Free pet workshops for children are set to run at Pets at Home stores across England and Wales this summer.

The interactive sessions, part of the retailer’s Pet Pals programme, will run daily at 2pm from July 17 to August 28 and are designed for children aged between four and ten.

Workshops will be held in Pets at Home stores across England and Wales and will offer children the opportunity to learn about responsible pet care through fun activities, games, and hands-on experiences.

Dr Samantha Butler-Davies, MRCVS, veterinary director at Pets at Home, said: "Another break from school means another Pet Pals workshop!"

"This programme provides children across the UK with valuable insights into pet care, guided by our experienced Petcare Advisors."

"Over the years, over 950,000 children have participated in the Pet Pals programme, demonstrating our commitment to providing responsible pet ownership education to the next generation."

Each 45-minute session will focus on different aspects of pet care, such as nutrition, exercise, grooming, play, friendships, and creating a safe home environment.

Children will have the chance to interact with small animals in-store under staff supervision and will take home activity sheets, stickers, certificates, and headbands.

Themed sessions throughout the summer will cover key topics in an engaging way.

Picnic Time will teach children about pet diets, safe foods, and the importance of portion control, through a picnic-themed matching game.

Pampered Pals will focus on grooming, helping children understand which pets need grooming support and which can look after themselves, supported by activity sheets and salon-themed games.

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Other sessions include Sports Day, focusing on exercise and the importance of regular movement, and Playtime, which explores mental wellbeing and how toys support natural behaviours.

Pet Pals will also introduce the concept of animal friendships and social needs, explaining which pets are best kept alone or in groups, and how to read signs of comfort or distress.

The Home Sweet Home session will teach children about different types of pet habitats, with activities like building hamster and fish homes using stickers and worksheets.

Workshops are free to attend, but places must be booked in advance online.

To find your nearest participating store and reserve a place, visit the Pets at Home website.

The sessions offer a fun and educational way for children to spend part of their summer holidays while gaining important knowledge about caring for animals.