Author: Jasmine Kleine

Neil Forrest Convicted for Dog Fighting After Wounded Staffie Found in Garden

A man has been jailed after admitting a string of offences following an RSPCA investigation into dog fighting after a training yard was discovered in a sleepy, country village.

Neil Forrest (DoB: 26/06/74) of Meadow View, Aspenden, in Hertfordshire, appeared at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (15 February) for the start of a two-day trial but entered guilty pleas to three of four offences, including causing unnecessary suffering to a dog and keeping or training a dog for use in connection with an animal fight.

He was sentenced to a total of 24 weeks in prison and was disqualified from keeping all animals for life. He was also ordered to pay £750 in costs.

RSPCA inspector Cliff Harrison, who led the investigation, said: “Aspenden is a sleepy little village and Forrest’s home looks like any other normal, family bungalow. But behind closed doors, Forrest was involved in the barbaric and brutal dog fighting underworld – a secret he kept well hidden until one of his dogs went missing one day and was found by a member of the public cowering in their garden nearby.”

On 5 March 2017, a black and white Staffordshire bull terrier type bitch was found covered in wounds and scars (pictured). She was collected by a local charity and taken to a vet who alerted the RSPCA.

“This poor dog was absolutely covered in wounds – both fresh and historic – with bite marks, scratches and puncture wounds predominantly around her muzzle, ears and legs,” inspector Harrison added.

“These sorts of injuries are exactly the sort of thing we we see when dogs are forced to fight another dog and the vet agreed that the injuries were consistent with dog fighting.

“Veterinary staff said they thought her freshest wounds were around three to four days old so we suspect she’d been used in a fight just a few days earlier.

“Luckily for this girl – nicknamed Kali by staff – we were able to treat her and she is now fully recovered and receiving lots of TLC in RSPCA care.”

While Kali was being treated a number of calls were made to local vets and dog wardens reporting a missing black Staffie. Three different numbers were noted down, one of which was traced back to Forrest and two others, believed to be his friends’, which were later found on his mobile phone.

Kali was seized by police and placed into the RSPCA’s care. A police dog legislation officer* concluded that she was not a banned breed so she can now be rehomed (pictured, now).

On 19 May, RSPCA joined Hertfordshire Constabulary to execute a warrant at Forrest’s home where three further bull breed type dogs were found at the premises along with a spaniel**.

“When we raided Forrest’s home with found three dogs kept in kennels in the garden, two of which were extremely athletic, fit bull breed types which were restrained with thick collars and chain tethers within the kennels,” inspector Harrison added.

“A third bull breed was found in a crate in the garage and a fourth dog – a spaniel – was also found although there were no concerns for this dog.

“We also found books and articles on pit bulls and dog fighting, and we recovered a photo of Forrest holding a dog in his garden suggesting it was a three-time champion with ‘Neil’s Yard’ written on the back.

“Inside the garage we found a treadmill and scales – often used by dog fighters to train their dogs and prepare for a fight – but when we interviewed Forrest he denied having any involvement with dog fighting.”

RSPCA inspector Cliff Harrison, who led the investigation, said: “It’s clear from the evidence that Forrest is obsessed with dog fighting and is involved in keeping, training and fighting his dogs.

“It appears he has tried to run his own dog fighting yard – called Neil’s Yard – but it’s unclear whether he’s had much if any success with that.

“What is clear is that his dogs have significant injuries consistent with dog fighting and have clearly been caused suffering due to his pastime.

“We believe he has been involved in this abhorrent, secretive bloodsport for years.”

Peter Madden, dog advisor for the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Dog Unit, said: “We were pleased to be able to support our RSPCA colleagues with this investigation and the jointly executed warrant at Forrest’s address.

“I am pleased with today’s sentence and hope it sends out a clear message to anyone considering being involved with dog fighting in any way. We take reports of this nature and animal welfare very seriously.

“We will always take action and I am glad the court has recognised the severity of the offences by issuing a custodial sentence and by banning Forrest from owning animals for life.”

The court also ordered for Forrest to be deprived of ownership of Kali who RSPCA staff will now seek to rehome.

February 15, 2018
Farmers Plea to Dog Owners to Keep Lambs Safe This Spring as Claims Rocket
With large numbers of families expected to take their pets for walks in the countryside during February half-term, a pet insurer has launched a campaign to remind dog owners to take extra care when out walking to keep pregnant ewes and newborn lambs safe.

New research by leading rural insurer NFU Mutual has revealed that over 80 per cent of dog owners exercise their pets in the countryside, with over 60 per cent letting them roam off the lead and 7% admitting their dogs have chased livestock.

At this time of year, lambs and their mothers are often found grazing on low-lying pasture in areas which are more accessible to walkers and according to the insurer, farmers claims have rocketed in the last two years with a rise of 67% reporting livestock worrying, costing the agriculture industry £1.6m.

NFU Mutual is advising farmers to check their stock regularly, put up warning signs and to ask local people to report any sightings of out-of-control dogs to a local farmer or the police.

Tim Price, Rural Affairs Specialist at NFU Mutual, said, “Attacks by dogs are one of livestock farmers’ worst nightmares, In addition to the suffering to the animals, attacks can have a severe financial impact. Insurance can cover the cost of replacing stock killed and the treatment of injured animals, but there is a knock-on effect on farm profits when pregnant sheep chased by dogs lose lambs.

“While attacks can be caused by dogs ranging from the smallest pampered pets to the largest, fierce-looking animals, we are hearing that large husky breeds are involved in a lot of the recent cases.

“We are also getting reports that many attacks are being caused by dogs which have been let out in owners’ gardens and escaped to worry sheep in neighbouring fields.

“As the insurer of nearly three-quarters of the UK’s farmers and many hobby farmers, we understand the heartbreak and huge financial loss that dog attacks cause.”

Here are some top tips from NFU Mutual for dog owners walking in the countryside this Spring:
1. Always keep dogs on the lead when walking them in rural areas where livestock are kept and remember, even small lap dogs can attack farm animals
2. Report attacks by dogs and sightings of dogs roaming the countryside to local farmers or the police
3. Familiarise puppies with farm livestock from a young age to reduce the risk of them attacking sheep or cattle as adult dogs
4. Don’t let dogs loose in gardens adjoining livestock fields – many attacks are caused by dogs which escape and worry sheep grazing nearby
February 15, 2018
Member of Public Photographed This Man Beating a Puppy – Do You Know Him?

Please share this. Someone must know this man.

The RSPCA has launched an investigation after a man was filmed hitting a puppy and dragging him along the pavement in Birmingham.

The animal welfare charity was contacted on Saturday (10 February) by police after a member of the public got in touch to report the man for hitting the little pup.

RSPCA inspector Beth Boyd said: “The caller was in Warren Farm Road, Longstanding, on Thursday (8 February) when they spotted the man beating the puppy.

“They got their phone out to record him and collect evidence before reporting it to police who then passed it onto us to investigate.

“In the footage you can see the little golden-coloured puppy being dragged along the pavement by the man walking him. He appears to be limping and holding up a rear leg.

“The man is dressed in blue jeans a black jacket with the hood up and trainers. The puppy is being walked on a red lead.

“The man then leans down over the puppy who cowers and appears to hit him over and over again. It’s really upsetting to watch and the poor little dog looks terrified.”

Inspector Boyd is now appealing for anyone who recognises the man or the dog to get in touch by calling 0300 123 8018 and leave a message for her.

“This is a completely unacceptable and cruel way to treat a defenceless puppy,” inspector Boyd added.

“I’d really like to speak to this man so I’d urge anyone who might know who he is to get in touch. You call will be treated in the strictest confidence.

“I’d also like to commend this member of the public for being so quick-minded and getting this vital evidence on film. We’d never ask members of the public to put themselves at risk in a situation like this and any evidence can be crucial for our investigations.”

February 14, 2018
A Nation of Animal Lovers? Day Old Puppies Dumped on Bin in Freezing Weather

The RSPCA is appealing for information after three newborn puppies were found dumped on top of a bin in Basildon.

Inspector Rebecca Benson went to Whitmore Way at the junction with Church Road after a call on Monday afternoon (12 February) reporting three dead puppies that had been found outside a row of shops.

She said: “I found the puppies to the rear of the shops. They were inside a pet carrier covered with a bin liner on top of a black and orange bin.

“When I opened the bag there were three tiny puppies inside. They were all extremely cold to touch and their bodies were stiff. Sadly, there were no signs of life.”

The member of the public who reported it to the charity said they found the pups inside a cat carrier with a black blanket and cream, furry Primark jacket. They believed the puppies were dead so covered them with a bin bag before calling the RSPCA.

Inspector Benson took them to a nearby vet: “Once we got to the vets I couldn’t believe my eyes – the puppies started breathing and were moving their little legs.

“We spent hours slowly trying to warm their little bodies up. I couldn’t believe they were still alive – the tips of their tails had frostbite and they were as cold as ice.

“Once they had warmed up they started to feed. They were trying to move, trying to suckle and were crying.”

The vet estimated the tiny pups – two females, one fawn-coloured and one blue and white, and one blue and white male – were no more than 24-hours old. The babies, thought to be Staffies, still had their umbilical cords attached.

“Despite the best efforts of veterinary staff who nursed the puppies and hand-fed them throughout the night, none of the babies survived,” inspector Benson added.

“The extent of their frostbite was too much for them and they were too young to fight it. They didn’t stand a chance.

“This case has been an emotional rollercoaster and I’m deeply saddened that someone could do this and that it wasn’t possible to save these innocent little pups.

“I’m now seriously concerned for the puppies’ mother and any potential littermates.

“I believe whoever dumped these pups knew they were alive when they left them. These puppies were barely two days old when they died and yet they’d already suffered such horrific cruelty and pain. It’s heartbreaking.”

Inspector Benson has launched an investigation and made enquiries in the local area. She is now appealing for anyone who can help the investigation

Anyone who has any information on where the puppies came from or who is responsible for abandoning them should contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018, leaving a message for Inspector Benson.

February 14, 2018
‘Make Pet Theft a Crime’, New Petition Launches to Combat Rising Dog Thefts

Last year, despite the introduction of compulsory microchipping in the UK, more dogs than ever were stolen from their homes.

According to a new petition being championed by Dr Daniel Allen and supported by the Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance, more than 60 dogs are stolen every week in England and Wales and yet, less than 5% of cases lead to convictions.

That’s a shocking statistic, isn’t it?

60 owners and their families are being left in a state of devastation every single week. Phil Ludlam’s dog was stolen in 2014 and he told K9 Magazine the experience and heartbreak he went through over 18 days changed his life.

So, why are pet thefts on the rise?

Could it be because pet theft is currently seen as no different to the theft of an inanimate object – despite pets being sentient beings?

Perhaps.

Dr Daniel Allen says that pet thefts are generally categorised as robbery or burglary and if found guilty, minimal sentences are often handed down, so clearly existing laws aren’t a strong enough deterrent to fit the crime.

He is calling for signatures to his petition to help spread awareness to the growing problem and encourage a change in the law to reflect our pets’ status as our companion and theft of them as a crime in its own right – which might be the deterrent needed to stop dog kidnapping.

Add your voice and sign the petition here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/212174

If the law is changed, you could help to make a difference and prevent 60 families every week from going through the heartache of losing their best friend.

February 13, 2018
Joe Easter Slammed Puppy Against Wall THREE Times, Receives a Fine & Zero Jail Time

We’re talking a lot recently about the need to allow the judiciary to hand down stricter prison terms to those convicted of serious animal cruelty. But let’s ponder for a moment the question; will the courts actually use the powers available to them? People can be sent to jail today for animal cruelty but one must ask, if dashing a puppy against a wall three times in a fit of anger doesn’t land you in jail, will the courts actually use the new powers they are supposed to be given?

Increasing the sentencing for animal cruelty is something the public wants. But we absolutely, positively MUST have a justice system where judges and magistrates are willing to use those laws to send people to jail.

A man has been disqualified from keeping mammals and fined for causing unnecessary suffering to his Labrador puppy by slamming him against a wall when he ‘lost his temper’, breaking his ribs.

Joe Easter (DoB: 07/06/90) of Lochinver, Bracknell, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Friday (2 February) where he was sentenced to a two-year community order and fined £2,692.

He was also disqualified from keeping pets (mammals) for 10 years and ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £170 victim surcharge.

He had previously (19 January) pleaded guilty to one charge of causing unnecessary suffering to his black Labrador puppy, Charlie, by inflicting physical abuse and blunt force trauma, contrary to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act.

RSPCA inspector Sharon Chrisp led the investigation. She said: “We were contacted late at night on 26 August last year(2017) by an anonymous source who claimed Mr Easter had been seen slamming his puppy against a wall in the communal area of the block of flats he lived in.

“When my colleague attended the address and asked to see the dog she was concerned for him as he appeared to be struggling to breathe and took him straight to a vet.”

X-rays revealed Charlie had broken at least six ribs and vets found he had a swollen face and bloodshot eyes consistent with being strangled.

“Mr Easter claimed Charlie had got caught in the door accidentally but later admitted, in interview, that he had lost his temper and there had been an incident, although he refused to go into detail,” inspector Chris added.

“However, we were able to get further evidence from a witness who said they saw him slamming Charlie against a wall three times. They were terrified and wanted to say something but were scared for their own safety.”

Charlie was just 12 weeks old when he was seized by police and placed into the charity’s care on 27 August 2016. It took him several months to heal and he was placed in foster care while the case went through the courts.

His fosterer, RSPCA animal care assistant Amanda Ward, from Surrey, said: “Charlie has been a joy to foster, he has truly adapted to living with a family and is the most entertaining, fun, loving dog you’ll meet.

“He is a very intelligent dog who has learnt many commands whilst in my care; including ‘Sit’, ‘Down’, ‘Stay’, ‘Roll-over’, ‘Paw’ and ‘Spin’.

“Charlie enjoys playing with other dogs and finds them huge fun, he loves to play football with them and race around now he is fully healed.

“Charlie is now fully socialised with young children, dogs, cats and horses and behaves impeccably around them. He loves to cuddle up with my eight-year-old son after they’ve finished playing in the garden together.

“Charlie has definitely settled in very well and is proving to be a wonderful addition to our family.”

Charlie was signed over into the RSPCA’s ownership at the previous court hearing and has already found a new permanent home with another family from Surrey.

February 5, 2018
If Electric Collars Can be Banned, We Need to Talk About Fireworks

Last week the Government in Scotland, after a long campaign, decided to ban the use of electric collars on dogs. Why? Because they cause stress.

So why, every year, without fail, should we dog owners – in our thousands – be witnessing real stress, real suffering and real anxiety in our pets caused by fireworks? Let’s use some basic logic here. If electric collars can be banned because of the stress they cause to dogs, given the sheer volume of dogs who are caused massive stress and anxiety as a result of fireworks, why are we not yet discussing the new regulations we so obviously need if we are serious about reducing the suffering caused to our dogs, cats and let’s not forget the countless wild animals who are also affected by firework fear? Are we serious about reducing animals stress or not? If so, then fireworks will be at the top of the list for many, many pet owners in terms of things that cause their animals the most discomfort.

The RSPCA is stepping up its calls for fireworks to be better regulated.

The charity has renewed calls to restrict the private use of fireworks to particular dates in a bid to reduce the fear and distress caused to many animals throughout the year.

The plea comes as figures reveal that last year (2017), the RSPCA received its highest ever number of calls about fireworks (382) from concerned members of the public. This represents a 50% increase from 2011 (255). In one RSPCA rescue last November, a dog spooked by fireworks had to be freed from a six-inch gap between walls in a three-hour rescue operation.

Limiting the use of fireworks to agreed traditional dates – such as Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali – would be good news for animals, according to the charity’s welfare experts.

The animal charity also believes reducing the noise of fireworks available for sale to the public, and providing more information to the public about licensed displays, could better protect animals.

Fireworks regulation is due to be discussed by Members of Parliament on Monday 29 January. The UK parliamentary debate was triggered after a petition – started by a member of public – attracted over 100,000 signatures.

Many animals – of all shapes and sizes – find fireworks frightening. The sudden loud noises and bright flashing lights commonly associated with fireworks can be very frightening for animals. Estimates suggest 45 percent of the UK’s dogs* show signs of fear and distress when they hear fireworks.

RSPCA companion animal welfare expert Lisa Hens said: “The RSPCA is calling for firework displays by the general public to be restricted to certain traditional dates in the calendar.

“Animals affected by fireworks not only suffer psychological distress but can also cause themselves injuries, sometimes very serious ones, as they attempt to run or hide from the noise. Ensuring these displays always fall on dates like Guy Fawkes Night, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali would be good news for animals.

“Fireworks can lead to serious welfare concerns for many animals, so we warmly welcome this important debate. We hope to see as many MPs as possible attending it, and argue in favour of animals by supporting changes to the laws currently regulating fireworks.”

Under the current legal framework, fireworks displays can be held every day of the year. Existing regulations forbid fireworks being used between 11pm and 7am, with some exceptions, while those with a noise level exceeding 120 decibels cannot currently be sold to the public.

Ms Hens said: “Firework phobia is a treatable condition – and there’s many steps owners can take to make the experience less scary for their pet.

“But planning ahead is often key in keeping animals safe and well during fireworks displays – so having set days where displays can take place is obviously vital in ensuring people know when they have to take such extra precautions.

“Decision-makers could also reduce the maximum permitted noise level of fireworks for public sale to 97 decibels, comparable with the sound of a slamming door. Fireworks louder than this should only be used for licensed public displays.”

Unfortunately, it is not just pets that are affected by fireworks. Farm animals can be easily frightened by loud noises and sudden flashes of bright light, which can startle them and cause them to injure themselves on fencing, farm equipment or, in the case of housed animals, on fixtures and fittings.

It is also likely that fireworks will cause a disturbance to wild animals such as waterfowl and is likely to cause suffering or distress, depending on the distance from the fireworks and the noise level. Wildlife can also be burnt alive after making their home in bonfires, so always check for animals beforehand.

Ms Hens added: “By licensing all public displays, and ensuring information about the event is made available to the local community, more can be done to help keep all animals safe during fireworks. Clearly, more needs to be done to protect animals from the unnecessary fear and suffering that fireworks regularly cause.”

January 29, 2018
British MPs to Debate the Laws Governing the Use of Fireworks, Change Unlikely Though

In response to an e-petition calling for the Government to ‘change the laws governing the use of fireworks to include a ban on public use’, the topic will be debated in Parliament.

The petition was supported by over 111,000 people and will be opened by Susan Elan Jones MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, at 4.30pm on Monday 29 January for up to three hours.

There will be no vote afterwards, which means that although the topic will be aired, no change is likely – especially given the Government’s response which is, “there is legislation in place that controls the sale, use and misuse of fireworks; we have no plans to extend this further.”

Fireworks are the bane of many a dog owner’s life so we live in hope that change may come and our voices might still be heard. A town in Italy banned the use of all fireworks except noiseless ones in public displays in 2015.

MPs with constituencies with the highest number of signatures on the petition:

Ahead of this debate the House of Commons Digital Outreach Team ran some further public engagement with this petition, including a Facebook discussion and on the UK Fireworks Forum.

January 26, 2018
World War II Hero Irwin J. Stovroff Dies, but His Legacy Championing Dogs for Veterans Lives On

Irwin J. Stovroff, the World War II war hero who went on to champion a national movement to provide properly-trained service dogs to American military veterans, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018.

Stovroff, whose beloved service dog Cash remained by his side through his final hours, was a Purple Heart recipient who had been awarded the Legion of Honor medal by France. He was 95 years old.

A proud member of the Greatest Generation, Stovroff was known as an indefatigable crusader for what he believed was right and who, with his determination and unflagging optimism, led a remarkable life.

At age 19, while serving as a bombardier whose B-24 Liberator was shot down on its crew’s 35th, and last-scheduled, mission, Stovroff found himself in the harrowing predicament of being a Jewish prisoner in a German POW camp, which he managed to survive until the camp’s liberation. He reminded anyone he spoke to that, “Freedom is not free.”

Photo Credit: PRNewsfoto/Vets Helping Heroes

Stovroff began working to help Vietnam veterans in the mid-1970s after retiring as the head of International Sales from Thomasville Furniture at age 75. In 2006, Stovroff, then living in Boca Raton, Florida, and working as the National Service Officer for ex-POWs at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in West Palm Beach, uncovered a pressing need for service dogs to assist and support injured veterans returning from wars abroad.

Raising an initial $100,000 from ex-POWs, Stovroff dedicated himself to the effort, eventually founding the non-profit organization, Vets Helping Heroes, in 2007.

“At an age when many of us take a step back to enjoy ease and comfort, Irwin took a big step forward; and, in doing so, gave hope to thousands of men and women whose lives have been irrevocably changed by injuries they suffered while serving their country,” said Major General John Van Blois (USAF retired), a member of the Vets Helping Heroes board.

“In addition to his determination and unquestioning sense of duty, Irwin’s infectious optimism and boundless kindness drove him to lift this critically important cause onto the national stage.”

As the founder and President of Vets Helping Heroes, Stovroff raised millions of dollars to provide U.S. service men and women with specially-trained service dogs. After months of screening and sometimes years of intensive training, these service dogs provide crucial day-to-day assistance, as well as emotional and psychological support, to veterans working to rebuild their lives.

Stovroff overcame widespread scepticism, and a lack of public-sector funding, by building national awareness around his efforts. He did so, in part, by creating in Vets Helping Heroes, an incredibly lean and efficient organization which ensured that well in excess of 90% of donated funds were used for the actual purchase of service dogs and for raising awareness of this critical need, while keeping administrative costs as low as possible year after year.

In 2010, President Obama signed into law the Defense Authorization Act of 2010, supporting Wounded Warrior K-9 Corps Act, which was inspired by Stovroff and his work. In 2013, Stovroff’s success in providing U.S. veterans with service dogs was recounted on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and memorialized in the Congressional Record.

Stovroff was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 2000, the medal itself being presented to him by Sen. John McCain. In 2013, Irwin was honoured by Congressman Ted Deutch and Boca Raton Mayor Steve Abrams who jointly presented him with the original Proclamations declaring April 22, 2013 “Irwin Stovroff Day Boca Raton”.

In 2015, Irwin Stovroff, with his service dog Cash at his side, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by Florida Atlantic University. His extraordinary life has been chronicled in books and documentary films.

January 26, 2018
Scotland Bans Electric Collars, Will England & Northern Ireland Now Follow?

Electric collars, which have long been a controversial dog training method, will be banned in Scotland, the SNP has announced.

Two years ago the party opted for an increase in regulations, but in a u-turn has now decided to ban outright.

Speaking of the party’s decision for the country, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said, “After carefully considering the concerns raised by stakeholders and the public about electronic training collars for dogs, particularly the ready availability on the internet of cheap devices which can be bought by anyone and used to deliver painful electric shocks, I have decided to take steps to effectively and promptly ban their use in Scotland.

“Causing pain to dogs by inappropriate training methods is clearly completely unacceptable and I want there to be no doubt that painful or unpleasant training for dogs will not be tolerated.”

It is expected that the ban will be included in draft form in the Animal Health and Welfare Scotland Act (2006).

Electric collars are now banned in Wales and Scotland. Will England and Northern Ireland soon follow?

January 25, 2018
These 8 Dogs Want to End Animal Experiments in the Name of Beauty

A group of eight dogs have led a protest against the world of animal testing for cosmetics outside the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The dogs carried banners and wore bandanas to express support for the campaign, Forever Against Animal Testing, a collaborative campaign between international beauty company The Body Shop and Cruelty Free International.

The protest aimed to highlight the shocking fact that 80% of countries worldwide still have no laws banning cosmetic animal tests.

With a goal of reaching 8 million signatures (the campaign has gathered over 4.1m signatures in the last six months), the global petition is now the biggest ever against animal testing in cosmetics.

Once the petition reaches its target, The Body Shop and Cruelty Free International will present it to the United Nations, calling for an international convention to ban animal testing on cosmetics to protect millions of animals around the world. Last week, the organisations met with UN officials to progress discussions on the topic.

In September 2017, The Body Shop was acquired from L’Oreal by Natura, the Brazilian-listed multi-national cosmetics company, which is cruelty-free and a publicly-listed B Corp. Both Natura and The Body Shop’s new sister company, Aesop, have today officially backed the campaign.

Jessie Macneil-Brown, Head of Global Campaigns, The Body Shop, says, “At The Body Shop we believe passionately in animal welfare and that animals shouldn’t be used for cosmetic testing. We staged our animal protest with dogs, as they have been a powerful symbol for us throughout our Forever Against Animal Testing campaign, representing the relationship we have with animals and connecting with our cruelty-free supporters. This unique protest is symbolic of our huge ambition for ending cosmetic animal testing globally. We are now calling on every person, every company and every government to join our campaign, and help us finish what we started”.

Michelle Thew, CEO of Cruelty Free International says: “Today’s protest sends a strong message to consumers and brands around the world that we need their support. We have made huge progress towards our goal of banning animal testing for cosmetics, but there is still work to be done. We want to see every company that is against animal testing pledge their support and encourage their customers to do the same”.

Photographer Elias Friedman (the man behind the social media account @TheDogist) also attended the protest said, “I supported The Body Shop’s Forever Against Animal Testing campaign when it launched, and it’s great to be here at home in New York at the first ever pet protest at the United Nations. The protesting dogs represent all animals and remind us why animal testing in cosmetics should be banned once and for all.”

January 25, 2018
A Nation Of Animal Lovers? RSPCA Received 668 Calls About Abandoned Animals Over Christmas

The RSPCA took 11,530 calls about cruelty, neglect and suffering between Christmas Eve and New Years Day.

These included a dog dumped in a pub car park in Oldham, another dog thrown 15 feet off a bridge and a kitten swung round by its tail in Andova.

Sadly, 668 of these incidents were related to abandoned animals across the country, with 57 of these in the Greater London area alone.

The charity investigated the abandonment of 245 dogs, 146 cats and 52 horses across the country over the festive period.

One example when the RSPCA stepped in to support animals in need over Christmas was on December 30 when three horses were found running free by the roadside in Bishop Auckland, Durham. The horses had been confined in a tennis court by members of the public and with the help of the British Horse Society and the RSPCA offered them a safe stable, in from the cold.

No owner has come forward to collect the three male foals.

Animal Collection Officer Jill Sanders has worked for the RSPCA for 21 years this year and has volunteered to work over Christmas every year. This year she was working across London from 7am till 3pm on Christmas Day.

ACO Sanders said: “It was a busy Christmas this year, I had calls about injuries to swans and pigeons, and a fox who had got himself stuck in a basement.

“People are always really grateful and pleased when you turn up to help rescue an animal on Christmas day as I think they are surprised we are working, but we want to help animals every day of the year.”

Dermot Murphy, assistant director of the inspectorate at the RSPCA, said: “There is no such thing as a quiet time of year for us and the RSPCA inspectorate is dedicated to getting the job done all year round.

“We expect 2018 to be as busy as ever and remain committed to helping those animals that rely on the RSPCA.”

The RSPCA’s emergency cruelty line received a total of 1,037,435 calls in 2017, 55,821 of these were in December.

If you are concerned about an animal, please call the RSPCA’s 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.

January 18, 2018

Bulky Beagle Sheds The Pounds & Look At Him Now!

A formerly heavy hound from Middlesbrough has been named biggest loser in the UK’s largest pet slimming competition after shedding an incredible 34% of his bodyweight in just six months.

Alfie the Beagle once weighed-in at a whopping 4st 10lbs (30kg), – 67% over his ideal weight (2st 12lb/18kg). His health was at serious risk from his excess pounds, say PDSA vets. But after pounding the streets and cutting back on the excess food, he’s lost a third of his bodyweight and wowed the Pet Fit Club judges. He is now a much healthier 3st 1lb (19.7kg)

Each year, PDSA helps the country’s fattest pets take on a strict six-month diet and exercise challenge, specially tailored and overseen by the charity’s vets and nurses. Pet Fit Club helps our four-legged friends slim down, and raises awareness of the serious health and welfare implications of pet obesity.

Since its launch in 2005 the Pet Fit Club competition has helped 79 dogs, 37 cats and 8 rabbits lose a total 71 stone – equivalent to a grand piano (or 16,000 doughnuts!)

The winner: Alfie’s tail

Owner, Emily Simcox (25), adopted Alfie, the bulging Beagle, five years ago. Alfie was already seriously overweight and found it difficult to get around.

Emily has been trying to help Alfie slim down ever since but back in April, admitted she needed help from PDSA to shake off some bad habits.

She said: “Taking part in PDSA’s Pet Fit Club is unquestionably the best thing I have ever done. Seeing the transformation in Alfie has been incredible. He’s a completely different dog and we’re over the moon.

“Before, he was sluggish, tired and looked sad a lot of the time. He couldn’t even walk up the stairs; he’d struggle half way up and then had to stop for a rest before getting to the top. On walks, he would sluggishly walk towards a ball we’d thrown and often wouldn’t bother even trying to bring it back. But since being on the diet his tail hasn’t stopped wagging! He leaps and bounds, and is so full of energy.

“Before Pet Fit Club, I would continually feed him treats as a way of showing how much I love him. Those eyes are so hard to resist. But we know now that we were drastically affecting his life by doing this and it was no good for him. It was heart-breaking to say no at first. I felt as though I was starving him. But with the help of the PDSA team, we managed to stick with it and learn to say no.”

Alfie’s diet hasn’t been without its slip-ups, said Emily: “I was making a cheese sandwich and left it on the kitchen counter. I walked back in the room to find Alfie licking his lips, and the cheese sandwich gone!

“I want other people to realise there’s help out there. You don’t need to be embarrassed about having an overweight pet. I hope others are inspired by Alfie’s story and take their pet to the vets for advice and support. Alfie is proof that change is possible – we’ll never look back!”

Alfie’s weight-loss has been supervised by PDSA vet nurse Steph Williams, from Middlesbrough PDSA Pet Hospital. She said: “Alfie’s transformation over the last six months has been incredible. He is unrecognisable from the dog that waddled into our hospital for his first weigh-in six months ago. He’s much healthier and will be able to enjoy a much happier life.

“His owners Emily and Neil have been very dedicated to adjust his lifestyle for the better. They have listened to all the advice and stuck to the diet religiously. It’s helped increase Alfie’s exercise levels and showed what can be done with determination!

PDSA vet nurse Katy Orton, who helped to judge the competition, added: “It has been great to watch Alfie transform over the past six months. His success is testament to the hard work of his owners and our PDSA veterinary team at Middlesbrough Pet Hospital.

“Pet obesity is a growing issue that affects millions of UK pets. Up to forty per cent of dogs and cats in the UK are estimated to be overweight or obese. Recognising a healthy body shape is an important first step, so we are encouraging pet owners who are concerned about their pet’s weight to speak to their vet or vet nurse as soon as possible. This expert advice can help owners make the necessary changes to ensure their four-legged friends lead a happier, healthier life.”

PDSA Pet Fit Club – The Results

NAME	STARTING WEIGHT	FINAL WEIGHT	TOTAL WEIGHT LOST	% WEIGHT LOSS	Result
Alfie Beagle Middlesbrough	4st 10lbs (30kg)	3st 1lb (19.7kg)	1st 9lb (10.3kg)	34%	Winner
Lola Rabbit Derby	1st 2lbs (7.4kg)	12lb (5.6kg)	4lb (1.8kg)	24%	Highly Commended! Biggest rabbit weight-loss ever
Pumpkin Cat Aberdeen	1st 8lbs (10.2kg)	1st 5lb (8.74kg)	3lb (1.46kg)	14%	Top cat
Barnaby Cat Derby	1st 4lbs (8.1kg)	1st 2lb (7.45kg)	2lb (0.65)	8%	Runner-up
Milo Cat Margate	1st 12lbs (11.8kg)	1st 11lb (11.2kg)	1lb (0.6)	5%	Runner-up
TOTAL	10st 9lb (67.5kg)		2st 5lb 14.81kg

Since its launch in 2005 Pet Fit Club has helped 79 dogs, 37 cats and 8 rabbits lose a total 71 stone – equivalent to a grand piano or 16,000 doughnuts!

January 2, 2018

Can Chocolate Really Kill Dogs? Owner Describes ‘Scene of Carnage’

A dog owner has issued a warning after her puppy nearly died from eating a box of liqueur chocolates from under the Christmas tree.

Suzanna Dixon was Christmas shopping when her inquisitive young pooch, Narla, who was just nine months old at the time, tore open a gift wrapped box of chocolates that had been left under the tree.

Mother-of-four, Suzanna (32), returned to her home in South Shore, Blackpool, to find a scene of carnage.

She said: “When I walked through the door my first thought was ‘we’ve been burgled!’ as there was torn up wrapping paper everywhere, but then I saw Narla with the nearly empty box of chocolates.

“I know human chocolates can be poisonous to dogs so I rang PDSA and they told me to bring her straight down.”

Vets at Blackpool PDSA Pet Hospital rushed Narla in immediately, and gave her drugs to induce vomiting in a bid to flush her system of the chocolate. She’s also one of thousands of lucky pets to benefit from PDSA’s A&E service which receives funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

PDSA vet, Terry Ogdin, said: “We estimated that Narla had eaten around 200g of chocolate, which is an extremely dangerous amount for a dog of her size.

“Thankfully she was brought in very quickly and we were able to treat her before the chocolate had a chance to digest.

“She was well enough to go home the same day with medications to help absorb any remaining chocolate, and went on to make a full recovery.”

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Signs your pet may have eaten chocolate can include excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea, a tender tummy and restlessness. These can then progress to tremors, an abnormal heart rhythm, raised body temperature and rapid breathing. In flat-faced breeds like Narla, which often struggle with breathing issues, these symptoms can be exacerbated.

In severe cases, chocolate poisoning in dogs can cause fits and even death. The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, so dark chocolate poses the biggest risk to pets.

Suzanna wants to warn other pet owners about the dangers of chocolate to pets.

She said: “Not only did Narla eat a huge amount of chocolate, but they were also liqueur ones so the alcohol made it even worse.

“There won’t be any chocolates under the Christmas tree this year and I’d urge others to ensure they don’t leave any chocolate within easy reach.”

If owners suspect their dog has ingested chocolate, they should call their local vet immediately and let them know the type of chocolate, the quantity and likely time of ingestion.

PDSA is also warning pet owners about other festive foods that can be toxic to pets, including alcohol, grapes, sultanas, onions and garlic.

Vets advise owners to store chocolates and other poisonous foods in the same way as medicines when they have pets in their household – safely and securely. And for those who can’t resist giving their four-legged friends a little Christmas treat, a new toy or a nice long walk is a better alternative than treats.

December 23, 2017
Meet Andrew Ripley Who Shook, Throttled & Twisted The Skin of Terrified Dog

A man from Ripon, North Yorkshire has been sentenced after admitting causing unnecessary suffering to a collie called ‘Bex’ by causing her fear and distress.

Upsetting footage showed Andrew Ripley in his garden with his hands around the dog’s neck, face and muzzle. He is shaking her and twisting her skin whilst talking to her in a low voice. All the time she is crying and trying to lick him.

Ripley (D.O.B 22.03.61) of Gallows Hill Drive appeared before Harrogate Magistrates’ Court this afternoon (Thursday 21 December) where he was sentenced to a lifetime ban on keeping animals except bovines; a 12 month community order including 150 hours of unpaid work and 30 days rehabilitation; ordered to pay costs of £450 and an £85 victim surcharge.

RSPCA inspector Carol Neale said: “This poor dog was absolutely terrorised by Ripley.

“It’s clear to anyone that she is extremely frightened during the incident captured in the footage on 29 May.

“She even tries to lick Ripley’s face in what seems to be an appeal for him to stop hurting her. It’s very upsetting to watch.”

Staff at RSPCA York & District Branch have worked hard with Bex over the months since, bringing in a specialist dog behaviourist to help her.

“I’ve never seen a more emotionally scarred dog, she was so traumatised,” said inspector Neale.

“She was signed over to us at the previous hearing in November and I did the homecheck on her potential new owners the following day myself.

“I’m so ecstatic to say that she’s been there for almost a month now and has settled in really well with her new family, and her feline housemates.

“She’s got a new name – Jess – and has been given the best Christmas present ever, a wonderful new start.”

December 21, 2017