Despite pet shops and stores having the trust of most UK pet owners, 62.50% of those based in Scotland are still opting to consult a vet for guidance on tackling common minor health issues such as fleas, as evidenced in Johnson’s Veterinary Product’s purchasing habits report.
It is this startling fact that has led Johnson’s to announce the launch of the UK’s first ever National Pet Shop Day, as a way of celebrating the huge breadth of support, products, services and advice that high street retailers are able to provide direct to pet owners who have concerns about their pet’s health and wellbeing.
Taking place on 13 July 2023, pet shops and stores across the UK will throw open their doors and invite pet owners to come in and discover more about how they offer viable, affordable options for dealing with commonly occurring minor healthcare ailments such as fleas, ticks or worms.
It is hoped the occasion will encourage pet owners to discover, or in some cases rediscover, the value that local pet shops can provide, marking the beginning of a positive, long-term relationship that will encourage owners to think twice when seeking help in caring for pets.
Paul Gwynn, Managing Director at Johnson’s Veterinary products, explained: “Pet shops and stores are the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, but we find that many people are often so rooted to their longstanding routines, that they perhaps don’t even consider that they can also get experienced advice or assistance about a whole host of frequent minor pet health issues whilst picking-up their other pet essentials in store.
“There is a lot of value to be discovered by visiting local pet shops and stores and consulting experienced in-store staff, as they have a wealth of knowledge within their teams that has been built over many years, in some cases decades.
“They can often help to spot the signs of and give advice about issues such as fleas, ticks and worms, and therefore are well placed to provide practical advice and product solutions for both these, and a range of other, more general, wellbeing concerns directly in store.
“With National Pet Shop Day, we want to mark the ongoing, positive contribution that these pet shops and stores make to society, and in doing so provide animal lovers with the confidence that they can handle their pet’s conditions effectively and efficiently, without always breaking the bank. These retailers are far more than a point of purchase – they are the bedrock of the pet owning community and are always ready and willing to help.”
“We are confident that the day will be beneficial for everyone participating, representing an important first step towards building relationships between shops and pet owners, whilst opening the door to affordable pet care.”
For more information about National Pet Shop Day, or to search for retailers participating locally, please visit https://nationalpetshopday.com/