Rescue & Animal Care - July/August- Issue 176

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RESCUE and ANIMAL CARE 6th July - 6th August 2022 - Issue 176

Blind rescue dog finds his new human ‘guide’ Smiley staffie who loves cuddles looking for his paw-fect pad Tips and Tricks to Prevent Dognapping

ISSN 2050-0572

FREE TO READ Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Welfare

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

Eleven newborn puppies with umbilical cords still attached dumped in bin bag in woods We ‘can’t help falling in love’ with this feline Elvis ‘im-purr-sonator’

HorseWorld 70th Anniversary Open Day!

Cover Image

A complete solution for urinary health

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Hello Readers,

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE

Welcome to issue no 176. Thank you for opening your copy!

We publish ten issues per year so goodness gracious me, we have been established for a long time now ...

All those deadlines, all that stress to get you your copy of the magazine on time. But it is so worth all the hard work so we can help play our part in providing a window to highlight some of the great work animal charities carry out and be able to feature case studies of some pets who have been rescued and about why they came into rescue. See if you are able to give a lovely caring home to the animals features this month.

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Welfare

THE TEAM PUBLISHER: Jennifer Prowse FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS Mary Lloyd, Bio-Life International

We also have an eclectic mix of articles on animal care each issue and on the following pages read about:l

‘Eight tips to save money while still caring for your pet’ from the RSPCA

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How you can nominate your pet for the 2022 Blue Cross Medal.

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Nationwide Competition Crowns the ‘Most Heroic’ and ‘Most Promising’ Assistance DogsMeet the Winners

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Walk, cycle, ride or carriage drive 70 miles this summer and help raise money for equine charities across the UK and help change the lives of abandoned and neglected horses and donkeys.

Juliet Abrahamson

Read these features and more – enjoy!

Love Jennifer x

DESIGN Vicki Barnes WEBSITE WDL Website Design Ltd ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHERS. ANY OPINIONS STATED WITHIN THE TEXT OF RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHERS. ANY PRICES QUOTED MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. SOME OF THE ANIMALS FEATURED WITHIN THIS ISSUE MAY NOW HAVE BEEN REHOMED.

In this issue ...

46 8 Blind rescue dog finds his new human ‘guide’

On this Month’s Cover

left doned in car Puppies aban Supermarket car park unattended in

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Vetark

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Vivid PVC Waterproof Dog Collar

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Seven up for Whiskers whose adorable kittens seek homes after Stapeley Grange arrival

www.dfordog.co.uk

www.naturesgreatestsecret.co.uk

Contact us

PHONE: 07885 305188 EMAIL: Jennifer@jspmedia.co.uk TWITTER: Troublesome Treacle

Follow us on facebook Rescue and Animal Care www.facebook.com/rescueandanimalcare RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE: JENNIFER PROWSE MEDIA, 21 THE MALTINGS, BURES, SUFFOLK CO8 5EJ

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Isn’t It Nice To Be Home again!

Dear Fans, Furry, Feathered, hairy or other…

We’ve nearly settled back into our house but it has been a bit stressful for us all.

On our first weekend back we found rats and mice had been staying in our sheds. And left behind basically a stinking mess!

And in another shed at the front of the house we discovered a wasps nest!!

I don’t like any of these creatures but my biggest dislike are for flies!

There is one particular one that is always taunting me and he knows he winds me up.

I’d happily swallow it but heard a rhyme when I was a pup about a woman who swallowed a fly and I don’t think it ended well…

Mistress heard that if you place a bowl of dried cloves in the room you have your pesky little visitors they vanish!

But, it is nice to be home again and I think I have now refamiliarised with the layout but have not got use to going up two flights of stairs and have suffered with my back legs with all that climbing.

I certainly don’t seem to be as fit as I was when I last lived here over a year ago and Mistress has ordered me a car ramp so I can get in the boot.

Having spoken to Jennie at The Animal Health Company www.animal-health.co.uk about my mobility problems, I was sent a bottle of Cani-Flex which I have been trying for a week.

It is a blend of Glucosamine Sulphate, MSM, Vitamin C and No Bute (Devil’s claw for dogs) I keep looking at my claws to see if they’ve changed into a Devil!!!

Mistress told me not to be daft and said it will nutritionally help my body to repair any cartilage lost due to ‘wear and tear’ etc.

If you are very furry like me I expect you have been wishing you could take your coat off during this hot muggy weather.

The pavements have been too hot at times for my walks and I don’t think that some humans think about their dogs’ paws and forget to test the temperature with the palm of their hands before they take them out.

I’ve seen a few dogs out there panting away on their walks in extreme heat. Not only could they burn their paws but get heat stroke!

Mistress takes me out early morning and the evenings to keep me safe and I have a siesta during the day!

And I’m off now as it’s time for my wee nap Take care and keep cool.

Follow us on facebook Rescue and Animal Care www.facebook.com/rescueandanimalcare

Follow us on twitter Troublesome Treacle Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Heathway, Colton, Rugeley, Staffs WS15 3LY Tel: 01889 577058 www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk Reg Charity No1053585

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Scraps is looking for his forever home

Smiley staffie who loves cuddles is looking for his paw-fect retirement pad Golden oldie Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Scraps, is looking for his paw-fect retirement pad

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he 14-year-old dog came into the care of the RSPCA Northamptonshire branch https://www.rspca.org.uk/local/northa mptonshire-branch in April after his previous owners had a change in circumstances and could no longer care for him.

Scraps is a lovely boy who adores companionship and is looking for a home where he can get lots of fuss and attention.

Kate Whitehead, Dog Adoption Coordinator at the branch, said: “Scraps is such a sweet boy who loves cuddles!

He enjoys getting lots of fuss so would like his new owner to be around most of the time which would be perfect for someone who is working from home or is retired.

“We don’t know why he has been overlooked so far as he is such a sweet and loving boy. It could be his age that is putting people off but I’m sure Scraps would tell you that age is just a number as he enjoys walks and is a friendly, happy soul.”

Scraps is good on a lead and is friendly when meeting new people, he loves to curl up in the sun and relax, and is also

happy out on a good walk or pottering around the garden. He is in a foster home at the moment so the fosterers can see exactly what he will be like in a new home.

He could live with older children of secondary school age or older, and he would prefer to be the only dog in the home, as well as no cats. n If you feel that Scraps is the dog for you then please complete the Online Dog Application Form.

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 6

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www.dogmatic.org.uk www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Tiny Tim

Blind rescue dog finds his new human ‘guide’ Tiny Tim steals food from the fridge and has been taught to ‘sit’ ‘lie’ and ‘step up’

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n elderly blind dog who came into rescue in Wales at the age of 11 has got a bright future ahead of him after his “cheeky personality'' won over his foster carer who decided to permanently adopt him.

Golden oldie Tiny Tim, described as “young at heart,” was in a very poor condition when he arrived at the RSPCA’s Llys Nini Animal Centre https://rspca-llysnini.org.uk in March after his elderly owner was no longer able to care for him.

As well as sight loss, the little Westie was suffering from a range of health issues including an ear infection, sore skin and a severely matted coat, which had to be shaved in places to make him more comfortable. His teeth, however, were in remarkably good shape for a dog of his age.

Now, three months later, Tiny Tim is thriving with his fosterer Sally Humphries, who has become so attached to the cheeky dog - whose antics include stealing food from the fridge when she isn't looking - that she’s decided to adopt him permanently.

He is even being taught clicker 8

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training by Sally - a type of reward based training where a clicker is used to tell a dog that they have done the right thing and responds to his name and to instructions such as, ‘sit’, ‘lie,’ ‘step up’ and ‘step down’.

“When I first got Tim home I set up a camera to monitor how he was coping and we started by keeping him on a lead and doing laps around different rooms to help familiarise him with the space,” said Sally, who is also the kennel team leader at Llys Nini Animal Centre. “I put different textures in certain places, for example, a rug in front of the sofa and a towel under his water bowl to get him used to his surroundings.

“Despite his advancing years and the fact that we were advised he would probably need palliative care, he’s got a real zest for life. He’s definitely young at heart and I’ve had to be quite fit to keep up with him! When we go out and about I’m his eyes, so that means doing things like making sure other dogs do not approach him too quickly. He loves being taken for a walk and sniffing out new smells and he’ll climb up on things if you’re not looking, so his blindness isn’t

holding him back.”

Sally added: “Although I didn’t initially plan to adopt Tim, he’s completely won me and my dad over with his cheeky personality. He’s settled in so well and really enjoys the company of my other rescue dog, Lady.

“As time went on, I felt it would be unfair to expect him to start all over again with someone new and strange surroundings, particularly at his age, and more so because he’s blind.

“He’s wonderful company and a great example of how an older dog with a disability has so much to give and get out of life.”

Blind dogs are no different to sighted dogs in terms of their ability and desire to learn. Training, using positive, reward based methods is an excellent way to strengthen the bond between a dog and their owner and help the pet learn important life skills and behaviours.

As well as supporting him with his sight loss, Tiny Tim’s skin will also need to be closely monitored by Sally for the rest of his life and his ears bathed daily.

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022

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Bow

Bandit

Puppies abandoned in car left unattended in supermarket car park RSPCA caring for two 10-week-old puppies rescued from an abandoned car

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wo puppies were rescued from a car that had been abandoned in a supermarket car park in Surrey.

Concerns were raised about the puppies who were shut inside a crate in the back of a car parked in the car park at Tesco in Caterham on Sunday 19 June.

RSPCA animal rescue officer, Chloe Wilson, who is now looking into the incident, said: “People were concerned about the puppies who’d been shut inside the car which had been left unattended for some time.

“Witnesses say the car had been there since the previous day so we believe they may have been inside for at least 24 hours.

“Local vets were able to attend and get the puppies out via a partially open window and took them to their clinic to check them over.

“An owner made contact with the vets and claimed they were their dogs but

never attended to collect them. We’ve been trying to make contact ever since and have had no luck; the car is still in the car park.

“It’s a very bizarre situation and we’ve now taken the puppies - two 10-week-old Labrador crosses who we’ve named Bow and Bandit - into our care.”

The dogs are being cared for by staff at Millbrook Animal Centre, in Chobham, where they’re doing well.

The incident highlights the risks of leaving animals in cars unattended during the warm weather.

Chloe added: “Thankfully these puppies were okay but it could have been a much more tragic ending for these innocent pups. It’s been really hot recently and when it’s 22C outside it can quickly reach over 40C inside a parked car.

“That’s why we run our Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign with a coalition of other

groups every year - to raise awareness of the dangers of leaving animals in cars, caravans, conservatories and other hot environments.

“I’m so thankful to everyone who helped these little ones and I’m pleased that they’re now safe in our care and will eventually be looking for new homes.”

The RSPCA fears more animals, like Bow and Bandit, will be abandoned over the coming months as the impact of the surge of pet ownership during lockdown and the cost of living crisis bites.

Anyone who is struggling to take care of their pets should speak to friends, family, vets and local charities for help. n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website http://www.rspca.org.uk/give or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

Commercial Pet Waste Removal Are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01580 857012 10

Email: info@petwastesolutions.co.uk

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

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Aylsham - Visit Us

Caldecott – Victoria with visitors

Birthday weekends are in full swing at Redwings!

Redwings Horse Sanctuary, who have visitor centres in Aylsham and near Great Yarmouth, are delighted to announce that their Redwings Adoption Stars are celebrating their birthdays across an entire weekend this year, and you're invited!

The centres will be open for four full days over each weekend to give everyone a chance to attend while avoiding overcrowding too. Dates as follows: Redwings Aylsham • The Gangsters’ birthday weekend: Friday 29th July – Monday 1st August • Gulliver’s birthday weekend: Friday 26th August – Monday 29th August Redwings Caldecott • Sampson’s birthday weekend: Friday 1st July – Monday 4th July • Fox’s birthday weekend: Friday 5th August – Monday 9th August • Noah’s birthday weekend: Friday 19th August – Monday 22nd August • Lily’s birthday weekend: Friday 2nd September Monday 5th September • Esther’s birthday weekend: Friday 28th October - Monday 31st October n Trot across to their website for more information and to book your tickets! https://www.redwings.org.uk/news-and-views/birthday-parties-are-back Redwings office dog Django is looking very happy with these brand new Beco dog toys that are available in their online Gift Shop!

Made from recycled materials, these durable and vibrant toys are the perfect pressie for your fourlegged friend and they have the Django seal of approval too!

You can browse the range by visiting the Redwings website, and don't forget all sale proceeds go towards the care of their rescued residents too! https://www.redwings.org.uk/shop/pet-stop-0

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Cost of living crisis: Eight tips to save money while still caring for your pet RSPCA provides tips on saving money while still taking good care of your pet

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he costs of everyday living are surging and, understandably, more people are worrying about how they’re going to be able to afford to cover their expenses, including their pets.

The RSPCA’s groundbreaking report, the Animal Kindness Index, in partnership with the Scottish SPCA, looked at the nation’s attitude towards animals.

The report, based on a YouGov survey of more than 4,000 UK adults*, revealed that the rising cost of living is a big concern to pet owners. The study found that 78% of pet owners think the cost of living will impact their animals, 68% expressed concern that the cost of care was increasing, and 19% said they were worried about how they’ll afford to feed their pets.

be pricey. Do you have trusted friends or family who could help take care of your pet when you’re on holiday or walk your dog if you’re out all day? Or why not start up a responsible community group where you all help each other out with pet care? Just remember to introduce your pets to new people gradually and ensure they are comfortable with their new friends before leaving them in charge.

Top tips for saving money while still caring for your pets

Shop around for insurance - Pet insurance premiums can go up and up so it’s always worth shopping around to see if you can get a suitable level of cover with another provider - but beware policies with lots of limitations and remember pre-existing conditions won’t be covered. Insurance will also give you peace of mind that any surprise vet bills will be covered. Check out the RSPCA insurance here.

Switch food - Pet food can be incredibly expensive so why not explore whether there is a cheaper food that is still high welfare and meets your pets’ needs?

You could mix your regular food with a cheaper brand to make it stretch further. Dry food goes much further than wet food, even though the upfront cost can be higher. As long as your pet is eating a well-balanced diet that is specific for their species and suitable for their age, lifestyle and health!

Remember: check with your vet before switching your pet’s diet.

Buy prescriptions online - Did you know it can be cheaper to buy medication online? Your vet can write you a prescription for a small fee and you can order medication online which is usually much cheaper than buying direct from the vet.

Ditch the pet-sitter - We all know not to leave our pets at home all day on their own; professional pet-sitters and dog walkers are often a lifeline but they can 12

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Payment plans - Some vets offer payment plans through a credit company if you need help spreading the cost. Not every vet can offer this, but it's worth asking if this is an option. Paying off small amounts every week or month might be easier to manage than a large upfront payment. The RSPCA has more information on help with vet bills online.

Get crafty - Pet treats and new toys can soon add up so why not get crafty and have a go at making your own at home?

Enrichment is so important for every animal’s wellbeing. From rabbits and hamsters to chickens and horses - we’ve put together DIY guides to make your pet treats, toys and enrichment activities with items you have around the house!

• DIY dog tuggy toy • Puzzle feeder for cats • Hamster hay tube • Chicken vegetable garland • Guinea pig sushi • Rabbit hay ring • Horse cookies

Prevention pays - Preventing problems is cheaper and easier than treating them once they arrive. Behaviour problems in pets can be really tricky to get on top of so it’s really important to ensure our pets get good early life experiences and are well trained and socialised. Address any behaviour problems early - there are free resources online to help too! And keep on top of preventative care like worming and flea treatments which can become costly problems if not addressed. Some vets offer a paid monthly service for wormer, tick and flea treatment too which helps to spread the cost.

Expensive exotics - If you’re struggling with the costs of heating and lighting, move multiple animals into the same room so heat sources do not have to work as hard, while taking care that they are not overheating. Don’t be tempted to turn down temperatures or light sources as this can lead to debilitating conditions for exotic animals - and potentially high vet bills in the future. Speak to your energy supplier if you’re struggling, they may be able to offer a cheaper tariff or payment plan. n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit http://www.rspca.org.uk/give or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Tuks Law Tuks Law is a grassroots campaign which was begun by animal welfare activists Sue Williams and Dawn Ashley after a 16 month old Romanian rescue pup called Tuk was euthanised in December 2017.

His rescue were his sole keeper and provided Rescue Back Up via the microchip to enable them to be contacted if he was in a vulnerable situation however, his microchip was not scanned prior to his life being ended and no check was made to confirm the person presenting him was the registered keeper.

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fter his death they discovered a lack of awareness of Rescue Back Up within the veterinary profession and UK government. In October 2019 they met with Lord Goldsmith and representatives of DEFRA to discuss how rescue organisations register their details on the original database as a secondary contact to prevent an animal from being unnecessarily euthanised and to alert a veterinarian that an alternative option is in place. They explained the rescue remains a constant presence and once adopted the rescue is always available for advice and if an adopter can no longer care for the animal the rescue will find an alternative new home. Such is the support for the campaign that having provided evidence of the unnecessary deaths of both rescue animals and pets the governments Action Plan For Animals included a commitment to Tuks Law. On 20 May 2021 a joint statement was made by Tuks Law, DEFRA, RCVS and BVA of a change in the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct to scan for alternative options when there are no health or welfare reasons for the dog to be euthanised.

During the past 3 years the campaign has presented a Private Members Bill to Westminster and launched consecutive e-petitions with the most recent petition to achieve over 121k signatures being debated in Westminster on 28 June 2021.

Tuks Law have been campaigning on Back Up registration and for a legal obligation to scan healthy and treatable animals prior to euthanasia for 3 years and are currently petitioning for a review into the numbers of healthy and treatable animals euthanised in the U.K. and a legal requirement for a centralised reporting system.

Over the past 2 years they have been increasingly concerned by the numbers of dogs presented for euthanasia under the age of 3. The pandemic pups that everyone rushed to buy and supplied by back street breeders who abused that demand are now turning up in veterinarian practices and rescue shelters across the U.K.

This is Penny’s story…….

Penny is a yellow Labrador who was born during the first lockdown. Surely no one would ever want to euthanise her right? Wrong.

Once Penny was born into this world the cruel reality of her unethical breeder became instantly apparent. She had a £3,000 price tag on her head and whoever showed up with 14

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Penny the cash no matter of what environment she was going to be forced into she was sold. Then her journey of being seen as a toy and entertainment to keep the kids happy whilst off from school began.

Once the first home had enough of her and she started to grow and loose the “tiny , cute, andrex puppy stage” she was passed to another, then another, then onto another…which was the move that nearly cost Penny her life. At just 6 months old Penny was deemed “aggressive” she was seen as a nuisance, not a cute cuddly puppy anymore instead a young girl who had had enough of being used and her needs not met.

She was taken to the vets on that dreaded day and only by chance we were alerted to her fate by a member of the public.

“A 6 month old Labrador being euthanised? What vet is doing this?” we asked ourselves. We took Penny on so this didn’t happen, the vets would of pts Penny just by the word of a owner.

Yes Penny has guarding traits of her belongings and if she gets something but what’s this been caused by? Simple answer, people. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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The biggest thing that disturbed us most with Penny’s story was that a veterinary practice would of killed her, no ringing around us rescues? No trying to find a alternative for her? No checking her chip just in case she was a rescue dog? Just “ok” no question? Now that is scary.

Being a rescue and adopting dogs out into homes our biggest fear is that someone will euthanise one of our dogs for no real reason, it may be hard to understand but unfortunately people can be incredibly callous. We remain on our animals microchips for life but what good is that if not all veterinarians check all microchips and the details they hold. Many animals continue to loose their lives due to the negligence of owners and this is enabled by vets not doing thorough history checks on the dog. Dogs only get one life, there’s no turning the clock back once euthanasia happens, once it’s done it’s done.

Thankfully in Penny’s case we got to her in time & she now lives out her life at our sanctuary ‘Rushton dog rescue at Freedom farm’ and we have embraced her for who she is.

We support the passionate group of individuals fighting for ‘Tuks Law’ as an established long term rescue charity we believe it’s needed more now than ever. https://rushtondogrescue.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/rushtonrescue/ https://instagram.com/rushtondogrescue?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Tuks Law can be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the #TuksLaw Petition Link: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/606922

Dogs available for Adoption ….

Beautiful boy Moses is now looking for his forever home, been in foster care for a while and now he’s ready to find his own sofa … He’s approx 8 yrs old, fully vaccinated and microchipped, neutered .

Originally from Romania having been thrown out on the motorway with his front paw chopped off, he’s now healed but due to the positioning of his limb unable to have a prosthetic limb attached.

Under the supervision of Miracle Mission who will organise a physio connection in what ever area ..

He will require a quiet relaxed home, with only short walks but more mental stimulation, play therapy.. would suit a retired mature but active family lifestyle with someone to care for him .. a child free environment to allow him to relax, can share with another dog but takes some time to adjust …

Adoption fee is required. Homechecks for suitability will be necessary … Let’s get this boy the life he deserves and needs.. http://doggydensukrescue.co.uk/

Moses

Bumble fits perfectly into a dog saved from euthanasia. Her rescue has had a hard time recently and could really do with a bit of good news. There founder Shelle Aldous passed away last September, so it's been Julia Eastwood and Gill Atmeare holding things together and it's been hard. Available for Adoption ….

Bumble’s 7 days were up and rather than have her PTS, we took her under Jacobs Pound Dogs. She’s gone from being a petrified dog to an amazing character.

Bumble is currently in rehab kennels and has been working with them and their behaviourist and has come on leaps and bounds.

Bumble is approximately 5 years old and currently in Yorkshire but would rehome anywhere for the right family, they would however, have to travel to meet her several times x

Bumble

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

Contact details via email jacobspounddogs@gmail.com

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Freddy

Dogs available for Adoption ….

FREDDY DESPERATELY NEEDS A NEW HOME. Poor Freddy is sadly lost his home and needs a new home as in kennels in Norfolk. He is just under a year old, medium in size, vaccinated and chipped. He is a rescue from the cruel streets of Romania and sadly his family didn’t have the experience a rescue dog needs. He is lovely, house and lead trained, good with other dogs, but can be a bit nervous with new people. can anyone at least foster him please?

Please share and message at https://www.facebook.com/REAN.CO.UK Use the following details if you wish to apply to adopt Freddy: Current pets, ages of children, garden fencing, location, working hours, experience with dogs.

Please also join our group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1550506905233436/?ref=share www.rean.org.uk Rescuing European Animals in Need -REAN

Meet the gorgeous Duke who is 2 next month Duke originally belonged to a family member but when unable to look after him he went to live with the lady who has him now. He’s being rehomed due to being reactive to other dogs when out and strong on the lead which is too much for an elderly lady.

Duke will make somebody a wonderful companion if you live in a quiet rural area and have the commitment and experience to overcome his issues. https://www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk/duke-p-6227.html

Please meet Khaos. This beautiful boy is a 10 month old entire male, short haired, sable, German Shepherd. He is a working line type GSD with all the brains and drive to go with it.

He is a really sweet lad who just needs a home that will make the most of his intelligence and give him a job to do. https://www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk/ khaos-swindon-p-6197.html

Duke

Khaos

Mallo

This beautiful boy is Mallo, Belgian/German Shepherd. He is 3 years old. Neutered. He has been through a lot in his short life facing euthanasia at one point, (link to more on that here https://wp.me/p7KTQn-79) being saved by the kennel owner he was staying with and then sadly losing that kennel owner in tragic circumstances which really traumatised him. Despite this he is truly a beautiful soul of a boy. He faces the world with love and affection and puts trust in those who show him love and kindness back. He is looking for a breed experienced home. Scotland area.

He loves his walks and loves nothing more than finding the biggest stick he can possibly carry back home! If he could bring a tree home he would!

Alexis – edinburghlothianlostdogs@gmail.com https://muttropolitanmanagement.com/2022/06/12/adoption-appeal/

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Could your Pet be the next Winner of the Blue Cross Medal?

Nominate your pet for the 2022 Blue Cross Medal

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lue Cross pet charity is calling for stories about hero pets from across the nation as nominations open for the 2022 Blue Cross Medal.

Animal lovers across the UK are being encouraged to nominate inspirational pets who could be the next winner of the prestigious medal.

The medal celebrates pets who are changing or saving lives across the UK – with one extra special pet being awarded the winning medal. Entry for nominations is running until Friday 26 August.

Chris Burghes, Blue Cross Chief Executive, says: “The Blue Cross Medal champions all heroic pets - from amazing assistance or therapy pets to every-day household pets who make exceptional companions. If you own or know of a pet that has done something out of the ordinary to change someone’s life, we want to hear from you.”

The idea of the Blue Cross Medal was

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

first conceived in 1917 during World War One and was given to people who helped rescue animals. However, the first time it was presented to an animal specifically was in 1940, to a dog called ‘La Cloche’, for saving his owner from drowning – after a German torpedo hit their ship.

The last Blue Cross Medal winner was Carrots a blind therapy cat who was recognised for his work bringing happiness and comfort to sick patients and their families at a hospice Other outstanding winners have included a 19-year-old cat called Jim who saved the lives of his family from a fire in 1942, a Labrador called Daisy who trained to detect cancer, a blood donating Staffordshire bull terrier called Romeo, and a young mastiff called Lemmy, who brought his young owner back from depression.

The Blue Cross Medal celebrates all pet heroes, so if you own or know of a

pet who has done something amazing to change or even save a life in a big or small way, then get nominating.

To nominate a pet or find out more, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/blue-crossmedal. 2022 is the 125th anniversary of Blue Cross, originally ‘Our Dumb Friends League’. The charity formed to help vulnerable pets and their owners and we continue this work today across our rehoming, clinical, animal behaviour, pet bereavement support and educational work. We are striving to be able to help even more pets in the future live healthy lives in happy homes. Blue Cross relies on the support and donations of pet lovers to continue our vital work, to find out more and make a donation visit www.bluecross.org.uk/125-years-ofblue-cross

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Goodbye and Good Luck Ozzy

Rescue Dog Ozzy Living Idyllic Life in Scottish Highlands As Dogs Trust appeal for rural homes for other dogs in their care

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oveable Labrador Ozzy, who spent one year in Dogs Trust care, is now living an idyllic life in the Scottish Highlands after finding his perfect match.

Ozzy was just 10 months old when he was handed into Ballymena Rehoming Centre, Northern Ireland in May 2020 due to his owners no longer having the time for the playful, youngster. His move to Scotland was secured when he was transferred to the charity’s Glasgow Rehoming Centre for training and rehoming.

The Training and Behaviour Team at Glasgow found Ozzy to be a clever boy, quick to learn and eager to please. He wasn’t so keen on other dogs and so a home in a rural location was required where Ozzy could flourish.

Couple John and Mairi from Elgin spotted Ozzy’s online profile and were instantly attracted to his likeable personality. Having owned Labradors for over 30 years they hoped he was the four-legged friend they were looking for and weren’t deterred by the journey to Glasgow to meet him. In May 2021, following numerous successful meets at the Rehoming Centre and at their home in Moray, staff waved a fond farewell to Ozzy.

Just over a year later, Ozzy is a changed dog, enjoying many adventures in the Highlands including daily walks in

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6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

quiet country fields; gradually making canine pals and even bagging a few world-famous Scottish Munros.

John said: “We knew straight away Ozzy was a clever dog who had already been very well trained at the Glasgow Rehoming Centre by Carrie, Chloe and Kate, but over a year later they might not believe he is the same dog. His confidence has grown as the months have passed. He used to be very wary of strangers but now loves a few of our friends and is comfortable visiting their homes. He is also more confident when he sees other dogs, rarely reacting as he previously did. In recent months he has slowly been introduced to friend’s dogs, and he now plays off the lead with his new friend Juno. We’ve successfully reached every milestone we had hoped for including climbing three Munros; Geal Charn, Beinn á Chaorainn and Beinn Teallach.

“To anyone considering rehoming a rescue dog I would say you need to have the time, expect to put in some effort and be patient and consistent. It is impossible to imagine Ozzy living in a city. As the Dogs Trust advised, he very much required a home in a rural location.

With a quieter life, the changes we have seen have been remarkable. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness them. It really is a pleasure being in his company every day and there is no doubt Ozzy has

brought a lot of joy into our lives.”

Sandra Downie, Glasgow Rehoming Centre Manager said: “It is fantastic to hear how well Ozzy is doing. He is clearly a much-loved part of the family and is loving life in the country. Our staff work so hard to achieve these happy outcomes for every dog that comes into our care, so it’s always a lovely boost to hear about happy dogs in happy homes.

“Thankfully John and Mairi were prepared to travel to meet and get to know Ozzy from their home in Elgin. We currently have lots of dogs like Ozzy who require a quiet location for their new home. Many of our dogs aren’t suited to life in a busy town or city. Instead, they require regular routines and a much quieter life with minimum interaction with strangers, which includes being exercised in areas that are largely free from other dogs. We are keen to hear from anyone who can offer a quiet, rural life to any of our current residents.”

Dogs in need of new homes in the country include Jupiter; Leo; Haiti; Casper; Captain; Edward; Jack; Jonny; Rocky; Toffee; Joey; Billy and Ollie. n Anyone interested in rehoming any of the dogs please go to our website www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming visit the dog’s profile and start the virtual adoption process by clicking the ‘rehoming me starts here’ button. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Dug

Magic

Nationwide Competition Crowns the ‘Most Heroic’ and ‘Most Promising’ Assistance Dogs Winners Revealed in The Agria Pet Insurance Pup To OAP Competition

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gria Pet Insurance - one of the world’s leading animal insurers – has announced the winners of its Pup to Old Aged Pup (OAP) competition.

The initiative, which celebrates dogs at all stages of their lives, sees the pet insurance specialist shine a light on the older dogs that have been instrumental in the lives of others. The nationwide competition also championed the superstar pup that is set to be the most promising graduate.

Brits have been casting their votes over the last seven days and the votes are now in with the winning dogs revealed as: Magic, Medical Detection Dogs has been chosen by the public as the ‘Most Heroic’.

Magic has changed the life of his loving owner, Claire. He alerts her to oncoming episodes caused by her Type 1 diabetes that, before Magic entered 20

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

her life, previously caused her to collapse.

Magic provides a 5–10-minute warning, so that Claire can take the necessary medication to avoid injury or hospitalisation. As well as physically saving her life, Magic has given Claire independence and confidence. Before Magic, she was frightened to leave the house and sleep due to her illness. Now Claire works, goes out with friends and enjoys her hobbies.

Milton Keynes-based Medical Detection Dogs trains dogs to detect the odour of human disease with the aim of developing faster, more efficient, and less invasive diagnostics that lead to better patient outcomes.

The ‘Most Promising Graduate’ has also been named as Dug, Support Dogs.

One in four successful support dogs come from rescue centres or were unwanted pets, brought in and trained to transform the lives of people with

disabilities. Dug’s previous owners found that they couldn’t cope with the demands of canine ownership when the Covid-19 lockdown lifted.

He then moved into full-time training at Support Dogs’ training centre in Brightside and is living with volunteer foster carers in Rotherham.

Sheffield-based Support Dogs is a charity that trains amazing dogs for people with autism, epilepsy, and physical disabilities. Last year alone, they provided over 600,000 hours of life-changing support to their clients.

All partner organisations that took part in the campaign will receive a donation of £1,000, while Medical Detection Dogs and Support Dogs, the winning charities, will each receive a donation of £2,500 from Agria. n To find out more about Agria’s charity support, please see www.agriapet.co.uk

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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9 TIMES WINNER OF ‘Product I can’t live without’

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Bunny and her kittens

15-year-old stray cat Jude

A million meals provided for unwanted cats thanks to a vital donation

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ats Protection has received a donation of £100,000 from Purina to help fund the equivalent of a million meals for homeless cats in its care.

The donation forms part of the charity’s long-term partnership with pet care company Purina. With a reported increase of 25 per cent in the number of kittens handed over to its Adoption Centres alone in the first quarter of 2022, the donation is a welcome boost to help feed the thousands of cats and kittens currently being cared for by Cats Protection.

They include mum cat Bunny who was heavily pregnant when she was handed to Cats Protection’s Bridgend Adoption Centre this spring, after her owner said they could no longer afford to care for her.

She gave birth to three beautiful kittens, Bonnet, Bloom and Benjamin but then developed a hole in her abdominal wall during labour. She needed emergency surgery, but thankfully has now recovered from her ordeal.

“It was touch and go for Bunny but she thankfully pulled through, says Molly Hughes, Deputy Manager of the Bridgend Adoption Centre.

“All four cats have since been adopted

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and can continue their adventures in loving homes. Bunny and the kittens certainly motored their way through a lot of cat and kitten food while they were with us, which shows what an important role donations like Purina’s play in the daily running of operations.”

The donation also helped 15-year-old stray cat Jude who had a large wound on his side and a painful eyelid condition when he was brought to Cats Protection in March.

“Jude was in a very bad way, with a very painful injury and incredibly uncomfortable eyes,” said Tania Marsh, Deputy Manager at the charity’s National Cat Adoption Centre in Chelwood Gate, Sussex.

“It’s always heartbreaking to see a cat in such pain, especially as he may have been suffering for a while until he was found. Thankfully he has since had surgery to his eyelids as well as steroid medication to clear up his injury and he is on the road to recovery.

“He was pretty scared and unsure at first but has responded well to the care and support that our volunteers and staff have given him. He has been with us for quite a while and has been through a few pouches of Felix during his recuperation!”

“Many of the cats in care across our

Adoption Centres require weeks or months of veterinary care, feeding and other forms of help before they are ready to go to new homes” says Rachel Covey, Cats Protection’s Corporate Partnerships Manager.

“It’s a mission that Cats Protection and Purina takes very seriously and Purina’s generous donation helps us to give so many of these cats a brighter future.”

Calum Macrae, CEO of Purina UK&I said: "At Purina we are passionate about helping to create and strengthen as many bonds as we can between pets and their humans. We also know that sadly this is a difficult time for some pets and their owners, with life changing again after the pandemic and the costof-living crisis starting to have a real impact on many families.

“We’re so pleased that this donation will continue to support the vital work that Cats Protection does – providing many thousands of cats with the vital nutrition they need while they’re on their journey to hopefully living, long, happy and healthy lives in new homes." n Cats Protection is a national network of around 210 volunteer-run branches and 37 centres, helping around 200,000 cats and kittens every year.

Visit www.cats.org.uk www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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The Wonder of Marmalade: We ‘can’t help falling in love’ with this feline Elvis ‘im-purr-sonator’ Following the success of the recent Elvis movie, a cat charity is seeking a new home for one of its overlooked feline visitors who does a great impression of the king of rock ‘n’ roll.

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ive-year-old Marmalade came into the care of Cats Protection’s National Cat Adoption Centre in Sussex because unfortunately the dogs in his household weren’t keen on him.

This meant that he was having to remain upstairs without garden access, the stress of which was causing him to overgroom.

Despite this, staff say that with careful introduction Marmalade might be ok in a home with a dog, as he’s previously enjoyed the company of canines, although he’d rather be housed without other cats or young children.

Cat Care Assistant Emily Abrahams said: “Marmalade is an absolute superstar with bags of character. He’s a real ‘teddy bear’ who loves a good fuss and will offer a lovely purr in appreciation.

“Just like Elvis, he’s a real charmer and certainly won over all of us here at the centre with his loving nature and occasional lip curl. He’s a real peoplecat so we would love to get him into a new home as soon as possible.”

Since 2018, players of People’s Postcode Lottery have been helping Cats Protection to care for thousands of cats like Marmalade at its centres in England, Scotland and Wales, and this year they are also supporting the charity’s behaviour work.

Cats Protection’s Central Behaviour Officer Daniel Cummings said: “The first step when you notice your cat is overgrooming is to seek help in identifying the root cause. This may be medical or behavioural and the steps required to solve the issue may vary depending on this.

“It is also important not to punish or intensely interrupt the cat when they are over-grooming as this may cause distress – potentially making it worse.

Instead, try to direct your cat’s attention gently to something they like, such as a toy.

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6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

Marmalade doing his Elvis impersonation

“As Marmalade’s overgrooming is stress-related we are really keen to get him into a new home as quickly as we can as this will definitely help reduce his stress levels, particularly once he is able to get outdoors again.”

If you live in the Sussex area and would like to enquire about adopting Marmalade, please contact Cats

Protection’s National Cat Adoption Centre on 01825 572 850 or at cattery.reception@cats.org.uk n If you live elsewhere, please see www.cats.org.uk for details of your closest branch or centre.

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Whiskers kittens

Seven up for Whiskers whose adorable kittens seek homes after Stapeley Grange arrival RSPCA stresses importance of neutering after caring for the rainbow kittens!

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even kittens with some colourful names will soon be looking for homes after spending time being cared for at RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre and Cattery.

As staff launch a search to find homes for these cuddly bundles of joy (see pictures), the centre near Nantwich in Cheshire is also reminding cat owners about the importance of getting their pets neutered as the kittens’ mother arrived into its care when heavily pregnant and losing body condition.

Whiskers, a three-year-old tabby, was signed over to the RSPCA at the end of March and not long after gave birth to five boys and two girls.

Mother and offspring are now doing well in the cattery, although the hungry tribe threatened to eat the centre “out of house and home”.

Generous supporters have already donated supplies of ‘Felix As Good As It Looks’ kitten food and more is needed!

Once they are big enough, the kittens will be spayed to prevent further homeless cats being added to the population. Kittens can reproduce from four months of age and each female can give birth to up to 12 kittens in one litter.

Whiskers is due to be spayed as soon as her kittens are fully weaned and separated from her, so that she can live a happy life in her forever home without the burden of constant litters of kittens, 26

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

which take a toll on her body.

RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre and Cattery manager Lee Stewart said: “As soon as Whiskers came into our care we could see she was heavily pregnant.

This demonstrates how important it is that owners get their cats neutered.

“Neutering cats also provides benefits such as reducing spraying and scent marking, and lessens their desire to roam in search of a mate, potentially getting lost or involved in an accident.

“It also greatly decreases the risk of cancers of the reproductive organs and reduces the risk of fighting in males.

“Not neutering cats leaves their health and the health of unwanted kittens at risk. It also contributes to the thousands of unwanted cats who come into RSPCA care, often in poor health.

“Raising a litter of kittens with the correct amount of time and care takes a huge amount of commitment and money.

“Whiskers’ kittens are being cared for in our cattery at the moment and should be available for rehoming in five to six weeks time.”

The kittens have been named after the colours of the rainbow. They are called: Mr Yellow, Prince Blue, Indigo, Violet, Sir Green, Captain Orange and Red. All of them will receive flea and worm treatments and their first vaccinations, which are especially important for kittens as they are vulnerable to illnesses, including cat flu.

Staff at Stapeley Grange will then complete a meticulous process of rehoming, which takes into account each kitten’s individual personality and needs as well as the suitability of potential owners.

“Finding the perfect home takes considerable time and effort. We need to check the homes are suitable and that new owners understand the responsibility and care that these cats need to live a long, healthy life,” added Lee. When the cats are available their details can be viewed on RSPCA Stapeley Grange’s website. As well as Whiskers and her colourful kittens, the RSPCA has lots of other cats in need of new loving forever homes. Potential owners can fill out a ‘Perfect Match Form’ via the centre’s online form.

During the pandemic, the cattery has moved to an online adoption process and visits to meet the centre’s cats are now by appointment only for those matched for adoption.

To support the ongoing work of the cattery, Whiskers and her colourful kittens, during this extremely difficult time, please consider a donation to the Cattery’s JustGiving site. n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit http://www.rspca.org.uk/give or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Couple banned from keeping animals for five years Four cats were repeatedly left unattended and advice was ignored despite warnings from the RSPCA

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man and woman from Lowestoft have been disqualified from keeping all animals for five years following a prosecution brought by the RSPCA. Michael Ian Mark Driver (DOB 12/04/2000) of Raglan Street, Lowestoft pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences of failing to meet the needs of his two cats Sparkle and Marble, contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

A second person, Bethany Alice Wildman (DOB 08/04/1996) of High Street, Lowestoft also pleaded guilty to two offences of failing to meet the needs of a further two cats called HJ and Shadow. Both were sentenced at Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court last week (31 May) where in addition to the five year disqualification from keeping all animals, they were fined £120 and ordered to pay £120 costs each, together with a £34 victim surcharge.

The RSPCA was alerted to the plight of the four cats that had been left unattended in a flat in High Street.

Lowestoft, last year.

A number of RSPCA officers tried to engage with the pair, visiting their flat on multiple occasions and placing seal tapes across the door to monitor if anyone was attending to the animals.

Fifteen visits were made initially last December over the course of two weeks as officers repeatedly tried to get a response from their owners. It was proven that the cats were left unattended on four occasions ranging from 24 hours to over 48 hours.

Photos and footage were taken through the letterbox to try and assess the cats’ conditions. On each occasion the cats could be heard meowing loudly and clawing at the door for food. They were given pouches of cat food through the letterbox due to concerns that they were not being fed. On occasions the cats ripped the sachets of cat food out of the officers’ hands such was their desperation.

Unfortunately, the defendants continued to ignore contact attempts 28

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

Sparkle and Marble after

from the RSPCA until at last contact was made with Driver who claimed a friend was feeding the cats. Police managed to get Driver to meet with them and RSPCA Inspector Amy Pellegrini, who led the investigation for the animal welfare charity, at the flat.

The court heard how conditions inside the property were poor - it was dark and cold and there was mess everywhere, with three very soiled and dirty litter trays. It was agreed the cats would be removed and a warning notice was issued advising the animals could not be returned to that flat until the environment was clean and kept clean, that they needed to be attended to twice daily and fed adequate amounts of food.

The RSPCA offered to rehome the cats but this offer was declined.

The cats were taken to the two new addresses by the couple who moved into separate properties. Driver moved into Victoria Arcade, in Great Yarmouth with Sparkle and Marble but the pets were later found abandoned in the property.

Meanwhile Wildman moved into a friend’s property with HJ and Shadow but she later returned the pair back to the flat in High Street, Lowestoft against the advice of the RSPCA. Despite the previous advice issued, the

RSPCA soon received another call after Christmas about the pets being left unattended.

The RSPCA were able to prove that the cats were not being attended to and again, the conditions inside the properties were filthy. There were no signs of any food or water within Driver’s flat and the cat Inspector Pellegrini saw inside the address was underweight and hungry. The animals were seized by police and placed into RSPCA care.

Inspector Pellegrini said: “I believed the cats were starving due to the scratches at the door and the loud noises they were making. It was claimed the flat was being visited everyday but we were able to prove that this simply was not true. No-one was attending consistently each day and the behaviour of the cats was worrying. Each time the cats were fed through the letterbox they tried to take the pouches of cat food due to their desperation.” n All of the cats have since been rehomed Shadow and HJ were rehomed together from RSPCA Newbrook and Sparkle and Marble were rehomed together from the RSPCA East Norfolk branch. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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A 6ft long exercise area gives your cats plenty of space to explore and relax. A second sunning shelf provides another area to watch the world go by as it is near the front of the pen.

With a fully lined and insulated raised sleeping area, our Penthouses have extra run space underneath. There is a large viewing window in the front door of the sleeping compartment, a white, removable uPVC internal shelf and a fully adjustable air vent. A cat flap leads to sunning shelf one which has a detachable ladder leading down to the exercise run and a second sunning shelf is at the safety porch end.

Lift out shutters are fitted to the top half of all exterior walls which, when removed leave just the galvanised mesh allowing your cats to enjoy a truly outdoor experience.

If you are having more than one pen, full height sneeze barriers will be fitted between each pen and you will have the choice of solid white or clear acrylic for these. Our Champion range of cat pens come in standard 3ft and 4ft widths

Premier Champion Penthouse Our Premier Champion range of cat pens come in a 3ft or 4ft width and, to the naked eye, look exactly like our standard Champion range. These though, are fitted with a seamless fibreglass module, exclusive to Lindee Lu, in the sleeping compartment offering ultimate hygiene and durability.

These pens are perfect for breeders, private cat owners and charity fostering pens, being an absolute necessity if you have elderly or unwell cats or kittens who cannot manage a ladder.

The Premier range is also available with an additional downstairs module, so each pen has two sleeping areas, both of which are able to accommodate a panel heater.

CLASSIC HOUSE CAT PENS FOR BREEDERS Our hand made Catteries are manufactured in the UK 4ft Classic House Our Classic House has a full-height walk in sleeping quarter – much the same as our standard 4ft Chalets but these are manufactured for those wanting a single pen which will be installed up against a fence, hedge or boundary wall.

The Classic benefits from a full, solid insulated roof and a solid timber back wall providing ultimate protection and ‘classic’ good looks!

The sleeping area of the Classic House has an additional opening window to the 4ft Chalet, for added ventilation, which is secured using galvanised mesh when open. Two sunning shelves in the exercise area and two, removable uPVC shelves in the sleeping area give your cat plenty of choice on where to hang out.

Our Classic House also benefits from a raised floor throughout, fully covered with vinyl which not only looks very smart but it’s warm underfoot and very easy to clean.

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Tia and Poppy

Brian

The National Pug Protection Trust The National Pug Protection Trust was set up to help pugs in need and to support people struggling to keep their pugs. As well as rescuing the NPPT offers respite care to enable people to get back on their feet after ill health or financial difficulties. Here are some of the stories of our recent rescues and respite pugs.

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eet Tia and Poppy, this bonded pair came into foster respite when their mum became seriously ill. These two little girls had been together for many years and were dearly loved by their mum.

Sadly, their mum took a turn for the worse and passed away but she was comfortable in the knowledge that the NPPT were looking after her girls.

She had also made the family aware that if anything should happen to her the NPPT were to find them a new home. They are now part of a larger family of pugs and loving life in their new home.

Brian, a little brindle pug, was surrendered to the charity by a young family. He was quite a boisterous little boy who had sadly bitten a member of the family that he lived with. Family 30

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

life was quite hectic and poor Brian could not cope so they decided that the best thing for Brian was to surrender him to the NPPT. Brian came into foster care and spent some time being rehabilitated and assessed. He just needed the peace and quiet of a child free environment. Brian is now happily settled with his new family where he enjoys long walks on the beach and nearby forests.

Poor little Cheddar came to us very overweight. He had been bought only two years ago by a young boy who now found himself unable to dedicate the time to looking after him. Cheddar spent about 6 months being passed from pillar to post and eventually found his way to the NPPT. He went straight into foster care where he was carefully assessed and the correct family was found for him.

He is now living the life, thoroughly spoilt by his new mum and dad and getting all the attention he needs.

The beautiful Beau was surrendered to the NPPT by his elderly owner. She had previously bought him at about 16 months old from an online advert.

Beau was very young and energetic and she found it difficult to keep up with him. Sadly, Beau went on to develop epilepsy and his owner could no longer afford his medication. So, she asked the NPPT if we could help and of course we said yes. Beau was carefully assessed during his time in foster care and recently adopted out to a family with 4 other pugs. He is now causing chaos but loving every minute of it!

Colin was a very sad case. He had been neglected by his owner who had www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Colin

Cheddar

Beau

dementia. His vet notes show the extent of the neglect. Eventually his owner was admitted to a care home as she was no longer able to look after herself. Colin was left with her husband who was also unable to care for himself without having daily carers. Sadly, no-one was caring for Colin. He found his way to us after being found inside the house with the man who was now deceased. Colin is in specialist foster care as he has both health and psychological Issues that need working through but we are seeing glimmers of a very loving little boy showing through. We are currently accepting applications for Colin. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

Bertie – well what can we say about Bertie – he is an absolute darling. We believe he is a cross between a pug and a Brussels Griffon or Affenpinscher.

Poor Bertie spent his early years crated until he was rescued by a lady in December. So, when she found that she too would have to surrender him she was heart-broken. Bertie is a very affectionate chap but has a bad habit of air snapping. He is not aggressive and does not actually make contact but it can be quite frightening for a small child.

He is currently in foster and we are currently accepting applications for Bertie.

Bertie

n For more information visit our website https://pugprotectiontrust.org/ Like and follow us on Instagram nppt_official or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PugProtectionTrust

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022

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Take 70 life-changing steps this summer!

Walk, cycle, ride or carriage drive 70 miles this summer and help raise money for equine charities across the UK and help change the lives of abandoned and neglected horses and donkeys.

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he Great Horses for Health event 2022 is challenging horse lovers in the UK to join their community fundraising event and accept the 70/70/70 challenge and help raise money for equine charities.

The Great Horses for Health event launched on 19th June and end on 28th August 2022 will take place over 70 days – a duration chosen to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and also the 70th Anniversary of lead Charity HorseWorld.

One of the ways to get involved with The Great Horses for Health Event is to take part in our 70/70/70 Challenge. Just commit to attempting to cover 70 miles in 70 days or raise £70. Simple!

You can complete the 70 miles in any way you like. You don't even need to have an equine with you; why not walk, cycle, or do a combination? By registering you can take part in exclusive events organised around the UK and which you can use towards achieving your 70 mile total.

PLUS if you raise £70 or complete 70 miles you'll be sent a fantastic medal as a 'thank you' for your support. See the website for more info www.horses4health.co.uk/challenges This year the event is supporting HorseWorld, Riding for the Disabled Association, and a number of smaller equine charities via the Horses for Health Equine Welfare Grants Scheme. Every penny raised will go to helping horses in need. enthusiastic group of volunteers. Riding for The Disabled will also benefit from the event. n To find out more about The Great Horse for Health Event and how you sign up to take part, please visit www.horses4health.co.uk

The Pit Pony Sanctuary STAMP APPEAL- Please help us!

We would like to appeal for “used postage stamps” Cut/torn off the envelope with ¼” or 1cm of paper showing all around. Also any old stamp albums/ collections. Also used jewellery!

Please send to us at the Centre: Fforest Uchaf Horse & Pony Centre & The Pit Pony Sanctuary Penycoedcae, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan, Wales CF37 1PS Thank you Visit www.pitponies.co.uk

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Naylor Agility Equipment Naylor Agility are pleased to introduce their new range of dog agility equipment to complement their popular range of Dog Agility Tunnels. Naylor Agility Equipment is manufactured using high quality materials in the UK. The new range of dog agility equipment is ideal for agility training at home and at club level.

600mm-diameter-rainb

ow-dog-tunnel

The new range comprises: • Wobble Board – a 60cm diameter board with paw print design and a secure wobble dome in the centre.

Fantastic for building confidence on unstable surfaces, promotes balance and co-ordination and is great for rehabilitation exercises. The wobble board is also fully rubberised for safety.

• Stacking Blocks – ideal for posture and form training. The stacking blocks are fully reversible with wider and narrow sides for big and little paws, both sides are rubberised. Suitable for creating a still position for

standing pose and can also be used to grow confidence and teach paw awareness.

• 4ft Rocker Board – a 4ft long x 1ft wide fully resin bound rubberised surface with angled ends to sit closer to the ground when in use.

Each end of the rocker board has contrasting colour contact sections.

The rocker board is ideal for building confidence in movement under foot for young and nervous dogs and is a perfect introduction to seesaw movement.

• Competition Standard Jump Wings – supplied with 2 pairs of removable jump cups and weighted pole.

Made using high quality treated timber with removable feet for easy transportation and storage. All 4 KC standard heights, with 200mm available on request for UKA select height the specification allows use in KC and UKA competitions.

Can be ordered directly via the webshop www.nayloragility.co.uk or phone our sales team on 01226 444378 to discuss your exact requirements.

Full Agility 600 5M Red Tunnel 34

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4ft Rocker Board

Competition Standard Jump Wings

600m

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Stacking Blocks

Products can be ordered directly via the webshop www.nayloragility.co.uk or phone our sales team on 01226 444378 to discuss your exact requirements. The Agility Equipment is on a 10 working week lead time.

Agility Tunnels and Straps are on 10 working days lead time.

Wobble Board

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The Labrador Lifeline Trust is a charity dedicated to rescuing, rehoming and helping Labradors They are now in their Twenty seventh year of helping Labradors in need of new homes and their main priority is placing the right dog in the right home.

They cover the areas of Berkshire, Hampshire, Lincolnshire, Middlesex and Surrey

Registered charity number 1076061

Tel: 01256 884027 / 07860 691251 / Email: info@labrador-lifeline.com

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Puppies sleeping

Bowser

Eleven newborn puppies with umbilical cords still attached dumped in bin bag in woods RSPCA investigating after litter of puppies abandoned in West Yorkshire Dedicated RSPCA staff are providing round-the-clock care to a litter of newborn puppies who were found abandoned in a bin bag in the woods just hours after being born.

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he litter of 11 newborn pups was found by passersby who were walking through a wooded area off Heath Lane, Huddersfield, on Monday 20 June when they spotted a rubbish bag and went to investigate.

RSPCA deputy chief inspector Sara Jordan, who is now investigating, said: “It’s so lucky that there were people passing who went to look inside this bag because the puppies were only hours old and were extremely vulnerable.

“They had been dumped in the woodland, in a bag, and all still had their umbilical cords attached.

“The finders rushed them to a local vet who checked them all over and estimated that they were just a few hours old. Sadly, one of the puppies was struggling to breathe and was very sick so they made the difficult decision to

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put her to sleep.

“The veterinary clinic called us and asked for help as they didn’t have the facilities or the expertise to hand-rear the remaining 10 pups.”

The RSPCA is now investigating to find out who is responsible for abandoning the puppies.

Sara added: “I’m really concerned that there’s a bitch somewhere who has just given birth to these puppies and could require veterinary attention.

“I’m also keen to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for abandoning these puppies in such an irresponsible way. They were so young and vulnerable, more of them could have easily died.

“Times are tough at the moment and we understand that many families are struggling to cope, particularly given the

rising cost of living, and we fear that we’ll see many, many more pets being relinquished to charities or abandoned because their owners simply don’t know where to turn.

“But abandoning tiny puppies like this is so irresponsible and cruel. Please, please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate.”

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time or who knows a dog who recently gave birth but doesn’t have a litter to nurse should contact the RSPCA’s appeal line, confidentially, on 0300 123 8018.

Earlier this month, the RSPCA and Scottish SPCA published the Animal Kindness Index, a groundbreaking report cont. on p38 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022

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cont. from p37

Tippy looking at the nation’s attitude towards animals.

The report, based on a YouGov survey of more than 4,000 UK adults*, revealed that the rising cost of living and the cost of pet ownership could threaten our love for our pets, with 78% of pet owners saying they think the cost of living will impact their animals, almost seven out of 10 (68%) expressing concern that the cost of care was increasing, and a fifth (19%) worried about how they’ll afford to feed their pets.

The report also recorded an increase in animal intake at many RSPCA centres, with the charity seeing 49% more rabbits, 14% more cats and 3% more dogs in the first five months of 2022 (compared to the same period in 2021).

Round-the-clock expert care

Dedicated RSPCA staff are now providing the puppies, who should be with their mothers until at least eight-weeks-old, with round-the-clock care.

Sara has taken one of the puppies on while the others have been fostered by

experienced staff and experts, including a veterinary nurse and staff from RSPCA Doncaster, Rotherham and District branch.

Sara said: “The puppies will need to be hand-reared and require very intense

care as they’re completely reliant on us, as they would be their mother.

“I’m caring for a little girl called Tippy who needs feeding every 90 minutes!

I have to take her everywhere with me and keep a very close eye on her.

“Hand-rearing is incredibly difficult and, sadly, we’ve lost four - some due to infection and some due to congenital problems - but thankfully the remaining six are now doing really well and get stronger and stronger every day.”

The puppies will remain with their fosterers until they’re old enough to begin their searches for new homes.

Staff aren’t yet sure what breed they are but believe they could be German shepherd types. n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website https://www.rspca.org.uk/give or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

To support the work of RSPCA Doncaster, Rotherham and District branch please donate online.

Summer breaks available

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 www.dogmatic.org.uk 38

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Karnlea dog licking carton Lamb

Karnlea Bone Broth… to the Rescue A ‘rescue remedy’ for dogs and cats - Karnlea Bone Broth is now available in beef and lamb flavours.

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arton packed from fresh, it is slow cooked to extract high levels of protein, collagen and minerals - ideal for boosting and maintaining pet health.

It can be used as a supplement, treat or topper to support skin, coat and joint health – so great for putting poorly pets back on their paws.

Karnlea Bone Broth captures high-levels of nutrients often lost in concentrated or powdered bone broth and supplements. It can be served, as a liquid straight from the carton, chilled as a jelly topper, frozen into treats/portions, or used in home cooking and bakes for pets.

The brand was launched earlier this year and is the first ‘cupboard friendly’ bone broth to hit the shelves in the UK. The produce is gentle on the stomach, easy to digest and highly palatable.

Founder Lara McCullough said that the product would be ideal for those caring for sickly pets or those that have been taken into rescue.

“As the owner of rescue dogs myself, I understand the stress and trauma that some animals suffer when they face a change in circumstances. This can sometimes result in a loss of appetite or additional requirements for hydration or nutrition. Karnlea Bone Broth helps support pets in this situation. We are delighted to offer rescue centres our product at trade price to help them put that healing in place.”

Karnlea has invested in ethical and sustainable processes: ingredients are from antibiotic and hormone-free, grass-fed animals, reared on cooperative farms. Its packaging is recyclable and sustainable, made with paperboard from sustainable forest materials and spouts and caps are plasticfree – produced from a sugar cane derivative. n For more information or to buy online visit: www.karnlea.com

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RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022

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Generation Pup Study Reveals Data on Dog Neutering A Dogs Trust study exploring factors related to dog owners’ decision to neuter their dogs and their attitudes to this procedure, found that about 60% of dogs in a UK/ROI study were neutered by 15 months of age.

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he data on neutering, a procedure often used by veterinary and dog welfare organisations to support humane dog population control and manage individual dog health and welfare, was collected from the charity’s long running *Generation Pup study, which tracks a cohort of dogs throughout their lives.

Dog owners reported whether they intended to neuter their dogs and their attitudes towards neutering. When dogs were just 16 weeks (four months) or younger, owners of male dogs; dogs registered with The Kennel Club; intended as working dogs and owners who reported that they were experienced dog owners, were less likely to plan to neuter their dogs.

Researchers found that dogs were less likely to be reported as neutered by 15 months of age if they were a pure breed; bred by their owner; living with other dogs and if their owner planned to breed from them at the point of acquisition (aged 16 weeks or less).

The most common reasons owners chose to neuter their dogs by 15 months of age were to prevent puppies and to reduce the risk of future health problems.

The study also found that by 15 months of age, 90% of female nonneutered dogs had had their first oestrus. This is an important finding which adds evidence of when dogs may reach sexual maturity, as the timing of the first oestrus is often taken into account, combined with other factors such as dog size, when deciding when to neuter a dog.

Exploring owners’ intention to neuter their dog can help veterinary professionals understand the reasons considered important by owners when deciding whether to opt in for this procedure. In addition, the study found that purebred dogs in multi-dog households who were bred by their owner

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were less likely to have been neutered by 15 months. During discussions with an owner, the dog’s home environment and history will need to be considered to allow personalised conversations when discussing neutering with a vet/vet nurse.

Rachel Casey, Director of Canine Behaviour and Research at Dogs Trust said: “Our findings add knowledge about owner attitudes towards neutering dogs (in the UK/ROI), the age Generation Pup dogs are neutered, and the age female dogs reach sexual maturity.

Understanding owner reasons for neutering may help veterinarians in their discussions with owners around dog neutering.

“The study found that many owners neutered their dog to reduce the risk of future health problems. Much is still

unknown about the impact neutering can have on dog behaviour and a number of health conditions which develop later in life. This highlights the important role vets can play in educating owners about the health risks and benefits of both neutering and keeping their dog entire. Bespoke conversations with veterinarians could increase owner understanding and allow them to make a more informed decision about their dog’s needs.”

You can find out more about the Generation Pup study/and get involved here: https://generationpup.ac.uk/ n More information about neutering can be found here: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice/dog-care/why-neuter

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Cabins

Catteries

n 4 standard sizes n Perfect for any size dog n Secure locks and door hooks

n PVC insulated walls and ceilings n Solid or mesh run panels n Multi level internal raised platforms n Boarding or domestic use

Puppy/Holding Pens n Standard and bespoke sizes and designs n Optional integrated and removable whelping areas n Easy to assemble n Durable and easy to clean

Walk-in Kennels n PVC insulated walls and ceilings n Standard and bespoke sizes to meet breeding, boarding and GBGB specifications n Multiple run sizes and designs n Secure, robust and easy to clean

Quality and durability n Bespoke design service n Fully thermally insulated n Easy cleaning and hygenic n

Plastic insulated walk in dog kennels and catteries for breeding, boarding and domestic use. Chicubes offers a wide range of products designed and built in the UK. Chicubes animal housing for dogs and cats and other small animals brings the full package, quality and durability, value for money and helpful customer service.

Chicubes offer standard and bespoke design services, so finding the rights system for you when setting up or renewing your establishment couldn’t be easier. Built to last and meet current regulations for boarding, breeding and GBGB licensing. Delivery and fitting nation wide.

www.chicubes.co.uk

01782 499915

sales@chicubes.co.uk

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End of life, we know it will happen As much as we would prefer to ignore the trauma of an end-of-life situation, we know it will be something we will go through. I wouldn’t recommend that this becomes a regular subject of conversation but some thought and some planning is always a sensible and strangely comforting thing to do.

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aybe you will discuss whether to let your pet die naturally at home or taking them to the vet’s clinic for a planned euthanasia? The decisions you make will be personal and based on the health of your pet and their quality of life. My German Shepherd does not like visiting the vet, (luckily she has not had to do it often) but when she does, the anxiety is obvious and distressing, she looses hair becomes nervous and generally stressed. In an on-line survey arranged by Cloud 9 Vets over 90% of respondents would prefer to organise a home euthanasia. This means avoiding potential pain and risk for clinic anxiety, in other words 42

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a peaceful, controlled and stressless passing in the safe environment of your own home.

Do’s and don’ts

When this discussion becomes unavoidable, do:

• Talk to your vet practice in good time: there is no advantage pushing things to the last minute.

Sadly we have too often seen a situation that the owner appears to be in control of, suddenly turn into a crises, when the situation controls you, it may turn into an emergency, when the peaceful and gentle goodbye becomes a rush to avoid pain and distress.

• Discuss pet euthanasia with family or friends: this is a major decision, get everyone on the same page before making that final decision.

• Run through a quality of life assessment, do it several times if necessary.

• Consider the environment, being at home will reduce stress.

However:

• Don’t be scared of making that call or booking that appointment, when you are facing the inevitable it is comforting to talk to experienced, knowledgeable and compassionate people, who can help and support you. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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• Don’t push things too far, in an end of life situation remember the sentiment that “a week too early is so much better than a day too late”.

• Don’t blame yourself, considering euthanasia is something you do as an act of love for your pet, to save them from pain and distress.

• Don’t let other people make the decision for you, you know your pet best.

• Don’t forget about aftercare, do you want to bury at home? Or perhaps organise an individual cremation with the ashes returned in an urn?

Time is always a factor

When it is time, you will likely know as an owner, after all you know your pet better than anyone else. They often send us subtle signals, maybe they are hiding away, maybe they just look at you in ”that” way, asking for some help if their quality of life is not what they or you would want it to be. Don’t feel guilty, those who

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contemplate putting their elderly or sick pet to sleep do it through love, nothing else. Make sure you say a proper goodbye before the vet’s appointment, there will also be time after you meet the vet, but you may want those few private moments, before the vet arrives.

A gentle-euthanasia needs time, do not be rushed, make sure you can go through the process carefully and calmly, without being hurried or too focused on the clock. Be clear with the vet, how much, or little do you want to know about the process? Make sure you get the closeness and compassion you and your pet need. Even in times of Corona this should still be possible, ask before, because it is too late afterwards.

All of these decisions are personal.

Should I order an individual or communal cremation, a burial at home? There is not a “right” decision, just a decision, that is right for you and your family.

We don’t talk about end-of-life do

we? Well we just did! And planning what to do, in good time, makes the process, gentle and dignified, making sure that you celebrate the wonderful life of your pet rather than just mourn their passing.

One of our vets, Charlotte recently said to me, “putting a pet to sleep is such an emotional and sad time but if you plan that process with respect and dignity, their passing can actually be something very special and very loving”. n Amber Synnott, Amber is co-founder, Director and Practice Manager at Cloud 9 Vets visit cloud9vets.co.uk Image ©Adobe Stock

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Help is at hand for bereaved cat owners With Pet Remembrance Day taking place on 5 July, a cat charity is highlighting its campaign to support bereaved cat owners.

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ats Protection’s ‘Never Furgotten’ campaign runs for most of July and advises people to contact Paws to Listen, a free-to-use service run by trained volunteers five days a week who can support pet owners over the phone or over email.

There is also an online memory wall where owners can post a tribute to their deceased cat and a webpage where people can give an optional donation to help one of the many thousands of unwanted cats in the charity’s care.

Around 7.2 million UK households own at least one cat and half of those said they got their cat to relieve stress or loneliness. Hence there is an understandable gap when that feline friend is no longer there.

“We hear from many troubled cat lovers who are having to process difficult emotions after the loss of their pet,” said Catherine Joyce, Team Leader of the Paws to Listen service.

“Some people said they felt confused, angry or guilty about their cat’s passing.

Others felt they were being a burden to their friends by talking about it or that they should have ‘got over it’ because they lost a pet rather than a family member or friend.

“In fact, grief is a very personal process and everyone experiences it differently. The emotions are completely normal and finding a sympathetic ear can help immensely with coming to terms with loss. Please don’t feel reticent about picking up the phone.”

Cats Protection employee, Gail Allen, 32, from Southampton, contacted Paws to Listen after she lost her pet cat Buttons in tragic circumstances last year.

“Buttons was my loyal companion for almost ten years,” said Gail. “He helped me through some tough times including a relationship break-up and a hunt for a new place to live.

“One evening at home, he just collapsed and passed away. It was a total shock as he hadn’t had any serious health issues in the past except for a slight limp. I took him to the vet

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Gail and Buttons cuddling

immediately who said it was most likely to have been a blood clot that had come out of nowhere.

“I was very grief-stricken. I convinced myself that it was my fault and that I should have done more for Buttons earlier.

“I contacted the Paws to Listen service and it was so helpful to talk to someone who understood what I was going through. It helped to relieve me of my feelings of guilt and helps me to cope better with loss in general.”

Paws to Listen’s number is 0800 024 94 94. The lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, excluding Bank Holidays and if lines are busy, then a call-back service is available. Alternatively, please email the service on pawstolisten@cats.org.uk n For further details about Cats Protection’s ‘Never Fur-gotten’ campaign please visit www.cats.org.uk/never-furgotten

Cats Protection is a national network of around 210 volunteer-run branches and 37 centres, helping around 200,000 cats and kittens every year.

The Pet Loss Guide

By Millie Jacobs Pets are important members of the family.

In this long-overdue guide to grieving a beloved pet, Millie Jacobs uses her own personal experience and grief counselling expertise to guide readers through 31 days of exercises and support to help process your loss. £14.99.

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Emily now recovered

Emily was found emaciated and covered in sores Emily in her new home

‘Skin and bones’ dog makes wonderful transformation thanks to RSPCA Emily was found emaciated and covered in sores

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lurcher who was just ‘skin and bones’ when she was found wandering along a bridal path in Essex is now loving life in her new home.

Emily weighed just over 10kg when she was rescued by the RSPCA and taken in by the charity’s Danaher Animal Home, near Braintree.

Danaher’s deputy animal centre manager Louisa Duranti said: “Emily was found as a stray, wandering along a bridal path in March and was taken to a local vet before coming to us.

“She weighed just 10.8kg and was severely emaciated; she was little more than skin and bones. She had pressure sores all over her shoulder blades, hips and legs.

“We put her on a special diet where we fed her little and often to slowly build up her weight and strength and she put almost 5kg on in just a few weeks.

“She’s such a sweet, friendly and laid-back dog that she was snapped up www.rescueandanimalcare.com

quickly by a lovely new family and is now settling in well to her new home.”

Mark and Abby Colbear started following Danaher’s Facebook page after moving into their new home and deciding they were ready to take on a dog.

Mark, from Braintree, said: “We had been thinking about getting a rescue dog for a long time, but due to previously being in rental accomodation we were unable to. After we moved and started following Danaher online we saw Emily's story and pictures and it broke our hearts; we felt we had to apply to try and help her.

“Emily is doing really well and has almost completely settled in now. We’ve built her up to eat full meals and although she still has anxious moments, especially at night time, we can only imagine what she’s been through and cuddles in the armchair with us seem to help!

“She’s really coming out of her shell

and finding her voice. She gives us happy little grunts when we play in the garden or give her fuss in her beanbag.

“Her cheeky and naughty side is also starting to come through now and she likes to hide her favourite treats and dig up the garden, but we don’t mind as we’re so pleased to see her confidence growing. She’s even made lots of human and doggy friends which is lovely to see.

“We’re so lucky to have her and are so pleased that we’ve been able to give her a wonderful forever home after everything she’s been through.” n To help Danaher Animal Home - which is a branch that is an independently registered and funded charity - continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need, visit https://danaheranimalhome.org.uk/donate to donate

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British Garden Birds: Summer Highlights The height of summer is upon us, and with the (hopeful) summer weather in the UK, comes a variety of flying garden visitors. This blog aims to explore everything you should be expecting with British garden birds this summer.

British Garden Birds: Summer Highlights will work to uncover some of the breeds of birds you will see and our top tips when it comes to feeding and protecting them.

What Birds You Will See This Summer

The lighter nights, warmer temperatures and longer days mean that the bird becomes louder and livelier than ever.

It is in these next few months that you may spot a few new visitors in your garden. But what can you expect to see?

Breeding season happening in spring means that by summer, there is often a whole new population of birds and fledglings finding their feet (or wings should we say) and venturing into gardens.

Many wild birds that have spent their winter in warmer climates travel back to Britain during the summer. So be prepared to see a lot of British garden birds returning home in the coming months.

A brief side note – if you are debating taking up birdwatching, now is the time!

There is no better season than the flurry of new faces arriving in the UK and to your gardens.

British Garden Birds: Summer Feeding

Sure, there are a lot of new faces in Britain during the summer months, but how can you be sure to see them if you don’t attract them? Feeding birds in summer is a brilliant way to a) see more of the new visitors but b) protect and nurture the birds and their new offspring!

It’s a common misconception that we don’t need to feed birds in the summer due to natural food sources being in abundance. But as an avid birdwatcher, why wouldn’t you want to see the birds feeding in your garden!

The longer days give us more time to observe the British garden birds, and with them being louder and livelier, their songs and markings make them easier to identify during the summer months.

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So, what to feed birds in summer…

• Seeds – such as sunflower hearts and Nyjer seeds. These are popular during the summer months as they’re a firm favourite across a variety of bird breeds. They offer the correct amount of nutrients for birds to thrive during the summer nesting season.

• Live food – such as mealworms. As previously mentioned, many birds migrate to the UK for the availability of insects. Offering birds with a live food choice will most definitely make your bird feeder popular. This is a beneficial food source for fledglings as it is soft and replicates what they might find in the wild.

There are some tips when it comes to how to feed birds in the summer – in order to gain the most visitors and gain popularity among a number of different species.

• Place your bird feeder in the shade.

For two reasons. So, the birds can feed for longer without getting too hot

and avoid food spoiling in the heat.

• Make sure there is always a fresh supply of water. Water is important for birds to clean themselves and keep hydrated. Having a water source for birds is likely to attract birds that may not even visit your feeder.

What Foods To Avoid In Summer

The top tip for attracting birds to your garden this summer is to use a variety of food, thus attracting a variety of species and their young. However, in saying this, there are some things to avoid.

The biggest food type we recommend avoiding in the summer months is any soft suet product. Suet often doesn’t withstand the summer heat (even in Britain!) and so it is easy for it to spoil and grow bacteria which will harm the birds.

https://www.kennedywildbirdfood.co.u k/news/british-garden-birds-summerhighlights/ www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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www.kennedywildbirdfood.co.uk

Supplying the UK with high-quality wild bird food and bird seed We are a family run wild bird food and wild bird seed supplier based in rural Lincolnshire. We supply only the finest quality products.

SUITABLE FOR ALL YEAR ROUN D FEEDING FROM BIRD TABLES

Ground feed mix Our orginal ground feed mixture that's so adored by Robins, Blackbirds, Song Thrushes and all other ground feeding birds. Suitable for all year round feeding.

Either scattetered on the floor or placed on a table or ground feeder. Contains no wheat. £39.90/25kg

SUITABLE FOR ALL SMALL BIRDS

Split Peanuts

Economy wild bird mix

Small blanched, split peanuts (skins removed). Extra rich in both protein and oils, thus making an excellent and essential food for all year feeding. Peanuts are suitable and liked by most species of birds, and have long been the most popular of wild bird feeds. All our peanuts are certified as nil detectable signs of aflatoxin. £46.50/25kg

ADORED

BY ROBINS, BLACKBIRDS AND SONG THRUSHES

With our specialised blending of a number of nutritional seeds, this mix is suitable for a large variety of birds. High in black sunflower thus providing oil and protein and meeting all essential feeding requirements. Suitable for all year round feeding. £29.50/25kg

Superior high energy mix An extremely high energy mixture blended with the highest quality seeds.

Suitable for all small birds and ideal for all year round feeding. Best fed from a seedfeeder or scattered on a bird table.

Contains nowheat. £41.25/25kg

ATTRACTIVE TO ROBINS, BLACKBIRDS AND THRUSHES

Dried mealworms Dried mealworms are a tasty treat for garden birds with all the nutrition of live mealworms without the 'worm factor'.

Attractive to robins, blackbirds, thrushes and all other insect eating birds.

Available in sizes ranging from 250g to 10kg. £33.50/3kg

ALL YEAR ROUND FEEDING

Sunflower hearts Bakery grade premium sunflower hearts.

No unsightly husk. A food that is loved by most species of birds being high in both protein and oils. Makes a most desirable all year round food. £49.75/25kg

SUITABLE FOR A WIDE RANG E OF WILD BIRDS

Suet special blend mix

Small fatballs The best, fattiest fat balls on the internet. Small Fat balls (no nets) offer a wide range of wild birds a nutritious and important source of energy specifically during winter and nesting season. Each fatball at approx 95g available in a box of 150. £27.90

This blended suet mixture is packed full of highIy calorific ingredients, it is ideal for all year round feeding and will attract a great variety of both small and medium sized birds to your garden. No re-growth under feeding station. Contains no wheat. £52.70/25kg

5% DISCOUNT on all orders OVER £50 Tel: 01778 342665

FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY

info@kennedywildbirdfood.co.uk

Won’t grow mix Blended with 60% bakery grade sunflowerhearts, this energy rich mixture has been blended to ensure no re-growth under your feeding station. Suitable for all year round feeding. Best fed from seed feeder, scattered on bird table or from ground feeder. Contains no wheat. £46.75/25kg

Superior finch mix This classic mixture was blended specifically with finches in mind.

Contains a wonderful selection of the finest seeds and is suitable for all year round feeding. Best fed from seedfeeder or scattered on a bird table. Contains no wheat. £44.75/25kg

10% off first order for new customers use promo code NEW10 at checkout

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Furry Rabbit Ears Fun chews with fur (to acts as natural wormer) & natural joint support. Visit www.cifood.co.uk

Tickety Boo (Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herbs) Grain Free, super-gentle hypoallergenic recipe that's packed with 55% chicken.

A great all-rounder that's ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Visit www.cifood.co.uk

TO SUIT ALL YOUR DOGS’ NEEDS Customisable Whelping boxes. Any colour, Lightweight, Robust, Come pre-assembled, Easy to clean and maintain. Visit www.thedaleskennelcompany.co.uk/whelpingbox

Great products for you and your pets ...

Vivid PVC Waterproof Dog Collar These all weather, all adventure dog collars are waterproof, stink proof and dirt proof. Perfect for country dogs, dogs who love to swim, run about in all weathers or generally get good and dirty. Simply wipe clean and you are ready for your next adventure. Woof!

Sizes: S/M, M, M/L, L. £8.00 Visit www.dfordog.co.uk

250 ml Cleaning Kit with 500 ml Spray bottles Containing pet safe disinfectant, odour remover and a powerful steriliser, our new cleaning kit bundle is perfect for the pet owner. From £22.50.

Visit www.animal-health.co.uk

Bio-Plus capsules for horses These improve general health, reduced stress, stronger immune systems and resistance to disease.

Visit www.itchyhorse.co.uk

BRAND NEW PRODUCTS Colloidal Silver Eyedrops for Pets.

A natural hydrating and antibacterial eyedrop for your pet. Colloidal Silver Tick and Flea Repellent. A powerful natural repellent to fleas and ticks. Colloidal Silver toothpaste appropriate for dogs of all sizes.

Visit www.naturesgreatestsecret.co.uk

Mini Pet Calming Spray Ideal for pets including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, rodents and birds.

Helps calm pet without sedating.

Handy to keep in pocket, handbag, or glove compartment. 15ml. £6.50 www.petremedy.co.uk

Dog Water Fountain - Outdoor Keep your dog cool, hydrated and entertained on warm summer days with this fun dog water fountain for outdoor use. The Chill Out Garden Dog Water Fountain by All For Paws provides fresh drinking water for your dog at the push of a paw as well as cooling fun and games in the summer sun. £24.99 Visit www.dfordog.co.uk

Stablezone bundle Cleaning kit bundle. These products will be perfect for your yard to keep your biosecurity up to standard. £35. Visit www.animal-health.co.uk

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The ultimate dog toy for shakers and movers!

Leather Dogmatic Headcollar

Squeaks and rattles to satisfy natural instincts Durable centre panel for vigorous thrashing Ideal plush toy for indoor play. £10.00 Visit www.labrador-lifeline.com

White Fish Jerky Minis "Made from 100% natural ingredients, these low fat, low calorie tasty treats will help to promote the health and well being of your dog. The rough texture of the fish scales helps to remove tartar from your dog’s teeth."

Visit www.BentleysDogFood.co.uk

Leather Dogmatic Headcollar Dried Sprats "An ideal Pure Fish treat that can be fed whole.

Dried Sprats can also be broken easily into smaller pieces as training treats. Rich in Omega 3 and fatty acids, which helps promote a healthy skin and coat." Visit www.BentleysDogFood.co.uk

Paw and Bone Bowl This super cute design bowl is pawfect for any dog.

Visit www.naturallyhealthypet.co.uk

The New Luxurious Soft and Lined Leather Dogmatic Headcollar.

Our unique Registered Design means it will not ride up, under or into the eyes which causes distress to your pet and as it is much more comfortably and securely fitted, it avoids any potential dangers for you or your dog. £39.99 Visit www.dogmatic.org.uk

Foldable Water Bottle Foldable transparent plastic water bottle with a belt clip and detachable cap. 420 ml capacity.

Convenient and perfect for those on the go.

Available in Green or Pink. £4.00. Visit www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk

Classic Leather Buckle Collar Vibrant orange classic leather buckle collar – simple but so chic.

Visit www.annrees.co.uk

Furr Boost A tasty complementary drink to our dog’s daily water intake, designed specifically to aid our well- being.

Furr Boost is a hydrating drink, but it can be used as a topper over food, frozen to make ice lollies, poured into Lick Mats and Kongs and frozen for enrichment or a fun iced treat. There are lots of flavours to choose! Go to www.furboost.com

Height Adjustable Double Feeding Dog Bowl This double feeder has a quick-release mechanism to easily adjust the level of the bowls to suit your dog. Each of the 1400ml capacity bowls is fitted with a silicone bead around the rim to eliminate sliding and noise during feeding. £39.99. Visit www.georgebarclay.co.uk

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Great products for you and your pet

www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk

Playtime

Atomic Ball Varied bounce for interest.

Huge squeak. Floats. £7.39

Challenge your dog with the Ancol Strap Tennis Ball! This camouflage ball has a strong nylon strap to help you throw it further! £1.85

Gor flex squeaky ball Super bouncy squeaky flexible ball 9cm (approx). £5.79 Available in blue or red.

Oshi the Whale 27cm with squeak 100% recycled outer fabrics and stuffing made from plastic bottles. £6.99

Border Collie Glass Clock Diameter 20cm. £14.99

Fusion Hybrid dog toy Green Tugger 20 cm, Blue ball frame 12 cm, Pink Tri Star. Light but hardy, and can float and bounce for fun retrieval games. With grooves to help gently cleanse your dog's teeth, £4.49

Border Collie Wooden Plaque

5" square Border Collie wooden plaque.

Can be hung or free standing. (£8.95)

Shopping Bag Border Collies Are Great Jute Shopping Bag. 31cm X 31cm X 23cm. £6.49

Love Border Collies Border Collies Heart Shaped Fridge Magnet. £2.99

Jumbo Jaws Coil Tugger The perfect toy for dogs who love tug of war. £8.99

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Hay Expert

Natural products for Rabbits and Small Animals

www.thehayexperts.co.uk

Wooden Rabbit Feeder The Hay Experts Wooden Rabbit Feeder is a great way of group feeding pellets, hay or forage.

The trough design allows for multiple rabbits to get to the good stuff at the same, and is deep enough to hold a good volume of forage for them to have a bit of a rummage! Can be used alongside a rabbit bowl or hay rack for variety of food source.

Wooden Carrot Bowl This shapely Wooden Carrot Bowl from The Hay Experts is big enough to use for pellets or forage, and will make a fetching addition to any mealtime! It will be ideal as a rabbit bowl or guinea pig bowl. This bowl is the perfect way to serve some of The Hay Experts Forage produce - including the Feast of Forage - or even perhaps a sprinkling of Green at Forage Hay? Yum!

Peter Rabbit Twin Daisy Design Tea Towels The wonderful Peter Rabbit is featured in this 100% natural cotton twin tea towel set.

Contains two tea towels; one featuring the cheeky Peter Rabbit in a contemporary daisy design, and the other is a green and natural cotton stripe to compliment. These tea towels will make a great gift and be as useful as they are stylish.

Herb cookie stars The Hay Experts Herb Cookie Stars are hand made using only natural, healthy ingredients, and are designed for rabbits, guinea pigs and others. Yummy, healthy, additive-free and hand made!

Lop Eared Rabbit Bowl When it comes to feeding bowls, shape does matter - especially if bunny shaped with loppy ears!! This Lop-Eared Wooden Rabbit Bowl from The Hay Experts will compliment any feeding time. In addition to the bowl, there's even space on the 'ears' to put some extra tasty morsels! This bowl is the perfect way to serve some of The Hay Experts Forage produce - including the Feast of Forage for Rabbits. Just lovely!

Green Wheat Forage hay Simply Nibbles Dandelion Garden These Simply Nibbles Dandelion Garden from Rosewood are made only from 100% natural ingredients. With a base of dandelion, green oat and meadow hay, Dandelion Garden also includes tasty carrot, peppermint and marigold. Yum! Designed to be fed as a natural treat for rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and degu.

The Hay Experts Green Wheat Forage hay is a wonderfully tasty and chunky mix of thick stalk, broad leaves and lovely seed heads. In addition, the drying process ensures all the goodness, aroma and deep rich green colour is locked in to give your little ones the very best. This hay is great for all-round variety, for adding in with other hays for additional foraging fun, or added as a tasty topper to pellets or vegetables. Or just fed 'solo' as a yummy bowl of natural goodness!

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Tips and Tricks to Prevent Dognapping D ogs – they really are a human’s best friend. So much so, dogs are the most commonly owned pet within the UK. So, what can dog owners across the nation do to ensure the safety of their pooches? [Lynne Fisher, Marketing and Sales Support Manager] at Cliverton, a specialist supplier of animal trade insurance, comments: “Dognapping is on the rise. In fact, there were 2,760 reported incidents within the UK in 2021. That’s the highest number of dognapping cases in the last seven years. These can be sold for a profit, used to breed new dogs, or even used as dog bait.

“At Cliverton, we offer insurance plans to help those working in animal-related businesses. This includes our dog walker insurance package, which covers all public liability for dog sitters, dog walkers, and dog taxi workers.”

Here, we have created a list of tips and tricks to prevent anyone from stealing your four-legged friends. But first, let’s take a look at some of the most commonly stolen dogs and the places they’re likely to be taken 52

6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

throughout the nation.

Commonly stolen dog breeds

All dog breeds are worthy of our love.

Despite this, some dogs are worth more money than others and are more likely to be stolen as a result. These are five of the most commonly stolen dog breeds in 2021.

5. Pug Pugs are an adorable breed of dogs.

Who doesn’t love their characteristic snout and hilarious snorts? On average, according to research by Pets4Homes, the average price to buy this dog is £1,017.83 – so we can assume they will be seen as valuable for dognappers.

4. Chihuahua Chihuahuas are cuddly dogs with sassy personalities. They might be small, but they’re worth £1009.53 on average, so make sure you keep them within your line of sight.

3. American Bulldog American Bulldogs are handsome pooches, to say the least. Their big

smiles and drooping jowls are enough to make anyone want to stop for a stroke.

Worth a staggering £2,294.27, these dogs are as valuable as they are friendly!

2. Jack Russell If you closed your eyes and imagined a dog, Jack Russells would probably be one of the first you’d think of. Not only are they are one of the most loved dogs, but they’re reasonably small and easier to steal as a result. They’re also worth £760.84!

1. French Bulldog The most commonly stolen dog breed is none other than the French Bulldog.

They’re incredibly adorable and share the same squished snouts as pugs. If you own a French Bully, beware of dognappers looking to snatch your £1,707.71 pooch!

Places with the most reported dognapping incidents

It doesn’t matter where in the country you live, Dognapping continues to be an ongoing issue. To help dog owners be aware of their surroundings, here are www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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five regional police forces within England with the most reported incidents in 2021.

5. South Yorkshire Police Yorkshire may be God’s own country but there were 100 cases in 2021. This is 42 cases more than the previous year.

4. Lancashire Constabulary Next is Lancashire Constabulary with 116 reported cases. This is fairly consistent with 111 from the previous year.

3. Kent Police Kent Police reported 182 stolen dog cases in 2021. This was a 64 per cent rise compared to 2020.

2. West Yorkshire Police Yorkshire seems to be one of the hottest places for dognapping incidents. In fact, South Yorkshire Police received 199 cases throughout 2021, a 74 per cent increase.

1. Metropolitan Police Service The highest number of dognapping cases took place in London. According to the Metropolitan Police, there were 422 incidents in 2021 and 318 in 2020.

Tips and tricks to protect your pooch Now you know which dogs are the most vulnerable to dognapping and which places it’s most likely to happen, here are some tips and tricks to protect your pooch.

Collar customised with your name and address

First and foremost, you can make sure your dog wears a collar with your contact information on it. This one is a simple and sure way to ensure that your dog can be returned to you if it is lost or taken to another area of the country.

Take lots of pictures

Taking pictures of your dog shouldn’t be too difficult considering how perfectly they pose. This will help the general public and police identify your dog if they’re ever stolen, whether you post

First and foremost, you can make sure your dog wears a collar with your contact information on it. Image: ©Adobe Stock these on social media groups or do it the old-fashioned way and place ‘Lost Dog’ posters around your local area.

A final note

Dog trackers can be attached to a collar or a harness, and let you know the realtime location of your pooch. This GPS device can give you the confidence to go on long walks during the evenings without losing track of your canine companion.

Each and every dog is valuable and important. But if you own certain breeds, such as French Bulldogs, it might be worth being a little more aware of the dangers of dognapping, especially if you live in an area with high dog burglary rates. Taking certain steps, such as walking on public paths, using dog trackers, and improving security systems are good ways to prevent this from happening.

Stick to the path

n Visit www.cliverton.co.uk

Dog tracker

Dogs love nothing more than a long walk with their owners. If you’re eager to stay out of harm’s way, try sticking to dog walking paths rather than heading off into the countryside. There are countless paths to choose from around England and the rest of the UK, so you’ll never be stuck for choice.

Improving home security

Dogs may also be stolen from your own home. More often than not, their barks alert you to any intruders, but to make sure your pooch is safe and sound, consider improving your home security systems, from cameras to alarms and whichever other options you feel most comfortable with.

Sources

https://www.statista.com/statistics/30 8218/leading-ten-pets-ranked-byhousehold-ownership-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/ https://dogsmonthly.co.uk/2022/04/2 7/number-of-stolen-dogs-reachesseven-year-high/ https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle /fun-stuff/most-expensive-dog-breedsuk-23509519 https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wild life/pets/a36694151/best-dog-walksuk/

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 www.rescueandanimalcare.com

www.dogmatic.org.uk RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022

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Pets Mean Pals How Being A Pet Parent Is Great For Your Social Life Our four-legged friends are known for being great companions but they can also improve our social lives. Recent studies show that pets help us create strong, long-lasting friendships with one another that can result in a range of health and wellbeing benefits.

R

obin Hargreaves, Vet Panel Lead at Agria Pet Insurance, comments: “Dog walkers are the pet owners who most obviously routinely get to experience this wonderful social side of dog ownership. Whether it’s rambling through the park or strolling through the local neighbourhood, dog walking gives people the opportunity to meet one another and, in some cases, form friendships that otherwise wouldn’t occur if it wasn’t for their dogs.”

Research suggests that being a pet parent is the third most common way we humans meet new people. In fact, pet owners are 60 per cent more likely than non-pet owners to form new neighbourhood friendships.

Robin continues: “It’s undeniable that pets provide owners with an exciting social life full of wagging tails and new friends. But this is not the only benefit our furry friends can offer. Pets enable us to significantly improve our mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness thanks to the increased number of social interactions that come hand-inhand with pet ownership.

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6 JULY – 6 AUGUST 2022 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

“The pandemic caused significant loneliness and has highlighted the importance of maintaining strong communities, as those that felt the most lonely prior to Covid-19, now experience even higher levels of loneliness. With this in mind, a simple ‘hello!’ when walking your dog can go a long way and might even spark a new friendship.”

Robin Hargreaves has shared five ‘pawsome’ tips for making new friends while out and about with your dog: • Ensure your dog is well-trained to help ensure friendly encounters with other pups • Walk your dog at the same time each day and/or in the same place to see familiar, friendly faces • Offer a simple ‘hello’ or a wave when passing other owners. Asking about a dog’s breed is an easy conversation starter • Carry some healthy treats with you to share with other four-legged friends but always remember to ask the owner’s permission!

• Join a dog-walking group to meet like-minded owners Agria Pet Insurance is a firm believer in creating and maintaining relationships through pet ownership. The annual Agria Dog Walk, which took place at Waddesdon Manor last month, is a fantastic example of a community event at where dog owners can meet-up, exchange stories and form new friendships; all while raising funds to support animal charities across the UK. After a pandemic pause, the Agria Dog Walk returned on 21st May. It saw dogs and their families from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, as well the UK, walking simultaneously and raising over £37,000 for animal charities across Europe. Here in the UK, Brits raised over £10,000 for Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. n Visit https://bit.ly/AgriaDogWalkLP to find out more. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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DESIGNER KENNELS

CLASSIFIEDS

If you would like to place an advertisement call our animal friendly team on 07885305188

Designer Kennels Ltd

To place an advert please call

07885305188

WHEN IT COMES TO PLASTIC KENNELS AND CATTERIES WE ARE NO.1

No. 1 for service, quality and prices. Our kennels are constructed from tough polypropolene and edged with aluminium to make them virtually indestructable and with so many designs and sizes to choose from its no wonder so many top breeders and boarding kennels now have Designer Kennels. With 1000s of kennels and catteries installed throughout the UK that is why we are No. 1

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RESCUE CENTRES

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www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk

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To place an advert please call 07885305188

We are an English registered charity concerned with the plight of greyhounds, especially the Spanish-bred hunting greyhounds (galgos)

Please visit our website: www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk Charity No. CI0/1174351

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330

www.dogmatic.org.uk

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Transport cages Your pets can travel in comfort, safety and style

Our range of transport cages come in a choice of colours and configurations.

These are all custom made and tailored to the vehicle and the customer’s needs and requirements.

We offer an extensive range of colours and finishes for the panels and drawers, and can colour match the vehicle if required. info@thedaleskennelcompany.co.uk

01969 666063

www.thedaleskennelcompany.co.uk