Wilmslow, Chesire-based pet and vet retailer Pets at Home Group Plc said on Tuesday it will remain open “so we can focus our energies on providing essential pet products and emergency health care at a time when pets will play an increasingly vital role in our daily lives.”

“Pets at Home Group Plc notes the guidance issued by the Government on 23 March 2020,” said the firm in a stock exchange statement.

“As a provider of pet care products and services, our stores, website and veterinary practices will remain open so we can focus our energies on providing essential pet products and emergency health care at a time when pets will play an increasingly vital role in our daily lives. 

“We have closed all of our grooming salons, with those colleagues redeployed to support our store teams.   

“The welfare of our colleagues, partners, customers and pets remains our first priority. 

“We have implemented all Government advice regarding social distancing across our business, and are fully commited to serving the needs of UK pet owners through this unprecedented period.”