A new booklet to help children care for their pets has been launched in Pembrokeshire.
Pet Care – a guide for young children – was officially introduced at Ysgol Glan Cleddau in Haverfordwest on Friday, by TV celebrity Anna Ryder Richardson of Manor House Wildlife Park.
The guide, which has been published by Pembrokeshire County Council, provides advice for the young on how to look after common pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and mice.
It was written by teenager Emma Westley, following a work experience project visiting schools in the County to talk to children about their pets.
The 19 year-old animal lover, who hopes to study veterinary science, said it was important youngsters learnt how to look after their pets.
“So often parents buy their children pets but end up as the ones responsible for their care,” she said. “Children need to learn how to accept responsibility too and how to care for their pets properly.”
The bilingual booklet, which is free, explains in simple easy language some of the common pet problems and conditions which owners can expect as well as advice on action, which can improve their pets’ health and prevent serious conditions developing.
Councillor Ken Rowlands Cabinet Member for Environmental and Regulatory Services said the booklet was intended as a good guide for children and further research was recommended for each animal.
“Children under 16 cannot legally be responsible for animals and the duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act of 2006 ultimately lies with a parent or guardian,” he said.
“However, we believe it’s important to encourage children to take responsibility for their animals. The more they know about their animals, the more their pets will benefit.”
Pembrokeshire County Council has been aided in this work by funding from the Welsh Assembly Government, in order to raise awareness of the welfare needs of companion animals in Wales.
Educational talks on the importance of welfare for animals are currently being delivered to junior age children throughout schools in Pembrokeshire.
The talks are being given by Animal Welfare Inspector Rachel Stevenson, who was instrumental in the production of the booklet, and who will be introducing it to children in schools.
