The welfare stickers teach children about the five animal welfare needs.

Resource introduces principles of responsible ownership

The Veterinary Animal Welfare Coalition has launched a set of stickers to inspire children about animal welfare. The move comes as new figures show 85 per cent of school children have never heard of the five welfare needs.

Launched to coincide with the 10-year anniversary of the Animal Welfare Act, the stickers introduce the principles of responsible ownership. BVA hopes that by teaching children about the five welfare needs, they will discuss this with their family and friends.

“Year on year, irresponsible ownership and lack of owner understanding for pets’ needs comes out in vets’ top three concerns,” commented BVA president John Fishwick. “Educating children and young adults about the five welfare needs of animals is an invaluable step towards ensuring that the next generation not only values the human-animal bond but is aware of its responsibilities towards pets.”

BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey showed that primary school is the age when most vets decide they want to enter the profession. But the PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing report revealed that only a quarter of children have been taught how to care for pets.

“We hope that by using these stickers and holding sessions on animal welfare at school, local groups or in practice will translate to happy pet owners and, indeed, happy healthy pets,” Mr Fishwick added.

The Veterinary Animal Welfare Coalition includes the BVA, the BVNA, BSAVA, BVZS, Blue Cross, PDSA and RSPCA. To order a set of five welfare stickers for free, email media@bva.co.uk with the requested amount (max 10 sheets) and a postal address.