Portly pets: why new pandemic habits means Manchester pets have piled on the pounds
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PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing Report shows that over 1.4 million pets have gained weight since the start of the pandemic.
The charity has launched their ‘Weigh Up’ campaign to shine a light on pet obesity.
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Hide AdSurprisingly, pooches are being walked less frequently than pre-pandemic, with 38 per cent leaving the house just once a day (370,000 dogs), compared to 33 per cent in February 2020.
The study of more than 4,500 pet owners by PDSA and YouGov also found that pets have been fed more human treats since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, adding further fuel to the pet obesity crisis.
PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing said the love we feel for our pets could also be contributing to the problem. However Nina said despite the extra exercise compared to other parts of the country, North West pet owners like to share their food a little bit too much.
As part of their Weigh Up campaign, the charity is offering online videos and a free downloadable guide to help owners get their pets in shape. See https://www.pdsa.org.uk/get-involved/our-campaigns/weigh-up
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