STAFF at Vets4Pets on Studley Road are encouraging pet owners who think their dog may be showing signs of arthritis to come in for a check.

Throughout September Vets4Pets will join hundreds of veterinary practices around the country in support of the Hip Hip Hurray Canine Arthritis Awar-eness campaign.

Tracy Mayne, from Vets4Pets, said: "If your pet is having difficulty standing up, is reluctant to exercise or tiring earlier during walks then your pet might be suffering from arthritis."

More then one million dogs in the UK suffer from osteoarthritis and experience pain, stiffness and lack of mobility.

Charlie Dimmock, TV gardener and supporter of the campaign, said: "There are more than 650,000 dogs in the UK who go untreated for osteoarthritis each year and 80 per cent of them are in moderate to severe pain.

"This means a staggering number of pets could be suffering unnecessarily. I advise anyone who is worried about their dog's mobility to contact their vet - one call could change a dog's life."