3 October 2017
Taking care of our pets: World Animal Day - 4 October
Pets are often dubbed a ‘member of the family’ - providing emotional support to their owners, reducing feelings of
stress and loneliness, and increasing social contact.
With over 223 million dogs and 220 million cats worldwide - excluding strays, pets share our lives and our homes. Like
people, they also need proper care.
A healthy pet needs a wholesome diet, exercise, and appropriate treatment - including vaccinations. Preventing and
curing disease in pets protects your health too because many diseases can be transferred to humans.
Responsible pet owners allow their pets to lead comfortable and healthy lives. In return, a happy pet provides
companionship, encourages family activity, creates a sense of responsibility, alleviates loneliness and even lowers
blood pressure.
Agcarm chief executive Mark Ross says that “pets often improve the quality of life for people who need it the most”.
Pets help people in nursing homes, hospitals and care centres by encouraging interaction and activity. Older pet owners
reportedly also benefit from requiring fewer visits to the doctor.
With all they do for you, Ross reminds pet owners to “look after your pets every day,” and celebrate World Animal Day
with the rest of the world on October 4. “Pets are not toys, take dogs for walks, monitor their diet and give them your
attention,” adds Ross. After all, a happy pet is a healthy pet.
About Agcarm
Agcarm is an industry association of companies which manufacture, distribute and sell products that keep animals healthy
and crops thriving. Industry initiatives led by Agcarm include providing safe and sustainable animal health and crop
protection technology for the future of New Zealand, and educating the community about the industry’s contribution.
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