Association of Leading Visitor Attractions

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24 Jul 2017

KidZania launches new veterinary attraction in London

Edutainment operator Kidzania’s London franchise has partnered with the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) and pet food brand Lily’s Kitchen to introduce a new activity focused on veterinary care to the attraction.

The self-styled indoor city "run by kids", where children can take part in activities and role plays related to over 60 real-life careers, has introduced a new Pet Wellbeing Centre.

This new addition will focus on the five welfare needs of pets: environment, diet, behaviour, companionship and health. Activities will be divided between Lily's kitchen – focusing on providing information on pet nutrition – and PDSA, whose staff will educate children about animal welfare and giving children "a real-life surgery experience."

“So many of our young visitors have pets they love,” said Eddie Kemlsey, CEO KidZania London.

“We want to educate them on how best to care for them, but in a fun and engaging way.”

According to PDSA research based on YouGov data, 24 per cent of pet owners in Britain have done no research before buying their pet, and the vast majority of children having little or no knowledge in pet care.

The Pet Wellbeing Centre comes after research showed that nearly 80 per cent of KidZania London’s visitors wanted a veterinary activity option.

“PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing Report shows that many owners don’t fully understand what their pets need for a healthy, happy life, which is leading to serious pet welfare issues such as obesity, loneliness and problem behaviour,” said Nicola Martin, head of Pet Health and Welfare at PDSA.

“Our partnership with Lily's Kitchen and KidZania will allow us to educate the pet owners of tomorrow on the five animal welfare needs and promote the importance of preventive care for pets.”