When Johnson's Veterinary Products surveyed pet owners as part of its 2023 report into UK purchasing habits, it discovered that over half of respondents (57%) would speak to the vet in order to remedy a pet's flea issue, despite the majority stating they find pet shops and stores to be "knowledgeable" and with an opinion that could be trusted.

It is this startling fact that has led Johnson's to announce the launch of the first ever National Pet Shop Day, as a way of celebrating the huge breadth of support, products, services and advice that high street retailers are able to provide to pet owners who have concerns about their animal's health and wellbeing.

On Saturday 13th July 2024, Johnson's will be encouraging pet shops and stores across the UK to throw open their doors and invite pet owners to come in and discover more about how they can offer viable, affordable options for dealing with commonly occurring minor ailments such as fleas, ticks, worms, or other general healthcare issues.

Paul Gwynn, Managing Director at Johnson's Veterinary Products, explained: "Pet shops are the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, but we find that many people are often so rooted to their longstanding routines, that they perhaps don't even consider that they can also get experienced advice about a whole host of frequent minor pet healthcare issues whilst picking up their other pet essentials in store.

"Pet shops and stores have a wealth of knowledge within their teams that has been built over many years, in some cases decades. They can often help to spot the signs of and give advice about fleas, ticks, worms and other minor healthcare problems and therefore are well placed to provide practical advice and product solutions for both these, and a range of other, more general wellbeing concerns directly in store.

"With National Pet Shop Day, we want to mark the ongoing, positive contribution that these pet shops and stores make to society, and in doing so provide animal lovers with the confidence that they can handle their pet's conditions effectively and efficiently, without always breaking the bank. These retailers are far more than simply a point of purchase - they are the bedrock of the pet owning community and are always ready and willing to help."

National Pet Shop Day will be backed with an extensive press and social media campaign, with Johnson's providing a number of product samples, and procurement offers to those retailers getting involved.

A dedicated website crammed with promotional ideas, downloadable content, branded goodies and practical marketing advice will also be available to help pet shops, stores and retailers stimulate increased footfall and celebrate the day to its fullest. For more details, or to sign up for updates, visit nationalpetshopday.com.