After you have decided that you have suitable premises to house the kind of pet that you have chosen, find a local vet to register your healthy pet with.
Vaccinations and treatments such as worming can all benefit an animal when it is well rather than at a time it may be in distress.
Advice and information on all kinds of pets and horses can be obtained from: www.bluecross.org.uk
Forums and problems discussed at: www.allaboutpets.org.uk
There are obedience training classes for various types of dogs, your vet can probably advise you about these too. Also contact www.thekennelclub.co.uk
Free advice about the needs of different animals and breeds
can ensure you and your pet have a good life ahead.
Blue Cross offer pet owners a care card. If you are involved in an accident and you have a pet at home, emergency services will contact someone to care for your pet.
They also arrange for rehoming in the future, if you have pets dependant upon you for their care, the charity will undertake to take responsibility after your death.
Ensure your pet is microchipped. If you are unable to afford this the Dog Warden Service may know of free sessions in the future.
See Petlog on the LOST page for further details.
The Kennel Club produces several booklets, one of which, "Do You Know What to do if You Lose Your Dog or Find a Stray?" contains the following suggestions:
Never leave your dog unattended in a public place
Ensure all garden fencing and gates are secure
Get to know other dog walkers, so that you form a secure network when walking your dog
Add to your mobile the number for your vet and the dog warden.
Also enter Petlog's number and the microchip number into your mobile so it is to hand in an emergency.
Spaying is another essential of good petcare. Contact the local PDSA for information on schemes which give vouchers to those on low incomes. The PDSA can sometimes give vet treatment for those who cannot afford it. The local pet hospital is on: 01253 838585
The RSPCA offers all kinds of information including help caring for pets visit www.rspca.org
Cat Chat also offers cat conversation visit www.catchat.org.uk
