The PDSA have once again asked all UK vets to join them in their initiative to help the nation’s pets during their National Petcheck Week, which runs from 26 September-2 October 2005.


PDSA veterinary nurse, Vicki White, carrying out a free pet health check

During this week, many pet owners across the UK will be able to book a free health check with their local vet or PDSA PetAid hospital in the third PDSA National PetCheck Week.

Last year around 750 practices participated in PDSA National PetCheck Week and many more are expected to join this year. 46% of animals checked during the week had one or more health problems, which is why PDSA is keen to encourage even more pet owners to take advantage of the free health checks.

PDSA National PetCheck Week forms part of the charity’s ongoing commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership by offering advice and guidance on a variety of pet care topics such as exercise, nutrition and dental care and encouraging all pet owners to register with a veterinary practice.

Surveys by PDSA have revealed worrying numbers of pets suffering from dental and weight problems, as well as low numbers of pets receiving regular vaccinations and health checks. National PetCheck Week provides an easy way for owners who may not have had any contact with vets in the past, to meet staff at their local veterinary practices before deciding to register their pets.

Richard Hooker, Chief Veterinary Surgeon at PDSA, comments: “We hope that PDSA National PetCheck Week 2005 will be bigger and better than ever following last year’s success.

“The week provides an ideal opportunity for owners not currently registered with a vet, to do so before their pet needs treatment. We would encourage pet owners to book an appointment with their nearest participating practice as soon as possible as appointments book up very quickly.”
To find out more about the availability of free PetChecks, pet owners should call PDSA on 0800 917 2509 or visit www.pdsa.org.uk/nationalpetcheckweek
Editor’s note:

OUR CATS readers are asked to let OUR CATS know, if their vets are offering this service. If your cat has a health check, courtesy of your vet, during PetCheck week, OUR CATS would love to hear from you. Why not take your camera along and take a photo of your vet and your cat?