In support of the ‘Pets for Life’ campaign, led by the Society of Companion Animal Studies (SCAS), National Pet Month ran a photographic competition which included a special category for the over 60s called ‘Friends for Life’. The competition called on pet lovers to get snap happy and send in a picture that captured the special bond between them and their pet.

The winning entry was of Bria, a 5 year old flat coat retriever enjoying a post ramble rest on her owner’s foot amidst the blueberry bushes in Loch Garten. According to daughter, Gill Hollis: “After the death of their much loved dog, my parents, both in their early sixties, wondered how sensible it would be to get another dog, but 5 years on, they have no regrets. Bria has brought so much energy in to their lives, keeping them fit and most importantly, happy.” Ms Hollis continues “Bria is an absolute sweetie and loves people. Her favourite pose is snuggled in to someone so this is a very typical image of her.”

Mrs Trickett and Jasmine, her 11 year old rescue cat, were announced runners-up in the competition. Jasmine has been with her 80 year old owner since she was a kitten and Mrs Trickett advises: “she is indeed my friend for life.”

More family fun lies ahead for Bria, her owners and their daughter, as they attend a Venture photography session in recognition of their winning entry. National Pet Month Chairman adds: “Pet ownership provides a constant source of enjoyment, friendship and fun. This can have an incredible impact on our well-being from increasing fitness levels to reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. There were a number of heart warming competition entries, which reflects this unique relationship.”

National Pet Month 2010 was a great success with over 1000 events taking place up and down the country raising £77,000 for at least 30 animal charities. Next year’s event will run from 02 April – 02 May.