Animal welfare fears for pets in the West Midlands

The PDSA has highlighted concerns for the nations pets Credit: Geoff Caddick/PA Archive/Press Association Images

According to a report from the new PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report pets in the West Midlands are the least well-looked after in the country.

The research suggests the welfare needs of millions of UK pets are not being met.

The report suggests the West Midlands falls below the national average for pet health and welfare.

From left-to-right, the table above shows how pets in the region are bottom of the pile for Vet Registration, Neutering, Primary Vaccinations, Microchipping and Pet Insurance.

The report suggests in the East Midlands not enough pets are microchipped.

To help improve the lives of pets in the UK, the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), has launched a new digital tool: 'The PDSA Big Pet Check'.

People in the Midlands as well as the whole of the UK, are being asked to look at the program which aims to improve awareness of the five pet-welfare needs set out within the Animal Welfare Act.

The PDSA says some dogs are being fed the wrong foods Credit: Edward Smith/EMPICS Entertainment

The PDSA say the five most important things pet owners must do for their pets are:

  • Somewhere suitable to live - Animals should have the right type of shelter, space to exercise a comfortable place to rest

  • A proper diet (including fresh water) - Animals should have access to fresh, clean water at all times and given the right amount of food

  • The ability to express normal behaviour - Animals should have enough space and facilities to behave normally

  • The need for appropriate company - Some animals should have the company of other animals of their own kind and others should be kept on their own

  • Protection from/treatment of illness and injury - Animals should be protected from pain, suffering or disease and treated by a vet if sick