Continuing the theme of responsible pet ownership, this week we bring our feline friends into the spotlight and explore why they are often underappreciated and don’t enjoy the same status as dogs.

Anna Murphy from Breakfast on Friday asked how she can stop her eight-month-old British shorthair cat from waking her up in the middle of the night wanting to play.

If you have a question for our resident vet, please email [email protected]

Each year The Lost Dogs’ Home’s North Melbourne Shelter receives around 25,000 dogs and cats and a good portion of them arrive at the home as a result of irresponsible pet owners.

Off the back of the thought provoking BBC reality TV series ‘Don’t Blame The Dog’, currently airing on ABC 2, we look at key aspects of being a responsible dog owner.

Earlier in the program, Alan revisits a question we received from a listener who is interested in getting a new dog however, is concerned her anxiety may have a negative impact on her pet.

John from St Kilda emailed in to say that he took his 11-year-old Border Collie to the vet for her annual vaccinations and the vet suggested a blood test to check that everything was ok. Is this really necessary?

If you have a question for our resident vet, please email [email protected]

Have you ever gone through a rough patch in your life or just had an off day and realised on reflection how much of a positive role your pet played in helping you feel better?

A range of research shows that contact with animals can improve our wellbeing and state of mental health. A publication put together by Beyond Blue and Deakin University in 2010 found that caring for and having contact with pets encouraged owners to spend more time outdoors and socialise, added meaning to their lives and generally enriched and enhanced their sense of wellbeing.

On this week’s program we explore the strong connection pet owners have with their furry friends and look at ways to return the favour and maintain happy and healthy pets.

In our first show, we introduce our main players, what we do and ask you to send in your pet related questions.

Pet welfare, well being, adoption and more.

Presented by The Lost Dogs Home, Pets-A-Loud is a pet inclusive zone where all things from wet noses to wagging tails are discussed and explored.

Tune in each week as JOY's first ever pet program delivers interesting and engaging information on pet ownership and animal welfare and celebrates the value of human relationships with animals.

Listen out for specialist interviews, regular guests from The Lost Dogs’ Home and weekly segments including:

Q & A with Senior Veterinarian Dr Alan Bolton

News wrap – the latest in pet and The Lost Dogs’ Home news and events

Dog Dates – a preview of upcoming dog friendly events

Pet of the week – feature cat or dog up for adoption