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Pet Wellness
Is there ever a right time to get a dog? My wife Molly and I have always loved animals and always dreamed of having a dog. We also knew it was a huge responsibility to have another living being depend on us every day.
A Duncan Parent of TJ and Tayto @tjthefrenchie
t the time, we lived in a small flat where a dog simply wasn’t an option. As we began buying our first house, Molly started looking for puppies. It was a little premature, but we visited a litter just to “have a look.” That’s when we met TJ, a perfectly formed six-weekold French Bulldog. We instantly fell in love. After a quick conversation in the car, we put down a deposit and promised ourselves we’d make it work. We stayed with Molly’s parents while our house purchase was completed, and a few weeks later, we brought TJ home to our tiny cottage with its own garden.
More than a pet
TJ brought routine, companionship and endless laughter. Rather than holding us back, he joined us on every adventure — from Cornwall beaches to five-star London hotels, even the Eiffel Tower. We began sharing those
adventures online and have since built a community of over 2 million followers. TJ was there for our engagement and even served as ring bearer at our wedding. After moving into a bigger house, we started wondering if we should get a second dog. We worried about doubling the work, whether another dog would fit into our lives and, most importantly, whether TJ would accept them.
Then, we met Tayto
Just like with TJ, one conversation in the car was all it took. Tayto arrived bursting with confidence and immediately adored TJ. He was cautious at first, but before long, they were inseparable. Watching TJ become an unexpected role model while Tayto filled the house with fresh energy has been incredibly rewarding. Going from no dogs to one changed our lives. Going from one dog to two transformed our home, giving TJ not just a companion, but a best friend to share every adventure with.
Why pet weight matters Nearly 50% of cats in the UK are overweight or obese.1 Yet, on social media, overweight pets are seen as ‘cute’ and quirky for their round appearance.
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he problem is, the desire for likes and virality often overshadows the serious health risks caused by overfeeding and poor weight management.
Wiktoria Parent of Marmite, Toast and Dumpling @marmiteandtoastie
What are the main causes of pet obesity?
Pet obesity is often the result of overfeeding and a lack of exercise. Indoor, neutered and elderly pets are more prone to weight gain because they often burn less energy.
pounce, bringing out their natural hunting instincts. For mental stimulation, treat puzzles are great. A budget-friendly option is hiding treats in a crumpled blanket; your cat will have to navigate and find the treats as a reward.
Indoor, neutered and elderly pets are more prone to weight gain because they often burn less energy.
How can indoor cats stay active and avoid becoming overweight? Dedicating 30 minutes a day of playtime can help them stay active and enriched. My favourite way of getting my cats to move is with cat wands, especially ones that look like birds. Dragging the wand across the floor or moving it through the air encourages them to run, jump and @Mediaplanet UK & IE
@MediaplanetUKIE
How much should my cat be eating each day?
Every cat’s feeding needs are different. Their breed, age, activity level and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed can all affect portion sizes. Larger breeds and more active cats may need bigger portions, while less active, elderly or smaller cats will need less.
Dumpling, my Ragdoll, is very playful and active, so he eats a larger portion. Marmite, on the other hand, prefers bird-watching and mental stimulation, so his portions are smaller.
How can owners help their pets lose weight safely?
Having set mealtimes has really helped my cats. I feed them three times a day, so they now know exactly when to expect food, which stops them begging. Small changes make a big difference. Gradually reduce portions, avoid leaving food out all day for your cat to graze and swap out processed treats for natural, 100% meat treats. If you feed dry food, ensure it’s portioned out correctly, as it’s easy to overfeed. 1
Berg, S. Obesity In Pets. cvsvets.com/ health/ obesity-in-pets.
Contact information: ie.info@mediaplanet.com or +44 (0) 203 642 0737
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Pet nutrition in the age of misinformation From social media videos to online forums, pet owners are surrounded by feeding advice. Knowing what to trust has never been more important — or more challenging.
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ever before have pet owners had access to so much information about feeding their pets. Social media influencers, adverts, podcasts and online communities all offer passionate advice, but that advice often reflects anecdotes, opinions or commercial interests rather than the full body of scientific evidence. The result? Many owners feel confused, anxious and worried they might be feeding their pets incorrectly.
Know your Omega-3s and which one your pet really needs
Parasiticides may have negative impacts on the environment
Today, premium pet food labels promise sustainable, fish-free and plant-based nutrition. However, not all Omega-3s are equal.
British Veterinary Association (BVA) President Dr Rob Williams, MRCVS, explains why it’s important to tailor parasiticide use to your pet’s needs to help protect the environment.
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here are three key Omega-3 fatty acids: [1] Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA); [2] Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA); and [3] Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). ALA is found in plant oils, while EPA and DHA are the longerchain fatty acids. While ALA is commonly cited on plant-based pet food labels, it is only useful if converted into EPA and DHA.
DHA derived straight from algae
Claims that one ingredient is ‘good’ or ‘bad’ — or that one food format is the only healthy choice — often oversimplify a much more complex reality. Rather than asking whether a diet is raw, fresh, vegan, grain-free or high in meat, a more helpful question would be: is it complete and balanced? Dogs and cats require dozens of essential nutrients every day in the right amounts and proportions. An appropriate complete pet food is formulated to provide this nutritional balance.
Dogs can convert some ALA to EPA (about 10%) but cannot convert that to DHA (under 2%). Cats convert even less. DHA is particularly critical, making up 40% of fatty acids in the brain and 60% in the retina. It also supports neurological development, cognitive health, joint function and cardiovascular wellbeing.1 A label boasting plant-derived Omega-3s from flaxseed can therefore be nutritionally misleading. Fish oil has historically been the dominant source of marine Omega-3s in pet nutrition. Yet, fish don’t produce DHA — they accumulate it by eating microalgae. Algae is the original source of marine Omega-3s, making algaederived DHA nutritionally identical to fish oil DHA, with equivalent bioavailability. Therefore, getting DHA directly from algae removes fish as an unnecessary intermediate step.
Pets have different nutritional needs
Choose the right Omega-3 for your pet
Pet nutrition is rarely black and white
Dogs and cats have evolved with different digestive systems and nutritional requirements from our own. The best diet is one that is appropriate for the individual pet’s species, age, lifestyle and health — not necessarily the latest trend online.
Trust evidence, not algorithms
Good nutrition is about more than just the ingredients list or the food format. It is about the overall nutritional value of the finished product, supported by meaningful data, expert formulation and rigorous quality control. If you are reviewing your pet’s diet, consider these questions: Is it complete and balanced? Are the claims backed by evidence? Is it appropriate for my pet’s individual needs? Have I discussed significant dietary changes with my veterinary team? The goal is not to follow the latest feeding trend; it’s to give every pet the balanced nutrition they need to live a healthy, happy life. When you’re faced with conflicting advice, turn to trusted sources. UK Pet Food’s Pet Care Advice Hub provides independent, evidencebased information to help owners make confident decisions about feeding their pets.
Global fish oil supply depends almost entirely on forage fish from fisheries already 90% fully exploited, with projected supply deficits of 20,000 tonnes or more by 2030.2 MiAlgae cultivates microalgae in brewery-like bioreactors powered by renewable energy, using nutrient-rich byproducts from Scottish whisky distilleries. It’s a fully traceable, locally produced, contaminant-free supply chain. Additionally, fish oil is highly prone to oxidation, with up to 45% of Omega-3 products testing positive for rancidity.3 MiAlgae’s algae-derived DHA is significantly more stable, maintaining nutritional integrity from production to the bowl using specialist packaging. DHA-rich powder has also been shown to be well-accepted and preferred by dogs in palatability testing compared to the control. MiAlgae’s microalgae is plant-based, sustainable, stable, traceable and nutritionally complete, offering premium pet nutrition. Vondis, 2026. Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Canine Medicine. vondis. co.za/omega-3-fatty-acids/ 2 Open Knowledge Repository, 2017. The Sunken Billions Revisited: Progress and Challenges in Global Marine Fisheries. 3 Fackelmann, K., 2023. Tests Find Many Popular Omega 3 Supplements Are Rancid. . 1
Sara Hormozi Head of Science and Education, UK Pet Food
Douglas Martin Founder and CEO, MiAlgae
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hen pets catch fleas, it can be unpleasant for both animal and owners. It is a huge inconvenience, as they’re difficult to get rid of and cause discomfort. Parasiticides, like spot-on flea treatments, help prevent and treat parasites in animals. Left unaddressed, they can cause serious ongoing health issues for animals and people.
Parasiticides: helpful for pets, but may be harmful to the environment
These treatments must be used safely and responsibly to help minimise their environmental impact. Research has shown chemicals commonly used in flea treatments are contaminating rivers and lakes, and it’s been suggested this happens when pets swim or are bathed after being treated with a spot-on flea treatment. BVA encourages pet owners to consider alternatives to topical spot-on products when their pets swim and bathe, so they can help mitigate this impact on UK wildlife. We know watching dogs have fun in water or getting muddy on a walk can be enjoyable. In those cases, another form of flea treatment may be more appropriate. Indeed, every pet’s needs are unique, and not all pets need to be treated for parasites in the same way: a house cat will be less likely to need regular treatment, whereas a dog walked in the countryside will be at more risk. Research from the University of Sussex, funded by SongBird Survival, also found evidence of these chemicals in birds’ nests lined with animal fur, so we’d encourage pet owners not to leave brushed-out animal fur outside for birds if it’s been treated.
Helping pet owners make informed treatment choices
We’re pleased to see the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and the House of Lords looking into this issue. We support a potential move towards tighter restrictions on sales of these products and ensuring owners get the advice they need to treat their pet appropriately. We’re urging owners to chat to their vet about what their pet really needs to protect them — and their owners — from parasites and how to use treatments responsibly and safely.
Dr Rob Williams FRCVS, President, British Veterinary Association
Paid for by MiAlgae Visit ukpetfood.org for the Pet Care Advice Hub:
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You can find out more about parasiticides and how to use them responsibly and safely at
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How every new pet parent can avoid hidden pitfalls – and expense
Tick and worm treatment key to keeping pets and homes parasite-free Each pet is different, so seek out flea, tick and worm treatment that suits their needs and life-stage, to keep them healthy and minimise the risk of introducing parasites into your home, says vet nurse Jacqueline Byrne (JB). It’ll keep them in the best health — and your home free of infestation.
Avoid the common pitfalls of new pet parenthood — such as unexpected costs due to illness and behavioural issues — with careful planning and a focus on preventative care.
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f you’re thinking of becoming a first-time pet parent, there are some simple decisions you can take which will make life better for your pet, for you — and for your bank balance.
Jacqueline Byrne Veterinary Relationship Manager, ManyPets
Josephine Tanser Liability & Recoveries Clams Handler, ManyPets
Ryan Wheaton Vice President Brand, ManyPets
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Choose a breed that fits your lifestyle
It’s not just one-off costs or emergency care that can be expensive. “The cost of chronic illnesses can also be significant,” says Ryan Wheaton, Vice President Brand, ManyPets. “Our dog, Lola, had a lifelong condition called Cushing’s disease — and the treatment for this can be over £250 a month alone.”
Before bringing a puppy or adult dog home, it’s important to work out Taking preventative measures saves which breeds will best fit with your future expense lifestyle. So, carefully research breed Taking preventative measures can characteristics before making your help save big bills later on. “As an choice. “For instance, a flat won’t be example, greyhounds are prone to an environment where a working dog teeth problems, so it’s a good idea to like a border collie will thrive,” says get them used to having their teeth Jacqueline Byrne, a Veterinary Nurse cleaned with a little finger brush,” who is also Veterinary Relationship says vet nurse Byrne. “You may want Manager at insurance provider to consider an insurance policy that ManyPets. covers dental illness.” “Also, the Some breed you behavioural choose will issues and costs It’s not just one-off costs or have a bearing can also be on the kind avoided if dogs emergency care that can be of insurance are trained at cover you’ll an early stage. expensive. need because That means certain breeds getting puppies are particularly familiar with prone to certain conditions.” Sadly, a range of different experiences, Byrne has first-hand experience of such as introducing them to busy this. “I had a boxer dog,” she says. “As environments and different people, a vet nurse, I knew boxers are prone plus getting them used to being to heart conditions and cancers, so on their own. “It’s another reason I took out a good insurance policy. to look into breed characteristics,” Unfortunately, my dog did go on to says Byrne. “Some can have very develop a brain tumour. Consider distinctive behavioural traits, so find their genetics when choosing the right out what you need to do to keep your cover for you.” pet happy and comfortable.”
Cost of medical treatment and maintenance
Page paid for by ManyPets
Why should flea, tick and worm treatment never be neglected by owners?
Prepare for unexpected expense, too, stresses Josephine Tanser, who has a new chihuahua puppy called Posy. “People don’t expect puppies to have big medical costs,” she says. “But at 12 weeks, Posy had open heart surgery for a congenital issue. It cost around £6,500. Without it, her lifespan would have been one year at best.”
READ MORE AT WWW.HEALTHAWARENESS.CO.UK
JB: It’s really important preventative care, which will keep your pet in the best health. For example, ticks are parasites that feed on the blood of your pet and can weaken puppies and kittens. Ticks can also carry bacteria that can cause illnesses like Lyme disease in humans.
Even a cat that doesn’t go outdoors can get fleas because there’s always an opportunity for parasites to enter the house. How do you know if your pet has fleas?
JB: You should expect to see flea dirt rather than fleas themselves. Get a paper towel, dampen the dirt, and when you smudge it, it will be reddish-brown. You’ll need to treat your pet, but you will also need to treat your home environment for infestations because the different stages of a flea lifecycle can persist in the house for up to a year. This can all be avoided if your pets are properly treated with the right flea, tick and worm treatment.
What if owners have an indoor cat?
JB: Even a cat that doesn’t go outdoors can get fleas because there’s always an opportunity for parasites to enter the house. So, keep a regular eye on your pet’s fur.
What’s the advice for new pet owners?
JB: Take your new puppy or kitten to your vet for a full health check. A good vet or vet nurse will be able to guide you on puppy socialisation, training, teeth brushing and when you can take them for walks, etc. They will also be able to advise you on vaccinations — and the right flea, tick and worming treatment.
Fernando Rodriguez Head of Health Plans, VetBox
Terms apply, visit manypets.uk/gu26 for details:
To learn more about preventative care from Vetbox scan here Use offer code vetbox30for3 to get 30% off for first 3 months. Terms apply.
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The pet insurance benefit worth checking Pet insurance is not just about price. Some policies include support that can help when owners are unsure of what to do next.
S Paid for by Go.Compare
eeing a pet in distress is never easy. Whether it’s a cat going off their food or a dog hiding away and refusing a walk, it’s not always obvious what’s wrong. Because pets can’t tell us what hurts, even small changes in behaviour can leave owners feeling anxious and unsure of what to do next.
seen, but it can offer reassurance when owners feel stuck between waiting, worrying and seeking urgent help. If you have a clearer idea of what to do next, you may feel less panicked, and that can help you respond more calmly to your pet’s needs.
Impact of pet health worries
When comparing pet insurance through Go.Compare, it is worth looking at more than the cost. Every pet is different, from their age and temperament to existing health needs. It helps to understand what support is included and whether the policy suits them. A comparison site like Go.Compare can make it easier to review different options side by side, including features such as online vet access. Whenever you purchase a policy, check key details such as cover limits, exclusions, excesses and whether a co-payment applies. Co-payments are becoming more common in pet insurance policies, so it’s key to look out for them. They mean you pay a percentage of the eligible vet bill after any excess has been taken into account, so understand how this works before you need to claim. Checking the details of your policy early means fewer surprises later and one less thing to worry about when your pet needs you.
That worry can feel even worse at night, when normal vet opening hours are over. Many owners will recognise the feeling of sitting up with their pet, trying to keep them calm while weighing up whether to call an out-of-hours vet, keep monitoring them or wait to speak to their usual practice. It can take an emotional toll. You want to do the right thing, but it’s not always clear what that is. Nobody wants to take unnecessary risks with their pet’s health, but an emergency appointment can feel stressful and costly. Being able to speak to someone qualified can make the situation feel less overwhelming.
A little reassurance can go a long way
What many owners may not realise is that some pet insurance policies include 24/7 access to an online vet. It is not a replacement for hands-on care if a pet needs to be
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Know what support you have
Nathan Blackler Channel Development Manager Go.Compare
Find out more at
READ MORE AT WWW.HEALTHAWARENESS.CO.UK