Author: Jasmine Kleine

More than 150 Battersea dogs and cats found loving new homes last week as the British public opened their doors and hearts to rescue pets amid this unprecedented health crisis.

At such a challenging time, Battersea saw a small ray of hope as its staff managed to rehome a great number of animals – more than double the figures for the same week in 2019.

Last week (Monday 16 – Sunday 22 March), 69 cats and 86 dogs, including Tuplip pictured below, left Battersea for a new life with their owners. During the same week last year, 42 dogs and 29 cats found new homes.

Battersea’s Head of Operations, Rob Young, said: “We want to thank all these new owners for thinking of rescue pets at such a challenging time.

“All three of our Battersea centres are now closed to the public, but many of our animals are now in loving homes or out on temporary foster with our staff and volunteers. Battersea are still caring for around 100 animals at our three centres and working hard to ensure each and every dog and cat continues to get the treatment, care, love, play and interaction they need.

“Those wishing to rehome a dog or cat are welcome to fill out a rehoming application on our website and, as soon as we’re able, we’ll be reopening and working to continue finding new homes for our wonderful animals.”

Adopting a dog or cat is a big commitment, regardless of the circumstances. Battersea offers ongoing advice and support to everyone who rehomes a pet from us. During these challenging times, we have established a dedicated dog and cat behaviour advice line on 020 3887 8347 (open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm).

A charity that specialised in training dogs to detect cancer (among other things) is looking into whether dogs can play a role in preventing the spread of Coronavirus.

The organisation has spent years successfully researching the science behind dogs’ sense of smell and believes that dogs could detect the disease. It has always adopted a rigorous, scientific approach to its work, and produced more than a dozen peer reviewed research papers which support its belief that each disease has its own unique odour.

Medical Detection Dogs will be working in partnership with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and Durham University, bringing together the team which recently collaborated to successfully prove that dogs can be trained to detect malaria.

Together they have started preparations to intensively train dogs so they could be ready in 6-8 weeks to help provide a rapid, non-invasive diagnosis towards the tail end of the epidemic, and approached government about how dogs can play a role in the fight against the disease.

Meet Norman, Digby, Storm, Star, Jasper and Asher! They are being trained to detect coronavirus and could be able to pick up the scent in 6-8 weeks. They will be trained using be deactivated (dead) virus samples

Dogs searching for COVID-19 would be trained in the same way as those dogs the charity has already trained to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s and bacterial infections – by sniffing samples in the charity’s training room and indicating when they have found it. They are also able to detect subtle changes in temperature of the skin, so could potentially tell if someone has a fever.

Once trained, dogs could also be used to identify travellers entering the country infected with the virus or be deployed in other public spaces.

Dr Claire Guest, CEO and Co-Founder of Medical Detection Dogs, says: “In principle, we’re sure that dogs could detect COVID-19. We are now looking into how we can safely catch the odour of the virus from patients and present it to the dogs.

“The aim is that dogs will be able to screen anyone, including those who are asymptomatic and tell us whether they need to be tested. This would be fast, effective and non-invasive and make sure the limited NHS testing resources are only used where they are really needed.”

Professor James Logan, Head of Department of Disease Control at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and Director of ARCTEC, said: “Our previous work demonstrated that dogs can detect odours from humans with a malaria infection with extremely high accuracy – above the World Health Organisation standards for a diagnostic.

“We know that other respiratory diseases like COVID-19, change our body odour so there is a very high chance that dogs will be able to detect it. This new diagnostic tool could revolutionise our response to COVID-19 in the short term, but particularly in the months to come, and could be profoundly impactful.”

Professor Steve Lindsay at Durham University says: “If the research is successful, we could use COVID-19 detection dogs at airports at the end of the epidemic to rapidly identify people carrying the virus. This would help prevent the re-emergence of the disease after we have brought the present epidemic under control.”.

Two members of the same Kent family were handed suspended sentences this week for a string of animal welfare offences connected with running a puppy farm and cock fighting.

John Cook and William Cook, both of Longfield Avenue, Longfield, near Dartford, all appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court in January for a four-day trial.

John and William both faced a number of offences under the Animal Welfare Act. John was accused of causing unnecessary suffering to dogs for failing to provide them with veterinary care and keeping them in unsuitable conditions, and William faced a number of charges related to keeping cockerels to fight.

John Cook pleaded guilty to a number of offences and William Cook was convicted of offences under the Animal Welfare Act. The pair were sentenced at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (25 February).

John Cook was sentenced to 90 days in prison – suspended for two years – and ordered to complete 160 hours of unpaid work. He was ordered to pay £1,000 in costs, a victim surcharge of £115 and was disqualified from keeping dogs for three years.

William Cook was given a 120-day prison term – suspended for two years – and ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £1,000 in costs, a £115 victim surcharge and was disqualified from keeping all animals for three years.

RSPCA officers executed a warrant at a property in Kent on 31 July 2018 after concerns were raised by members of the public who had bought puppies from the family.

Eighteen dogs, including spaniels and beagles, were removed along with two cockerels.

RSPCA inspector Carroll Lamport – from the charity’s Special Operations Unit, which investigates serious and organised animal crime – said: “Many of the dogs being kept at the site had health and welfare problems, including untreated gastrointestinal and dental issues.

“We also had serious concerns over the conditions they were being kept in. The dogs and puppies were being kept in dirty, wet conditions with no bedding.”

Officers also seized a number of mobile phones from the site and a suspected cockfighting pit was discovered during the warrant. Analysis of the phones showed the brothers had been involved with fighting and the pit was forensically tested by experts who discovered the blood of at least four different types of cockerels.

In mitigation, the court gave John Cook credit for his guilty pleas and heard that William Cook was remorseful.

The judge said that the living conditions of the animals were not appropriate and that issues should have been recognised earlier. He labelled William Cook’s involvement in cockfighting as ‘abhorrent’. He also commended the charity for doing a good job preparing the case.

John Cook entered a guilty plea to a fraud offence (where he dishonestly made false representation as to the condition and breeding of puppies being sold, contrary to Section 2 of the Fraud Act 2006) in April 2019 and was sentenced to a 12-month prison term – suspended for two years – and was ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation and £1,000 in costs. William Cook entered a not guilty plea and the case was dropped against him.

New research has revealed that dog attacks on livestock have declined over the last 12 months in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but rose in England and farmers have estimated the cost of life to be in the region of £1.2m.

Farmers are urging dog owners to keep their pets under control to help save lives, especially during peak lambing season which is fast approaching.

A survey commissioned by NFU Mutual reveals that 63% of dog owners are letting their pets roam free in the countryside, despite half admitting their dog doesn’t always come back when called and so the insurer is calling for dog owners to ensure their pets are under control at all times when livestock are nearby and to report out-of-control dogs to a local farmer or the police.

Rebecca Davidson, Rural Affairs Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “A significant number of dog owners still don’t realise that their much-loved pet is capable of attacking and killing large numbers of lambs and sheep. Even if a dog doesn’t make contact, the distress and exhaustion of the chase can cause sheep to die or miscarry their lambs.

“Although we are encouraged that 95% of dog owners would put their pet on a lead if a sign warns livestock are nearby, we’re alarmed that more than half are leaving their dogs unsupervised outside their homes when they are out – particularly when one in six admits their dog has escaped from home.”

With many families expected to visit the countryside during school half-term holidays, NFU Mutual is issuing the following advice:

• Always keep dogs on the lead when walking in rural areas where livestock are kept
• Be aware that even small lap dogs can attack and kill farm animals
• Report attacks by dogs and sightings of dogs roaming the countryside to local farmers or the police
• Familiarise puppies with farm livestock from a young age to reduce the risk of them attacking sheep or cattle as adult dogs
• Don’t let dogs loose in gardens adjoining livestock fields – many attacks are caused by dogs which escape and attack sheep grazing nearby

A 10-year old Recovery Assistance Dog called Milli, who has been credited with saving her owner’s life and improving her mental health, has just received an award for devotion to her owner.

Cocker Spaniel Milli has been a loyal companion and source of comfort to her owner, Liz Maitland, from Leicestershire since she was a puppy.

Photo Credit: Alex Cantrill-Jones / ACJ Media

Liz, who admits she has had a life-long struggle with her mental health and has attempted suicide in the past, says Milli has been an integral part of her recovery and self-care journey. Milli is always by Liz’s side, keeping her calm and supporting her whenever she feels anxious.

She said: “Life had become unbearable before Milli came along. I was in a downward spiral and I couldn’t see a way out other than suicide. Every day was a struggle.

“Dogs have always been a big part of my life and following a particularly difficult period, I was encouraged by my family to look into getting a puppy. I struck up an immediate bond with Milli, she made me feel at ease and I knew I now had someone who would always be there for me. I learned a lot about the benefits of Recovery Assistance Dogs and I decided to train Milli to be one. Her presence keeps me calm and if I ever feel stressed or anxious, she makes me feel safe. Whenever I feel uncomfortable Milli will touch me for reassurance and put space between me and other people.

“I don’t think I would have survived without Milli. She has given me a reason to live.”

Liz is also committed to helping other people who have gone through similar experiences in their life. In 2004 Liz set up Recovery Assistance Dogs (RAD), a charity that trains dogs like Milli and highlights the benefits of dog ownership on people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Photo Credit: Alex Cantrill-Jones / ACJ Media

As well as their work with RAD, the duo also work with student social workers to teach them about the benefits of recovery assistance dogs, as well as appearing at events to talk about their work.

Milli was presented with her PDSA Commendation by Philip Shanks, Client Services Manager at a special ceremony at Leicester PDSA Pet Hospital.

Philip said: “We were all incredibly moved by the unwavering affection and support Milli has shown over the years – she is a worthy recipient of this award.

“The strong bonds between pets and people are well-documented. As well as providing companionship, our research shows they can play a crucial role in helping improve people’s mental health. Milli has been a constant source of comfort and safety, and I am delighted that their bond has inspired Liz to help other people who need support from companions like Milli.”

Liz concludes: “I couldn’t be prouder of Milli, she is my best friend and really deserves this award. She has given me the courage and strength to step forward and live a happy life. I hope the PDSA Commendation will mean we can raise awareness of the importance of recovery assistance dogs and the role they play in helping people. We are going to celebrate with friends by heading out to our favourite restaurant.”

Well-known documentary maker Louis Theroux and actress Emily Raymond have teamed up to help London based animal charity, Mayhew, launch a campaign to illustrate the ‘importance and intimacy of animal companionship, and the harsh realities faced by people hit by a sudden or unforeseen change in circumstance, which threatens their relationship with their pet’ – such as homelessness.

The duo provided their voices for a video the animal charity will be sharing alongside a series of poems which will appear around London. The celebrities hope they will start a conversation about the importance of the relationship we have with our dogs, in good times and bad.

Speaking about the campaign, Theroux said, “I was delighted to be asked be the voice of the dog for Mayhew’s campaign. It was a challenge for me as I’ve only ever done voiceover for myself. So this was a leap, taking on the role of someone else, who also happened to be a non-human! But we call relate to the emotions felt by the animals in this beautiful video: the need for comfort, companionship, and quality of life. And the animation and writing in the film capture this perfectly.

“My fervent hope is that the campaign starts a much needed conversation about the importance of protecting the bond between pets and pet-owners from all walks of life. We all deserve to live a life, shared.”

Raymond added, “I think that the ground-breaking work Mayhew do in the local community is truly inspiring.

“Helping homeless and vulnerable people to care for their dogs, and even look after them during periods of absence, is literally a lifeline for people in a crisis situation. They make sure that the human animal bond is nurtured and not broken – without judgement and with deep empathy. Mayhew fully understand the vital relationship between a vulnerable person and their pet, and know that an animal is often the only trusted companion that a person has.

“It was therefore a privilege to give a voice to the beautiful and moving animation for this latest campaign – highlighting the shared lives that are made possible by the vital help and support that Mayhew provides to those in need.”

Last September a programme aired on BBC Wales exposing the extent of the puppy farming problem in Wales. It shocked many people, but has anything actually happened since then?

Well, apparently or certainly publicly, not a lot according to undercover investigators Puppy Love Campaigns, whose evidence and footage initiated the BBC Wales exposé on Welsh licensed puppy farms.

According to the organisation, they expected an immediate official inquiry into how such “obscene, licensed cruelty had been allowed to go unchecked for such a long period of time”.

Puppy Love Campaigns say, “We hoped a full report would be published on how and why the dogs were failed on such a mammoth scale; who was responsible and what actions would be taken. None of this has happened.

“All we are told is those with responsibility are holding meetings – meetings away from public scrutiny. To date, no one has explained how the unseen (until we exposed it with the BBC) tragedy for dogs has been allowed to continue, year after year and under the supposedly watchful eyes of council inspectors and vets.”

So, Can Anything Be Done to Push This Forward?

Yes. It’s important to remember that those in government are public officials and you (the public) can make your voices heard.

Puppy Love Campaigns say, “The public are crying out for answers and so are we. If, like us, you feel this silence is yet another failing on the part of those responsible, we call on you to join us in our request for such an inquiry. This is well overdue.

“It’s plain that the local authorities must share much of the blame. After all, they are the very people that issue the licences. Licences which are given to grossly unfit-for-purpose premises. But, sadly the blame does not stop there. It goes much higher. Following a series of our investigations with the media which demonstrated severe failings in the system, in 2014 the Welsh Government made all the right noises to quell the resulting public outcry.”

Why Wales New Legislation Will Fail, According to Experts

While no inquiry has been initiated and publicly nothing has been made known to concerned individuals, Puppy Love Campaigns say Wales still plans to introduce new legislation but in its current form, it will fail. They explain why.

“They gave little, or no thought, as to how that legislation would be enforced. For a while, the strategy worked, the public were reassured, but during this time the dogs continued to suffer abuse on a daily basis. Meanwhile the Government proudly publicised the new regulations, claiming they were bringing this cruelty to an end. Sound familiar?

“Roll on to 2019 and we were forced to expose them yet again. And we will continue to expose everyone who is responsible for this outrage. Our voice will not go unheard until the government shows us they can control the situation which clearly at this moment in time they can’t, or won’t. By dragging their feet and taking very little action even in the face of irrefutable evidence, they are condoning the suffering of animals on their watch. The shame of Wales needs addressing and the time is now, enough is enough! Demand a full inquiry. Do not let them ignore you.”

If you agree with Puppy Love Campaigns, please contact the first minister Mark Drakeford and Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths and demand immediate action. 

Winter is upon us and with it comes potential new dangers for dogs, both inside and outside of the home.

New research from Direct Line Pet Insurance reveals only two-fifths of dog owners are aware of the seasonal issues their dogs may face in winter, although more than half of dog owners admit they are fearful of the hidden dangers lurking underfoot when walking their dog.

With fewer hours of daylight, dog owners need to be more careful as hidden dangers such as nettles, broken glass, pieces of metal and even fallen fruits, that can be harmful to your dog if eaten, can be discreetly hidden in their path.

Amongst hidden dangers, the research revealed fireworks and seasonal canine illness cause the most anxiety for dog owners during winter, followed by sniffing pesticides, eating poisonous foods and the risk of frostbite as a result of freezing temperatures were also amongst other worries for dog owners.

The most common poison dogs will encounter during winter

Antifreeze poisoning is a common type of poisoning dogs may face this season. It typically happens when liquid drips from a car’s radiator and is licked off the ground and ingested by a pet.

Direct Line found nearly a quarter of dogs harmed in winter months had been harmed due to antifreeze.

Throughout winter, dog owners may naturally reduce the time they spend outdoors with their pet because of lighting and colder temperatures, with a third of dog owners admitting they change their habitual walks during winter by the length of time, route and even the time of day they walk their dog.

Commenting on the survey’s findings, Madeleine Pike, Veterinary Nurse at Direct Line, said: “With shorter days and fewer hours of sunlight in winter, the hazards outside of the home for dogs can be less obvious. Hidden dangers on walks, licking spilt antifreeze and eating fallen fruits can cause severe injury to dogs and can make them very unwell. We encourage owners to be extra cautious of the outdoor risks that can occur this season.

“Similar threats can be found inside the home. It’s common for visitors to have the tendency to sneakily feed ’treats’ to your pet. Chocolates, nuts and raisins are just some of the foods which are poisonous to dogs and can lead to severe indigestion and distress. With smaller dogs like Chihuahuas, Terriers and Pugs, it could be catastrophic. We urge all dog owners to be aware of what their pet is eating this winter and stick to dog friendly treats.”

Watch out for these festive dangers inside the home

Over 1000 claims made throughout last year were made because of pets being poisoned from plants and foods, so it’s important that owners are aware of the potential dangers.

A fifth of dog owners worry about the harm festive plants can have on their pet indoors. Festive foliage such as mistletoe, poinsettia and holly begin to make an appearance and can irritate dogs’ fur, and if swallowed, can lead to poisoning.

Direct Line’s tips for protecting pets this winter

1. After a walk, take a few seconds to look for any wounds, cuts or injuries on your dog

2. Salt and grit used on roads in winter can irritate a pet’s paws. If you use salt around your home, choose a pet-safe product

3. If you can, try to walk your dog when it is light or in well-lit areas and parks so that hazards can be more visible

4. Only treat your pets to dog friendly foods. Be cautious of what friends and family may give your dog as a “treat”

5. Keep your dog warm with protective blankets. Overnight temperatures can massively drop, and dogs can run the risk of getting hypothermia.

If owners feel that their dog has eaten something that they shouldn’t or if they have any concerns, Direct Line Pet customers can connect with a vet 24/7 through PawSquad which is provided for free with their pet policy. If in doubt customers should get their pet to the vet immediately.

Last December more than 4000 animals were abandoned and according to the animal welfare charity, they received more reports about abandoned dogs than any other animal.

The RSPCA has revealed that the worst affected areas were Greater London and the West Midlands with 428 animals, and 227 animals reported as abandoned respectively.

Sadly, the charity is already caring for many animals abandoned around the country this festive season.

The RSPCA is urging people to help them care for the animals spending Christmas in its centres and hospitals, asking for help providing anything from food, medicine, to a warm blanket, treats and toys.

Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer at the RSPCA, said: “Christmas is a busy time for us, as sadly cruelty and abandonments do not stop over the festive season and our staff work tirelessly to rescue and care for animals in need.

“Last year, there were 1,684 dogs reported as abandoned in December and 1,678 abandoned in January, and there were more dogs than any other animal being abandoned over the festive period. We understand that people’s circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer cope with their pet but there is never an excuse to abandon any animal like this, as there are other options available to people who are struggling to care for their pets. Dumping a pet leaves the animal extremely scared and vulnerable, especially in the cold winter months.

“We would urge anyone considering getting a pet to think carefully about whether they have the time, care, patience, and resources to care for that animal for the rest of their life and if you feel you really do, then please consider giving a rescue pet a second chance this new year.”