There are many beneficial reasons why a child should grow up with an animal in the home. Pets can teach children so much, including responsibility, kindness, and love and make great friends and playmates for a child. So, if you’re trying to find a way to get your kid off the couch, consider bringing a pet into your home, but don’t mention the 9 extra days at school!

More than 126,176 dogs were picked up by local authorities over the last 12 months, an increase of 4% on the previous year which equates to 345 stray dogs being found every day and these figures do not include the many dogs that are taken direct to animal sanctuaries.