Phil Sketchley, chief executive of the National Office of Animal Health, today called for more veterinary practices to get involved with National Pet Month (5th April to 5th May).

Speaking at the annual conference of the Veterinary Practice Management Association in Bristol, he said: “Last year nearly 100 practices held events - but there are around 2000 small animal practices out there. It’s a fantastic opportunity to open your doors and show your clients - and potential clients - the high level of expertise your practice has and what goes on behind the scenes.

“Last year some event holders reported that new clients joined after their NPM event. And these were not clients from the practice down the road - these were owners whose pets had not previously been registered with a practice - real proof that NPM can work to improve the health and welfare of pets.

“Other practices chose to go and talk to schools about pet care. This is a great way to demonstrate to children the importance of keeping their pet healthy, and the role the vet and vet nurse can play,” he added.

The theme for this year's National Pet Month is Great British Pets. To get ideas and promotional advice for your event, and to register it free, visit: http://www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk/