults though, there is the danger of overfeeding your pet which can lead to excessive weight gain and subsequent health problems.  A sensible diet with the odd treat and plenty of exercise can help to prevent this.

  You may be wanting to go away on holiday, so it’s worth checking out the kennels and catteries in the area.

Another aspect of caring for your cat or dog is that of annual check ups and vaccinations at the vets.  http://www.midsomernortonpeople.co.uk/pets/vets

Plus, dogs and cats can be prone to fleas and/or worms so it is a good idea to have them wormed and fleas/ticks controlled on a regular basis.  

All of this can be expensive, which is where pet insurance can help, as it can cover veterinary costs amongst other things.

Whether you own a cat or dog you will have the issue of neutering or spaying.  This may seem harsh but there are problems if you fail to do so.  These can include unwanted pregnancies in the female and aggressive and dominant behaviour in the male.  

Your may also want to have your pet microchipped.  This is a permanent form of identification in which a microchip is implanted (painlessly) under the skin at the back of the neck.  Each pet has a unique number which is placed on a pet log register.  If your pet has got lost or stolen and is found, its identification can be checked and your pet can  be reunited with you. 

If you know of any businesses that you’ve used in looking after your pet, do include a review in our business directory.