Many pet owners are struggling with the escalating costs of pet food and veterinary care. For us, pets are not just animals; they are cherished members of our families. It is heart-wrenching to hear stories of individuals who have had to surrender their beloved pets due to financial constraints. Charities are inundated daily with pets that owners can no longer afford to keep.

We believe that the British Government should acknowledge the value that pets bring into our lives - not only as companions but also as contributors to our physical and mental wellbeing. Research has shown that owning a pet can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, reduce recovery time and  decrease feelings of loneliness. Pet ownership is a vital aspect of the mental health of the nation alleviating anxiety and depression, boosting self-confidence and sense of purpose.    Pet ownership encourages physical exercise, as well as making interactions with other people easier, helping those who are lonely or elderly to develop outside friendships. In 2022, 62% of UK households had one or more pets but it is down to 57 per cent now.

Encouraging pet owners to keep their pets will alleviate the pressures on pet charities. It is estimated that savings of up to £2.45bn to the NHS could be achieved through the  therapeutic aspects  of pet ownership 

Please join us to urge the UK government to provide tax relief for pet owners. 

Additional information

https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/pets/the-benefits-of-pet-ownership​

https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/keeping-pets-and-people-healthy/how.html#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20​

https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-modern-brain/202009/how-pets-may-improve-our-immunity#:~:text=After%20petting%20a%20dog%2C%20volunteers,of%20children%20exposed%20to%20dogs​

https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/lifestyle/countrylife/15528111.health-benefits-pets-could-save-nhs-2-45-billion-year/​

https://www.golbornemedical.nhs.uk/the-doctor-has-prescribed-you-a-dog/​

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside/about-us/news/articles/2019/do-pets-keep-us-young/​

https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/childs-best-friend​

https://www.pethealthcouncil.co.uk/images/stories/PHC_Health%20Benefits%20of%20Pets.pdf