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Has The Mystery Of The Dog Suicide Bridge Been Solved?

There is a bridge in the heart of Scotland that has been given the ominous nickname ‘the dog suicide bridge’ or the ‘dog death bridge’. As the rather sinister moniker suggests, this is a bridge that has claimed the lives of several dogs. Overtoun bridge is its actual name and in this video animal behaviour expert, Dr David Sands, sets out to investigate the strange phenomena of why so many dogs have jumped to their death from this bridge. But before you watch the video, may we highlight the following:

1. If you walk your dog over ANY bridge with low walls and a steep drop – PUT. YOUR. DOG. ON. A. LEAD! Seriously folks! Why would anyone risk letting their dog freely run over a dangerous bridge where they can’t see that over a small, easily jumped barrier/wall there is a drop of many hundreds of feet below that will surely kill them? Common sense. Particularly if the bridge in question is known to have already seen multiple dogs jump to their death.

2. Dogs don’t commit suicide. Simple as that.

Now, enjoy the video.

March 29, 2017
Thai-Based Animal Welfare Organisation Win Award for Short Film About a Dog Named Cola

A Thai-based street dog and cat welfare organisation known for its efforts fighting the Asian dog meat trade has been awarded the ‘People’s Choice’ award at the inaugural British Charity Film Awards in London.

The short film entitled ‘Love Will Always Triumph Over Evil’ by Soi Dog Foundation tells the true story of a pup called Cola from Bangkok whose front legs were hacked off by a sword by an angry neighbour because Cola had chewed his shoes. The pup was saved by Soi Dog who paid for emergency medical treatment and fitting of prosthetic legs, before bringing him to Phuket, where he was adopted by co-founder of Soi Dog, Gill Dalley.

The British Charity Film Awards celebrate the charity sector’s use of film, whether for awareness building, changing attitudes and behaviours or for fund raising.

Over 375 charities entered the Awards, with just 36 actually making it through to the finals. Soi Dog’s “People’s Choice” award was voted for by members of the public. Over 65,000 people voted, with Soi Dog collecting just over 30,000 votes.

John Dalley, co-founder and President of Soi Dog Foundation said: “We are very grateful to all those who voted for us. It helps to bring knowledge of our work to a wider audience and highlights the plight of many homeless dogs and cats in this part of the world, as well as the cruel and horrific dog meat trade in Asia that we are trying to end. It is also more than a fitting tribute to Gill, who passed away last month, with the film demonstrating her pure compassion for animals who otherwise would have no-one else to help them. Gill would have been particularly happy at winning the People’s Choice awards. She was a woman of the people”.

Gill Dalley, pictured below, passed away last month following a brief battle with cancer. As a double leg amputee herself, Gill had formed an instant bond with Cola, understanding the issues he was going through in adjusting to life with prosthetic legs. The two became inseparable in the few months following Cola’s adoption by the couple. Cola is now being looked after by John at the family house in Phuket, along with numerous other street dogs and cats that the couple had adopted over the years.

This is the first time a Thai-based organisation has received a charity award in the United Kingdom and highlights the great efforts of all Asian-based not-for-profit organisations in making a sustainable difference to the lives of people, animals and the environment.

Dalley continued: “Thailand should be very proud of this award. It demonstrates how far the country has come in terms of improving the welfare of its animals. We are eternally grateful to the Thai people for all their support and assistance in improving the lives of street dogs and cats, and in ending the dog meat trade here”.

The Soi Dog Foundation short film on Cola and Gill was surprisingly made on a zero budget, in stark contrast to the professionally made films entered by the other charities. Dalley concluded, “Our supporters don’t want us to spend their money on initiatives that do not directly impact on the welfare of the dogs and cats here. We spend 92% of all donations directly on the animal welfare programmes we run on behalf of our supporters”.

March 25, 2017
Not a Single Day in Jail For Couple Who Left Their Dogs & Cats at Home While They Went on Holiday for TWO WEEKS

The RSPCA is reminding owners to provide for their pets when they go away after a Surrey couple went on a two-week holiday and left their two cats and a dog home alone without supervision or care.

The husband and wife were banned from keeping animals and given suspended prison sentences after one of the cats was found dead, and the other cat and dog found neglected in a dirty kitchen.

Zara Hicks (date of birth: 20/09/1979), and David James Hicks (date of birth 02/09/1975), both of Hemsby Road, Chessington, Surrey, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 22 March. They had previously pleaded guilty (on 22 February) to not making arrangements to provide adequate care and supervision for their pets, and causing unnecessary suffering to one of the cats by not providing proper and necessary veterinary care.

Both were disqualified from keeping all animals for 12 years and made to pay £400 in costs. Zara Hicks was also given a prison sentence of 20 weeks, suspended for 24 months, and a community order to do 200 hours of unpaid work. David Hicks was also given a prison sentence of 12 weeks, suspended for 24 months, and a community order of 160 hours of unpaid work.

The RSPCA visited their Surrey home in September after concern was raised to us about the brown female poodle cross called Honey, and a tortoiseshell male called Twitch and a tabby male called Dribble.

We arrived to discover Dribble already dead. He had been suffering from a tumour and associated illness which he had not received veterinary treatment for.

Twitch and Honey were neglected and distressed, but alive, living in a kitchen covered in faeces.

RSPCA chief inspector Kerry Gabriel said: “With the Easter holidays coming up, this case is a reminder to pet owners of the importance of ensuring their animals are safe and cared for when they go away.

“It is not enough to just leave a couple of bowls of food down – dogs, cats and, indeed, all domestic animals, need proper supervision and care.

“In this case one of the cats sadly died while the couple had gone away on their holiday for two weeks, due to lack of veterinary care. This would have been a very lonely and probably painful death, poor thing.

“The other two were very neglected and distressed, and covered in fleas. This was a case of pet owners completely failing to provide the care they should have.”

Honey and Twitch were taken by police and placed into RSPCA care, and we have looked after them ever since. The court issued a deprivation order so it is hoped we can find them new homes soon.

March 23, 2017
Putting Clothes on Dogs Could Lead to Skin Problems, Experts Say

A recent survey has claimed that there is a link between dogs who wear clothes and the rising number of dogs who suffer from skin conditions.

The findings, which have been released by Direct Line Pet Insurance say that a third of vets tell them the main reasons for this are clothing rubbing against the skin, while others claimed the clothes could cause stress and dogs may overheat as a result of the extra layer.

Despite owners worrying that their dogs may be cold in the winter, advice from veterinary professionals is that they typically don’t need to wear clothes. Their skin is well protected with hair and, although they may get wet, they dry off quickly and rain is unlikely to do them any harm.

Commenting on the findings Dr Andrew Francis RCVS, Chief Operations Officer at Pawsquad, said: “Owners should be mindful that sometimes putting their dogs in clothing can cause skin damage, as the added materials can irritate a dog’s skin. Skin disease is the most common reason for people seeking an online veterinary consultation and, while easily treated, can cause problems if left for a long period of time. If any owner is concerned their dog may be suffering from skin disease they should speak to a vet.”

5 Most Common Breeds Susceptible to Skin Conditions

To help dog owners who are concerned but aren’t sure if they should visit their vet yet, Direct Line Pet Insurance has partnered with Pawsquad to offers its customers access to live chat and video calls with qualified, experienced vets to discuss their pet’s needs 24/7.

Prit Powar, head of Pet Insurance at Direct Line said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Pawsquad, as it means our customers are able to speak to a qualified vet any time, night or day, for additional peace of mind and without affecting the cost of their premium. We would always urge customers to see a vet in person if it is an emergency but for those cases, like skin disease, which may not need a face to face meeting the service will be invaluable.”

Clothes Might Not Be the Only Reason a Dog’s Skin Is Irritated

While clothes undoubtedly don’t help some dogs, there are other common reasons a dog’s skin might be irritated.

Common reasons include seasonal allergies (even grass), to household laundry products, so consider if you have recently switched fabric conditioners if your dog is having problems.

Hot spots on a dog’s skin can also be caused by allergies to parasites, such as fleas.

According to Dogadvice.co.uk, “Quite a few dogs are so sensitive to fleas, the bite of one flea is sufficient to trigger the dog to itch all over. Any sort of injury can begin the process which the dog then exacerbates by relentless chewing and licking which in turn results in a vicious cycle and will cause the hot spot to spread.”

Make sure you keep your dog flea free using a suitable flea treatment for dogs for safety and speak with your vet to make sure the underlying cause of the skin problem is resolved so that your dog doesn’t experience on an ongoing basis.

March 20, 2017
Shame on You Channel 4: Rich Dog, Poor Dog TV Show Review

As a dog lover who loves to channel hop, I can guarantee there are few things which will make me stop and watch whatever show I land on. But one thing that will always make me stop and watch is a dog.

Last night while browsing I came across ‘Rich Dog, Poor Dog’ on Channel 4. At this stage, I would normally include a link to the show for readers to watch themselves if they missed it.

In this case, I really can’t bring myself to do that except to say: if you haven’t seen it, I wouldn’t recommend watching it. Seriously, if you love dogs and understand the animal welfare crisis in the UK you won’t enjoy it: here’s why.

At first I thought the show was simply looking through the keyhole at the life of dog owners who live only streets apart but find themselves living on very different scales of income: one rich, one poor.

In the beginning, I watched not really sure that was that much of a revelation but found myself watching all the same.

Through our interviews for K9 Magazine, we’ve been told city-dwelling dog owners often find themselves making new friends through their one common interest – dogs. And so I watched thinking this may be where we were headed.

Admittedly the show telegraphed this by filming the two ‘poor dog’ owners and their dogs, a Jack Russell and Staffie, walking to the shops to spend their last £7. Glancing from afar at the houses which they said must be worth £5 million, they speculated those who lived there wouldn’t have their sort of money problems.

Contrastingly, we then saw the ‘rich dog’ family receive a visit from their groomer who the owner speculated was “the best in all of Chelsea and Battersea” for a pampering session in the comfort of the wealthy Shih-Tzu’s own home.

Then the show took a turn.

In the ‘poor’ household after being told one of the dogs would have to have cat food as they’d run out of dog food and had no money left until their benefits would be next paid, the concept of breeding was introduced in a ‘let’s get the laptop out and look at how to breed dogs’ segment.

The topic seemed planted by producers at best, negligent at worst.

The concept of backyard breeding wasn’t introduced as a bad thing. Nor as something that should NEVER be advised or attempted, but as something being actively considered because they had no money and because of how much you can earn if you breed cross-breeds with a fancy name like a “little jack shihtz”.

The UK has an animal welfare crisis.

Not just by sheer volume of dogs who end up in rescues every year neglected and abused (and this number is rising), but by breeders actively breeding dogs who will grow up with health problems and puppy farmers who in some cases are concealing their true motives aided (knowingly or otherwise, if we’re being generous) by The Kennel Club, who run Crufts (also currently being aired across Channel 4’s network).

Dogs aren’t here to be our cash cows. They aren’t here to solve our income issues. They are our companions and do many, many wonderful things every day as our companions. They make us laugh, they give us comfort and in some cases are amazing assistance dogs transforming the lives of their owners.

Watch a dog sitting with his homeless owner and you can see a content dog giving comfort and companionship. Dogs relationship with man has nothing to do with wealth.

Across the country, there are dogs who already suffer at the hands of humans in many different ways. The fact the show aired this as something that people could do is appalling.

So what happened?

Well, the two sets of dog owners met and had nothing except dogs in common. Staffies were bashed a bit by the rich dog owner who had a stereotype in her mind which didn’t match the reality and should have known better, and the ‘poor dog’ Jack Russell (Juno) couldn’t have puppies and she was given up.

This show COULD have said something positive about the discrimination towards certain types of owners and their dogs. It didn’t.

It could have shone a light on how many dog owners put their dogs ahead of themselves. It didn’t do this either.

What it did do it put the idea of backyard breeding out there with no common sense highlighting the untold distress to animals as a result. Nor did it tell the story of how this could put further stress on the animal rescue system which is already bursting at the seems.

The show flashed up a hashtag to encourage people to take to social media to discuss. While following the trail today I discovered I’m not alone. Here’s what others thoughts.

March 10, 2017
A Petition Backed By 30,000 Dog Lovers Is Being Handed to The Kennel Club, Will They Listen?

As Crufts 2017 gets underway many are questioning how the organisation behind intends to secure a future for one of Britain’s most beloved, but health riddled breeds – the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Or if they even care about the pain and suffering these dogs endure?

TV Vet and animal lover Emma Milne was one of the 30,000 who signed an online petition calling on The Kennel Club (KC) to tackle the breed’s health crisis and feels so strongly that she is set to break her 18-year boycott of the show to hand the petition to the organisation in person tomorrow (Friday).

Pictured above, Beebee (L) and Isla (R). Beebee is 4 years old but looks much older because she has Syringomyelia.

Milne has been an outspoken supporter of the pet owners’ campaign. In an interview with the Vet Times last year she called on the veterinary profession to be more vocal about this issue and said leaving testing to breeders wasn’t working.

“If show winners had to prove they had been health tested or face elimination, I can tell you things would change pretty damned quickly,” she said.

Supporters of the petition, including Craig Revel Horwood, Deborah Meadon, Pixie Lott and the RSPCA, want the KC to make testing mandatory for the two most serious conditions: a heart disease called Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and Syringomyelia (SM), a distressing neurological disorder caused by dogs being bred with skulls too small for their brains.

“For too long those with the power to make a difference to Cavalier health – the breed clubs and Kennel Club – have done nothing. The pet-owning public have said enough is enough,” says Margaret Carter, a former health representative for the national committee of the CKCS Club turned whistleblower, who started the petition at Change.org.

“Research proves that breeding from dogs tested clear increases the chances of healthy puppies yet the KC refuses to take proper action. Families are seeing their loved pets living in pain and dying young. They want the KC to live up to its claim of “making a difference for dogs,” she adds.

Milne says, “I vowed I’d never return to Crufts on my last visit but I feel very strongly about this important campaign. Cavaliers are being let down very badly in this country. When will the KC stop seeing pound signs and start seeing sense? The UK is way behind much of Europe where other countries have seen dramatic improvements in disease prevalence in Cavaliers through robust testing.”

Many European countries have mandatory health testing for Cavaliers, including Denmark where the risk of MVD has fallen by over 73 per cent for the breed since compulsory heart testing was introduced. The condition is the biggest killer of Cavaliers in the UK (20 times more prevalent than any other breed) and the KC’s own Breed Health Survey stated they are dying 17 months earlier than a decade ago. However, there is no KC heart scheme in this country.

The distressing neurological condition SM came to the public’s attention in 2008 when the BBC aired the documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed. This showed dogs screaming in agony and revealed top show Cavaliers with this inherited disease being used for breeding against veterinary advice. In the aftermath, the BBC ditched its coverage of Crufts and the KC launched a screening scheme for SM.

However, the health scheme has been boycotted by breeders (in five years results for only 256 KC-registered Cavaliers have been submitted while thousands of puppies have been bred) and campaigners say many successful show breeders continue to set a bad example by ignoring breeding guidelines.

“Internationally accepted breeding protocols state that Cavaliers should not be bred before 2.5 years old but again and again we see dogs with more rosettes than health test certificates and being bred far too young, such as a recent Cavalier Best of Breed winner at Crufts that had fathered a litter of puppies before his first birthday,” says Margaret Carter.

“The many thousands of comments on the online petition illustrate not only how widespread these health problems are and the terrible impact they have on Cavaliers and the families who care for them but also how out of step with public feeling the Kennel Club and small but powerful inner circle of show breeders are.”

March 9, 2017
US Senators Seek to Amend Animal Welfare Act to Ban Dog and Cat Meat Trade in America

The US may be under the political spotlight across the globe as election battle matters continue to ripple after last year’s shock presidential result, but a bill to introduce tighter laws for animal welfare has united four US representatives across both parties.

US Representatives Alcee L. Hastings, Vern Buchanan, Dave Trott, and Brendan Boyle have introduced legislation to ban the dog and cat meat trade in the United States, winning praise from those who continue to fight to end the dog and cat meat trade across Asia.

In a move to stop the cruel trade from taking hold in the United States, the bill (the Dog and Cat Meat Prohibition Act of 2017) would amend the U.S Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the slaughter and trade of dogs and cats for human consumption and would provide penalties for individuals involved in the dog or cat meat trade.

In the United States, dog and cat meat eating is limited but the new bill will prevent domestic trade and imports, and serve as an important symbol of unity with countries and regions such as Thailand, Hong Kong, the Philippines and Taiwan that have dog meat bans in place.

Pictured above (L-R), CoS Lale, Congressman Hastings and celebrity dog lover Bonnie-Jill Laflin, as the star met with the duo saying on Twitter “Great seeing friend @RepHastingsFL & CoS Lale, 2 continue our talks on his work on ending dog/cat meat trade! He has reintroduced the Res!”

Bonnie-Jill Laflin introduced her two new rescue dogs, Jo Montana (R) and Jaclyn Chan (L) last year – Jaclyn Chan is a survivor of the dog meat trade

30 million dogs a year are killed, cats too

Humane Society International (HSI) is one of the leading organisations campaigning across Asia to end the dog meat trade that sees around 30 million dogs a year killed for human consumption. It’s a trade that subjects dogs to horrifying treatment and similar problems face an untold number of cats.

Kelly O’Meara, director of companion animals and engagement for Humane Society International (HSI) said: “Through our work in China, South Korea, Vietnam and Indonesia, we are urging policy makers to take decisive steps to end the trade. A similar law here in the United States would show important solidarity with those that have already enacted bans and inspire more to join the cause. We applaud Congressmen Hastings, Buchanan, Trott and Boyle for introducing this bill and their commitment to ending this brutal trade.”

Calling an end to the dog meat trade in Asia has become an issue forefront in many dog lovers minds, including Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump who has used her position on the show to shine a light

Putting pressure on Asia politically

Last year, and again this year, Congressman Hastings introduced a Congressional Resolution condemning China’s Yulin dog meat festival. Dog meat traders in China launched the festival in 2010 to increase sales, but popular outcry, both internationally and within China, has dramatically reduced the scope of the festival that takes place every year during the summer solstice. HSI and its Chinese partner groups have been on the ground every year to uncover the cruelty of the festival, and to stop the illegal transport of dogs into Yulin. Last year, HSI and its local partners rescued 170 dogs and cats from slaughterhouses on the outskirts of Yulin and transported them to the US, UK and Canada for adoption.

“Many people would be shocked to learn that it is still legal to slaughter dogs and cats for the purpose of human consumption in 44 states,” said Congressman Hastings. “This legislation will prohibit these practices and unify the animal cruelty laws across our country by explicitly prohibiting the slaughter and consumption of our most beloved companions. I am proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fight against these cruel and inhumane practices.”

March 9, 2017
This Event Happens Every Year & It Can Be Very Dangerous For Dogs

Since dogs were invented they’ve managed to find many spectacular, weird and not so wonderful ways of getting themselves in trouble. Actually no. That’s not strictly true. You see, dogs in the wild don’t tend to find themselves in dire emergencies as a result of some of the things that legitimately do kill our domestic canine pals. So it is in fact dogs living in our human world that need to be protected from things that are perfectly harmless – or even fun – for us, but deadly for them. An event is around the corner that poses particular danger to dogs…

As hot cross buns, daffodils and chocolate eggs establish their place on supermarket shelves, a pet insurance specialist is urging dog owners to beware of the dangers of EASTER!

With an abundance of chocolate around the house, Easter is well known as a time of over indulgence for humans but, according to NFU Mutual, pets could be put at serious risk of harm or even die if they join the Easter excess.

Rebecca Davidson, Insurance Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “It is well known that chocolate is poisonous to dogs and can even prove fatal but pet owners may be unaware that raisins, currants and sultanas, found in hot cross buns or Simnel cake, are also toxic. Add to the ingredients some foil packaging or cake decorations, and you are looking at a recipe for disaster.”

Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine (rather like caffeine) that is poisonous to dogs if eaten, while the compounds found in sultanas, currants and raisins can cause rapid kidney failure.

Other risks around the home at Easter include traditional spring flowers, such as daffodils and tulips, which are toxic to pets. As well the flowers being dangerous, water drunk from a vase of daffodils can make dogs unwell.

In 2016, the average vet’s bill for dogs who had eaten the wrong thing was £600¹. Rat poison or slug pellets continued to be the most common culprit, while nearly one in four claims involved chocolate and nearly one in ten dried fruit or grapes.

Rebecca added: “Dogs will eat almost anything and swallowing toxic substances and foreign objects takes place all year round. Stones, socks, skewers and even half a doormat were on the list of ingested items that made dogs unwell last year.”

“As a nation of dog lovers, the last thing we want to do is put our four legged friends in danger so it’s worth taking some extra precautions this Easter to avoid an emergency visit to the vet.”

Easter danger list for dogs:
1 Chocolate – keep Easter eggs well out of your dog’s reach and make sure your dog doesn’t find any leftover ‘treasure’ from Easter Egg hunts
2 Anything with currants, raisins or sultanas – so hot cross buns and simnel cake are all off the menu
3 Bones from cooked food – especially chicken bones
4 Easter flowers – such as daffodils, tulips and crocuses and bulbs
5 Alcohol

March 7, 2017
Soi Dog Foundation Shortlisted for British Charity Film Awards & Need Your Votes!

Across social media, you will sometimes see a video showing a dog in a situation that as an animal lover makes you thankful for those who helped turn their future around, giving them the happy ending that all dogs deserve.

Last year the Thailand-based organisation, Soi Dog Foundation released a video of a dog named Cola who they had rescued. Cola was rescued in Bangkok and the puppy was found injured. Both of his front legs had been cut off by a sword after Cola had chewed his neighbour’s shoes.

The video tells the story of Cola’s treatment after the attack, the fitting of her prosthetic legs, and his adoption by Gill Dalley, a co-founder of Soi Dog Foundation, herself a double leg amputee, who has since passed away.

Entitled “Love Will Always Triumph Over Evil”, the key message is about giving animals a second chance at life and has been viewed more than 77,000 times on the video platform, Vimeo.

The video was submitted to this year’s British Charity Film Awards where they have reached the final stages alongside five other entrants for the main ‘Charity Film Awards’ prize, where a panel of judges will decide their fate.

But you can get involved still.

How you can help Cola and Soi Dog Foundation

The video has also been submitted to the award’s ‘People’s Choice’ category, which is voted for by the public.

Gill’s husband, John commented on the video’s success so far saying, “Gill would be immensely proud that the film of her and Cola is a finalist at the British Charity Film Award. Gill worked tirelessly to highlight the plight of dogs and cats in Asia, so for her, it’s all about making more people aware of the situation in this part of the world”.

Watch the video and cast your vote by 10th March to have your say: http://www.charityfilmawards.com/videos/soi-dog-foundation

March 7, 2017
This Unsuspecting Dog is About to Get The Most Amazing Birthday Surprise

95% of us celebrate or pet’s birthdays according to research conducted by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. For some reason we just have to let our animal’s in on this most human tradition of acknowledging the date upon which we made our entrance in to this world and, as far as we can tell, our dogs are more than happy to play along with this particular act of benevolent anthropomorphism. The real question is, just how far are you willing to go to ensure your dog has a birthday to remember? Would you go as far as this particular owner….

March 4, 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
This Dog A Swallowed A Glow Glow Stick & It Nearly Killed Her

Vets have saved a dog after it gobbled up three dummy teats and a glow stick, which caused a near-fatal blockage in her stomach.

Megan Marron (22) took 11-month-old Caverpoo* Rosie to Middlesbrough PDSA Pet Hospital, as she was showing some worrying symptoms: “We didn’t know what was wrong – Rosie was being sick and was very lethargic, which is really unlike her as she’s usually full of energy”, she said.

Once at PDSA, X-rays revealed a potentially fatal blockage in her intestine and several other items in Rosie’s stomach. PDSA Vet Nigel Crane explained: “Dogs often use their mouth to investigate objects, and sometimes swallow things by mistake. Although objects sometimes pass through without harm, some get stuck in the dog’s stomach or intestines, which is extremely dangerous and can be life-threating.”

Poor Rosie was already very weak when she arrived at the hospital and vets were uncertain whether she would survive an emergency operation. But it was her only chance of survival. Vets were shocked when they removed the items and realised what they were – the dummy teats had clearly been inside her for some time.

Megan added: “Rosie was at death’s door when we left her with PDSA, and we were devastated to think we might lose her. When we heard she’d survived the operation and was recovering well, we were over the moon. She really is part of the family, I’m so grateful to PDSA for saving her life – they were amazing.

“I don’t know how she got hold of these things. The dummies must have been my daughter’s but they’re not usually left lying around. I have absolutely no idea where she got hold of a glow stick though!”

Rosie made a remarkably quick recovery and was soon back to her normal bouncy, mischievous self. Megan now keeps a very close eye on her at home and is extra careful when out on walks.

Vet Nigel added: “PDSA vets have removed very bizarre items from pets over the years, including tent pegs, kitchen knives, radio aerials and plenty of toys.”

“Signs that your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t include being sick, drooling excessively or having difficulty breathing. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these things. It’s also a good idea to teach your dog basic commands such as ‘leave’ and ‘drop’ from a young age.”

March 3, 2017
Michael Heathcock & Richard Finch Hammered a Nail in to Dog’s Head Before Burying Him Alive

Two men from Redcar have been jailed for four months after admitting their part in hammering a nail into a dog’s head before burying him alive, in a prosecution case brought by the RSPCA.

Owner Michael Alan Heathcock of Ontario Crescent and his friend Richard Mark Anthony Finch of Geneva Drive appeared before Teesside Magistrates’ Court on March 1st 2017.

RSPCA inspector Nick Jones said: “A couple out walking discovered terrier ‘Scamp’ in Kirkleatham Woods around midday on Wednesday 19 October 2016, after hearing a whimpering sound and going to explore a mound of earth.

“They got some local workmen to dig him out with a shovel, and, if that wasn’t horrific enough, Scamp had a nail sticking out from between his eyes.

“They called the police before rushing Scamp to a nearby vets who were left with no choice but to put him to sleep. That’s when we were notified.”

The RSPCA appealed for information in the media and two days later, on Friday 21 October 2016, Heathcock and Finch attended a police station where they were arrested and interviewed by the RSPCA.

At a hearing last week, Heathcock admitted two offences under the Animal Welfare Act – (1.) causing unnecessary suffering to Scamp by inflicting blunt force trauma and hammering a nail through his skull and (2.) between 19 May and 19 October 2016, causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide necessary veterinary care and attention for Scamp’s numerous ailments including incontinence, inappetence, hind limb weakness and disorientation.

The court heard that Scamp had been suffering from an untreated brain tumour for a number of months which caused the symptoms.

Today, Heathcock was sentenced to four months in prison and a lifetime disqualification on keeping any animals. He was ordered to pay £100 costs and £115 victim surcharge.

Finch admitted one offence under the Animal Welfare Act of aiding or abetting, counseling or procuring Heathcock to cause unnecessary suffering to Scamp by the infliction of blunt force trauma and the hammering of a nail through his skull.

Today, he too was sentenced to four months in prison and a lifetime disqualification on keeping any animals. He was also ordered to pay £100 costs and £115 victim surcharge.

In mitigation, the court heard that Heathcock couldn’t afford to pay for a vet and felt that they were putting Scamp out of his misery. It heard the pair thought he was already dead when they buried him.

RSPCA inspector Jones said: “Scamp had been suffering for months but instead of seek veterinary treatment his owner and his owner’s friend decided to take him to a secluded spot in the woods and hammered a nail into his head.

“There were four indentations in his skull, where they had attempted to hammer the nail in and failed. Scamp had also suffered a burst skull fracture from a large trauma ‘such as a hammer’.

“It is very hard to think about what he went through. It’s been a truly harrowing case for everyone involved.

“The only consolation is that Scamp’s final moments were spent being comforted by the kind strangers who found him, and the wonderful staff at the vets.”

March 1, 2017

Millions of Pets at Risk of Life Threatening Illnesses – Is Your Region High on The List?

New research from PDSA has revealed that 4.4 million pets are unneutered, leaving them in danger of life-threatening illnesses.

Vet charity PDSA today warned many much-loved family pets’ lives are at risk, as nearly 3 million dogs, 770,000 cats and 720,000 rabbits* are unneutered, leaving them susceptible to various dangerous conditions such as womb infections and cancers.

To coincide with World Spay Day (28 February) the charity’s vets are urging owners to get their pets neutered – a potentially life-saving, simple procedure that can help pets live longer, healthier lives.

Facts About Spaying And Neutering

The PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report**, produced in conjunction with YouGov, has revealed why pets aren’t being neutered. The main reason given by owners was ‘Haven’t thought about it’ (22 per cent), followed by ‘Don’t believe in it’ (16 per cent) and ‘Not got round to it’ (14 per cent).

PDSA Vet Rebecca Ashman, said: “Sadly, vet practices across the UK see the devastating consequences of leaving pets unneutered all too often. Many cancers can be prevented by neutering, as can horrendous life-threatening conditions such as womb infections.

“As well as avoiding unwanted litters, neutering can have many health benefits for your pet. It’s best not to delay – health problems in unneutered pets are more likely as they get older. We all love our pets, so it’s important to prevent potential problems arising when we can. I’d highly recommend owners speak to their vet to avoid future heartache.”

Pet neutering levels vary considerably across the UK, with the North East seeing the highest levels of unneutered pets – 1 in 4 pets (26 per cent) – compared to 16 per cent of pets in the South East.

Regional variances of unneutered pets:

Area	Percentage Unneutered Pets
North East	26%
North West	24%
Scotland	23%
Northern Ireland	23%
Yorkshire & the Humber	22%
East Midlands	21%
South West	21%
Wales	20%
East of England	20%
West Midlands	19%
London	17%
South East	16%

Myths and misconceptions may also be partly to blame for some owners choosing against neutering their pets, as Rebecca explains:

“As a vet, I’ve heard many reasons why people are reluctant to have their pets neutered, ranging from worrying it will emasculate their pets, to concern about denying a pet’s parental rights. The reality is that animals don’t experience emotions in the same way we do. There’s no evidence to suggest there is an emotional cost to animals when they don’t have a litter. If owners have concerns about their pet having an anaesthetic and surgery, their vet or vet nurse will be able to put their minds at rest.

“There is also a fear that neutering will change your pet’s personality. Again, this a common misconception: neutering can reduce testosterone-fuelled behaviours – such as aggression – but this is not the same as changing their nature, which is shaped by genetics and life experiences. If owners have any questions, I’d always recommend they speak to their vet, who can give them specific advice for their pet and address any concerns.”

For all pet owners, regardless of species, unplanned pregnancies can be stressful and expensive, especially if there are complications, according to PDSA. It can be very difficult to find loving new homes for any offspring. As a result, many pets end up in rehoming and rescue centres.

For more advice from PDSA vets about neutering, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/neutering

February 27, 2017

When a Man Threatened to Blow up a Block of Flats, This Dog Did Something Remarkable

Three heroic and devoted Scottish dogs have been given honours by the UK’s leading veterinary charity for their bravery and devotion to duty.

At a special ceremony at the Scottish Parliament, Police Dog Ozzy became the latest recipient of the prestigious PDSA Gold Medal* – the animals’ equivalent of the George Cross – for disarming a man threatening to blow up a block of flats.

Police Dog Sweep and civilian dog Sabby were awarded the PDSA Order of Merit* – the animals’ OBE. PD Sweep’s award is in recognition of outstanding service as a detection dog, uncovering drugs, weapons, cash and poisons over an eight-year career. Sabby was honoured for her role within the NHS, supporting people with learning difficulties.

Commenting on the awards, PDSA Director General Jan McLoughlin said: “Between them, these three wonderful dogs have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, courage and character. They have excelled in different ways but each story demonstrates the huge contribution that animals make to our lives.”

Police Dog Ozzy

Police Dog Ozzy received the PDSA Gold Medal for his bravery and life-saving actions disarming an armed assailant threatening to blow up a block of flats.

Before his retirement, nine-year-old PD Ozzy worked for Police Scotland. In 2015, Ozzy and his handler Police Constable Brian Tennant, were called to an incident at a flat in Falkirk, where a man had assaulted two people at knifepoint. On arrival they discovered the man had severed a gas pipe and was threatening to blow up the building.

The occupants of the flats were evacuated, leaving PC Tennant and PD Ozzy able to enter the building. The armed assailant charged at them shouting threats, while attempting to ignite the gas with a lighter.

After warning the assailant PC Tennant released Ozzy, who tackled the man to the ground where he was disarmed and arrested.

PD Ozzy’s intervention prevented the man from harming himself and potentially others as well as causing extensive damage to the building.

Commenting on the award, PC Brian Tennant said: “Ozzy has been a loyal and exemplary police dog throughout his career. He has assisted with apprehending numerous criminals, saved lives and prevented countless injuries to members of the public and fellow police officers. Receiving the PDSA Gold Medal is a fitting end to his distinguished career, I am incredibly proud of him.”

Police Dog Sweep

Police Dog Sweep, a Working Cocker Spaniel, received his PDSA Order of Merit for outstanding devotion to duty while working as Detection Dog for Lothian and Borders Police and Police Scotland.

During a career spanning 2007 to 2015, 11-year-old PD Sweep was trained to detect drugs, firearms, cash and poison and worked alongside Police Constable Rhona Meikle.

In 2012, PD Sweep became the UK’s only Poison Detection Dog, after being trained to find Carbofuran, a deadly banned poison used to target birds of prey. He remained in this exclusive role until his retirement in 2015.

During his service PD Sweep completed around 100 successful searches, removing dangerous weapons, drugs and poisons from the streets of Scotland. He successfully located £512,000 worth of street drugs, £250,000 in cash, six shotguns, three handguns, a flare gun, two rifles, 3,500 shotgun cartridges and 1,000 rounds of ammunition.

PD Sweep’s unique skills and devotion to duty have undeniably made Scotland safer for civilians and wildlife.

Commenting on the award, PC Rhona Meikle said: “Sweep has made a huge contribution to the fight against violent and organised crime in Scotland. He has also helped protect Scottish wildlife through his poisons detection work. I’m so pleased he has been awarded the PDSA Order of Merit. I’ve always known he’s special and now so does everyone else!”

Sabby (Sabakka)

Thirteen-year-old Labrador Sabby (Sabakka) was awarded the PDSA Order of Merit in recognition of her role supporting people with learning difficulties.

Sabby retired in 2016 after a distinguished ten-year career working with the NHS Lanarkshire Learning Disability Occupational Therapy Service team. During that time she worked alongside Jacqueline Evans, an Occupational Therapy Assistant Practitioner, helping people with learning disabilities both in the community and the hospital.

Her warm and gentle nature helped her develop a special relationship with patients, allowing them to develop skills, make decisions and learn responsibilities. Opportunities that without Sabby’s involvement would have been unavailable to them.

Sabby has also worked alongside clinical psychologists supporting patients who suffer from extreme dog phobias. Her involvement has been recognised as a key factor in enabling these patients to become further integrated into their community.

Sabby’s work with the NHS Lanarkshire is an excellent example of the special relationship between human and animals.

Jacqueline Evans said: “After many years of devoted service, it is wonderful that Sabby’s skills and commitment to our patients have been recognised by PDSA. She is now enjoying her well-earned retirement and is greatly missed by all the patients and staff she has selflessly helped over the years.”

Award Reaction

The PDSA Gold Medal and Order of Merits were presented to PD Ozzy, PD Sweep and Sabby by PDSA Director General Jan McLoughlin.

Jan said: “I feel incredibly proud to award Ozzy, Sweep and Sabby, three truly amazing dogs with their PDSA Medals. Each of their stories is unique and special, but they have all made a profoundly positive impact on the lives of people in Scotland.

“Today they join a very honourable line-up and are all worthy recipients of the PDSA Gold Medal and PDSA Order of Merit.”

Police Scotland, Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgin, added: “Police dogs play an essential role in supporting our officers in Keeping People Safe, as these awards demonstrate. Our dogs and their handlers perform many roles, whether it be searching for missing persons, searching out illegal drugs, money, poison or explosives. It is clear that they are brave and fearless teams and the awards to Ozzy and Sweep amply demonstrate that.”

PDSA Medals

Instituted in 2002, the PDSA Gold Medal rewards acts of bravery for civilian animals. Police Dog Ozzy is the 25th recipient, all of which have been dogs.

The PDSA Order of Merit recognises animals that display outstanding acts of devotion above and beyond normal companionship. It also recognises animal acts which represent the special relationship that exists between animals and humans. Police Dog Sweep and Sabby are the 5th and 6th canine recipients of the honour, which has been awarded 16 times since its institution in 2014.

For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk/herodogs

February 24, 2017

Blog

Facts About Spaying And Neutering

Police Dog Ozzy

Police Dog Sweep

Sabby (Sabakka)