National Pet Month

In this article, pet photographer Emma Lord talks about the joy our furry friends bring to our lives to celebrate National Pet Month (1st April-7th May)!

Growing up in a busy household surrounded by pets, it’s hard to imagine life without some form of animal companion. As I write this, two of the cats lie in the window sunning themselves, another is sprawled across the cat duvet, while the dogs lounge on their extra large bed (big enough for two!)

Most of the animals I’ve shared life with have been rescue animals. I always find it very humbling that they have such incredible capacity to trust and to love, even after suffering horrific abuse and neglect. In return for a safe and loving home, they all offer so much in return. Companionship, comfort, entertainment (of their own creation – especially the cats, who find play in the strangest of places), an unquestioning acceptance of me as I am, and a deep unconditional love and connection.

Studies have shown that pets have a positive impact on people’s lives. This might be through increased exercise levels involved in walking with a dog, reduced stress through always having non-judgemental company (although cats do take on a certain judgemental air when they find the biscuit bowl is empty), or finding purpose in sharing life with a pet. As any caring pet guardian will attest, no matter how rough you feel, you need to find some level of functionality to ensure your pet’s (or pets’!) needs are seen to.

I avoid using the term ‘owner’ when it comes to pets. It seems to diminish their role to think of them as things which I own. Do I even have the right to claim ownership of another living being? I prefer to refer to myself as a guardian. Put simply, I care for them. I take responsibility for their physical and mental well-being. I embrace them as part of my family. I love them.

National Pet Month is a celebration of pets. An opportunity to reflect and raise awareness on what it means to be a responsible pet guardian. A chance to take action to support pets needing help; perhaps by fundraising for a rescue organisation, or considering adopting an animal in need of a family. The National Pet Month website has a range of resources to get you started. There are a number of rescue charities in and around Swindon which I’m sure would appreciate some extra support, and Total Guide To Swindon lists some of them here.

If you do have animal companions in your family, take time to create special memories with them. Enjoy every moment together and remember that to them, you are their world. For truly special memories, think about booking a studio photography session for your pets. Working together, we will create memories which capture the unique character of your pet, and will last a lifetime.