Total Dog Magazine

Category: Magazine

Stolen Spaniel Returns Home After Social Media Tip-Off Led Police to Her

A six month old Cocker Spaniel named Poppy who was stolen from her home in Northamptonshire woke up in her own home today once again after a tip-off on social media led police to her.

Poppy was taken on 21st September and within hours her owners launched a social media campaign to ask dog lovers to look out for her and share any news or sightings they might have. It was this initiative combined with sharing her story far and wide which led to the couple receiving information Northamptonshire police were able to act upon visiting an address in Northampton.

Speaking from her home, Poppy’s owner Gilly who has praised police for taking them seriously told K9 Magazine, “We are over the moon to have Poppy home where she belongs. I was bowled over at the sight of the police officers bringing her to the door, emotionally and nearly physically by our other dog, Tumble. He was so excited when he saw Poppy that he nearly sent me flying!”

She continued, “The last 10 days have really opened our eyes to how prevalent dog theft is. It’s a massive issue that causes no end of heartbreak and distress. It was a comfort to know that Poppy was microchipped and that all her details were up to date. Anibase told us that 90 per cent of chipped dogs are returned, even when stolen, and this did help keep us positive in the days Poppy was missing.”

Wanting to thank everyone who got involved, Gilly said, “We cannot thank everyone enough. For all the people who liked, shared and commented on our posts, to all the leads we were sent and of course our local community police who took the case so seriously. We are so grateful to everyone. The post pinned to Poppy’s Facebook page while she was missing was shared over 56,000 times and has been seen by 2.7 million people. It’s really good to see social media being used in such a positive way.

“Poppy has been checked over by her vet and been given a clean bill of health. Apart from being a little on edge for an hour or so in the evening she is just happy to be home with her friend Tumble and enjoying her walks. They haven’t really stopped playing since Poppy came home last night.

“Poppy is a very lucky little dog to be home. The way people rallied around and went out of their way to help us – many of whom were complete strangers – really does confirm that we are a nation of dog lovers.”

October 3, 2016
This National Black Dog Day Consider Adopting a Dog, Says New Mum & Actress Sarah Jayne Dunn

October 1st is National Black Dog Day and is a day to celebrate.

Originally created as a way to talk about black dog syndrome after animal rescue shelters were reporting black dogs were often passed over in rescue, Sarah Jayne Dunn has teamed up with the UK’s largest dog adoption site, dogsblog.com, sponsored by Direct Line Pet Insurance, to encourage more people to consider adopting a dog.

A fan of black dogs herself, Sarah chose her Pug, Ming Ming after being told black Pugs have more personality and shed less than others.

Sarah admits she and her family have previously adopted pets who have looked more isolated and needed someone to give them a chance. Her black rescue cat, aptly named Solo when she first saw her at the rescue centre, took time to come out of her shell but after coming into the family from a shelter, time and patience was all she needed to adapt.

Talking of her family pets, the new mum said “Our black Pug Ming Ming is a big part of our little family, possibly the biggest part. My brother has two rescue dogs, Truffles and Oscar, both cross breeds, both adorable but both had been waiting for their forever homes long before being adopted by my brother. Oscar is completely black and Truffles is a Staffy cross. They were constantly overlooked for whatever reason. They couldn’t be more patient and loving, brought up in a household with four boisterous, noisy toddler-kids-teenagers, they only ever had love to give in return for a loving household and family. I swear you can see the happiness in their eyes, they are such big softies.”

Sarah continued, “Being a dog owner is something I’d recommend to anyone with the time, love, patience and commitment to do so. It is a long term commitment and shouldn’t be done on a whim but if you’ve taken everything into consideration then it’s one of the best things you’ll ever do. You’ll have a lifelong friend who will give you love, loyalty and all they require in return is your love and care, for this small return you’ll have an unbreakable bond.”

Here are some dogs currently in rescue who need a second chance and home to call their own.

Trixie has been in rescue for 213 days without a single enquiry.

She is an adorable 11 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross Whippet girl who came into the Oldies Club rescue after the death of her owner.Trixie is in an Oldies Club foster home in Maidstone, Kent, waiting for someone to offer her a permanent home.

Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/trixie-57/

Elmo is trying not to let his past experiences with people shape his future

A street dog rescued and brought to the UK earlier this year, Elmo is a 2-3 year old cross-breed boy who has shown signs of possible trauma in his past around men. He does settle when he gets to know you so his new family will need to give him time and patience to adapt and learn he’s safe in his new surroundings.

Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/elmo-20/

Belle was abandoned and her owners didn’t turn up for her.

She is a 2 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross with a heart as big as her smile and a snore as loud as her brilliant personality. Belle has been in foster care for some months after coming into rescue as an unclaimed dog when her owners didn’t turn up for her. She is looking for an experienced home where she can further her training.

Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/belle-49/

Sarah Jayne Dunn concluded, “If you’re thinking about getting a dog then please do consider rehoming a loving pet, that through no fault of it’s own has found itself without a forever home. Some of the nicest dogs I’ve had the pleasure of knowing have been rescue dogs. They are very often already house trained, socialised and all they want is a place to call home with a loving, caring owner.”

September 30, 2016
Montreal SPCA Launches Lawsuit Against City of Montreal After New BSL Bill Passed
Montreal SPCA has launched lawsuit against the City of Montreal in relation to new breed-specific by-law which was passed earlier this week after the council voted 37-23 in favour.

The animal welfare organisation had previously told authorities they would no longer provide dog control services to the city if the controversial bill introducing breed specific legislation was passed.

Montreal SPCA released the following statement on their website announcing the move, which it hopes can safeguard the future of innocent Pit Bulls and Pit Bull types in the city:

“Following the adoption yesterday by the Montreal city council of the new animal control by-law targeting specific dog breeds, and in particular, requiring that behaviourally sound, healthy adoptable dogs and puppies be put to death, the Montreal SPCA urgently filed a lawsuit against the city at the Montreal courthouse today.”

They continue, “The Application for judicial review and stay filed by the Montreal SPCA aims, first off, to suspend the application of the sections of the by-law targeting “Pit bull type dogs” in order to then have these sections declared illegal, null, and without effect by Quebec’s Superior Court.”

According to the animal welfare organisation, the provisions of the new by-law targeting “Pit bull type dogs” are contrary to several fundamental principles that govern the legality of municipal by-laws including:
- Discriminatory in that they create additional and punitive obligations for owners and guardians of “Pit bull type dogs” whereas this category includes dogs who are not, in fact, dangerous
- Vague and imprecise in their definition of “Pit bull type dogs” such that it is impossible to know which dogs fall into this category
- Problematic in terms of procedural fairness in that they fail to include a means to challenge the designation of a dog as a “Pit bull type dog”, even if a genetic analysis was to be conducted
- Contrary to article 898.1 of the Civil Code of Quebec, which grants animals the status of sentient beings, and to the Animal Welfare and Safety Act, both adopted last December by the provincial government as part of Bill 54
- Unreasonable in that they treat all “Pit bull type dogs” as dangerous dogs in spite of the fact that there exists no credible evidence to the effect that dogs belonging to this arbitrary category are inherently dangerous.
Breed specific legislation does not work. In Toronto, where Pit Bulls are banned and virtually extinct there now, the number of reported dog bites has increased. This alone should tell bodies that education is needed, banning a breed does to prevent injuries.

Hundreds of innocent dogs will lose their lives if this ban is enforced, we wish Montreal SPCA well with their case for the sake of the dogs at risk.
September 30, 2016
Which Type Of Pug Do You Prefer: Old Style or Modern Style?

You see images of how our most familiar dog breeds used to look and it sometimes makes you wonder how and why we allowed them to get in to such a mess. Poorer health, functionality and countless hereditary and genetic illnesses blight the lives of many modern dog breeds.

So a simple question of taste, aesthetically speaking. Which of these types of Pugs do YOU prefer?

September 30, 2016
Northamptonshire Police Issue Fresh Appeal for Stolen Spaniel

A week after she was taken from outside her home in East Haddon, Northamptonshire Police have re-issued an appeal for help in finding Cocker spaniel, Poppy.

The chocolate brown puppy disappeared just before 4.30pm on Wednesday 21st September. Police believe she may have been taken to the Harlow area of Essex later that day but a week later she could be anywhere in the country.

“I can’t describe how awful the last few days have been,” says Poppy’s owner, Gilly. “We miss Poppy desperately. There’s a huge, gaping hole in our lives at the moment. All we care about is getting Poppy home where she belongs. There is a no-questions-asked reward for Poppy’s safe return.”

Pages on Facebook and Twitter were started within hours of Poppy’s disappearance. It has been visited by millions and the pinned post describing Poppy’s appearance has been shared 55,000 times. “Amid the despair and sadness we feel, I can’t describe how touched we’ve been by the response to Poppy being taken,” says Gilly. “The kindness of people, many of whom are complete strangers, has been truly humbling.”

Poppy is nearly six months old but small for her age. She is microchipped and docked. She has a few white hairs under her bottom lip and was wearing a red collar when she disappeared.

The family are appealing for anybody with any information, however insignificant they believe it might be, to please come forward. “We’d also ask that whoever has Poppy now – even if you bought her in good faith – to please leave her somewhere safe, such as a vets, or to get in touch with us. We don’t care about the who or the why she was taken, we just need Poppy back home with her family,” says James, Gilly’s partner.

If you know anything at all, please contact Northampton Police or Poppy’s family using the information on the poster below.

If your dog has been stolen, here is some advice on steps to take to better your chances of being reunited, as told to K9 Magazine by someone whose dog was stolen: http://www.k9magazine.com/how-to-get-your-stolen-dog-back-things-you-have-to-do-immediately/

September 29, 2016
Jonathan Theobald is Going to Prison For Allowing His Dogs to Die in a Hot Car

A man has been given a 10-year order banning him from keeping animals after leaving his three dogs inside a car on a summer’s day while he spent hours at the gym. They all died.

Jonathan Theobald (DoB: 12/01/51) of Lincoln Road, Peterborough, appeared at the city’s magistrates’ court on Wednesday (28 September) where he was given an 18-week prison sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay a total of £1,900 in fines and costs. He had previously (14 September) pleaded guilty to one offence under the Animal Welfare Act of causing unnecessary suffering to the dogs by confining the animals in an environment which was detrimental to their well-being and led to their death.

He was also disqualified from keeping any animal for 10 years.

Daisy, Mitch and Rascal – three Staffordshire bull terrier-type dogs – died from heat exposure after being left in Theobald’s Volkswagen estate for several hours on 16 June this year. Other gym users spotted the 65-year-old dragging the dogs’ lifeless bodies from the car and contacted police.

RSPCA inspector Justin Stubbs, who investigated, said: “When Mr Theobald returned to his car having spent a number of hours at the gym, he found two of his dogs had already succumbed to the heat. He tried to save the third dog’s life – but it was too late.”

A local vet and police were contacted and found Theobald at his home address with the dogs still inside the car. The RSPCA were then called and launched an investigation.

“Unfortunately, many people seem to be under the impression that it’s okay to leave their dogs in the car for a number of hours while they work out, go shopping or attend an appointment,” inspector Stubbs said. “They believe the dog is better in the car than being left at home.

“This very sad story shows that the reality is that a dog left in a car faces a very probable risk of suffering, or possible death. Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a parked car can soar very quickly.

“Records show that on 16 June, the day in question, it was between 16 and 19C during the hours these dogs were left in the car – certainly not what we’d consider heatwave temperatures in England. But it was enough for the temperature inside the vehicle to climb to a level which killed these poor dogs.

“No matter what the excuse, there is never a good enough reason to leave your dog in a car and risk his life. I sincerely hope people will use this tragic tale as a reminder of the real danger you could be putting your dog in if you leave him in a car on a warm day.”

The RSPCA and 11 other animal welfare charities and organisations each year runs the Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles, caravans, conservatories and outbuildings in warm weather. And it doesn’t even need to be that hot before animals are at risk in confined spaces.

So far this year*, the RSPCA’s 24-hour emergency line has received almost 7,000 calls relating to animals left in hot environments – the majority of which are dogs in cars on hot days.

A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Constabulary said: “This was a tragic, but completely avoidable incident. We remind the public never to leave dogs in cars during hot weather, even for a short period of time or with the window slightly open. The temperature can rise quickly with devastating consequences.”

September 28, 2016
European Union Approach to Dog Breeding Trade To Be Discussed

Today (27th September) MEPs, the European Commissioner for Health & Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitis and key figures from the animal welfare world united at the European Parliament to highlight the important developments to companion welfare in the EU. Organised by the EU Dog & Cat Alliance, key speakers included President of the Intergroup on the Welfare and Conservation of Animals Sirpa Pietikäinen MEPwho also hosted the event.

The EU Dog & Cat Alliance is calling for an Action Plan to tackle the illegal trade in dogs and cats in the EU. With a worrying number of pets being illegally brought into countries across the EU, often with falsified pet passports and having endured poor travelling and living conditions, the Alliance and its members are calling for changes to be made to improve this worrying situation.

Says Adrian Burder, EU Dog & Cat Alliance:

“This illegal trade can only be addressed through a comprehensive approach, involving the European Commission, European Parliament and Member States, including agencies, border and veterinary authorities. The Alliance believes that in order for improvements to be seen steps need to be taken sooner rather than later and the issue addressed in a coordinated way at the root of the problem.”

Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP, President of the Intergroup on the Welfare and Conservation of Animals said:

“The European Parliament has arguably been the most supportive of the EU institutions for EU action to protect dogs and cats. We need to treat this illegal trade as a serious trafficking offence and increase the efforts of the EU customs and police co-operation in this field. As a member of this House, I believe that the Parliament will have a crucial role to play in making this happen. I call upon my colleagues in the EP to support this initiative.”

The illegal trade in dogs and cats in the EU stretches far beyond simply animal welfare concerns, and also has implications for public health, consumer protection and the smooth functioning of the EU internal market, as well as anti-trafficking efforts. Numerous steps will be needed in order to solve this problem. These include consumer education and protection, information sharing between agencies and a common approach to the issue across the EU as whole. All of this has been factored into the proposed EU Action Plan the Alliance members are united in supporting.

Adrian continues:

“Today’s event is aimed at highlighting one of the biggest issues affecting companion animals in Europe today. Hundreds of thousands of young dogs and cats in the EU are bred for illegal sale in absolutely terrible conditions, transported long distances in crammed cages, often without food or water, unvaccinated and neglected. This can frequently result in life-long behavioural issues for the pet as well as health problems – both genetic and in terms of communicable diseases. This is why today we have launched a campaign for an EU Action Plan to tackle the illegal trade in dogs and cats and it is hoped that with all of the points from the plan in place an end to the illegal trafficking of cats and dogs could be within our grasp. But first it needs to be escalated and seen as a priority within the EU.”

Full details of the plan can be found via www.dogandcatwelfare.eu. To follow the campaign on Twitter search #EUpetwelfare.

September 28, 2016
Montreal Council Votes to Ban Pit Bulls (& Pit Bull Types)
Montreal has today voted to ban Pit Bulls in its city. The council voted 37-23 in favour of the controversial bill with Mayor Denis Coderre saying ‘I have a responsibility as the mayor of Montreal to protect the citizens’ prior to the vote.

The bill comes three months after Christiane Vadnais was fatally mauled by a dog originally thought to be a Pit Bull, although police say they are still waiting for a DNA test to confirm. Prior to this tragedy, the city was already looking to amend it’s dangerous dog laws and while CBS news reported at the time it wasn’t particularly leaning towards banning certain breeds, that has now changed.

What the bill means for dog owners

The new bylaw will apply to all 19 boroughs of the city and will define Pit Bulls as:
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- American Pit Bull Terriers
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Any dogs with a mix of these breeds
- Any dog that presents characteristics of one of those breeds
Ryan O’Meara, publisher of K9 Magazine, who has spoken out against banning dog breeds and instead campaigned for owner education said, “We know first hand in the UK this is very dangerous territory because defining a ‘type’ is not only extremely difficult but also means dog breeds who don’t have any of the above breeds in their make up can be caught in the cross-fire purely based on their looks, regardless of breed.”

Those who own a dog breed covered in the now banned dog breeds list and already live in Montreal will need to obtain a licence for $150 to keep their pet.

Should the owner of a banned breed pass away, an amendment to the proposed bylaw will now allow the dog’s licence to be transferred to another person living at the same address, partner or direct family member.

Anyone convicted of violent crimes will be forbidden from owning a Pit Bull.

The bylaw also creates two categories of dogs of all breeds: at-risk and dangerous. At-risk dogs are those that exhibit aggressive behaviour, such as biting someone. Dangerous dogs are those that have killed someone or are deemed dangerous by an appointed expert.

New laws will be a waste of taxpayers money & needlessly cost dogs their lives

While banning certain breeds seems a move to ‘protect the public’ in the Major’s own words, other cities such as Toronto who already ban certain breeds haven’t seen numbers in attacks fall. In fact, there are virtually no Pit Bulls left in Toronto yet the number of dog bites has increased.

Animal welfare expert Ewa Demianowicz from Humane Society International/Canada has criticised the decision saying, “We are extremely disappointed with the council’s decision to adopt archaic by-laws that are proven to be ineffective. Mayor Denis Coderre and his team have rejected scientific facts in favour of fear and misinformation. Laws that target a specific breed of dog do not work, and will only succeed in destroying families and killing innocent dogs without any improvement in public safety.”

She continued, “The by-laws adopted today are a complete waste of taxpayers’ money, and every Montrealer should be appalled by the Council’s irresponsible and illogical approach to this issue. If Mayor Coderre wants to put public safety first, he should focus on real solutions that will protect people and promote responsible pet ownership.”

The Montreal SPCA has announced that if this bylaw would have been effective this year, the organisation would have had to either relocate between 300 and 700 healthy and behaviorally-sound dogs, or they would have been put to sleep.

Previously the animal welfare body had said if a ban were to come into effect they would pull their dog control services from the area saying, “Like any organization, we need to act in a way that respects our fundamental values. Contributing to a system that would ultimately result in the euthanasia of healthy animals that do not pose any danger is a step that the Montreal SPCA cannot take,” says Benoit Tremblay, Executive Director.

UPDATE: Read the latest news and judge’s ruling to temporarily suspend the bill here.
September 27, 2016
Mary, Mel and Sue – Abused But on the Mend

Three dogs who were dumped in such bad condition that veterinary staff couldn’t tell what breed they were are now on the mend thanks to generous donations by the public.

The RSPCA launched a special fundraising appeal to help raise cash needed to pay for the long-term treatment Mary, Mel and Sue – names after the now departed Great British Bake Off stars – will need to recover.

The appeal has, so far, raised more than £1,000 which is helping the animal welfare charity cover the costs of caring for the dogs and nursing.

London veterinary director Caroline Allen said: “Mary, Mel and Sue are making good progress, like their famous namesakes, they’ve had some complications to deal with over the past few weeks. They have stayed cheerful and will be moving to another RSPCA site to continue their recuperation.

“Treatment is going well, their hair is starting to grown back and they are much less smelly which is good for staff here at the hospital!

“We’re sure these lovely little dogs will make full recoveries and, once they’re fit and healthy, they’ll be on the look-out for loving new homes.

“But they’ve got a long road ahead of them before they’re ready to start their new lives so they’ll be with us a while longer as we treat the nasty demodex. This is lengthy and costly treatment so we launched a special appeal when this trio came into us and we’d like to say a huge thank you to all our wonderful supporters who have donated towards their care – we couldn’t do what we do without them.”

The dogs – thought to terrier-crossed around two-years-old – were found crammed into a tiny pet carrier and dumped on a woman’s front doorstep in Fyfield Road, Walthamstow, on 28 August.

RSPCA inspector Mitchell Smith attended to collect the wet, filthy and foul-smelling dogs and rushed them to the charity’s Harmsworth Hospital where they have been receiving treatment ever since.

They were in such bad condition with an awful case of demodex (a skin mite) that staff couldn’t even tell what breed they were when they first came in.

Inspector Smith continues to investigate what happened to these dogs, saying: “Anyone with any information about how these three dogs came to end up in such a state, or who thinks they know where they have come from, can call the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”

September 27, 2016
World Animal Day 2016 (October 4) Your Chance To Tell The World That Animals Matter
Every year, a huge variety of inspiring events are held around the globe. World Animal Day unites the animal welfare movement, mobilising it into a global force for change with no regard to nationality, religion, faith or political ideology. It’s the one day of the year that embraces all animals and the unique concerns of each, in every country.

What is World Animal Day?

www.worldanimalday.org.uk is a social movement to raise the status of animals and improve welfare standards around the globe. Animal welfare organisations, community groups, youth and children’s clubs, businesses and individuals organise events in celebration of this special day to draw attention to animal issues and make them front page news.

Why celebrate World Animal Day?

Throughout history, social movements like World Animal Day have been key in fighting for social justice and reform, with ground-breaking laws being passed in response.

The lives of animals are profoundly affected by the actions of individuals, businesses and nations.

It’s therefore essential that, as sentient beings, their rightful status as recipients of social justice is established and translated into effective animal protection.

Through increased awareness and education, we can help create a new culture of respect and sensitivity to make this world a fairer place for all animals. World Animal Day has already brought about a significant and lasting contribution towards advancing animal welfare standards, and its influence will continue to grow (there are a few examples in ‘Editors Notes’ below). World Animal Day Ambassadors Currently, there are 92 Ambassadors working in 74 countries, all of them keen to be part of this global movement to bring about change for animals.

Here’s what two Ambassadors have to say about World Animal Day: Otara Gunewardene, Sri Lanka –

“World Animal Day in Sri Lanka goes beyond celebrating one day. It is about education, creating awareness; influencing and inspiring young people to establish a world where harmonious co-existence with animals is a reality.”

Thomas Kahema, Tanzania –

“All that we do in celebration of World Animal day has been a big lesson to government, local communities and schools throughout the country. Many people now understand the reasons why it’s important for them to take the care of animals seriously.”

Celebrating World Animal Day unites the animal protection movement creating a global force to improve the lives of animals. Everyone who cares about animals can get involved and help the World Animal Day movement grow until it reaches and connects animal advocates in all corners of the globe.

Last minute ideas World Animal Day might only be days away but you can still get involved. Your participation, large or small, will help mobilise people for action now for a better future for animals.

Annual Global Wave to mark World Animal Day every year! Whoever you are. Wherever you are.
- Take a selfie to help promote World Animal Day.
- Play an important role by sharing your #worldanimalday selfie with friends on social media and with World Animal Day HQ.
- Find out more and print a Happy World Animal Day Hashtag Selfie Poster.
- Publish a personal pledge for the animals on the World Animal Day website. Every pledge makes a difference – what will yours be?
Sign up as a member now to get more involved in helping to raise the status of animals. More ideas of ways you can get involved last minute can found here. Every one of us can make a difference – together we make change happen!
September 27, 2016
I’m Still Alive Because a Rescue Dog Saved My Life (The Video That’s Got Everybody Talking)

On the verge of a premature death, a man discovers the amazing power of a rescue dog. This is a video that will make you want to tell your friends about. We sometimes take what our dogs give us for granted without ever REALLY thinking about how incredible their input is on our daily lives and physical and mental health. Give this video a watch. You won’t regret it.

September 27, 2016
People’s Dogs Can End up Dead If Their Owners Forget to Do This One, Simple Thing

The thought of losing a beloved dog is a traumatising one for most people. The idea that we could lose that dog forever and that our much loved pet could end up losing his or her own life as a result of something, a simple thing, that we failed to do is even more horrifying. Yet, it’s happening. It’s happening, sadly, all too often. It’s preventable and if you haven’t done it yet, today’s the day to take action without delay.

Dogs Trust reveals stray dog numbers in the UK have fallen, yet 64% of microchipped dogs seized by Local Authorities don’t have up-to-date microchip details

There has been a 21% decline in the number of stray dogs handled by Local Authorities in 2015-2016. However, over 37,000 lost and abandoned dogs remained unclaimed in local authority kennels last year according to the annual Stray Dog Survey*, published today, by Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity.

Whilst this figure is alarming, it’s even more worrying that 1 in every 8 (4,732) of these unclaimed dogs are believed to be beloved pets who have found themselves languishing in kennels, facing the threat of destruction, simply because forgetful owners haven’t updated their dogs microchip details. This figure equates to 12 dogs a day or one dog every two hours.

The fact that these dogs are microchipped, suggests they were once a much loved member of the family, yet forgetfulness by owners could sadly lead to their dog being needlessly put to sleep by local authorities because their owners cannot be traced. With compulsory microchipping coming into force on 6th April 2016, the charity is positive that we will begin to see a bigger decline in the number of stray dogs, with even more dogs being successfully reunited with their owners over the next 12 months.

Dogs Trust questions local authorities across the UK as part of the annual Stray Dog Survey. The 2016 findings (for the period 1st April 2015-31st March 2016) reveal:

• 81,050 stray dogs were handled by Local Authorities in the last year, a 21% decrease in the total number of stray dogs compared to last year when 102,516 dogs were handled by Local Authorities
• Yet, Dogs Trust is shocked to discover that a quarter of the 16,447 stray dogs handed into local councils with a microchip, face being destroyed by local authorities simply because their owners haven’t updated their contact details .
• 43,767 of the 81,050 stray dogs in the UK were reunited with their owners, with over 9,000 reunifications being due to a microchip.
• 3,463 stray dogs were reluctantly put to sleep by Local Authorities, as they struggle to care for the vast numbers of strays that are picked up on the streets every day (down 32% vs last year in terms of absolute figures)
• 37,283 dogs remained unclaimed in council kennels last year

Updating a dog’s microchip details, if you move house or change your telephone number, is a very simple task, you can do it online, by telephone or post and takes just five minutes. However, a study conducted by Dogs Trust** has found a mere 9% of dog owners consider updating their dogs’ microchips post-move a priority, with sorting digital TV coming above this.

Dogs Trust Chief Executive, Adrian Burder said:

“To discover that the number of stray dogs in the UK is down from last year is promising, but with over 37,000 dogs remaining unclaimed in Council pounds last year, it’s clear we still have work to do. Local Authorities work tirelessly caring for stray and abandoned dogs each year, but sadly they just don’t have the resources or man power to care for every stray dog in the UK. Stray dogs that find themselves at Dogs Trust are the lucky ones, as we will never put a healthy dog to sleep, but not all of the unclaimed dogs are so fortunate”

“What’s most saddening from this year’s figures is the 4,732 dogs who face destruction due to a lack of an up- to-date microchip. Compulsory microchipping came into force in Northern Ireland in 2012 and in England, Scotland and Wales on 6th April this year, with penalties being handed out to any dog owner whose pet doesn’t have an up to date microchip. We hope this new law will significantly bring down the number of stray dogs and have a very positive effect on next year’s Stray Dog Survey results.

September 27, 2016
This Will Definitely Be The Weirdest Dog X-Ray You’ll See Today

This x-ray of Chico the dog appears to show a ‘spare rib’. But the anomaly was actually down to the greedy pet swallowing a six-inch cow rib bone whole!

PDSA vets were gobsmacked that Chico, a one-year-old Mastiff-type, had managed to wolf it down without causing himself an injury.

Susie Hermit, Senior Vet at PDSA’s Glasgow Shamrock Street Pet Hospital, said: “I’ve never seen an x-ray like it before, the position of the bone really did look like Chico had an extra rib!

“Amazingly he’d managed to swallow the bone whole but didn’t seem to be in any pain. However, we knew we had to carry out emergency surgery to remove it because it could have caused a life-threatening tear to his stomach or intestines.”

Chico’s owner, Craig Anderson (41), from Newlands, Glasgow, said he had bought the rib bone as a treat for his beloved pet.

““I thought if I supervised him it would be fine but he literally swallowed it in one mouthful.

“He seemed fine but I knew he wouldn’t be able to digest it properly so I took him straight to PDSA.”

Thankfully Chico has gone on to make a full recovery, although bones are now firmly off the menu.

Craig added: “I was so worried while he was in the operating theatre. It’s a miracle the bone didn’t cause any damage. I’m so grateful to PDSA for the amazing care they gave to Chico, it’s something I’ll never forget.

“It goes without saying but I don’t give bones to him anymore after this. It’s definitely a case of once bitten twice shy.”

Susie added: “Chico is very lucky. We don’t recommend bones to be given as treats because they can cause digestive tract damage and blockages. Surgery is usually needed to remove the blockage and, in some cases, the damage is so serious that it can be fatal.”

Thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA is educating pet owners about pets eating inappropriate foods and objects, and how to keep their animals safe.

Bones were the most common items removed from pets’ stomachs by PDSA vets last year, with 59 cases seen. Other strange items swallowed by pets include stones (28 cases) and corn on the cob (29).

PDSA vets say training pets from a young age in basic commands like ‘drop’ and ‘leave’ can help to get them to let go of inappropriate objects if you catch them in the act

September 26, 2016
Why Did This MP Block One Of The UK’s Most Committed Anti Puppy Farm Campaigning Groups?

Inquiry – an act of asking for information or to conduct a formal investigation.

On 8th September SNP MP Dr Paul Monaghan for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross reminded us he was involved in an inquiry into animal welfare through his role as a member of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, EFRA Select Committee Special Sub-Committee on Greyhound Welfare and the EFRA Select Committee Special Sub-Committee on Animal Welfare saying “Traveling to Wales tomorrow with @CommonsEFRA to visit puppy farms & dog rescue services as part of our ongoing inquiry into animal welfare.”

This was then followed by a tweet on 9th September which said:

The inquiry launched earlier this year and since then, no doubt as a result of what he has learnt, he has been active showing support by joining different campaigning groups on protests.

Indeed on 23rd May he replied to the International Fund for Animal Welfare Parliamentary Team who applauded him for tabling an Early Day motion in Westminster calling for tighter legislation on dog breeding saying, “It’s a privilege to be able to highlight and support animal welfare issues. Let’s hope change is around the corner.”

Whenever an MP backs calls for better animal welfare to create a brighter future for Britain’s animals in need it has to be a good thing, that’s what we all hope as dog lovers because there are far too many stories around the world daily showing man’s best friend suffering at man’s hand.

However, when a publicly appointed MP with a role in animal welfare on a public forum such as Twitter takes a personal stance on an organisation who he has previously shared material from, hope turns to something else. It’s a feeling unlike another. Over the years many things come up which I keep silent about. Ryan’s voice, as publisher of K9 Magazine, is very often enough more eloquent than mine. Brevity is not my friend, but it is his.

Through dogsblog.com we see a lot of stories of dogs rescued from puppy farms and so I see the end result if you like, as animal rescues pick up the pieces from all types of situations trying to give a dog a second chance in life. The life they should have had.

The organisation he has chosen to take a personal stance about is Puppy Love Campaigns, who are supported by author and Huffington Post contributor Janetta Harvey, who’s main body of work revolves around raising awareness to puppy farming and the long-term effects on the dogs saved based on personal experience, and he seems to have also taken a personal stance here having taken the same action against her.

Puppy Love Campaigns aren’t a group who court media and publicity, but in my opinion, that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve it. Their investigations have resulted in 10 puppy farms (and counting) being closed, saving many dogs from a life as a breeding machine in dark, squalid conditions we as dog lovers can’t quite get our heads around.

Their videos and images have been circulated by many other puppy farming campaigns utilising their hard work and efforts to spread the word using the material and evidence they gather.

Surely an MP with a role actively involved in inquiries about animal welfare should be doing all he can to benefit from the advice, work and specialist knowledge of those involved?

Instead, after sharing news on 8th that he was visiting Wales as part of his work into animal welfare, he took the decision on 9th September to block both Janetta and Puppy Love Campaigns.

This essentially stops them from engaging with him, but also stops him from seeing their activity on Twitter. For an MP who can be quoted telling us we should all “show respect to those we share our planet with” and who seems to want to do good and see an end to puppy farming, he will now miss out on vital news, information and advice he could benefit from for the good of the inquiry from Janetta, who has recently launched a book with a campaign to educate children about the subject and Puppy Love Campaigns, who have helped to close down – say it with me – 10 and counting puppy farms.

This seems to be a thought echoed by many others who have echoed disbelief at the public figure’s actions, let alone those involved. Janetta has detailed her thoughts on her website while Puppy Love Campaigns have been left confused by the MP’s stance. All of which I note seem to have, publicly anyhow, gone without reply.

Investigations of Puppy Love Campaigns have also resulted in 3 breeders being struck off the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme. This scheme was implemented after the critically acclaimed ‘Pedigree Dogs Exposed’ documentary aired on the BBC highlighting the plight of certain dog breeds bred to conform to specific standards outlined by the Kennel Club.

When you cut through the marketing, the Assured Breeder Scheme in the Kennel Club’s own words “helps puppy buyers find breeders who follow good practice. We wish to guarantee a responsible and rewarding experience for everyone. Every single Assured Breeder will be inspected by the Kennel Club, a UKAS accredited certification body, in order to ensure that the scheme is recognised as the essential quality seal for puppy breeding and buying.”

In exchange for joining and for the above, breeders can use the scheme literature and logo to promote their litters of puppies. The Kennel Club say “this is an important badge that shows puppy buyers your commitment to the health and welfare of your dogs.”

The reason I highlight the work of Puppy Love Campaigns is for one reason only – they don’t seek the limelight, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve applause for their work.

Puppy Love Campaigns is made up of a group of volunteers who want to see an end to the puppy farming trade and as such, remain anonymous to allow them to carry out their investigations gathering evidence to pass onto bodies, such as the RSPCA and Local Authorities at which point the investigations continue with the relevant bodies able to ensure cases are taken to court, such as the latest case in Wales or in other cases, improvement orders will be given, ensuring a better life for the dogs.

Their investigations begin with calls from concerned members of the public, sometimes neighbours of individuals who are mistreating animals and aren’t sure what to do. This organisation has the trust of the public, after all, their investigations stem from public reports.

Photo Credit: Facebook.com/puppylovecampaigns

Their work is not built on personal opinions and they don’t seek thanks from members of the public, but they deserve respect and they deserve to be listened to, particularly if you are part of an inquiry into the subject.

Photo Credit: Facebook.com/puppylovecampaigns

In fact, wouldn’t you assume a publicly appointed figure would be seeking the ear of a body who have helped to close puppy farms across the UK?

Photo Credit: Facebook.com/puppylovecampaigns

After waiting what we felt was a respectable amount of time for the publicly appointed, but no doubt busy, MP to reply, we contacted his office for a comment for this story.

We asked him why he had chosen to block. He told us after originally engaging with them (at the time of writing, this activity is still visible for anyone who wishes to browse), he spoke with someone leading him to feel they had a difference of viewpoint on strategies taken and repeated multiple times it was a personal decision.,

Which left us confused as to why with this in mind he has left a tweet showing him sharing images taken by Puppy Love Campaigns (as below).

To this, he replied that he feels there was no reason to delete it as the sentiment is in line with his viewpoint.

We can’t help but feel that by blocking those who have had a voice about the subject of puppy farming for longer (Janetta) or those who have had more of a direct role in communicating with and investigating puppy farms than you may have, you cast aspersions by doing so, given the goal of all is to end puppy farming.

We put this to him and he said: “It’s important not to lose sight of the goal from all involved to end puppy farming.” He concluded wishing them well but reiterated his personal stance.

Surely, this is a conflict of interest? If you’re using the platform to voice your work as a public official and MP for your constituency and beyond if you sit on committees, surely you should be open to receiving information, advice and data from those who have more expertise on a subject than you, as someone on an inquiry gathering data and insights to assess?

After all, if you already knew all there was to know on a subject why hold an inquiry at all?

We remain hopefully the enquiry will bring a silver lining to the lives of animals in need, but the subject of bias has to be raised, because lets face it, if you don’t have all of the data or insights on a subject how can you say you fully investigated and assessed for a well rounded, complete inquiry.

Sadly, the topic of puppy farming is one those within the field are split about. Some believe stopping third party sales will end puppy farming, some, including Puppy Love Campaigns and the RSPCA, disagree saying third party sales would continue somehow, instead they would like to see every seller and breeder licenced.

September 23, 2016
Switzerland Govt Vote to End Obligatory Training Courses for Dog Owners

Switzerland’s Parliament has voted to end compulsory training courses dog owners. The rule, which was introduced in 2008, meant that when someone acquired a dog, they had to undertake four hours of obedience training classes and first-time dog owners also had to attend a theory class.

The reason the government has given for its change in stance on compulsory education is due to the report published in March which said that dog courses were not having a major impact, admitting around 20% of dog owners didn’t attend the compulsory courses, and of those who did the report claimed there wasn’t a noticeable behavioural difference in the dogs who attended vs those who hadn’t.

The number of incidents reported, such as dog bites, has also not decreased.

Banned dog breeds in Switzerland

Switzerland is home to more than 500,000 dogs.

As yet, it is not clear how this change in legislation will affect dog owners of breeds on the dangerous dogs list who have to complete 72 hours of obedience training classes with their dogs over a two-year period. , which includes the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, English Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Akita

Switzerland’s banned breeds include the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, English Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Akita inu and Fila Brasileiro.

September 21, 2016