Your dog might be your closest friend giving unconditional love, and your cat, your TV couch companion and in these anxious times our pets will play a significant role on an emotional level.

Research suggests on an emotional level, owning a pet can decrease depression, stress and anxiety; health-wise, it can lower your blood pressure, improve your immunity and even decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Exercising your dog is undoubtedly important for their health and your health. However, outdoor activities are now subject to government restrictions, and it is important for everyone’s health and safety you follow social distancing practices when exercising your dog.

Increasing indoor activities with your cat or dog will be very beneficial for their mental health and yours. Teaching them new tricks and playing games will be rewarding for you both. As your pet, dogs in particular, may not be receiving the same amount of exercise they are used to, it is important to remember that food is not the only reward a pet craves – a pat and attention go a long way.

Mind stimulation through toys, games, puzzle feeders and new smells may also relieve boredom. Cats and dogs are highly intelligent and complex little creatures, which is why we have pulled all of our expert knowledge together.