WITH lockdown now in place across the UK, thousands of pet owners across Hampshire are either social distancing or self isolating and will be spending at least the next three weeks inside their homes.

The Blue Cross is looking at the impact this will have on the nations’s pets and their owners during this unsettling time and is offering advice and answering questions on pet owners minds.

People who are social distancing can still take their dog for a walk and exercise once a day but they must keep their distance from other people by at least two metres.

However, if self-isolating because they, or a member of their household, has had signs of the virus they should not go out at all.

Someone from outside of the household may have to take their dog out for them.

Owners can ask friends, neighbours or family members if they can help and there are also increasingly numbers of community groups offering to walk dogs and pick up essential pet supplies.

It is important pet owners wash their hands after handling their pets, and if unwell and self isolating it is also a good idea to avoid other people stroking and handling their pets.

If pets aren’t getting their usual amount of exercise it is important owners make up for this to keep pets healthy and mentally stimulated.

The charity has some tips for pet owners while they are spending more time at home.

Owners can encourage pets to play with toys and treats by hiding them around the home or playing fetch, and other games such as hide and seek.

Dogs might also enjoy might enjoy a game of tug with a favourite toy, make sure these are controlled games and your pet understands that when you put their tug toy down it is time to stop.

Cats will benefit from having scratch posts, climbing apparatus and chase toys and many also enjoy playing with toys such as feather wands and balls.

While at home, all the family can take some time out to have a few minutes of regular playtime with their cat.

Being at home could also be a time to continue pet training – even cats can be trained using a clicker device where they understand a reward is coming for an act they are doing when asked by their owner.