Mother's Day for pet parents – the five signs you are a 'pet mum'
With Mother's Day almost upon us, PDSA are celebrating all the self-confessed 'pet parents' out there.
PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: "Whether you're a cat mum, dog mum or a mum to bunnies, the bond we share with our furry friends is undeniably special. We are very lucky to be able to share our homes and our lives with pets.
"Perhaps your pet is your best friend, and you want to be able to pamper them to show them how much you love them! We've rounded up the five signs that show you are a pet parent to a pampered four-legged friend.
Your pet eats better than you
"Food is often the key to someone's heart and that is no different for a lot of our food-loving furry friends. To show our pets we love them, perhaps you always buy their favourite food or whip up homemade treat recipes, such as delicious pumpkin cookies.
"As we know, diet is a super important factor for our furry companions to live long, healthy lives. As much as we like to treat our pets, the extra snacks should always be in moderation and their daily food allowance reduced by 10%, to avoid a chubby companion.
You don't move, even if you're uncomfortable
"Every pet parent knows how lovely it is for your pet to come and snuggle up with you, sitting on your lap or lying next to you. Even if you start to get uncomfortable – you refuse to move and disturb your pet so they can continue to relax in peace.
You're happy to show pics of your pet to anyone
"Perhaps you love to show off precious pics of your beloved pet to everyone - and why not? Most pet owners can relate to having hundreds of photos of their pet in their camera roll!
You have conversations with your pet
"Pets can be the perfect companions, always there no matter what and helping combat any lonely days. Lots of animal lovers will indulge in conversations with their four-legged friends, and whilst they can't chat back to us – we can tell from their body language they are listening. They may even showcase tell-tale signs of love back, whether this be a happy waggy tail from your dog, or a gentle lick from your cat.
Your social life involves your pet
"Whether it's working your social calendar around your companion or simply bringing them along to events. Your social life has to cater to your pet, and why shouldn't it? They are an adorable member of your family, and there's nothing wrong with planning your social life around your pet.
"Just make sure that they are happy and comfortable, wherever you take them. Or if you're hosting in your home, make sure your pet has a safe quiet space they can go off to, should their social battery be running low, and they would prefer some alone time."
Pets do bring so much joy to our lives, so it's important we meet all of their needs too. For more information about caring for your pet, head to PDSA's website.
