There’s no doubt that the last year has been incredibly challenging for us all. Luckily, many of us have had our furry companions to keep us company to help us through these anxious times. Equally, as we begin to move out of the lockdown and the restrictions start to ease, our pets are still there to help relieve our apprehensions about the world going back to a new type of normal.

A therapy dog or ‘comfort’ dog offers support and consolation to their owner and others, particularly within environments including nursing homes, hospitals, prisons, and schools. A therapy dog helps individuals who require assistance to manage an emotional or physical issue.

The sun is shining, restrictions are easing, and pet owners are regularly frequenting local parks, forests and nature reserves with their furry companions. But how can we make sure that they and any other members of the public are kept safe?

The government's recent announcement is the second piece of legislation introduced in less than a month that aims to drive better standards of animal welfare through a wide range of measures. It follows the launch of the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill in May, which “formally recognises animals as sentient beings in domestic law”.

Should you happen to stumble across a sick or injured animal in the wild, it’s best to proceed with caution. Resist the urge to rush to its aid. Here's our guide to what to do when you find a sick or injured animal.

Do you have an important interview coming up? Boost your chances of success by following our advice on the STAR interview technique.