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Is Goats Milk Good For Puppies?

You’ve got a new puppy. The breeder or rescue where you got your puppy from has given you an information sheet on all the things you need to know about caring for the canine youngster. But you are desperate to do the absolute best by your pup so you start asking questions about what you can or cannot feed puppy to give them the perfect start in life. One of the common questions new dog owners ask is, is goats milk good for puppies? Well, read on.

Is Goats Milk Good For Puppies? These Pups Would Say Yes!

Five adorable Jack Russell puppies are the picture of health after their lives were saved by St Helen’s Farm goats’ milk, after they lost their mum.

Animal lover Lorraine Wright, who nurtured the puppies, along with her amazing story, are to be featured on more than half a million St Helen’s Farm goats’ milk cartons, nationwide during February.

The puppies’ chances of surviving were very slim when they were first born in October. Their mum Georgie had to have an emergency caesarean and sadly died three days later due to complications.

Lorraine, from Shepton Mallet, took over the maternal role but was fearful of losing the tiny dogs when they became seriously ill after drinking formula cows’ milk.

In a desperate attempt to save them Lorraine searched the internet for help and found that goats’ milk had been successfully given to orphaned pups. She was sceptical but decided to give it a go as time was running out fast.

She lovingly bottle fed the pups every two hours, day and night, using St Helen’s Farm goats’ milk and probiotic goats’ yogurt.

Lorraine was using litres of milk and large cartons of yogurt every day as she tried to build up their strength using what she dubbed ‘The St Helen’s Farm Goats Milk Mix.’

The pups enjoyed the taste, gulped it down and slowly but surely their weight began to climb.

Now almost six months on the puppies are in the best of health and still enjoying the ‘St Helen’s Goats Milk Mix’ with their food.

It’s not only the puppies that are enjoying the benefits of goats’ milk though, Lorraine has a mild intolerance to dairy products and now uses goats’ milk in her daily porridge too.

She loves the taste and it has replaced the rice milk she had previously used. Her mum is also a convert and another fan, after discovering she loved the taste.

Lorraine says the Jack Russells – Lavender, Brutus, Lottie, Toki and Fonz – could have died had they not been saved by goats milk.

“I really thought the puppies were doomed. What happened to their mum was awful and I was beside myself with worry when they lost weight so dramatically on cows’ milk.

I panicked and realised I had to do something quickly to save them. Some people said if I had one puppy at the end of week three it would be a remarkable achievement, but I felt determined to do the best I could for Georgie and try and save all of them.

It was a frantic, worrying time hand rearing them all the way through to the New Year but all I can say is St Helen’s Farm is fantastic.

The fact that all five puppies are here today full of life says everything; I can never thank the farm enough.

I have even had other animal lovers and experts asking me about the St Helen’s Goats’ Mix, they are keen to use it themselves to help orphaned animals.”

Yorkshire based St Helen’s Farm heard about the puppies when Lorraine wrote and told them about her positive experience with the milk and the farm decided to feature Lorraine and her story on the cartons in February.

St Helen’s Farm spokesperson Mike Hind comments:

“We were intrigued to hear Lorraine’s tale about her Jack Russell pups that are now thriving on our goats’ milk. After a very precarious start to life, all five pups had to be hand reared.

They loved the taste of goats’ milk and have also developed a liking for our probiotic natural yogurt. Well done to all the pups, we are delighted with their success. We would be thrilled to hear from anyone else who has used our range to help animals as well as humans!”

April 16, 2018
Artificial Sweeteners Are VERY Dangerous For Dogs

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has warned dog owners of the danger that the artificial sweetener, Xylitol, can pose to their pets, writes Jasmine Kleine. Xylitol is not considered harmful to humans, but if ingested by a dog the substance is dangerous because it triggers a sudden release of insulin which causes a dramatic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and can lead to liver damage.

Xylitol is increasingly used as a sweetener in sugar-free chewing gum and other confectionary; it is used in dental hygiene products and is also found as an excipient in many medicines. Of particular concern are the sugar substitute products that contain Xylitol which are used in home baking as well as in manufactured goods. Cakes, biscuits and other goodies made with it are toxic to dogs. Owners may not be aware of these dangers and may not associate clinical deterioration with ingestion of these foodstuffs.

No sweet tooth for dogs.

Other animals such as ferrets and cats may be similarly affected and the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) is monitoring all referred cases.

BVA Past President Nicky Paull commented:

“While most dog owners are now aware that foods such as chocolate and grapes can be toxic to their pets few are aware of the dangers if their dog eats a cake or muffin containing Xylitol.

“If you think your dog may have eaten chewing gum or a sweet or cake containing Xylitol and appears unwell, perhaps vomiting or lacking coordination, then contact your vet for advice immediately and be ready to provide information on what’s been consumed.”

The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation and the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) have produced an easy reference guide to keeping pets safe from harmful substances. The ‘Pets and poisons: keeping your animal safe’ leaflet can be easily downloaded from the BVA AWF website at www.bva-awf.org.uk or you can request a copy from the Foundation.

Alexander Campbell, Head of Service at VPIS, added:

“With the increasing number of products containing Xylitol on the market the VPIS recognises the extreme importance of raising awareness of the danger to dogs of ingesting this substance, particularly in the light of a case we handled the other evening which involved a dog eating a muffin made with this sugar substitute.

“This is yet another instance where a food or food additive deemed safe for human consumption proves to be dangerous for other species. Pets should really only be given foodstuffs formulated for them.

“It is possible that other animals such as ferrets or cats might be affected similarly, but few cases are yet documented. The VPIS continues to monitor all referred cases in all animals with the aim of clarifying the situation in other species as and when more data become available.

“The VPIS would like to see manufacturers of these products provide some visible warnings and information on the packaging and to inform the retail outlets they supply of the potential risks to dogs.”

April 13, 2018
Christmas Might Not Be as Fun for Your Dog as You Think, Here’s Why

Christmas is a time of year we all look forward to, some of us revert to childhood memories to drive our enthusiasm, others look forward to the time off and turkey. But as much as we include our pets in our plans for the day, the disruption to their normal routine can be uncomfortable to some dogs.

Here are 6 ways to help your dog cope with the changes this Christmas, according to Siobhan Griffin at Lintbells.

Make visiting new places less stressful for your dog

The most important lesson here is how to make travelling enjoyable so your dog stays calm.

Siobhan says, “If you’re escaping the madness and treating yourself to a Christmas getaway, or perhaps you are driving home for the festive season and taking your pooch with you, it’s important to bear in mind a few tips and tricks to make sure they are calm and happy.

“If you are travelling in a car make sure your canine companion is safe and secure by using a harness, fixed crate or a partition in the back. You will also need to monitor the temperature, don’t let the car get too hot or too cold, and never leave them in the car alone. To ensure a stress free journey allow your dog to become familiar with the car beforehand, let them have a sniff around and even put a blanket in there with a familiar scent if needed.”

Try to make life at home as stress free as possible

With guests flowing in and out of the home, it can make home life stressful for dogs – not to mention potentially dangerous if they sneak past and can run outside (many dogs have gone missing this way).

Siobhan says, “Christmas can be a busy time in many households and this can be overwhelming for some dogs, from excited children running around, friends and families visiting to carol singers knocking at the door. If your dog does experience anxiety in situations like this try to keep them as calm and relaxed as possible by creating a cosy area for them away from the fuss with some of their favourite toys and blankets. You could also give them something tasty to chew on that will keep them occupied when you have guests over.”

Hide a present for your dog and make it a game to find and open!

Planning what we give our loved ones is a lot of fun, and on Christmas morning the atmosphere can be positively electric. Make sure your dog has just as much fun finding and opening their gift as you did choosing and wrapping it for them.

Siobhan says, “It isn’t Christmas without presents under the tree, so don’t forget to hide something exciting for your dog to find on Christmas morning, they are a member of the family after all. Treat them to a new toy, their favourite healthy treat or even something that will benefit you which they will enjoy, such as a brain training game to keep them occupied when they are home alone.”

Give them a dog-friendly Christmas lunch

That means no turkey, chocolate, mince pies or Xmas pudding pudding, dried fruit or gravy with onions.

Siobhan says, “We all know one of the best parts of the festive season is the delicious foods; however what you enjoy indulging in may not be the same for your pooch. It can sometimes be hard to resist your furry friend when they are staring up at you at the dinner table, but you should always think before feeding them any leftover turkey or mince pies.

“The key foods your furry friends should avoid this Christmas are anything with onions or garlic in including stuffing and gravy, dried fruits which can be found in mince pies and Christmas pudding, along with alcohol, cheese and of course chocolate. Try to stick to lean meats, vegetable scraps (without onions) and boiled potatoes.”

Get out into the fresh air on Boxing Day

After a big meal the day before, you might not need any convincing that this is a good idea but getting out and about into the fresh air will make you and your dog feel great – plus you can show off your new Christmas jumpers, coats and boots.

Siobhan says, “Feeling a bit sluggish after all that Christmas indulgence? Then why not get up off the sofa and go for a Boxing Day walk with your canine companion. Not only can you get outside and enjoy so some fresh winter air and burn off some of those mince pies, but this will also keep you dog active and their joints fit and healthy.”

Prepare early for fireworks on New Year’s Eve, especially if your dog has noise phobias

If you have a dog with a noise phobia or separation anxiety, you’ll no doubt be dreading this day of the year but hopefully it draws a close to the year’s fireworks season so think of it as one more night to get through.

Siobhan says, “New Year’s Eve is a cause for celebration all over the country, with lots of fireworks being set off to mark the occasion. Whilst these are beautiful to look at and enjoyed by most, the loud noises can cause anxiety in many dogs.

“If your furry friend isn’t a fan of fireworks and they appear distressed and/or nervous there are a number of things you could try. Why not try muffling the noise with a TV or a radio, distracting them during the noise or even create them a small, well insulated doggy den.”

December 5, 2017
Why Is Thanksgiving Such a Dangerous Time For Dogs?

The Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons are full of joy and family fun for many but for dog owners it can be a minefield of danger.

Veterinarians see the same trends every year during the holidays – gastrointestinal issues such as an upset stomach and diarrhoea rank among the top reasons owners take their pet to the vet. Here are some ways to avoid the risks, and keep your pet safe during the holidays:

Avoid Human Foods That Are Dangerous For Dogs:

It’s no secret there are more treats around the house during the holidays, many of which can be especially harmful to pets. Guests may not realize that your dog or cat isn’t allowed to eat table scraps, or that they should keep all food and leftovers out of reach. A change in diet can cause an upset stomach, especially if introduced rapidly. Holiday foods that are particularly hazardous to pets include: chocolate, especially dark chocolate, unbaked bread dough, macadamia nuts, turkey, alcohol, sugar-free candy and baked goods that include artificial sweeteners.

See: Human foods safe for dogs to eat.

Beware of Decorations That Your Dog Might Eat

Holiday décor, such as tinsel, poinsettias, or pine needles, as well as drinking water from the tree stand can also be potentially dangerous for curious pets. If your pets nibble on the holiday greenery, the results can run from mild illness and irritation to kidney failure or worse. The poisoning effects of pine needles, mistletoe and holly are all fairly similar, ranging from vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, erratic behaviour and even death. Keep pets away from the Christmas tree, and be sure to secure it against toppling over, just in case. Consider installing a barrier to keep pets away, or spraying the tree with a repellent such as Bitter Apple to keep cats from climbing.

Minimize or Avoid Stressful Situations:

The holidays aren’t just stressful times for humans, but pets, too! Pets are exposed to potentially overwhelming situations, such as boarding at a kennel, travelling, or being introduced to several new guests, which cause irregularity in routine and can lead to stress-related digestive issues. Any deviation from a pet’s normal behaviour can be an indication of stress, such as: poor appetite, decreased interaction with their owners and gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Owners can minimize pets’ stress by providing a stable living environment and avoiding unpleasant interactions and experiences.

Know How To Reach Your Veterinarian:

If your pet’s routine is disrupted during the holidays, you may notice irregular digestive signs, and they could actually be signs of an infection, or a more serious condition. If your pet experiences any signs or vomiting and diarrhoea, you should contact your veterinarian immediately to determine the best course of action. Signs of gastrointestinal issues include: vomiting, regurgitation, diarrhoea, lethargy, tender abdomen and decreased appetite. Always keep these numbers posted in an easy-to-find location in case of emergencies:

– Your veterinarian’s clinic phone number
– 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic (if different)
– ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-426-4435

Beware of Gastrointestinal Changes to Your Dog

"Gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhoea are common in cats and dogs year-round, but can be especially common during the holiday season," said Dr. Catherine Lenox, a veterinary nutritionist and Royal Canin Scientific Affairs Manager. "When there is additional stress such as house guests or boarding, as well as more food around the house – including foods that humans can eat but that are toxic to pets – there is an increased risk of gastrointestinal disturbances in our pets."

November 22, 2017
French Bulldog Close to Death After Eating This VERY Common Garden Substance

Our dogs are natural wonders of the world. Smart, loyal, affectionate and sometimes prone to acts of self sabotage that requires the intervention of vets to save them from themselves. Bella is one such dog. She needed veterinary attention after eating something that is present in the gardens of many thousands of dog owners all over the UK.

A young dog has been saved by PDSA vets after wolfing down gravel from her owner’s garden.

Bella, a one-year-old French bulldog, was rushed into the vet charity’s pet hospital in Croydon after her owner, Victoria Sherrin, noticed she had suddenly gone off her food and was being constantly sick.

When PDSA vets examined the stricken pet they could feel something in her abdomen and Victoria (37) of Chipstead, Surrey, immediately feared the worst.

She said: “I took Bella for a check-up because she wasn’t herself at all. She started snapping at us and couldn’t keep anything down.

“I wondered if she’d eaten something odd or had worms but then the vets said they could feel a mass in her stomach and I just broke down.”

Victoria feared a life-threatening illness but an X-ray soon revealed the true cause of Bella’s woes. She’d eaten a large collection of gravel stones which were now sitting in her stomach.

PDSA vet, Laura Heaps, said: “Bella’s condition was very worrying, she was very lethargic and was suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting. We examined her and could feel something in her stomach and to be sure what it was, we x-rayed her.

“Thankfully, we’d just received a new £10,000 x-ray machine, thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and the images were very detailed. When we saw the images on the screen we couldn’t believe our eyes!

“You could clearly see the gravel in her stomach and colon. Luckily because the stones were so small and unlikely to cause a fatal blockage we were able to avoid surgery. Flat-faced breeds such as French bulldogs are a higher anaesthetic risk than other breeds.”

Bella was given fluids and laxatives to try and flush her system of the gravel stones and was kept in overnight for close observation. Thankfully, she made a good recovery and was allowed home the following day after receiving the all clear.

There is a name for this type of behaviour where pets eat strange objects – known as pica. Pets, especially puppies and younger dogs, like to use their mouth to investigate objects as well as to eat. Sometimes a pet will swallow an item by mistake, even though they had only meant to investigate it.

With Bella safely back home, relieved owner Victoria said: “Bella was out of sorts for a couple of days but she was soon was back to her normal self. I can’t thank PDSA enough for the fantastic treatment she received. I’m keeping a close eye on her now to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

“She’s quite an inquisitive dog and is into everything so I’ve cleared the garden to try and ensure there are no gravel stones she can get her little paws on.”

PDSA sees many cases of pets eating inappropriate items every year. These can be fatal if they cause a blockage in the intestines. Owners are advised to speak to their vet for advice if they suspect their pet has eaten something it shouldn’t have.

October 17, 2017
TV Presenter Adam Henson Fronts Campaign Encouraging Dog Owners to ‘Dump the Junk’

A campaign has launched in the UK to encourage dog owners to take note of what’s in their dog’s diet and learn how to identify good ingredients from bad on pet food labels.

Backed by research which claims that 85% of UK dog owners are unsure of the ingredients in today’s dog food, the Dump the Junk campaign has been launched by natural dog food company, Forthglade and is fronted by farmer and TV presenter Adam Henson.

Henson says, “We all want what’s best for our dogs, but we lead such busy lives, we often don’t have the time to stop and decipher confusing dog food labels. We put too much trust in what we see on packs and tins; clever packaging and vague phrasing make it all too easy to assume you’re getting something you’re not.”

The campaign is encouraging pet owners to improve their own dog’s nutrition and help spread the word across the UK to ‘dump the junk’.

Henson continues, “Dump the Junk is an important campaign set to lift the lid on the real contents of poor quality dog food and help pet owners make informed decisions about what they feed their canine companions. Good nutrition is at the heart of what makes a happy, healthy dog, which is why I am asking UK pet owners to make their pledge today for the benefit of dogs nationwide.”

Find out what foods your dog should be avoiding as listed on the campaign’s Dog Food Nasties Watch-List and take the pledge here: www.forthglade.com/dump-the-junk

By taking the pledge you can also enter a competition online for a chance to win 6 months’ worth of Forthglade natural pet food plus a 2-night stay at the luxury Deer Park Country House Hotel in Devon.

May 19, 2017
Have You Read This Theory on How Wolves Turned in to Dogs? It’s Pretty Wild!

You may or may not know this but despite all the science and stuff that we have at our disposal, carbon dating and all that malarkey, experts still don’t actually know what, when or how wolves became dogs.

They just know that they did. DNA studies have shown that what we’ve always suspected is true, dogs were once wolves but then something happened and they became dogs.

We do, of course, know how dogs became breeds. We did that. For better or worse. That was all on us.

Now an interesting theory has cropped up and it goes a little something like this:

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away (not really, it was definitely our galaxy), some cocky wolves started to hang out in little gangs around human settlements in much the same way that teenagers hang about outside of shops once its gone dark.

However, instead of trying to get older people to buy them booze, what these wolves were up to make much more sense. They were looking for food. Rather than eating humans, they were thinking it might be a good idea to eat what the humans were eating.

Now geneticists think what could have happened is that one of the key differences between our dogs and their wolfy ancestors is their ability to digest and properly process carbohydrates.

Ever seen a dog eat crisps? Well, you won’t see many wolves diving into a bag of Walkers any time soon (even if our interest in taking a dog’s diet back to basics is on the rise – raw dog food pros and cons debate anyone?).

This is the researcher’s thesis:

“The domestication of dogs was an important episode in the development of human civilization. The precise timing and location of this event is debated and little is known about the genetic changes that accompanied the transformation of ancient wolves into domestic dogs.

“Here we conduct whole-genome resequencing of dogs and wolves to identify 3.8 million genetic variants used to identify 36 genomic regions that probably represent targets for selection during dog domestication. Nineteen of these regions contain genes important in brain function, eight of which belong to nervous system development pathways and potentially underlie behavioural changes central to dog domestication.

“Ten genes with key roles in starch digestion and fat metabolism also show signals of selection. We identify candidate mutations in key genes and provide functional support for increased starch digestion in dogs relative to wolves. Our results indicate that novel adaptations allowing the early ancestors of modern dogs to thrive on a diet rich in starch, relative to the carnivorous diet of wolves, constituted a crucial step in the early domestication of dogs.”

So let’s add two and two together and see if we can make four, or a dog.

Wolves that were prone to eat human food were also the ones who were more willing to encroach on human territory. Far from being adversaries, the wolves learned that humans could be a useful source of food, even if it wasn’t the sort of food they were used to.

When those human-tolerant, or who knows, maybe even human-friendly wolves learned to stay around humans, they settled there, had their own families, sent their cubs off to good schools in the area and generally started to get along great with people.

After a while, the new wolves being produced in this environment had different digestive systems and even started their lives understanding that humans were a natural companion rather than a meal or competition for meals. Then….voila. Domesticated wolves eventually turn in to dogs.

What do you reckon? We think it’s certainly possible.

March 3, 2017
6 in 10 Dog Owners Suspect Pets of Suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
New research out this week claims that 6 in 10 dog owners suspect their dogs of suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Often more associated with humans than man’s best friend, SAD, also known as the winter blues is a type of depression that recurs on a seasonal basis.

Experts believe that the less time spent outside in the sunshine during winter months can cause dogs to suffer the same symptoms as humans who have the seasonal condition – and with British dog owners admitting to walking their dogs up to 50% less in the winter months, this could lead to problems in itself.

The research, which was commissioned by Forthglade, has revealed that of the 61% of dog owners who are concerned about their pets’ behaviour over the winter months, an increased appetite, a reluctance to go outside, low mood and lethargy are the most common signs picked up on by the pet owners.

Almost half (44%) also told the dog food firm that they had consulted a behaviourist about concerns.

Speaking about the findings dog behaviourist Nick Jones, said: “The long dark days of winter don’t just take a toll on the two-legged population. Our four-legged friends also feel the strain with many exhibiting symptoms that replicate the human condition Seasonal Affective Disorder.

“Lethargy, an increased appetite, irritability and a reluctance to go outside and exercise are typical behaviours exhibited by dogs in the colder months when natural sunlight is at a minimum.

“There are simple steps dog owners can take to help their pets. Taking walks in daylight hours is a must, and good nutrition also plays a very big part. Poor diet can be directly linked to lethargy and depression within canines. It’s more important than ever during winter months to feed your dog a healthy natural diet – comfort eating in winter is as bad for pets as it is for humans.”

Nick offers these top tips if you are concerned about your dog suffering from Seasonal Affected Disorder:
- During the week, when your time is limited, try placing your pet’s bed under a skylight or close to a window to help take advantage of what little light there is
- Nutrition also plays a big part, and poor diet can be directly linked to lethargy and depression within canines
- Play games inside the home to stimulate the dog, such as ‘find it’ games up the stairs and in rooms, indoor agility or ‘take it and leave it’ games
- No matter the size or shape, the garden also offers a great outdoor space for your dog to get some natural sunlight
- Feed your dog a healthy, natural diet with no artificial additives – eating poor quality dog food, or even our leftover food can increase behavioural problems and isn’t good for your dog’s overall health
January 26, 2017
Dog Nearly Died at Christmas From Eating This – Stay Vigilant

Jack Russell-cross Luna narrowly avoided a Christmas catastrophe after wolfing down a family-sized bar of dark chocolate she found in her owner’s bedroom.

Thankfully, she recovered after emergency treatment at PDSA, but the charity’s vets are warning that thousands of dogs are at risk of serious illness or death from chocolate poisoning.

In Luna’s case, she helped herself to the goodies but, according to PDSA research, nearly 200,000 dogs* are regularly fed chocolate as a treat. At Christmas, there is more chocolate around as we indulge so the risks only increase. Advent calendars, boxes of chocolates and gifts under the tree mean more inquisitive pets could get their paws on chocolate without owners’ knowledge.

As well as being toxic, human chocolates are inappropriate for pets due to their high calorie and sugar content, making it bad for their teeth and waistlines.

PDSA vet Emma Tipton explains: “Our research has found that thousands of dogs are fed human chocolate as a ‘treat’, because some owners don’t realise it’s highly poisonous to pets and can be fatal.”

PDSA sees hundreds of chocolate poisoning cases every year and the charity’s vets are on standby for an increase over the festive period.

That’s why PDSA is using Luna’s story to get the message home.

The six-month-old pet ate around three quarters of a family-sized 200g bar of Bournville chocolate that was hidden in an upstairs bedroom.

Owner Gillian Garrity (48) from St Helens, Merseyside, said: “Luna was whimpering and pacing up and down before she suddenly became violently sick.

“My husband spotted the chocolate wrapper and we realised she must have got her paws on it. We know chocolate can be toxic to dogs so he rushed her straight to PDSA.”

Luna was given emergency treatment by PDSA senior vet Matt Forshaw, from PDSA’s Liverpool Huyton Pet Hospital.

He said: “Chocolate is poisonous to dogs as it contains a chemical called theobromine, which can cause severe heart problems.

“To make matters worse, Luna had eaten dark chocolate which contains even higher levels of theobromine. Just a small bar of dark chocolate contains enough of the chemical to kill a small dog like Luna, so she was in grave danger.”

Luna was given medication to make her sick and prevent further absorption of theobromine. She was kept in overnight and given IV fluids to ensure she was well hydrated before being allowed to go home the following day.

Vet Matt added: “Luna is just one of the lucky pets to benefit from PDSA’s A&E service which receives funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

“Thanks to their support we’re also raising awareness of the dangers of human chocolate to pets, and are encouraging owners to avoid feeding such treats and also to keep them out of paws reach.”

Luna’s owner, Gillian, said they were extremely grateful for the care Luna received.

She said: “I can’t thank PDSA enough for everything they did. I’d warn anyone with a pet not to leave chocolate lying around as you could end up losing your dog.”

The effects of chocolate poisoning in dogs usually appear within four hours of eating, and can last as long as 24 hours. Initial signs can include excessive thirst, vomiting, a sore stomach and restlessness. These symptoms can then progress to tremors, an abnormal heart rhythm, raised body temperature and rapid breathing. In severe cases dogs can experience fits and kidney failure, which can be fatal.

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

December 22, 2016
People Eat These Regularly But When This Dog Did It Very Nearly Killed Him

A hungry hound from Glasgow has undergone life-saving surgery to remove 4ft of his intestines – all because he swallowed an item of food that many people eat on a regular basis.

Food based emergencies are frequently seen by vets, whether it’s food that is toxic to dogs, dogs eating too much of a food or dogs eating things they thought were food but weren’t. Regularly human food often finds itself in to the stomachs of our dogs and in most cases it’s no cause for alarm, but sometimes dogs eat things that can prove fatal to them.

Eating a corn-on-the-cob is not a good idea if you’re a dog.

Rhodesian Ridgeback crossbreed, Sam (7), had an emergency operation to remove around half of his small intestine after PDSA vets discovered the corn husk was causing it to rot away.

PDSA Senior Vet, Susie Hermit, from the vet charity’s Glasgow Shamrock Street Pet Hospital, said it was one of the most severe cases she had ever seen:

“We found that the corn on the cob husk was causing a major blockage in Sam’s small intestine, restricting the blood supply.

“Unfortunately, some of the damage was irreversible and we had to remove around half of his intestine, which had begun to die off and rot. Sam was very lucky to survive. He was at high risk of developing potentially-fatal blood poisoning and the operation to remove such a large section of his intestines was incredibly risky.”

Sam’s owner, Lorraine Graham (43), from Tollcross, was petrified at the thought of losing her beloved pet.

She said: “We first noticed something was wrong was when Sam started being sick. and it gradually got worse until he was being sick every 20 minutes.

“I couldn’t believe it when PDSA x-rayed him and told us what was causing the blockage. We hadn’t been eating corn on the cob so he must have picked it up while outside,” she said.

“He was so weak and lethargic that I knew he was facing the fight of his life. Thankfully he pulled through and I can’t thank PDSA enough for saving him.”

“We’re extra careful with him now but I’m really happy that he’s made such a good recovery. He’s back to his old self again and is eating normally which is great.”

PDSA vets are issuing a warning to pet owners ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, as many people may be planning barbecues.

Corn on the cob was one of the most common items removed from pets last year with 28 cases treated by PDSA. Other strange items swallowed by pets include bones (51 cases) and kebab sticks (7).

Thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA is educating pet owners about the phenomenon of pets eating strange objects – known as ‘pica’ – and how to keep their animals’ safe.

Susie added: “Pets like to use their mouth to investigate objects as well as to eat. Puppies and younger pets will often swallow an item by mistake, even though they had only meant to investigate it.

“Something like corn on the cob might seem harmless enough but if an object moves along the digestive system, as it did with Sam, it can cause a tear or life-threatening blockage.

“If you have pets at home, try to keep anything dangerous or easy to swallow out of paws’ reach. Only let them play with suitable pet toys and try to supervise them to avoid any accidents. If you do suspect your pet has swallowed something you should contact your vet for advice immediately.”

BBQ safety tips

Skip the scraps: Eating barbecue scraps can upset your pet’s stomach. Undercooked, unfamiliar or fatty food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea
Bit it: Throw away any leftover food and rubbish into a lidded dustbin. At PDSA our vets often see pet who have eaten corn on the cob cores. These can cause a serious blockage and need removing by surgery
Keep fuel well out of reach: Lighter fluid can prove fatal if ingested as it contains hydrocarbons, which are derived from crude oil
Keep pets well away from flames and glowing embers: With all that fur around, your four-legged friends could get severe burns. So make sure they steer clear
Slap on the suncream: Pets can suffer from sunburn and heatstroke just like us. So give your pets some suncream, shade and plenty of water. For white fur or damaged skin, special pet suncreams are available from pet shops
Think when you drink: Keep glasses and drinks out of reach of thirsty pets. Alcohol can be particularly hazardous for pets. Use plastic cups as glass bottles, mugs and tea cups can easily smash into splinters to pierce paw

September 5, 2016
Fat Dog Needs Intervention – Now Look at The Transformation (Channel 5 Dog Rescuers)

Alan Davies returns for an even bigger and better fourth series of ‘The Dog Rescuers’. Viewers will follow the familiar faces of the RSPCA’s finest, plus some new friends, as they continue their crusade against cruelty and neglect of dogs. The series features dramatic rescues, inspirational rehabilitations and heart-warming rehomings, plus the four-legged heroes who work on our behalf, new ways to bond with man’s best friend, and the life of a rescue pup from birth, through walkies, and all the way to adulthood.

In this episode we meet an overweight whippet who has been spoiled by his elderly owner in Essex. Inspector for Essex Marie Hammerton responds to a call about an overweight whippet called Blue. With the help of a new diet and exercise regime from their vet, Blue must shed some pounds before there are any serious consequences.

Blue the Whippet initially weighed 29kg and for the filming weigh-in for The Dog Rescuers has dropped down to 23.4kg. . In the month following this, he has continued his progress and lost another kilogram.

Blue was fed a simple cup of biscuits a day, and was given strictly no snacks- apart from the occasional carrot. He also went on longer walks, multiple times a day and the whole family got involved in playing with Blue to keep him stretching his legs.

Inspector Marie Hammerton was a prison officer for three years before turning her hand to animals in 2014. Her life has always revolved around animals and she dreamt of being an RSPCA inspector ever since she was a little girl with the hope of being able to rescue animals from desperate situations.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Lisa Richards said: “Recent studies have suggested that around half of all pet dogs are overweight, and this can cause serious health and welfare issues for our dogs such as heart disease and diabetes. Being obese can reduce the length and quality of our dogs’ lives.

The good news is that there are simple steps that owners can take to check that their pets are the right weight and keep them happy and healthy. And it’s always best to seek advice from a vet if you’re not sure if your pet is the right weight, or if you’re concerned that they might be overweight.”

See Blue’s Amazing Transformation From Fat Dog to Healthy Hound

Top ten tips for keeping your dog healthy from the RSPCA

· If you think your dog might be overweight always consult your vet in the first instance.

· As a guide – you should be able to see and feel the outline of your pet’s ribs without excess fat covering.

· You should be able to see and feel your pets waist and it should be clearly visible when viewed from above.

· Your pet’s belly should be tucked up when viewed from the side.

· Get your pet weighed at the vets regularly if you are concerned.

· How much your dog needs to eat depend on their diet, lifestyle and health. Read and follow the feeding instructions on any dog foods that you buy.

· If you want to give your dog treats consider using low fat alternatives instead of shop bought treats try a small amount of cucumber, carrot or small pieces of chicken. Always consult your vet before doing this.

· If you want to give your dog treats for example if you are training them you should incorporate this into their daily food allowance and reduce accordingly.

· You could use playful interaction with your dog or a special toy as a reward instead.

Always make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise – how much this is depends on the age, health and type of your dog – but they should be going out for a walks at least once per day.

In other stories, in Thornton Heath, South London, Inspector Nick Wheelhouse is called out to see three adult mastiffs and nine puppies who are all drastically underweight. Will Gaza, the mother and the skinniest of the dogs, be able to regain the weight she so desperately needs.

Overweight whippet Blue had been spoiled by his elderly owner in Essex. With the help of a new diet and exercise regime from their vet, Blue must shed some pounds before there are any serious consequences.

Back in January 2015 nine poodles were found by the side of the road near Winchester. Their wet, matted coats accounted for over 2/5 of their body weight. We catch up with Mavis and her new owner Sally Firth as she takes her for a full grooming and pampering treatment at Pooch Dog Spa in Farnborough.

Prince the sharpei was found with barely a hair on his body. Anthony Pulfer checks in on him to see whether with treatment he has started to look more like a dog again.

If you would like nothing better than to give a disadvantaged dog like these a happy home, we have a super staffy for you in our live appeal this week.

August 2, 2016
What Breed of Dog Killed Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones?

If you haven’t yet seen Game of Thrones episode 9, season season 6 then this post is just a tiny bit spoilery. Sorry, not sorry. Millions of people around the world have been celebrating the fictional death of one of the small screen’s most reviled villains. Ramsay Bolton went out at the jaws of one of his own ‘hounds’. He made a point of not feeding his dogs and, as is possible in the fictional genre of Game of Thrones, a hungry hound is permitted to eat its owner if that owner happens to have been, shall we say, a bit of a meanie? How mean? Well, Ramsay has a track record for killing his own father, step-mother and step-brother and let’s not even get in to what he did to Sansa and Theon. Let’s keep it light shall we, this is a celebration!

Let’s momentarily agree to overlook the reality that most dogs wouldn’t eat their owner face first if they’d missed out on food for a few days. This is Game of Thrones and this is a character deserving of such a grisly demise.

So. Dog lovers. What breed of dog ate Ramsay Bolton?

It’s a dark, dingy picture. But what’s your best guess?

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Did you get it? Of course you did!

We’re looking at a Cane Corso.

The Cane Corso, pronounced kha-neh kor-so [ˈkaːne ˈkɔrso] from Italian Cane (dog) and Corso (either meaning courtyard or guard), also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a large Italian breed of dog, for years valued highly in Italy as a companion, guard dog, and hunter.

The Cane Corso is a descendant of the canis pugnax, dogs used by the Romans in warfare. Its name derives from cane da corso, an old term for those catch dogs used in rural activities (for cattle and swine; boar hunting, and bear fighting) as distinct from cane da camera which indicates the catch dog kept as a bodyguard. In the recent past, its distribution was limited to some regions of Southern Italy, especially in Basilicata, Campania, and Apulia.

The Cane Corso is a catch dog used with cattle and swine, and also in wild boar hunts. Cane Corso were also used to guard property, livestock, and families, and some continue to be used for this purpose today. Historically it has also been used by night watchmen, keepers, and, in the past, by carters and drovers. In the more distant past this breed was common all over Italy, as an ample iconography and historiography testify.

As life changed in the southern Italian rural farms in the 20th century, the Corso began to become rare. A group of enthusiasts began recovery activities designed to bring the dog back from near extinction in the late 1970s. By 1994, the breed was fully accepted by the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) as the 14th Italian breed of dog. The FCI provisionally accepted the Corso in 1997, and ten years later was fully recognised internationally. In the US, the American Kennel Club first recognized the Cane Corso in 2010. The popularity of the breed continues to grow, ranking in 50th place in the United States in 2013, a jump from 60th place in 2012.

Experts in the breed tend to agree that the Cane Corso is a dog best suited to experienced owners. Loyal and intelligent, the breed has a strong owner community around the world.

Some of the health problems known to exist with the Cane Corso are hip dysplasia, eye problems such as entropion or ectropion, demodectic mange, and a tendency toward gastric torsion, as is true with many large breeds.

Cane Corso dogs for adoption.

If evil Ramsay Bolton’s fictional death served to tell us one thing in particular, it’s that dogs are always good for serving humanity in the best way they know how.

June 21, 2016
The 7 Best Human Foods You Can Give to Dogs

We all know there are certain human foods that can be dangerous and in some cases, downright deadly for dogs. But what about the human foods that are not only safe for dogs, but are actually very, very healthy for them?

Here’s a list of some of the foods more commonly found on our plates that your dog can enjoy.

1. Rice. Rice is good for dogs. Rice is a very rich source of carbohydrates, phosphorous, calcium and iron. Rice diet is especially recommended for dogs who have allergies to several foods or dogs whose digestive systems are prone to fluctuations in response to more traditional canine diets.

2. Lean chicken and fish. Lean meat with no visible fat and no seasoning’s and preservatives is healthy for dogs and particularly so for dogs who need to shed a few pounds. Fish is very healthy for both humans and dogs.

3. Liver. Liver can be useful if used in some quantities in the form of a dog training treat. Most dogs seem to LOVE it and will work extra hard for a liver reward. However, dogs should be fed with liver sparingly as it can have a laxative effect.

4. Yoghurt and cottage cheese. Yoghurt and cottage cheese are a natural source of calcium. Yoghurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus that helps in the process of digestion small quantities of cottage cheese added to the dog’s normal food seem to be well received and is a healthy addition to their diet.

5. Eggs. Eggs when given in small quantities can be a good source of protein. A lot of owners will even include the shells. Many puppies are given eggs when they’re first being weaned on to normal food.

6. Peanut butter. Small quantities of peanut butter make for an interesting treat if added to chew toys (such as Kongs).

7. Vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, cucumber, celery, garlic, spinach, parsley, and green beans, squash and sweet potatoes are the top on the list. These veggies can be served raw or lightly steamed.

June 7, 2016
How to Keep Children and Dogs Safe Together

The RSPCA is encouraging parents to teach their children how to behave – and more importantly, how not to behave – around dogs.

As Dog Bite Prevention Week (12 – 19 June) nears, the oldest and largest animal welfare organisation is urging parents to spend some time educating children on the best way to approach a dog, and how to act around dogs.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “As a mother and dog owner myself, it’s clear that children and dogs can be really great friends. Dogs can also help children develop kindness, understanding and respect for living things. Having a dog as a friend can improve a child’s social skills with people and caring for a pet can encourage responsibility.

“But, just as parents teach their children how to act around traffic and how to safely cross the road, it’s also their responsibility to show youngsters how to behave when they’re around their own or other dogs – either in public places, or in private homes and gardens.”

This is particularly important as the summer holidays approach and as the weather improves, meaning children and dogs are more likely to be sharing outside spaces and are likely to come into contact with each other.

According to data from the Health and Social Care Information Centre, the age group with the highest number of hospital admissions for dog bites was children aged under nine*. And hospital bite statistics also show that young children are more likely to be bitten by a family dog rather than one they don’t know.

As well as dog owners ensuring their pets are trained and socialised properly, it is also important for children to understand dog behaviour and how to interact with them safely.

In 2014, the RSPCA partnered up with vet and animal behaviourist Dr Sophia Yin to develop a series of educational material to teach children how they should and shouldn’t interact with dogs, and with certified clinical animal behaviourist Julie Bedford to produce a leaflet for parents highlighting different behaviours dogs use depending on how they feel.

Giving this advice to children and vital information to parents should help avoid situations where children could get bitten by dogs..

Children and Dog Safety: Six Golden Rules

The RSPCA has six golden rules for keeping kids safe and dogs happy:

Never leave your child alone in a room with a dog, even your own dog.

Teach kids not to approach dogs if they are eating or have food; if they have a toy or something else they really like; if they are sleeping or on their bed; or are sick, sleeping, in pain or tired.

Remind your child to be kind, gentle and polite to their pets.

Teach your child to play nicely with their dog, by encouraging them to teach fun tricks like paw, play dead and roll over.

Always supervise your child when they are with a dog, and look for signs that the dog might be feeling uncomfortable such as yawning, lip licking or avoiding eye contact.

Teach children not to approach an unfamiliar dog or one which you, as parents, don’t know to be friendly towards children.

“We also recommend providing your dog with a cosy spot in a quiet room where they can retreat to if they need or want their own space,” Dr Gaines adds. “It’s good to teach your children to leave the dog alone when he/she is in this area.

“It’s also a nice idea for children to strengthen their bond with the family dog by playing fun and safe games such as hiding treats in the garden for the dog to find, playing fetch, and trying simple training.”

June 6, 2016
Meet the Dogs (& Their Owners) Who Sold up to Travel Around Europe & Wrote a Book About It

Two years ago the Burton family sold their house, packed up their belongings, bought a motorhome and have been travelling Europe ever since with their two dogs Ozwena who is a beagle and Uluru a fox red Labrador.

Their adventures were relayed through a three-part series in K9 Magazine and they have now written a book called ‘DUST’ that chronicles the journey that is told partly through Ozwena’s eyes.

Read on to find out what Ozwena has to say about travelling Europe with her parents.

What is it like for a dog travelling in a motorhome?

At first it was a little strange. Moving from a fairly large house to a small motorhome took a bit of adjusting. I have never enjoyed travelling in a car so I’ve been surprised as to how comfortable travelling in a motorhome is. We recently had a hire car and I still detest travelling this way so can only presume the additional size and space in the motorhome, along with slower driving speeds suits me.

My bed is different as it’s raised off the floor and is now the front seat of the van but I’m used to this now and this is where I call home. I always feel safe in the motorhome and the company from my sister Uluru makes it so much better.

You must have had quite a lot of preparation to do before your trip. Tell us about it.

I had to visit my local vet to get a pet passport that allowed me to travel in Europe. At my appointment, the vet gave me an examination that included checking I had a microchip and then scanning me to find my identification number which is now written on my passport. I also had to for me and of course one for Uluru my sister. I also have to wear a scalibor collar as to protect me from leishmaniasis which is a tropical and sub-tropical disease spread through sand flies that can be found in some parts of Europe. More importantly, this also covers me against ticks.

What did you take with you?

I took my doggy bag with me and packed my favourite toy, my lead and a blanket that I’ve had since I was a puppy. I also have a collar with my name and number stitched onto it which is important in case I run away which I tend to do quite frequently! Other things that I took are some tweezers in case I do get any ticks so that these can be easily removed. I also have medication for fleas that I have dabbed on my neck every few months. I got fleas once and it was an awful itching experience.

How did you manage with the differences in foods in Europe?

My favourite interest is eating and I’m not a fussy eater at all. I dine out on many delicacies and have tasted foods from all around Europe to include octopus, anchovies, polish stew, with my favourite being tapas. I get dried dog biscuits each morning and night (with a spoonful of tinned dog meat) and these are similar to the ones I used to get back home. Most supermarkets in Europe sell the same or similar brands so it’s not a problem.

Are there any dog laws in Europe?

There are frustrating dog laws in Spain where dogs are not allowed on any public transport which

In Italy, I’m allowed onto trains, buses and boats but only if I wear a muzzle, this can be embarrassing

If you are a dog in Norway then you have to stay on the lead from the 1 st April until the 20th August and this is to protect wildlife as many new animals are born at this time so fair enough really.

The other places I’ve visited have been very dog friendly.

Ozwena at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps

Tell me the best bits of travelling in a motorhome.

Being with my sister Uluru and my parents Paul and Emma 24/7 is the best thing about travelling. And my walks last much longer than they used to and I love having the freedom to go where I like and to explore the endless beaches and woods in Europe. I’m an active dog and as a beagles I like to sniff out places and have found endless scents that take me running and exploring for miles and miles.

Everyone travelling Europe seems to have a dog with them and this is partly due to the relaxing of quarantine laws which means us dogs can travel which is so much better than staying at home whilst my parents go off and have fun!

And you’ve wrote a book about your travels, tell us about this?

I’m a well travelled beagle and have covered over 25,000 kilometres and visited 19 countries. I’ve been as far North as the Arctic Circle and as far south as Morocco. You can read about what I get up to in my book where I was kidnapped in Spain, washed out to sea in Italy and fell from cliffs in Portugal. Travelling Europe really is the best thing that has ever happened to me after realising life is for living before turning to DUST.

What’s next?

We are leaving the UK again shortly and heading east to explore that part of Europe. We didn’t get that far the last time so it will be great to go and explore further afield. My parents have researched these countries and they seem to be dog friendly places but I will however let you know how I get on. You can read about my trip by visiting my blog: beagleburton.wordpress.com

TV presenter Declan Donnelly with a copy of DUST

If the Burton family adventures have inspired you, you can enter and win your very own copy of ‘DUST’ as told by Ozwena, comment below telling us why you would like to win a copy (keeping your email address hidden behind your username).

Two UK winners will be chosen at random.

Good luck!

June 2, 2016

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