Total Dog Magazine

Category: Dog News

The latest dog news from around the world

  • World Famous Guitarist Steps in to Help Save Millions of Dogs

    World Famous Guitarist Steps in to Help Save Millions of Dogs

    World famous rock star Ronnie Wood has teamed up with fellow celebrities Leona Lewis, Jodi Picoult and Natalie Imbruglia to celebrate a major milestone for World Animal Protection, as the organisation nears the wonderful milestone of administering 1 million rabies vaccinations to dogs around the world.

    The global charity has joined forces with the animal loving celebrities to celebrate the milestone which helps to save more lives and safeguard communities from the deadly, but forgotten disease that is taking the lives of thousands of dogs daily and killing five times as many people as Ebola.

    Speaking about the campaign the Rolling Stones musician said, “Our dog Dolly is a wonder dog beagle extraordinaire! She’s very loving. All dogs should be treated responsibly, with understanding and compassion, which is why I support World Animal Protection’s campaign to create a better life for dogs around the world.”

    A spokesman for the World Animal Protection said: “Each and every dog around the world deserves love and protection but many face abuse, disease, starvation and death because they are homeless. Many are abandoned by owners who no longer care or pay for them. We are leading the way to end the unnecessary deaths of millions of dogs, every year, caused by the fear of rabies or dog bites.

    Every day, thousands of dogs are violently killed because of rabies. Dragged through streets, electrocuted, poisoned or gassed – culling is a painful death. We are grateful to Leona, Jodi and Natalie for helping us shine a light on how dog lovers in any country can work together to protect dogs in another.”

    There are 700 million dogs in the world today. Many of them are unwanted, unhealthy and unvaccinated. Fear of bites and rabies means that millions are killed every year.

    It is a tragic reality that thousands of people around the world continue to die from rabies each year, even though it’s almost 100% preventable. Innocent dogs also suffer as a result.

    World Animal Protection is working around the globe to end the cruel culling of dogs in the name of rabies. They’ve worked with governments in Asia and Africa to implement vaccination schemes since 2011 and show that this approach works. There are no human rabies cases reported in pilot sites in China since the charity worked there in 2012 and in Zanzibar since 2013.

     

  • Peaceful Anti-BSL Protest Held at Westminster Marking 25 Years of Unjust Breed Specific Legislation

    A series of anti-breed specific legislation protests and rallies have taken place across the world in a united day of peaceful protest this weekend (15-16 July) marking 25 years of failed, unjust legislation in the UK.

    In the UK, events took place at Westminster London, Cardiff Wales, Belfast Northern Ireland and Herefordshire.

    The Westminster event was organised by DDA Watch Ltd, a campaign group which helps and supports dogs and their families affected by the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

    Dog defenders rallied at Westminster with people of all ages travelling in from all over the UK, united to speak out and call for a repeal of a law that targets types of dogs and condemns them as ‘dangerous’ based on their physical appearance. Over two thousand DDA Watch leaflets were distributed in central London and petition signatures gained to help create awareness during the event.

    There were speeches from grass roots workers on the front line, poems and a period of silence to remember all those who have and continue to, suffer and die as a result of the legislation; a tribute was read, flowers and collars were laid and a candle was lit, the ashes of a dog named ‘Paul’ were laid alongside a sheet with the names of some of the canine victims written down – Paul was a recent victim of BSL and much loved, he represented all those lost. Silence fell outside the mighty building of Westminster and tears were shed as heads bowed and remembered.

    Many of the placards and banners held represented a dog tragically lost to BSL – each case highlighting the injustice and loss, held high for all to see, one supporter was dressed as the ‘Grim Reaper’ to represent BSL and stood alongside the campaigners, which included children holding up photographs of dogs lost due to the legislation, a poignant moment in the heart of London just a short distance from where the law was passed and could be repealed.

    Ontario, Quebec, Winnipeg, Victoria, Montreal, Ottawa in Canada and Germany also held protests on the same day as part of a global movement to repeal breed specific laws.

    Sian Morton, a Director of DDA Watch and one of the event speakers said: “Breed specific legislation continues to cost millions of pounds in taxpayers’ money to enforce and does nothing to protect people nor dogs alike, neither does it promote responsible dog ownership. Thousands of pets continue to be put to death or deemed ‘dangerous’ based on their physical appearance, the law makes no sense, is barbaric and is long overdue for repeal, DDA Watch advises dog owners and supports dogs every day of the week who have been ripped apart from their families even though they have never put a paw wrong.”

  • Anti BSL Protest Reaches Westminster

    Anti-breed specific legislation protests and rallies have taken place across the world in a united day of peaceful protest this weekend.

    In the UK, events took place at Westminster London, Cardiff Wales, Belfast Northern Ireland and Herefordshire.

    The Westminster event was organised by DDA Watch Ltd, a campaign group which helps and supports dogs and their families affected by the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and this years’ event marked 25 years of failed, unjust legislation in the UK.

    Dog defenders rallied at Westminster with people of all ages travelling in from all over the UK, united to speak out and call for a repeal of a law that targets types of dogs and condemns them as ‘dangerous’ based on their physical appearance. Over two thousand DDA Watch leaflets were distributed in central London and petition signatures gained to help create awareness during the event.

    There were speeches from grass roots workers on the front line, poems and a period of silence to remember all those who have and continue to, suffer and die as a result of the legislation; a tribute was read, flowers and collars were laid and a candle was lit, the ashes of a dog named ‘Paul’ were laid alongside a sheet with the names of some of the canine victims written down – Paul was a recent victim of BSL and much loved, he represented all those lost. Silence fell outside the mighty building of Westminster and tears were shed as heads bowed and remembered.

    Many of the placards and banners held represented a dog tragically lost to BSL – each case highlighting the injustice and loss, held high for all to see, one supporter was dressed as the ‘Grim Reaper’ to represent BSL and stood alongside the campaigners, which included children holding up photographs of dogs lost due to the legislation, a poignant moment in the heart of London just a short distance from where the law was passed and could be repealed.

    Ontario, Quebec, Winnipeg, Victoria, Montreal, Ottawa Canada and Germany also held protests on the same day as part of a global movement to repeal breed specific laws.

    Sian Morton, a Director of DDA Watch and one of the event speakers said: “Breed specific legislation continues to cost millions of pounds in taxpayers’ money to enforce and does nothing to protect people nor dogs alike, neither does it promote responsible dog ownership. Thousands of pets continue to be put to death or deemed ‘dangerous’ based on their physical appearance, the law makes no sense, is barbaric and is long overdue for repeal, DDA Watch advises dog owners and supports dogs every day of the week who have been ripped apart from their families even though they have never put a paw wrong.”

    For details on how to get involved or where to get help from – contact DDA Watch:

    www.ddawatch.co.uk

  • Campaigners Launch Petition to End India’s Illegal Dog Meat Trade

    Campaigners Launch Petition to End India’s Illegal Dog Meat Trade

    An animal welfare organisation has launched a petition to end the illegal and brutal dog meat trade in Nagaland, India which is taking the lives of tens of thousands of dogs each year.

    The Humane Society International, which has worked to save the lives of thousands of dogs targeted by dog thieves in China and bring an end to the infamous Yulin dog meat festival, has revealed that the Asian country is not alone in its barbaric actions towards its country’s dogs. India too has a hidden and cruel trade of dogs for human consumption, despite the practice being illegal and considered taboo by most states.

    In the northern state of Nagaland, where dog meat is considered by some as ‘healthy’, the Humane Society International (HSI) in India estimates that more than 30,000 stray and stolen pets are smuggled every year where they are sold in live markets and beaten to death with wooden clubs.


    Photo Credit: Alokparna Sengupta/HSI

    The consumption of dog meat is already against the law in India, contravening the country’s food safety regulations. The cruel transport and treatment of animals also violates animal transportation provisions and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, these provisions are being openly ignored by the traders and the local authorities are failing to implement the law in Nagaland state.

     

    Disturbing video footage, which we have deemed too disturbing to show here, was taken by HSI/India at local markets in Kohima and Dimapur, showing that the laws are being blatantly flouted.

    HSI/India’s managing director, N. G Jayasimha, who witnessed the killing, said, “It has been a heart-breaking experience to go to Nagaland and watch these terrified dogs being subjected to such a horrific death. I see animal suffering every day as part of my job at Humane Society International/India, but the brutal dog trade of Nagaland is some of the worst inhumanity to animals I have ever witnessed, and it still haunts me. The underground pit in Kohima where we filmed was like a nightmare.


    Photo Credit: Alokparna Sengupta/HSI

    The look of helplessness and fear in the eyes of these animals was devastating: hog-tied in a bag unable to move, their muzzles tied shut so they could hardly breathe, witnessing other dogs around them being beaten and killed. It was clear to me that many of the dogs were stolen pets still wearing their collars, but whether street or pet dogs, none of these animals should ever have to endure such cruelty. This further reiterates the need for India to have stronger animal protection laws because even this brutal clubbing of a dog would only cost the killer a Rs 50 fine. In launching our campaign today, HSI/India is determined to end this trade, starting with working with the authorities to see that the ban is properly enforced.”

    HSI/India has written to the Chief Minister of Nagaland to urge the government to implement the existing ban on dog meat consumption, patrol trade routes and shut down markets. The organization has also launched an online petition (you can join here) calling on the authorities to enforce India’s dog meat ban immediately.

  • Is a Threat to Your Pet Lurking in Your Sofa at Home?

    As a pet owner, it’s easy to clean what you see on the surface and spend so much time doing it, that you miss the dangers lurking beyond what the naked eye can see.

    New research released by pet healthcare brand Bob Martin has revealed that although 80% of pet owners they spoke with admitted to being houseproud, a large proportion isn’t aware of how to keep fleas at bay and in particular, where the threats to your pet and re-infestation lie in and around the home.

    5185896885_35485e3a4b_dog-spend

    Over a third of people the pet brand spoke with said they have had fleas in their homes, but over a quarter have no idea whether their house or pets have ever had fleas or not. Fleas thrive in warmer weather and while the research revealed that two thirds of those polled believe they would know what do if there was a flea infestation, less than half (42%) treated their home for fleas when their pet had them. In fact, 95 per cent of fleas do not live on animals, but in wood floor crevices, skirting boards, carpets and soft furnishings in the home and they can remain living in the cracks for up to two years.

    Aggie MacKenzie, also known as the ‘Queen of Clean’ and best known for her no-nonsense approach on the TV show ‘How Clean Is Your House?’ has offered her expert advice on how to tackle the threats which lurk beyond.

    Georgina Martin, CEO of Bob Martin said: “With the warmer weather approaching, it’s key that pet owners are aware of the importance of a clean home. Whilst all pets experience fleas at some point in their lives, prevention is the best approach and if your pet does have fleas, you should always treat your home at the same time as your pet.  If you don’t tackle this immediately, it may become a bigger problem, causing a lot of irritation for both the pet and the owner.”

     

  • Hampstead Heath Goes to the Dogs for Animal Charity Fundraising Event

    Hampstead Heath Goes to the Dogs for Animal Charity Fundraising Event

    Last weekend (10 July), the annual Summer fundraising event from The Mayhew Animal Home was held with celebrities and dog owners alike turning out to show their support in the sun for the London based animal charity on Hampstead Heath.


    Photo Credit: Bonnie Baker / The Mayhew Animal Home

    The aptly titled ‘Hounds On The Heath’ event was a star-studded affair attended by Kiss FM presenter Pandora Christie, model and former Love Island star Cally Jane Beech, actress Beatie Edney and her dog Billie, model Kirstie Brittain, ex-puppy farming dog Lucy The Rescue Cavalier, and Labour MP Kerry McCarthy, who is known for using her voice to raise animal welfare topics in Parliament.

    The celebrities helped to judge seven categories held at the dog show including ‘Sweetest Staffie’, ‘Best Veteran’, ‘Dead Ringers’, ‘Best Looking Boy’ and ‘Most Gorgeous Girl’.


    Beatie Edney, pictured above, judging at the dog show


    Model Kirstie Brittain, pictured above, with the ‘Most Gorgeous Girl’ winner

    Former ‘Miss Great Britain’ winner Cally Jane Beech used her experience in beauty pageants and as an owner of three boy dogs to judge the ‘Best Looking Boy’ category.

    Afterwards, Cally summed up the experience saying: “It was harder than judging beauty pageants but I chose my winner (pictured below) based on the fact he was overall gentle and well behaved. He was also cute and looked the part!”.

     

     

  • How Often Does Your Dog Make You Laugh?

    We love our pets and sometimes, just sometimes, even when they’re being naughty we find a balance between amusement and bemusement while we try to keep our composure and maintain that air of being in control.

    If you have a cheeky dog, like those featured in the video below, who loves to get up to no good and you’ve been lucky enough to capture him or her in the act – share your dog’s funniest moments with the world and Direct Line Pet Insurance as they search the nation for the UK’s naughtiest pets. You could be in with the chance of winning prizes weekly!

    Enter online at www.dlpetfix.com today.

     

  • Why This Boxer Teaches us to NEVER Give up Hope

    Why This Boxer Teaches us to NEVER Give up Hope

    We’ve all had times when we’ve wanted to give up. But the story of how Ozzie the Boxer was reunited with his family after being stolen six months earlier will lift your spirits and provide a valuable life lesson. There’s always hope.

    Ozzie disappeared his the family’s yard in January 2016. His anguished owner, Chris Sanchez, has been trying to find him ever since.

    “It’s like losing…I lost my child. That’s basically what it felt like. Raised him from basic one. I got on Craigslist, got on Facebook, got on everywhere that I could get on to try to see if someone had seen him”, Chris told ABC news.

    “Last week I prayed about it—said just Lord, do me a favour. If he’s safe where he’s at and he’s happy, then I’m okay with that. But if he’s not and he’s not happy or something’s wrong please, do me a favor and let him come back to me.”

    “My better half texted me and said, ‘Look at your Facebook,’ and I got on my Facebook and looked and I was like, that’s my dog and I was yelling like, I said, that’s my dog. That’s our family dog.That’s our dog.”

    According to ABC news:

    A group called Tucson Cause for Canines was searching for a different stray dog, just north of a sad stretch of land near the airport so notorious for abandoned animals it goes by the grim name of Dogpatch.

    Ozzie came running up and brought a friend—this female Boxer they’re calling Riley ’til they find her family and learn her real name.

    Mindy Lane from Tucson Cause for Canines is one of the people who found Ozzie and Riley.

    She says, “That’s always our number one priority is finding their home, finding the people who love them most and reuniting them so this is a really great story and a really great win for us.”

  • Appeal For Information as Tied Up Body of Puppy is Found in Boarded Up Kennel

    An RSPCA inspector has described the moment a dead puppy was found tied up and callously dumped inside a boarded up kennel on a country lane as a ‘horrific discovery’.

    It is thought the cream coloured puppy – believed to be a collie cross – was just four-months-old when he was found dead and tied up inside the wooden kennel and dumped on Fleetwood Road in Wesham, near Preston, on Sunday. (3 July)

    https://i.imgur.com/WQWdiyS.gif

    There was also a blue lead, a bowl of rice, a water bowl, water in a sealed bottle and sawdust inside the wooden 2mx2m kennel when Lancashire Police made the heartbreaking find.

    The RSPCA is now appealing with anyone with information about the puppy to come forward urgently.

    RSPCA inspector Sarah Hayland said: “This is a horrific incident. We do not think the dog had been dead for very long when he was found inside the kennel.

    “We do not know where this dog came from or if he was alive or dead when he was so cruelly dumped inside that kennel.

    “He had been tied up inside with a 2metre long metal chain. The door to the kennel had been intentionally boarded up with planks of wood when it was found in the middle of a country lane by a member of the public.

    “It is just awful. He was underweight when we found him but at the moment we do not know how he died. It is harrowing to think what he might’ve gone through.

    “We would ask that anyone who has any information about where he came from or how he got on to the lane in this state to contact us as soon as possible.”

    Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA Inspectorate Appeal Line on 0300 123 8018.

  • Can You Tell if Your Pet Is Dehydrated? Here’s How You Can Find Out

    With this summer’s sporting bonanza well underway – from the Euros to Wimbledon and the Olympics just around the corner – UK dog owners could have plenty of distractions to take their attention away from their four legged friends.

    Reassuringly, a recent survey of over 1,000 pet owners conducted by pet product expert, PetSafe® brand, has found that our passion for pets comes before our love of sport, but two in 10 pet owners aren’t sure how to tell if their pet is hydrated.

    Wanting to do the ‘right thing’ for their pet over the summer months came across clearly in the study with 9 in 10 dog owners saying their pets come first and exercise, hydration and all important meal times for those who clock watch. However, once the elusive summer sun comes out, there was confusion amongst dog owners about what the ‘right thing’ actually is – particularly when it comes to keeping pooches cool and hydrated.

    While almost all of the pet owners surveyed give their dogs fresh water every day, over half are unsure how much water their pets actually need to keep cool and hydrated.

    Uncertainty crept in over whether pets should be put outside in warm weather – or kept indoors as 17 per cent said pets would be left outside as temperatures creep up to keep them cool.

    Worryingly, 20 per cent admitted they couldn’t tell if their pet was dehydrated and common signs of dehydration were confused.

    A staggering 88 per cent thought panting or sweating was a sign of dehydration, which is a common misconception and 40 per cent also incorrectly thought whining was a sign.

    How to Tell If Your Dog Is Dehydrated

    Symptoms of dehydration include lethargy, sunken eyes, and loss of appetite and depression. Another tell tale symptom is when pets’ gums lose moistness and become dry and sticky.

    A spokesperson for the PetSafe® brand, Angela Critchley said: “It’s really encouraging to see that despite all the distractions taking place in people’s lives our dogs still take top priority.

    “What’s concerning is the lack of knowledge when it comes to pet hydration. Even loosing just 10% of the body’s water can have serious consequences for a dog, so it is vital to ensure owners can pick up the signals quickly to avoid putting their pets at risk.

    “If pets are not adequately hydrated they can not pant or sweat efficiently which means they can’t keep themselves cool and can over heat. The average Labrador weighing around 35kgs will need 2.45 litres of water a day to keep hydrated, that’s several bowls and regular water top ups are needed throughout the day”

    She continues: “Simple measures such as leaving a number of water bowls in different areas in the house can help replenish hydration even if you’re not able to be in the home. If pets are outside it’s critical that they have access to shade and their water is kept in a cool place – remember some doghouses are not good shelter in the summer, as they can trap heat.”

     

  • 20,000 Paws Took Part in Great Global Greyhound Walk

    On Sunday 19th June lots of sighthound owners let their dogs out to attend the Great Global Greyhound Walk and what an amazing worldwide turn-out there was! There were Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Borzois, Lurchers, Podencos and Galgos alongside family companion dogs. There were 8 week old puppies and 15 year old seniors, together with their loving owners. There were dogs of every colour – brindles, blacks, snowflakes, fawns, blues, white with black markings and black with white markings, all walking in harmony to promote the breed as wonderful family pets.

    There was a Carnival theme to the day but some owners took it one step further with whippet weddings in Brazil, red carpets in Slovenia, rainbow flags in Braintree, carnivals in Colchester and even a little local walk at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. There were walks in parks, along the river banks, through forests, at the beach and even in town centres.

    There was a total of 5021 canine participants from 102 UK walks and 49 globally, so over 20,000 paws enjoyed their day in some spectacular locations and all in the name of finding loving family homes for retired racers once their track days are over.

    This year was the 10th anniversary of Greyhound Walks, which started in Braintree with just 6 dogs and although not a specific fund raising event, many of the walks had collection buckets for local greyhound charities and to fund dogs needing special care.

     

    For more information about the events and to get involved in future get togethers, visit www.greatglobalgreyhoundwalk.co.uk

     

  • British Vets Issue Statement on the Outcome of the EU Referendum Warning of Impact on Industry

    British Vets Issue Statement on the Outcome of the EU Referendum Warning of Impact on Industry

    The outcome of today’s EU referendum has consequences far and wide for the veterinary and farming communities, including animal welfare, research and animal movements, such as rehoming.

    British veterinary organisation, the British Veterinary Association (BVA), has released the following statement on the decision to leave the EU on behalf of its president, Sean Wensley:

    “The UK’s decision to leave the European Union will have a significant impact on matters of interest to the veterinary profession, particularly in relation to regulation, education, and workforce planning, but also in terms of animal welfare, research, surveillance, and animal movements.

    “BVA will work hard to ensure the voice of the veterinary profession is heard during the negotiation and discussions that will now begin, in order to secure the best possible outcomes for our profession and for animal health and welfare in the UK. The Vet Futures report provides an excellent summary of issues we need to consider in those discussions, and the Vet Futures Action Plan, due to be launched at the Vet Futures Summit on 4 July, outlines key initiatives that we need to take forward, albeit with revised timelines while the full impact of Brexit is determined.

    “BVA will retain an outward looking and inclusive perspective through our relationships with international partners, including the Federation of Veterinarians for Europe (FVE), Commonwealth Veterinary Association (CVA) and World Veterinary Association (WVA) to ensure the UK veterinary profession continues to influence and engage on cross border issues such as disease surveillance, veterinary medicines and antimicrobial resistance.”

     

  • Be a Part of History in The Fight Against Breed Specific Legislation – Make Your Voice Heard

    Be a Part of History in The Fight Against Breed Specific Legislation – Make Your Voice Heard

    Hot on the heels of the news of the release of Stella, a pitbull-type dog, who was seized and locked up without exercise for two years, UK dog owners, campaigners and those who care are being asked to unite in a global day of protest against Breed Specific Law (BSL) on Saturday 16th of July 2016.

    Peaceful protests have been organised around the world for July 2016 – the Westminster event takes place on the 16th July at Old Palace Yard, Westminster, SW1P 3JY at 1pm to 5pm. Other UK events have been organised for Wales, Northern Ireland and the South West of England.

    Ontario, Quebec (which has had heightened debate about tighter regulations for pitbulls) and Winnipeg in Canada and Germany have planned anti-BSL events for the 16th July as part of the global anti-BSL movement.

    The London event is organised by DDA Watch and will mark 25 years of failed legislation – the UK introduced breed specific legislation in 1991 Act and campaigners say the law continues to cost millions of pounds in tax-payers money to enforce and does nothing to protect people nor dogs alike, neither does it promote responsible dog ownership.

    Thousands of pets continue to be put to death or deemed ‘dangerous’ based on their physical appearance, the law makes no sense and is long overdue for repeal.

    People are coming together, making a stand and speaking out in defence of ALL dogs regardless of what shape or size they happen to be.

    Leading animal welfare charities have disagreed with and openly discredited BSL for many years, outlining the fact that dogs cannot be labelled ‘dangerous’ for their looks alone and they have called for an end to this outdated legislation.

    Find out more about the London event on Facebook here – join in and make your voice count in the fight against this shameful law.

  • Recognition for Kat Thorburn Who Helped Smash Sick Puppy Farm Ring

    Recognition for Kat Thorburn Who Helped Smash Sick Puppy Farm Ring

    An undercover officer from the RSPCA has been presented with an award for her incredible work smashing a ring making £35,000 selling sick and dying puppies.

    For more than 100 years, the RSPCA Honours have been given to recognise people and organisations who’ve helped us in our goal to end cruelty, protect animals from abuse and further our knowledge of animal welfare.

    Inspector Kat Thorburn, part of the RSPCA’s special operations unit, was presented with the David Millard award for her work investigating a puppy ring in Greater Manchester which duped people into buying dogs which they claimed were home bred with pedigree papers.

    In fact thousands of puppies were bred by large scale breeders in Ireland and Eastern Europe and shipped to England for sale. Many of them were ill and some sadly died within hours or days of being bought by their new owners.

    RSPCA Chief Executive Jeremy Cooper said: “We are incredibly proud of Kat Thorburn and the team who pioneered a new way to investigate organised gangs of criminals who are making thousands of pounds trading in sick and dying puppies.

    “Thanks to the hard work, determination and tenacious attitude of Kat who drove this investigation we’ve sent a clear message out to irresponsible puppy traders that they will be held accountable.

    “Kat’s work has also helped us raise vital awareness of our campaign to #ScrapThePuppyTrade calling for tougher regulation around the selling of dogs which has been supported by more than 60,000 people.”

    Previous attempts to investigate had stalled because of the difficulty of proving the the dogs were suffering when they were in the hands of the sellers.

    So Inspector Thorburn took on the huge task of collating dozens of complaints, tracking down a large number people who had bought puppies and taking witness statements from them.

    The damning statements, together with surveillance of gang members provided enough suspicion for magistrates to grant a warrant allowing police and RSPCA Officers to raid premises linked to the puppy selling ring.

    The raids on several different properties revealed vital evidence of a very sophisticated organised fraud. The gang rented several houses so buyers thought they were getting a puppy bred in a loving family homes.

    If buyers asked to see the puppy’s mother they were told she was on a walk or at the vets. The gang had several of mobile phones labelled with different breeds of dogs so they knew what dogs to talk about if people rang in response to adverts.

    They faked glossy packs with bogus pedigree papers and other documents to fool unsuspecting buyers who thought they were dealing with a responsible breeder. They even gave out free insurance with each puppy along with veterinary first vaccination cards to try and give the puppies validity.

    Thanks to Inspector Thorburn’s thorough investigation and determination more than 180 puppies were seized from the gang and there were a series of court cases where members of the ring were jailed and banned from keeping animals.

    Kat said: “I sat in so many people’s front room while they were devastated and crying and telling me how they were tricked into buying sick and dying puppies.

    “These were not stupid, gullible members of the public. These were everyday normal people like you and I, including police officers, teachers, professional, hard working people who had been conned out of hundreds of pounds by an organised gang of criminals who had absolutely no regard for the puppies they were trading or the people they were selling them to.

    “This gang knew they were selling sick puppies, some of which had deadly diseases. Some of the diseases were zoonotic which means they can spread to their owners, but they just didn’t care. All they cared about was making as much money as possible.

    “These cases took over my entire workload for a long time as it was extremely time consuming. I was horrified by what we discovered, dead puppies in the footwell of a car, one in the boot of another, thrown in the wheeley bin like rubbish and even one dead puppy in a crate along with a live one standing over it.

    “I dread to think about the awful conditions the mothers of these puppies are being kept in somewhere, they are producing litter after litter of poor quality, unhealthy puppies which are carrying all of these highly contagious parasites, diseases and bacteria. Let alone the risk of other diseases such as rabies.

    “It had been very difficult for us to prosecute puppy dealers previously but this new approach has worked and can hopefully be used to tackle more of these unscrupulous dealers in future.”

    The David Millard award for special investigations is given in memory of the North of England’s regional superintendent who passed away in in September 2009, aged 61, after almost 37 years with the society.

    The RSPCA Honours ceremony was held on Saturday 18 June at The Law Society in London which was especially appropriate as 2016 marks the 10th anniversary of the Animal Welfare Act. Since it’s introduction the RSPCA has helped more than 150,000 cats and dogs.

    This year 19 people who had gone the extra mile for animals were awarded with RSPCA Honours including:

    Two men who saved a much-loved cat from a house fire

    A police officer who worked tirelessly to save 33 dogs from squalid conditions

    An American woman who has improved the lives of millions of farm animals with an assurance scheme

    An undercover RSPCA inspector who helped crack an illegal puppy selling ring making £35,000-a-week

  • Death Row Dog Finally Free After Spending Two Years Locked Up

    Death Row Dog Finally Free After Spending Two Years Locked Up

    A dog seized almost two years ago, who was given a destruction order and placed on death row in February, has today (22 June 2016) been granted a reprieve in Exeter Crown Court and has been rehomed in Devon as part of the agreement to secure her freedom.

    Stella, a pitbull-type dog, who has been refused exercise for nearly two years, was taken by police because of her breed and behaviour when officers seized her.

    Her new owner Carolyne Pharaoh, who is an experienced dog owner, will no doubt be doing her best to make up for Stella’s pretty appalling two years locked up as she settles into a secure life in her new home – a 27 acre farm.


    Photo Credit: Facebook/Wheldon Dog Law

    Announcing the news on Facebook, Wheldon Dog Law, experts in all things legal in the field of dogs, who have handled the case fighting to save Stella said:

    “We are thrilled to say that Stella’s appeal was successful today. The CPS agreed that Stella did not pose a risk to the public if she remained with her current keeper who has a vast amount of experience in handling dogs. Stella will remain living on a 27 acre farm in the beautiful Devon countryside with her adoring new keeper and family.

    Much respect to Stella’s owner Anthony Hastie who made the very difficult decision to give Stella up to give her the best possible chance. Grateful thanks also to Laura Khanlarian and Helen Godfrey for being brave enough to speak up about the conditions in which Stella was being kept, Claire Jones from the BBC for taking up Stella’s story and DDA Watch.

    As usual this case was a team effort between Tina Wagon, Harriet Snookes, Pam Rose, Ian McParland, Kendal Shepherd and Allie Green. What an awesome team.”

    We echo those sentiments and wish Stella all the best for the future on her farm.