People are advised to consider pet ownership carefully before making a commitment

Pet care specialists Bob Martin has teamed up with local veterinary surgeon Mark Binns to remind people that pet ownership is a commitment not to be taken lightly this Christmas.

With the recession biting hard and at a time when every penny counts, pet rescue centres are reported to be full to capacity.

In the run up to the Christmas period, Bob Martin, has worked with Mark to develop some top tips for people considering buying a pet over the festive season, and give pointers to take into consideration.

The advice that Mark shares with people on Bob Martin’s website has been created to offer guidance and support to those thinking of buying a pet and covers topics like feeding, worming and flea care.

Here are just some of Mark’s top tips:

· Make sure your pet doesn’t bring fleas into your home. Ideally get them treated before you get them home with an appropriate product.

· Groom your puppy or kitten from an early age to get them used to the feel of the brush

· If you have a dog, get it microchipped or as a minimum, get a tag that has your name and phone number as a contact before they start going out.

· Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water.

· Before buying your pet, consider whether your lifestyle fits in with your pet’s needs.

Mark says: “The Dog’s Trust’s strap line ‘a dog is for life, not just for Christmas’, coined back in 1970, is as relevant today as it was forty years ago. Although there is a lot to consider when buying a pet, providing that you can provide it with the care it needs, a pet can enrich your life and have a great and positive influence on your lifestyle.”

For more top tips and to read Mark’s blog, visit www.bobmartin.co.uk.