Total Dog Magazine

Category: Dog News

The latest dog news from around the world

  • Staffies Top Most Neglected Breed List With More Seized by UK Councils Than Any Other Breed

    Staffies Top Most Neglected Breed List With More Seized by UK Councils Than Any Other Breed

    New research out today has discovered that more Staffordshire Bull Terriers than any other breed are seized by UK councils. They’re also the breed most rehomed by councils, yet also the breed most put to sleep by local authorities.

    Other most common dog breeds taken in by councils this year include Jack Russell Terriers, cross-breeds, Terriers and Lurchers.

    Behind the Staffie as the most rehomed and most put to sleep breed, the cross-breed is also most rehomed and most put to sleep.

    Once seized, whether as a result of being abandoned by their owners or otherwise, councils have a clear policy. They try to locate owners, if owners aren’t found – or don’t wish to take the dog back – they have 7 days to find a new home or find a rescue who can take the dog into their care. If this doesn’t happen, the dog is sadly put to sleep.

    But while these findings, released by Direct Line Pet Insurance, are saddening, do they also highlight a widespread bias in the UK against the Staffie?

    The pet insurer asked dog owners for their thoughts.

    Around 6 in 10 said they felt this happened to the Staffie because of a lack of education about the dog breed and their owners lacked understanding about general dog ownership.

    Prit Powar, head of pet insurance at Direct Line said: “It is a shame Staffies top the list of the most seized breeds again and again. As with any dog, it takes energy, care and attention to train and Staffies are no exception.

    “While it is encouraging to see that the number of dogs being seized is reducing significantly year on year, there is still a long way to go. As a nation of dog lovers, there really shouldn’t be tens of thousands of dogs seized each year. Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure they can care for their pet and if they can’t, should take it to a rehoming centre or animal welfare charity, not let it roam the streets.”

    Here are 5 dogs who were abandoned by their owners who are looking for a new home to start anew in 2017

    Please share their stories & help them find a home to call their own in the New Year.

    This is Boris, he’s a Staffie boy aged approximately 1 1/2-2 years old who was found as a stray before coming in to rescue.

    Resembling a certain Star Wars character, he has a huge personality and a lot of love to give. He thinks you’ll love him, you will.

    Read more about Boris on dogsblog.com

    This is Hester, she’s a 6-year-old Staffie cross who was abandoned on the street by her owners.

    Hester is a very friendly girl and loves showing off the tricks and commands she knows. Her new perfect home would be one where she’s the only dog and ideally in a rural area.

    Read more about Hester on dogsblog.com

    This is Archie, he’s a 3-year-old Bearded Collie cross who came into rescue after being abandoned.

    Poor Archie has clearly had a rough time of it before he came into rescue as he’s recovering from both a wound on his leg and a broken tail. Currently in a foster home, he is recovering well and starting to feel safe. He is ideally looking for a new home with active owners.

    Read more about Archie on dogsblog.com

    This is Burt, he’s a 6 year old Staffie cross boy who was found as a stray before coming into his rescue’s care.

    Sadly while in rescue, Burt has been overlooked and has been waiting since July for a new family to choose him. He is one very very sad lonely boy but has a lot of love to give. Could you change this for him?

    Read more about Burt on dogsblog.com

    This is Peggy, she’s a 7-year-old German Shepherd who came to rescue after being abandoned by her owners and found straying.

    Peggy has worked really hard on her socialisation skills since coming into the breed specific rescue. She really is eager to please and would ideally suit a cat free home with experienced owners who will give her the time to settle into her new home while she learns the ropes.

    Read more about Peggy on dogsblog.com

    Direct Line Pet Insurance urges anyone considering buying a dog for Christmas to seriously consider the implications of owning a dog, both financially and whether the recipient has the means to properly care for it in the long term.

  • Almost 40,000 Dogs Seized by UK Local Councils in 10 Months

    Research out today has revealed that in the first 10 months of 2016, UK councils seized around 127 dogs a day – more than 38,670 total.

    Pet insurer, Direct Line, who has released the findings discovered that of those almost a third (11,213 dogs) were rehomed and 1,238 dogs were sadly put to sleep.

    The seizure of dogs has been on the decline over the past three years, having peaked in 2014 with 73,503 dogs seized by local councils (201 dogs per day). In 2015, there were 61,339 dogs seized by local councils (168 dogs per day), with the number of seizures this year indicating that we will likely see a continuation of this trend by the end of 2016.

    But one constant factor in over the last three years has been that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has topped the list of the most seized, and most commonly euthanised dog breed, according to Direct Line Pet Insurance.

    Prit Powar, head of pet insurance at Direct Line said: “It is a shame Staffies top the list of the most seized breeds again and again. As with any dog, it takes energy, care and attention to train and Staffies are no exception.”

    Adding to the findings, 8 in 10 dogs owners list Staffordshire Bull Terriers as the breed most commonly collected by councils, showing a general awareness of the breeds’ propensity to be abandoned. When asked why they think this is, around two thirds (65 per cent) said because of a lack of education about the dog breed and a lack of understanding about general dog ownership.

    Prit Powar continued: “While it is encouraging to see that the number of dogs being seized is reducing significantly year on year, there is still a long way to go. As a nation of dog lovers, there really shouldn’t be tens of thousands of dogs seized each year. Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure they can care for their pet and if they can’t, should take it to a rehoming centre or animal welfare charity, not let it roam the streets.”

    Here are some Staffies who have been abandoned or find themselves in rescue through no fault of their own who are looking for a new home to call their own:

    Meet Flash & Angel…

    These sweet older dogs are in rescue and looking for a new home together.


    Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/flash-angel

    Meet Buddy…

    He arrived in rescue scared and lost, but has since grown in confidence. He’d love a home to call his own, could it be with you?


    Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/buddy-221

    Meet Penny…

    Beautiful Penny finds herself in rescue after coming to rescue from a council pound after being abandoned and was due to be put to sleep. Now safe in rescue, she is coming out of her shell and would love to find a new home and family to call her own.


    Find out more: http://www.dogsblog.com/penny-84

    See thousands of more dogs in need of a second chance on dogsblog.com

     

  • Puppy Bought From Puppy Farmer as Christmas Gift Given up Already, and It’s Not Even Christmas

    Puppy Bought From Puppy Farmer as Christmas Gift Given up Already, and It’s Not Even Christmas

    An eight-week-old Labrador cross puppy has found herself in rescue after being bought as a Christmas gift and unwanted by the recipient. Unwell and unwanted, she was handed into a London animal rescue centre, where she has been nursed back to health.

    The black Labrador cross, named Madison by staff at The Mayhew Animal Home had been sold from an online site to a young man who was looking to purchase a puppy for a family member. But when the young man arranged to see Madison at a flat in Amersham, the door was answered by two men who wanted £295 in cash up-front. The puppy’s mother was not present, she had no other siblings around her at the time, and she was terrified and hiding behind the sofa. The buyer was then taken to an ATM machine by the two men and the puppy was handed over with documentation when they received the money.

    These are all key signs that these men were puppy farmers. 

    Unfortunately after buying Madison, it turned out that the family member didn’t want a puppy and the poor little pooch was later brought into The Mayhew. On closer investigation, The Mayhew discovered the microchip and health papers that were given to the buyer by the sellers were false.

    The Mayhew’s Head of Animal Welfare, Gillian Notton, said: “There are already so many unwanted animals in rescue centres like ours that have come from people who buy pets on a whim, especially around Christmas time, without taking into consideration the responsibilities and needs of the pet. Unfortunately, many people don’t realise that bringing a new animal into their home takes a huge amount of preparation, perseverance and patience.”

    “Absolutely anyone over the age of 16 can walk into a pet shop or buy any animal they want online. There are no checks on the reliability and ability of buyers to look after pets and buyers won’t be aware of the pet’s background. We see a lot of unwanted dogs as they are bred purely to be sold for profit or used as a breeding machine. It is completely irresponsible to buy a puppy online, from pet shops or from illegal breeders, but unfortunately, we see this happen far too often. Purchasing pets in this way fuels the already huge problem of illegal breeding and unwanted animals and animal charities like ours are left to pick up the pieces.”

    The Mayhew’s Head Vet, Dr Ursula Goetz MRCVS, GP Cert (SAS) CVO, said: “Unfortunately we see a lot of puppies like Madison, who have been sold online and from illegal breeders, and with little care taken over their welfare. Many of these puppies are too young to have been removed from their mothers and haven’t been vaccinated or de-wormed.”

    Things to consider before bringing a dog into your home

    1. Can you properly care for them?

    The Animal Welfare Act places a duty of care on people to ensure they provide the five welfare needs of their animal. When buying a pet, you need to know how to look after the pet correctly ensuring that you are able to provide these five needs, including providing a suitable environment, need for a suitable diet, need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns, need to be housed with or apart from other animals, need to be protected from pain, injury, disease, and suffering. Buying from a retailer is less likely to ensure that the buyer or new owner is going to be able to provide these needs.

    2. Can you afford the costs (known and unexpected) associated with owning a pet?

    There are already so many unwanted animals in rescue centres across the country that have been victims of people that buy pets on a whim, especially around Christmas time. Many animals have been given up because of health issues they have when they were first sold and the owner realises they can no longer cope or afford treatment. For example, puppy farming conditions, where many puppies and their parents are born into and living in are horrendous and can cause such suffering. Those that buy from these retailers could be unknowingly supporting these farms by continuously buying and selling on these animals.

    3. Can you trust where they came from?

    Puppy farming is a huge industry and thousands of dogs suffer as a result of it. The only way puppy farmers will stop doing what they do is if people stop buying from them – learn how to spot the signs.

    So know your puppy’s source. From animal rescues, this is simple as you can research them and they will provide any history they know of for the dog.

    But if you do decide to get a puppy from a breeder, try to get recommendations from owners and breed clubs about reputable breeders.

    You should always make sure you see the puppy with its mum and litter, checking that they really are the puppies’ family. Responsible breeders should be happy to give you a full medical history of the animal. Responsible owners and breeders would de-worm their puppy at least once and have them vaccinated before selling them.

  • South Korea’s Most Infamous Dog Meat Market Shuts Down

    South Korea’s Most Infamous Dog Meat Market Shuts Down

    Victory is being declared by an animal welfare organisation as the news of South Korea’s most infamous dog meat market is shut down amidst research which shows public opposition to the dog meat trade within South Korea is at an all time high with almost half of South Koreans seeking a ban on the practice altogether.


    Dog once saved from a dog meat market in South Korea flying to new home in the USA / Photo Credit: In Defense of Animals

    Animal welfare organisation, In Defense of Animals, has welcomed the news that the Moran Livestock Association, South Korea’s biggest livestock market, and Seongnam City have agreed to stop the slaughter, confinement, and sale of dogs, therefore stopping the trade at its core.

    “The closure of Korea’s most infamous dog meat market at Moran deals a significant blow to the heart of the dog meat trade,” said In Defense of Animals President, Dr Marilyn Kroplick.

    “We thank Seongnam city officials and Mayor, Jae Myung Lee, for taking a humane position. Moran market has run with the blood of hundreds of thousands of dogs for many years, so this is a step in the right direction in our fight to end the horrific dog meat trade. However, we expect the dog butchers to set up their dirty business elsewhere, so In Defense of Animals will remain vigilant and will not rest until we take dog meat off the menu for good.”


    More dogs saved from the dog meat trade in South Korea ready for a life of safety / Photo Credit: In Defense of Animals

    In Defense of Animals has campaigned for many years to close Moran market, which sells (or sold) 80,000 dogs a year, citing blatant violations of animal welfare laws and brutal killings of which dogs, often next to cages packed full of live dogs.

    Although this is a positive step forward in the fight to end the horrific dog meat trade, In Defense of Animals urges caution. The city of Seongnam has committed to support dog meat vendors to venture into other trades, but the dog butchers may take their business elsewhere. In Defense of Animals will not be satisfied until dog meat is ended entirely.

     

  • London Assembly Backs Charity’s Calls to Review Dangerous Dogs Act

    London Assembly Backs Charity’s Calls to Review Dangerous Dogs Act

    With hopes of ending breed specific legislation in the UK, dog lovers and animal organisations alike have welcomed a motion unanimously agreed by members of the London Assembly to request a formal review into the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

    The London Assembly agreed with a motion calling on the Mayor to write to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to request a formal review of the act, brought in 25 years ago.

    The RSPCA, who launched a campaign earlier this year calling on the Government to hold an inquiry into the effectiveness of the law believes part of the act – which uses breed specific legislation to prohibit owning four breeds and types of dog – Pit bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro – has failed to protect public safety and is seriously compromising dog welfare.

    Something echoed by other organisations across the globe who have seen breed specific legislation implemented with no decrease in dog attacks, in fact in Toronto, Canada dog attacks have risen.

    Speaking about the members of London Assembly’s decision to request a formal review into the DDA 1991, RSPCA senior parliamentary advisor, Rachel Williams, said: “Breed specific legislation is a piece of outdated and ineffective legislation which urgently needs reviewing, repealing and replacing with something which better protects the safety of the public as well as considering the welfare of dogs in this country.

    “Currently, breed specific legislation means that a well-rounded, well-behaved, much-loved family pet which has never shown any signs of aggression can be torn from his home and everything he knows and could face being put to sleep simply for looking a certain way.

    She continued, “Ultimately, we’d like to see this part of the Dangerous Dogs Act repealed and replaced with legislation which deals with dogs on an individual case-by-case basis and does not penalise dogs simply for the way the look.

    Assembly Member Steve O’Connell, who proposed the motion, said: “This is about recognising the current policies designed to protect people from dangerous dogs are not fit for purpose, as well as improving animal welfare standards.

    “It’s important that, if the current system is not working, we look at other ways of handling what is a growing problem.

    “The consequences for victims of a dog attack can be devastating and I hope the relevant authorities take note of our motion.”

    Add your voice to the RSPCA’s petition calling on the Government to review the law here

  • Does Your Dog Have Star Appeal? Celebrity Led Event Looking for Canine Stage Star

    Does Your Dog Have Star Appeal? Celebrity Led Event Looking for Canine Stage Star

    Comedian-actor-satirist Harry Shearer, best known for his iconic roles in Spinal Tap and The Simpsons, and his musician-singer-songwriter wife Judith Owen are searching for a Christmas loving dog, dubbed the ‘Dog Of Xmas’ to appear in Christmas Without Tears, a charity evening of music, comedy and variety taking place at King’s Place Concert Hall, London on December 8th 2016 and would like YOU to share your festive photos with them.

    Dog owners who fancy their beloved pooch as the next star of the stage should tweet a Christmassy attired pic of their canine to @Hamandhigh and @JudithOwen with a picture by December 6 and she/he could be picked to join the cast on December 8 as the ‘Dog of Xmas’.

    “Besides, don’t we all just want to look at photos of dogs in antlers?!” said Judith.

    The ‘Dog Of Xmas’ will join a formidable list of special guests including writer, director, radio presenter, comedian, actor and star of Extras and The Office Stephen Merchant, Oscar, Golden Globe and Grammy nominated actress of Downton Abbey, Elizabeth McGovern, Grammy and Emmy winning producer and instrumentalist Kipper Eldridge (Sting), Jacqui Dankworth, one of the most highly regarded vocalists in the UK, and Memphis treasure jazz pianist/singer Charlie Wood.

    They are joined by Chris Difford, co-founder of Squeeze, and singer songwriter and BBC Radio 2 favourite Nell Bryden and the rocking American singer and boogie-woogie pianist extraordinaire Doña Oxford.

    Adding to the Christmas feast of talent come lords of the London jazz scene The Kansas Smitty’s House Band, one fiddler fiddling in the shape of the classical violinist with attitude, Lizzie Ball and Classical Kicks, Brazilian drummer and percussionist Pedro Segundo, the most versatile and exciting cellist of her generation Gabriella Swallow, the country singer, poster girl of American democracy and global brand that is Tina C, all topped off with a partridge in a pear tree – darling of the airwaves, lifestyle guru for the over-eighties Barry From Watford aka the superlative Alex Lowe.

    As Harry Shearer tells it, “the show started as a party in our home to try to comfort Judith, a Welsh woman prone to melancholia, who could not stand that the fact that Christmas in Southern California was about 78 degrees and sunny.”

    What began as a humble holiday house party to chase away Judith’s yuletide blues became a charity event and performance in 2005 when they staged it to aid the people of New Orleans after Katrina. This year’s shows in London, Chicago, LA and NOLA will benefit a variety of different charities raising money for the homeless, mental health and musician’s assistance (USA shows).

  • Thousands of School Children Set to Be Entertained & Educated, Thanks to a Dog Named Badger

    A dog named Badger is set to entertain and educate thousands of young children next year visiting events held up and down the UK, subtly addressing issues such as bullying and friendship.

    The initiative, which was launched by children’s book authors Lyn McNicol and Laura Cameron Jackson in 2011, focuses on the adventures of Badger the Mystical Mutt and reaches out to children aged 5-9 years old.

    The canine-inspired series has so far sold over 30,000 copies, has even been on the British Consulate in New York’s list of reasons why Britain is great (alongside Andy Murray and Downton Abbey’s Mr Bates!).

    In between writing books, the authors have toured over 1000 schools, libraries, book festivals, bookshops and encouraged reluctant readers to read because they have met Badger live and ‘in the fur’ and with lots on the horizon, including a potential TV series, Badger has received a boost in support this year from Scotland’s Land of Holistic Pets who have sponsored Badger’s branded bookmarks, which will be given away free at the mystical mutt’s events.

    Speaking about the bookmark initiative, McNicol said: “We want to offer children something to take away after they’ve experienced a Badger session (We encountered Badger-mania, the Head Teacher’s words, not ours, last week when 320 children started chanting Badger’s name. The HT sent for reinforcements to ring-fence the audience and protect Badger from a surge of fans).”

    And it’s not just for the children as she explained, “The bookmark also joins it up for parents, when the children return home excitedly talking about Badger, they can see from the bookmark that Badger is a book series, where to go to find out more.”

    Badger co-author and illustrator Laura Jackson continued, “We are delighted to be partnered with Land of Holistic Pets and to enable every child, whether they purchase one of our books or not, to get a free Badger gift, after meeting him live ‘in the fur’ at an event. As soon as I spotted Spirulina as one of the ingredients in the Luath range, which I take myself, I knew we were on the same page in terms of healthy pet nutrition. I didn’t know that Robert Burns’ dog was called Luath, so it really does feel like Rabbie’s’ ‘Twa Dogs’ have met up again.”

  • Senator Bob Dole to Tell President Trump He ‘Ought to Have a Dog in the White House’

    Senator Bob Dole to Tell President Trump He ‘Ought to Have a Dog in the White House’

    Senator Bob Dole has revealed he has spoken with President-Elect Donald Trump and will be advising him to get a dog when he moves into the White House next year.

    The newly elected President doesn’t own a dog and as K9 Magazine has previously shared, history is littered with leaders and their dogs, especially in the White House which will say goodbye to Bo and Sunny when the Obamas move out.

    Senator Dole’s own dog, Leader, regularly accompanied him to work (pictured below) and along with his wife, they have owned many dogs for years. Indeed, Leader II was honoured by the Doles with a birthday party in 2012 commemorating his 13th birthday with a party for friends and family, including the couple’s 16 other dogs.


    Photo Credit: Robert J. Dole Archive and Special Collections

    Speaking at the ASPCA awards where he was honoured with their Presidential Service Award, Senator Dole said: “I didn’t realize when I was elected to Congress in 1961 that you could do things that would make a difference for animals — these poor defenseless creatures that are being mistreated.”


    Photo Credit: ASPCA

    With 35 years in Congress and experience as a decorated soldier, former Senator Bob Dole is well known for serving his country, but is perhaps less well known, until now, for he used his time in public office to help animals in need.

    While in office, Dole championed humane legislation, advocated for animals in crisis, and brought critical attention to important animal issues.

    In 1974, after learning the U.S. Army experimented with toxic chemicals on beagles, Dole introduced a bill outlawing the practice. He championed important amendments to the Humane Slaughter Act, which mandated unprecedented humane standards and inspections for facilities producing meat for the public. In 1984, he was awarded the ASPCA Award for Humane Excellence for his consistent commitment to protecting vulnerable animals in the U.S.

    Since his retirement from politics in 1996, the 93-year-old has remained active in the animal welfare cause, advocating for a permanent ban on horse slaughter, protecting the pets of domestic violence victims, and condemning the barbaric treatment of farm animals at the USDA’s U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC).

    His advocacy helped encourage Congress to take action to ensure the facility’s compliance with the Animal Welfare Act. As recently as July, Dole graciously participated in a series of ASPCA events in Washington D.C. that showcase the selfless work of our nation’s animal shelters and the importance of passing key animal welfare legislation.

    Here’s why animals are so important to him and how it all began for Senator Dole.

  • Puppy Farmers Are Jailed For Leaving Dead & Dying Dogs in a Wheelbarrow

    Puppy Farmers Are Jailed For Leaving Dead & Dying Dogs in a Wheelbarrow

    Two people have been disqualified from keeping dogs for life for a string of animal welfare offences following an RSPCA investigation into the underground puppy trade.

    Inspectors from the animal welfare charity and police found a wheelbarrow of dead and dying dogs at a farm in Bradford after launching an investigation following calls from members of the public who had bought puppies which became ill.

    On Friday (18 November), a man and a woman appeared at Leeds Magistrates’ Court for sentencing in connection with a number of animal welfare offences relating to puppies and dogs seized from the property, in Tyersal Lane, following the warrant in September last year.

    Farm manager John Wilcock (DoB: 09/07/80) of Sticker Lane, Bradford, admitted five offences while Bernadette Nunney (DoB: 04/11/91), of Tyersal Lane, Bradford, pleaded not guilty to six offences. She was found guilty on 20 October following a four-day trial.

    Today, the duo were both sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, and were each disqualified from keeping dogs for life.

    Nunney was also handed a 12 week curfew order, ordered to complete a 15-day rehabilitation activity, and ordered to pay £500 in costs.

    Wilcock was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and a 20-day rehabilitation activity. He was also ordered to pay £100 in costs.

    When RSPCA officers and police executed the warrant they came across a wheelbarrow of dead collie puppies. As they filmed the heartbreaking scene for evidence they realised that one of the pups – a black and white female, buried beneath the dead bodies of her littermates – was still alive.

    She was rushed to the vets but later died. Post mortems revealed that she and her siblings had died from parvovirus.

    Nunney and Wilcock were accused of causing unnecessary suffering to the seven puppies, as well as a number of other offences [full details below]. They also faced three further allegations of causing unnecessary suffering to a total of 10 dogs, and two offences of failing to meet the needs of 30 dogs.

    RSPCA inspector Emma Ellis, who investigated, said: “What I saw that day will stay with me forever.

    “The sight of the live puppy buried within the pile of dead puppies was heartbreaking. There was nothing we could do to save her. The way those puppies were left to die highlights how these people simply see them as commodities which I find totally unacceptable.

    “Dozens of dogs were being kept at the address in stables and kennel blocks. Many had no food, no water, no bedding, and all of them were living in their own filth.”

    http://i.imgur.com/xPHpupk.jpg

    Inspectors found 43 dogs – including collies, spaniels, bichon frises, Labradors, beagles, Chihuahuas, and some terrier-cross types – most of which were seized by the police and placed into the RSPCA’s care.

    RSPCA special operations unit chief inspector (CI) Ian Briggs, said: “There is a growing demand for certain breeds of dogs – such as chihuahuas, spaniels and bichon frises – and genuine, regulated breeders simply cannot meet demand.

    “Unregulated puppy breeders and dealers are plugging this gap in the market by producing dogs on a commercial scale and putting money and profits ahead of the health, welfare and happiness of the dogs.

    “When our investigations bring us to places such as this farm, we often find dogs living in squalid, sub-standard conditions meaning the unsuspecting public often end up parting with hundreds and hundreds of pounds for puppies who have behavioural issues or health problems throughout their lives. In some of the worst cases, their beloved family pet dies in their arms just days after bringing them home.”

    The case came to court following an investigation by the RSPCA as well as a sting by journalists from BBC’s Watchdog. During their investigation, reporters bought a dog (pictured above) from the Bradford farm which was then rehomed with animal behaviourist Carrie Evans.

    “Gizmo was exceptionally frightened and very poorly,” Carrie said. “He was grossly underweight, had worms, had an intestinal infection, and infected ears.

    “Due to bad breeding, Gizmo has horrendous deformities in his legs and feet, and his feet can sometimes rotate backwards. He also has an undershot jaw.”

    CI Briggs added: “When our investigations bring us to places such as this farm, we often find dogs living in squalid, sub-standard conditions.

    “Unsuspecting members of the public end up parting with hundreds and hundreds of pounds for puppies who have behavioural issues because they’ve not been properly socialised, or health problems, due to poor conditions and no veterinary treatment. In some of the worst cases, their beloved family pet dies in their arms just days after bringing them home.”

    The RSPCA has launched a campaign to tackle the underground market in puppies following a 122% increase in the number of calls the charity’s cruelty line receives on the issue. The Scrap the Puppy Trade campaign is calling on the Government in England to introduce stricter legislation around the breeding and selling of dogs, and also seeks to help the public in how to responsibly buy a puppy.

  • Dog Owners Walk Three Times Further Than Non-Dog Owners

    Hot on the heels of academic research that dog owners are happier, healthier and live longer than non-dog owners, a pet food firm has given further insight into why this might be ahead of their The One Brit And His Dog study due to be published in the Spring.

    According to the pet food manufacturer the reason dog owners are fitter and healthier than non-dog owners could easily be put down to the fact that dog owners typically walk 21 miles a week, whereas non-dog owners walk only 7.

    The report, which has been commissioned by Butcher’s Pet Care indicates that people who own a dog are likely to exercise at least three times more a week than the rest of the nation, as they walk or run for an average of 74 minutes every day, in addition to their normal exercise.

    Of those who took part in the survey, seven in 10 dog owners said they love the fact they manage to get so much exercise now they own a dog, with the majority feeling fitter, healthier and more energetic since owning a dog, and not just in body, but in spirit too, while one in 3 also said walking their dogs allowed them to de-stress after work, and a quarter felt it helped them to escape their busy schedules.

    Commenting on the findings, Clare Scallon, marketing manager at the pet food firm said: “Decades ago, owners very rarely needed to walk their dog as they were often just let out into the garden or roamed the local area freely, but times have changed! It is now up to the owners to keep their dogs fit and due to this their fitness levels have increased too.”

  • Dog Owners in These Regions Were Fined Almost £250,000 Last Year, Where Does Yours Rank?

    Dog Owners in These Regions Were Fined Almost £250,000 Last Year, Where Does Yours Rank?

    New research out today has revealed that councils across the UK have issued dog owners with more than 6,000 dog fouling fines raising over £360,000 from 2015 to July 2016, with £247,282 raised last year alone.

    The findings, which have been released by Direct Line Pet Insurance detail which regions were handed more fines for not cleaning up after their dogs. Where does yours feature on the list?

    No.1 offender: Scotland

    863 fines issued for dog fouling
    12,906 reports received for dog fouling
    = £28,860 raised

    No.2 offender: North West

    698 fines issued for dog fouling
    12,723 reports received for dog fouling
    = £45,628 raised

    No.3 offender: Yorkshire & the Humberside

    623 fines issued for dog fouling
    9,731 reports received for dog fouling
    = £35,560 raised

    No.4 offender: Wales

    615 fines issued for dog fouling
    7,403 reports received for dog fouling
    = £48,225 raised

    No.5 offender: East Midlands

    341 fines issued for dog fouling
    5,689 reports received for dog fouling
    = £8,470 raised

    No.6 offender: North East

    264 fines issued for dog fouling
    10,344 reports received for dog fouling
    = £14,748 raised

    No.7 offender: West Midlands

    217 fines issued for dog fouling
    5,016 reports received for dog fouling
    = £12,810 raised

    No.8 offender: South East

    200 fines issued for dog fouling
    9,509 reports received for dog fouling
    = £8,676 raised

    No.9 offender: Northern Ireland

    182 fines issued for dog fouling
    1,614 reports received for dog fouling
    = £14,030 raised

    No.10 offender: South West

    178 issued for dog fouling
    5,088 reports received for dog fouling
    = £11,405 raised
    No.11 offender: London

    160 issued for dog fouling
    8,187 reports received for dog fouling
    = £11,720 raised

    No.12 offender: East of England

    110 issued for dog fouling
    5,803 reports received for dog fouling
     = £7,150 raised

    Henry Leonard, AOP Clinical & Regulatory Officer, commented on the health implications of not picking up after your dog saying: “It’s important to recognise that not picking up after pets can indeed have wider consequences for public health. There is a risk to the sight, particularly in children, from an infection called toxocariasis which is caused by a parasite present in animal faeces, predominantly dogs. The risk comes from the eggs of the parasitic worm, Toxocara Canis, when they are ingested rather than necessarily getting some in the eye. This can either be from direct contact with faeces or more frequently from contaminated soil.

    “While cases are rare, toxocariasis can cause a variety of serious problems in the body. The eye is a common site for it to lodge and the effects can be devastating to the sight unless it’s treated promptly. A blood test can usually detect it but you may also need an eye examination to look for parasites.”

    Dog fouling orders are governed under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 which allows local authorities to set out specific public space protection orders (PSPOs) for their area, detailing that owners must clear up after their dogs in certain public areas4. If a PSPO is ignored, dog owners can be given an on the spot fine (fixed penalty notice) usually between £50 & £80, or up to £1,000 if it goes to court.

  • UK Councils Raise £120,000 Issuing Fines to Dog Owners

    New research out today has revealed that councils across the UK have issued dog owners with more than 2,000 fines raising almost a quarter of a million pounds this year alone.

    The findings, which have been released by Direct Line Pet Insurance, also highlight in 2015, at least 4,451 fines were given for dog fouling offences totalling in excess of £247,282 with dog owners in Barnsley handed more fines by their local authority.

    Interestingly, the council that received the highest volume of reports for dog fouling did not hand out the highest number of fines – Durham County Council received 2,766 reports of dog fouling in 2015, but only handed out 67 fines.

    The pet insurer has compared statistics from the past few years and with the number of fines given out across the UK reducing by 21% since 2013, it seems this form of deterrent is working.

    Speaking about their findings Prit Powar, head of Pet Insurance at Direct Line said: “Dog excrement left on our streets and in parks poses a serious public health hazard. While it is good that owners have become more conscientious when clearing up after their dogs, there are far too many incidents when peoples’ health is being put at risk as animal faeces is left in public places.”

    It is important, not just for general cleanliness, but also for health reasons that dog faeces are removed as it can cause an infection called toxocariasis in humans in severe circumstances, an infection caused by roundworm parasites. Children are most at risk of picking up this disease as they are more likely to come into contact with infected soil. The disease can cause problems with eye sight for children and can be caught from ingesting the eggs rather than getting contaminated soil in the eye.

    Henry Leonard, AOP Clinical & Regulatory Officer, said: “It’s important to recognise that not picking up after pets can indeed have wider consequences for public health. There is a risk to the sight, particularly in children, from an infection called toxocariasis which is caused by a parasite present in animal faeces, predominantly dogs. The risk comes from the eggs of the parasitic worm, Toxocara Canis, when they are ingested rather than necessarily getting some in the eye. This can either be from direct contact with faeces or more frequently from contaminated soil.

    “While cases are rare, toxocariasis can cause a variety of serious problems in the body. The eye is a common site for it to lodge and the effects can be devastating to the sight unless it’s treated promptly. A blood test can usually detect it but you may also need an eye examination to look for parasites.”

  • Pet Owners Beware: Product Defect Recall Alert for Armitage Pet Care Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs and Armitage Flea Drops for Cats & Kittens

    Pet Owners Beware: Product Defect Recall Alert for Armitage Pet Care Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs and Armitage Flea Drops for Cats & Kittens

    This week a product defect recall alert has been issued for Armitage Pet Care Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs and Armitage Flea Drops for Cats & Kittens manufactured by Bio-Tech Solutions Ltd.

    The alert reads:

    We wish to make wholesalers, veterinary surgeons, retailers and pet owners aware that the VMD has been notified that Bio-Tech Solutions Ltd has issued a recall of:

    1. Armitage Pet Care Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs 702 mg spot-on solution (Vm 20205/4003)
    2. Armitage Flea Drops for Cats and Kittens

    An unknown quantity of the Armitage Pet Care Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs containing permethrin has been distributed in packaging labelled Armitage Flea Drops for Cats and Kittens.

    Exposure to even small quantities of concentrated permethrin can cause severe and fatal poisoning in cats.

    If you have one of the products, do not use it on your cat.

    What to do if you have these products at home

    Return the product to the place of purchase or contact the company: John Tharratt, Bio-Tech solutions Tel 08704 450154 or email JTharratt@btsl.uk.com.

  • All-Party Parliamentary Group Cautions ‘Legislation Is Only as Good as the Enforcement’ in Response to MPs Report

    The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) has issued a response to the report into animal welfare by Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA).

    APGAW, whose members include Caroline Lucas from the Green Party and Jim Fitzpatrick from Labour, have released a statement about the report into animal welfare for domestic pets, which includes, dogs, cats and horses (explained in more detail here) saying they look forward to the Government’s reponse but echo concerns about enforcing recommendations made in the report, such as the RSPCA should have less involvement in prosecuting animal cruelty cases.

    The group’s members have recognised for some time that new legislation, bans and restrictions are not the simple answer and that the real issue lies with enforcement and education, saying:

    “APGAW believes the report contains a number of recommendations on issues that APGAW has discussed which would improve the present situation and looks forward to the Government’s response.

    “However, legislation is only as good as the enforcement. We agree with the Justice Minister’s comments in the House last week in a debate on sentencing when he referred to the expertise of the RSPCA in their role enforcing animal welfare legislation and the tremendous effort that entails. We recognise that ideally enforcement should be done by statutory agencies but would strongly state that unless ring-fenced funds are designated for enforcement and prosecution to the CPS and Local Government there is a need for the RSPCA to continue prosecuting and enforcing the Animal Welfare Act 2006.”

    APGAW Co-Chairman Henry Smith MP states:

    “Animal welfare remains an important issue for the public and MPs who all want to see better enforcement of animal laws. APGAW will continue to work with the RSPCA, who are responsible for over 80% of enforcement in this area, to ensure prosecutions are carried out in a transparent and effective manner until and unless the Government provides the funds to the CPS to prosecute.”

    APGAW Officer Lord Trees said “Ideally, the functions of investigation and prosecution should be done by different bodies but the RSPCA’s current work on enforcement and prosecution of the Animal Welfare Act fulfils a need and is hugely valued. It is important that any consideration of removing their powers to prosecute is only done once adequate funds are set aside and expertise is identified within the CPS to carry out animal welfare prosecutions”.

  • MP Claims Report Into Animal Welfare Says Banning of Third Party Puppy Sales Hard to Enforce & Key Messages Will Be Overlooked as a Result of RSPCA Headlines: Here’s What You Need to Know

    MP Claims Report Into Animal Welfare Says Banning of Third Party Puppy Sales Hard to Enforce & Key Messages Will Be Overlooked as a Result of RSPCA Headlines: Here’s What You Need to Know

    Today (16 November) the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) has released its report into Animal welfare in England with a focus on domestic pets, which includes dogs, cats and horses.

    A parliamentary enquiry was launched to examine the effectiveness and enforcement of animal welfare laws and the report includes these key recommendations and conclusions for the British government.

      • Pass regulations to protect the genetic viability and welfare of offspring as well as adult dogs
      • Update legislation governing the breeding of dogs with a licensing regime based on modern welfare standard
      • Require anyone breeding two litters or more per year to be licensed as a breeder
        Breeders have an important responsibility to provide for the social development and broader welfare requirements for puppies in their care. We recommend that the legislation governing the breeding of dogs should be updated with a licensing regime based on modern welfare standards
      • A national inspectorate should be established to liaise and support local authorities in enforcing the licensing regime, undertaking inspections and dealing with complaints
      • Ban third party sale of dogs. Dogs should only be available from licensed, regulated breeders or approved rehoming organisations
      • Make it compulsory that all internet pet advertisements should include the registration or licence number of the seller
      • Make the Pet Advertising Advisory Group’s minimum standards mandatory for all websites where pets are advertised and sold
      • Increase the age at which dogs are allowed to enter the United Kingdom under the Pet Travel Scheme to six months
      • Place a statutory duty on local authorities to enforce the Animal Welfare Act. The Government must ensure that appropriate resources are made available to local authorities to support them in this extension of their statutory duties
      • The RSPCA should continue its important work investigating animal welfare cases and working closely with the police and statutory authorities
        It should, however, withdraw from acting as a prosecutor of first resort where there are statutory bodies with a duty to carry out this role. We are not convinced by its arguments that it is in a better position than the CPS to prosecute animal welfare cases
      • Animal welfare cases in England are amongst the lowest in Europe. We recommend the maximum penalty is increased to five years 
      • Examines the potential for the establishment of an animal abuse register of those convicted of animal cruelty offences and who have been disqualified from keeping animals

    The committee feels these adaptations will improve the transparency, traceability and enforcement of regulations in the pet trade.

    However with the headline of the Commons EFRA’s own press release shared with the report focusing on the RSPCA, it’s no wonder MP Angela Smith, who sat on the committee for this inquiry, and others within the pet industry feels the key message will be derailed.

    Gudrun Ravetz, President of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has commented on the report welcoming the recommendations to realise the full effectiveness of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 but goes on to say, “The RSPCA is currently responsible for over 90% of prosecution activity on animal welfare issues and it is unclear who else would have the resources to take on this vital role. EFRACom’s focus on the RSPCA’s prosecution powers is a disappointing distraction from a report that, otherwise, makes many positive recommendations towards improving UK pet welfare.”

    On the topic of the RSPCA, the press release which accompanied the report said:

    “The RSPCA should withdraw from acting as a prosecutor of first resort where there are statutory bodies with a duty to carry out this role, MPs on the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Committee have said.

    Followed by this quote on behalf of the chair of the Committee, Neil Parish MP:

    “The RSPCA does important working investigating animal welfare cases. And I would like to see its dedicated and professional staff continue that vital work. The Committee is not convinced, however, that the RSPCA is in a better position than the Crown Prosecution Service when it comes to prosecuting animal welfare cases. It should step back from making prosecutions itself, continuing instead to work closely with the police and prosecution service to protect the welfare of animals.”

    In a statement released by the office of Angela Smith MP, former Shadow Animal Welfare Minister and present member of the EFRA Select Committee, she said:

    “Today’s report by the EFRA select Committee into domestic animal welfare in England is I believe a missed opportunity to effectively promote improvements in animal welfare standards.

    “Unfortunately, the report’s very many sensible recommendations are in danger of being overlooked, thanks to the unwarranted attack on the RSPCA.

    “This is deeply disappointing and surprising, as during evidence sessions this view gained very little support from those who submitted evidence.”

    “Presently the RSPCA is responsible for over 90% of prosecution activity on animal welfare issues in England and the recommendations in the report are to some extent reckless, because there is no other body with the resources, the experience and the expertise necessary to take on this important role.”

    Speaking about the report RSPCA chief executive, Jeremy Cooper, said: “Overall this is a very sensible report with lots of progressive measures to improve animal welfare. We do not agree with the recommendation that the RSPCA should no longer prosecute. We are extremely proud of our near 200 years of experience investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty and our 92% success rate – which is currently a higher percentage than the CPS.”

    A further recommendation in the report, that a ban on 3rd party sales of puppies should be progressed, are also criticised by the MP because there is little said about how it could be enforced.

    Her thoughts are echoed by pet experts who worry it is nothing short of lip service.

    Puppy farming campaign group, Puppy Love Campaigns, whose work to investigate puppy farms has resulted in the closure and prosecution of more than 10 puppy farms shared these thoughts on Twitter:

    On this Angela point commented; “I think everyone on committee agreed and most of those giving evidence concurred that they would like to see an end to the 3rd party sale of puppies. However, much expert evidence said just banning it would not work.

    “Unfortunately, the report has very little to say about how enforcement of a ban would work, how this would be paid for, and who would enforce it, which is disappointing.

    “I am also disappointed the Committee didn’t accept much of the expert evidence that a strong and effective licensing system for sales is more likely to have the desired effect of stopping 3rd party sales.”