National Pet Month
By Katrina Stansfield

National Pet Month will run from 5 th April until 5 th May 2008 The month sees the celebrating of pets and animals throughout the United Kingdom . National Pet Month (NPM) will run from 5th April 2008 to 5th May 2008 with numerous events that the public can get involved in. The aim is to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

It was in 2007 that saw National Pet Day become a month-long fundraising event. This meant over 690 events were held across the UK raising around £69,000 for pet and animal charities within the UK .

On the 23rd April to tie in with St George's Day, the fund raising culminates for a 'Wet Nose Day' celebrating all animals great and small.

The aims of National Pet Month's are:

Promote responsible pet ownership

Make people aware of the benefits of pets for people and people for pets

Increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals

Raise awareness of the role, value and contribution to society of working companion animals

National Pet Month, supported by Iams, is run by a charitable trust, unique in bringing together animal welfare charities and professional bodies with the common goal of improving the welfare of pets. The trustees are National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA) and Pet Care Trust (PCT). Hoseasons and Companion Care are also sponsors.

Anyone interested in organising/ running an event for National Pet Month should check out the details on putting on an event.