Looking for something free to do with the kids over the summer holidays? Pets at Home is once again running its brilliant My Pet Pals workshops. And, yes, they’re completely free.

These fun, 45-minute sessions are perfect for animal-mad children aged 5 to 11, and they’re a great way to keep little hands and curious minds entertained (and learning) for an afternoon.
What are the workshops?
Taking place in Pets at Home stores up and down the country, the My Pet Pals sessions are interactive workshops run by Pet Care Advisors.
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Children get stuck into hands-on activities while learning about the five key welfare needs of animals. They get to understand how to keep pets happy and healthy, to the right food, shelter, and care they need.
Alongside learning how to be a responsible pet owner, kids will get the chance to meet some of the in-store animals. It’s a great way to build confidence, encourage kindness, and have a bit of fun.
What do they get out of it?
Each child will take home:
- A My Pet Pals certificate
- A weekly themed sticker
- A pocketbook packed with mini activities
- A chance to work towards a free collectable badge
And all of it is totally free. There’s no catch and no pressure to buy anything, it’s just a nice way to spend an hour.
When and where?
Workshops are held every day at 2 pm during the summer holidays in most Pets at Home stores across the UK.
Here are the dates to remember:
- Scotland and Northern Ireland: Saturday 5 July – Sunday 17 August
- England and Wales: Saturday 19 July – Sunday 31 August
There are over 450 Pet Care Centres taking part, so there’s likely one near you. Spaces can fill up quickly, though, so it’s worth booking early.
How to book a free session
Head to the Pets at Home events page and pop in your postcode to find your nearest participating store. You can choose your date and book online in just a few clicks.
Final thoughts
Not only is this a free way to entertain the kids during the holidays, it’s also a chance for them to learn something valuable.
Whether you have pets at home or not, these sessions are a lovely mix of fun, education, and animal cuddles. Plus you’ll leave with happy kids and no lighter pockets.
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