Five welfare needs for pets

It is the legal duty of any British pet owner or person responsible for an animal to ensure that their welfare needs are met according to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Franchise brand OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd and its sister company, Leading the Way Pet Care, are going the extra mile to help pet owners recognise how important it is to respect the five welfare needs and support them throughout the life of their pet.

By joining forces, both companies are able to encompass diet, behaviour, health, companionship and the environment into a complete pet service. At the forefront is a well-balanced diet that leads to all-around good health, closely followed by professional pet care that assists owners in keeping their pets happy and healthy.

The five key elements that every pet owner needs to provide for their pet are:

• Diet – to include feeding the appropriate food for the pet's life-stage and condition, feeding the correct amount to prevent obesity or malnourishment – with access to fresh, clean water.
• Behaviour – to behave naturally for their species. Support and advice are readily available from experts.
• Health – to provide regular treatments to protect from fleas and worms and establish veterinary care to prevent pain, injury, suffering and disease.
• Companionship – to be housed with, or apart, from other animals. To enjoy company - loneliness can be debilitating.
• Environment – to include the right type of home with a comfortable place to rest and hide as well as space to exercise and explore. Regular walks for excellent mobility and socialisation.

Both companies ensure their advisors undergo rigorous training, culminating in achieving the relevant accreditation or qualification. By providing expert advice and support to their growing network of franchisees, they continue to emphasise the importance of animal welfare.

OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd and Leading the Way Pet Care are franchise companies and members of the British Franchise Association. OSCAR is a member of the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association and Leading the Way is a member of the Pet Industry Federation.

Leading the Way is here to help!

If you would like more information on any of the services that Leading the Way Pet Care provides, please contact us via please contact us via email or phone us on 0800 027 9846.