A LEADING animal charity is asking owners to give their pets a spring clean. The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) is offering the advice to coincide with National Pet Week which finished on Sunday.

Elaine Pendlebury, senior veterinary surgeon at the PDSA, believes a balanced diet is just as important for animals as it is for humans.

She said: "Many people simply don't realise that pet obesity can cause serious health problems. Overweight pets are at a higher risk of many conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and arthritis."

The condition of an animal's coat is a good indicator of an animal's health. Regular grooming can help maintain a glossy coat.

Dogs do not sweat very much so bathing is advisable only once every one or two months. Excessive bathing can cause dehydration of the skin.

Cats keep themselves very clean and only require bathing if they are particularly dirty.

Nail clipping is also very important. Regular walking may help keep a dog's nails in check and a scratching post is important to keep a cat's nails in good condition.