It’s National Pet Day, and according to petinsurance.ie, 10% of pets have a social media account, 12% of owners buy clothes for their pet and 97% of owners say their pet is extremely important in their lives.

The Allianz Pet Project have said April is the riskiest month for pets' health, and are highlighting the importance of pet insurance to alleviate potential financial stress.

Reporter Henry McKean travelled to Kinnegad to spend time at Park Pets Veterinary Clinic in a report aired to The Pat Kenny Show.

Principal in Park Pets Clinic Fionnula Fallon told Henry that pets find themselves in more accidents as good weather rolls in.

“We would say in veterinary that were quieter over the winter," she said.

"The minute the sun starts to shine, with the beautiful weather this week and everything warming up, we see an increase in footfall in general into practice.

“Reasons would be pets are just out and about, they’re exploring, they’re going to new areas – pets get involved in little accidents.”

Ms Fallon said pollen and mould consumption cause huge issues at the start of the summer, and the resulting skin issues can be some of the most costly conditions for clients.

You can listen back to the full interview here:

Main image: Happy jumping dog in countryside. Picture by: Alamy.com