Rats might not be eveyone’s idea of a perfect pet but a pet store in Crosshills is hoping to change all that as a way of launching National Pet Month (April 2nd to May 2nd).

Paws for Pet Supplies owner Abi Elliott-McGuffie is holding a “Fancy Rats” event from 1pm on Saturday 2nd April in conjunction with two local rat breeders and she’s attempting to change perceptions about what can be a lovable family pet.

“Rats make great pets!” enthused Abi “and a growing number of people across Yorkshire are discovering that.

“We have two organisations in Bohemian Rats and Odyssey Rats taking part on the day and they’ll be able to introduce visitors to the advantages of owning this much maligned animal,” added Abi, a former Veterinary Nurse who set up Paws on Main Street in Crosshills last September.

The event is one of three planned by Abi to celebrate National Pet Month with a Crazy for Cats event in conjunction with Keighley Cat Care on Saturday 9th April aimed at cat lovers and anyone interested in owning a cat. On the 16th April Abi’s shop will also play host to a dog psychologist.

Abi went on: “We’ve decided to hold these three events to celebrate National Pet Month and pet owners as well as those considering getting a pet are welcome to pop in and find out more.”

National Pet Month, which runs from April 2nd until May 2nd, seeks to promote responsible pet ownership, make people aware of the benefits of pets for people and people for pets, increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals and raise awareness of the role, value and contribution to society of working companion animals.

For more details contact Abi on 01535 631378 or visit www.pawsforpetsupplies.co.uk. For more details about National Pet Month visit www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk