The annual campaign is this year particularly focusing on education and support for pet owners, following research which revealed that those who have taken on new pets during the lockdowns are more likely to face challenges with their animals.
National Pet Month is co-ordinated by the National Office of Animal Health and Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association.
The initiative aims promote responsible pet ownership, encourage fundraising for pet welfare charities and highlight the vital work of pet care specialists.
As the nation celebrates the special relationship families share with their pets, Gazette readers have been sharing their favourite photographs,
And here are just some of your pet pictures to celebrate the great contribution animals bring to our lives. Click here to add your own to the post.
Don’t worry if you can’t see your picture used here, we received so many that we could not share them all at once! Keep your eyes peeled for a further Pet Month round-up in the future.
. NPGZ Pet Month collage NEP upload.jpg
Readers have been sharing their favourite pet pictures in honour of National Pet Month, which runs from April 1 until May 2. Photo: UGC
. On watch
Don't worry everyone, Woody's got the neighbourhood watch covered. Photo: Karen Gosling
. So fluffy
Pebble and Murphy. Don't you just want to give them a cuddle! Photo: Bren Farthing
. Resting my eyes
Six-month-old Buddy enjoys a snooze in the sun. Don't we all! Photo: Jill Simpson
4. On watch
Don't worry everyone, Woody's got the neighbourhood watch covered. Photo: Karen Gosling