CHILDREN can ensure their pets are happy and healthy thanks to the veterinary charity the PDSA.

The PDSA has its own young people's club called The Pet Protectors which began in 1993 and introduces youngsters to animals from all over the world.

Membership to the club is £5 and for that youngsters receive their own badge, membership card and copies of the club magazine, Animal Antics, six times a year, and a free gift. The idea is to help children understand how to look after animals. Club organiser Donna French explained: "On the whole youngsters love animals but are usually unaware of the commitment needed to look after them."

For an application form to join The Pet Protectors Club ring 01952 290999 or send a sae to Pet Protectors Office, PDSA, Whitechapel Way, Priorslee, Telford, Shropshire, TF2 9PQ.