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  • Scrap Breed Specific Legislation & Reform Dangerous Dogs Act – Hard Hitting New Report

    Scrap Breed Specific Legislation & Reform Dangerous Dogs Act – Hard Hitting New Report

    MPs and stars back call for tough penalties and ‘national register’ to tackle offence ‘which is gateway to drug and gun crime’

    Dogs slammed into walls to toughen them up for fighting, cats and dogs used as ‘bait’ to train fighting dogs, dead dogs dumped in the countryside – these are among the disturbing findings of a ground-breaking investigation into dog fighting in the UK today.

    Developed and instigated by the League Against Cruel Sports as part of its campaign to end dog fighting in the UK, Project Bloodline was a six month investigation designed to understand why, when and where dog fighting takes place – and how we can stop it.

    Working collaboratively with 60 partners in a ‘typical’ UK urban area, the League Against Cruel Sports unearthed intelligence which included:

    • Prohibited dogs bred and sold in a clandestine market in order to supply the high demand for status and fighting dogs with Pitbull ‘type’ puppies being sold for £1,000
    • Before a fight has even taken place animals are left severely injured or are even killed having been subjected to brutal training methods including body or head slamming
    • A feral cat colony being kept to supply ‘bait’ for dog fighting
    • A Staffordshire Bull Terrier which had been used for ‘bait’ had its teeth crudely pulled and broken with pliers so that it could not defend itself
    • The bodies of dead dogs, which had been used for fighting, dumped near farmland

    Eduardo Gonçalves, CEO of the League Against Cruel Sports, who will be launching the report of Project Bloodline in Parliament on Tuesday, 24th May, said:

    “If anyone thinks dog fighting is a thing of the past, then sadly they are wrong. Last year we commissioned a ground-breaking academic report which said that a dog fight was taking place every day in the UK. This year we’ve taken to the streets to find out exactly what was happening, and the results are frightening.

    “Dogs are being bred and sold specifically for fighting, pet animals are being used to provide a steady supply of torture victims for cruel training exercises where they are tethered down or used as dangling ‘bait’ for dogs being trained to fight for ‘fun’ – the cruelty behind this underground world is endless and it’s happening right under our noses.

    “We want appropriate penalties to be introduced, and for appropriate action to be taken against perpetrators. Dog fighting is barbaric and we cannot allow it to be part of a modern Britain.”

    Ricky Gervais in response to the League’s findings said:

    “I am deeply saddened to hear that illegal dog fighting is apparently on the rise in the UK. Anyone who likes the spectacle of two terrified animals fighting is a psychopath. Dogs are naturally loyal friends, who have to be abused and mistreated to act in this way. They don’t want to be part of this. They are literally fighting for survival. Please never attend anything like this and if you suspect such a disgusting event may be taking place somewhere, then please report it immediately. This has to stop.”

    A ‘gateway’ crime

    Dog fighting is not purely a matter of animal welfare. Evidence from the UK and abroad points to the activity being a ‘gateway’ crime to serious and organised offences, such as drug and gun crime. In the United States dog fighting is recognised as a Grade A felony by the FBI and the practice of tackling dog fighting to prevent other crimes is well established.

    The League Against Cruel Sports worked closely with Michelle Welch, Virginia’s Assistant Attorney General, who has vast experience of tackling dog fighting in the USA. She said:

    “Dog fighting is a major crime that here in the States is closely linked with a wide range of other law-breaking. Statistics show that more than half of those connected with dog fighting are gang members, and seven out of ten have previously been arrested for felonies and/or drug offences. Where there is dog fighting, there are drugs.

    “Dog fighting is hidden, so the work being done in the UK by the League Against Cruel Sports is exactly what needs to happen. Collaboration between agencies, strong penalties and a greater understanding of the level of this activity is vital. The League Against Cruel Sports should be commended for Project Bloodline as without this kind of work, dog fighting will grow and have an ever-increasing negative impact on individuals, communities, and of course on the dogs.”

    The Way Forward – PUP

    Based on the intelligence and experience gathered from Project Bloodline, the League Against Cruel Sports is calling for the implementation of a national dog fighting action plan which can be rolled out in any area where dog fighting is prevalent.

    Based around three areas of Prevention, Understanding and Prosecution (PUP), recommendations include:

    • The formation of a National Task Force, led by a senior figure in Government, to ensure sufficient collaboration and action takes place to tackle dog fighting across the country.
    • Details of individuals banned from keeping dogs should be held on a national register by statutory agencies, helping to prevent further offences being committed whilst increasing opportunities for enforcement action.
    • Legislation and penalties for offenders must be clarified and strengthened; the League is calling for a minimum three year custodial sentence for convicted dog fighters. Sentencing should reflect the spectrum of offending in relation to dog fighting (from street level dog fighting to organised crime). Rehabilitation programmes should be offered as part of the sentencing mix.
    • The Dangerous Dog Act should be reviewed as a matter of urgency as we believe breed specific legislation is fundamentally flawed.

    Celebrity and political support for campaign

    The League’s campaign to end dog fighting in the UK has been backed by a list of celebrities and cross party MPs including: Ricky Gervais, Amanda Holden, Paul O’Grady, Russell Tovey, Nicky Campbell, Peter Egan, Tony Robinson, Bill Oddie, Dave Spikey, Marc Abraham, Alison Steadman, Ben Fogle, Gemma Atkinson, Carol Royle, Henry Smith MP for Crawley and Co-Chair of the All-Party Group for Animal Welfare, Kelvin Hopkins MP for Luton North, John Pugh MP for Southport, Margaret Ritchie MP for South Down, member of the Commons Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs Committee and Lisa Cameron, MP for East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow.

    Commenting on the issue and the League’s campaign, Henry Smith MP, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare said:

    “Dog fighting is an abhorrent pastime belonging to the past. Convicted perpetrators need to face appropriate punishments, however currently our courts lack the vital power to impose these – this needs to change if we have any chance of stopping dog fighting for good.

    “I support the League Against Cruel Sports with their campaign to both increase the available custodial sentences to at least three years and their call for a national register of animal abusers.”

    Britain’s Got Talent judge, Amanda Holden said: “I can’t think of many things worse than making two dogs fight each other. Dogs are loving animals, to abuse them like this is horrific.”

    Eduardo Gonçalves concluded:

    “Dog fighting is one of the most serious animal welfare issues in Britain today and it is also a serious issue of crime and community safety. Animal abuse has consistently been shown to be a reliable predictor of some of the most serious and most violent crimes in the community, including child abuse, domestic violence and abuse of the elderly.”

    The League Against Cruel Sports believes there has been a resurgence in dog fighting in urban areas in the UK. A range of different factors have led to this conclusion, including the results of Project Bloodline, increases in UK hospital admissions due to dog bites, increases in the number of muscly dogs on the streets and the apparent growth in the number of stolen dogs, possibly used for bait. Dog fighting might not be easy to see, but we ignore this evidence at our peril.

    “The League will now be stepping up its ongoing investigation into dog fighting in Britain. We will be stepping up engagement with local communities to prevent those at risk from being drawn in. We will be doing further research to help policy-makers and law enforcement agencies better understand the causes, and the potential solutions. We will be partnering with a range of agencies to support the rehabilitation of rescued dogs.”

    The League Against Cruel Sports has started a petition calling for the government to more effectively tackle dog fighting, including increasing sentences for convicted dog fighters. The petition can be signed at www.league.org.uk/dogfighting.

    Anyone with information about dog fighting taking place in their community can confidentially contact the League Against Cruel Sports Animal Crimewatch service on 01483 361108 or at www.league.org.uk/crimewatch.

  • My Dog Did This on a Walk This Morning, is She Strange or Sick?

    My Dog Did This on a Walk This Morning, is She Strange or Sick?

    We received a note from K9 Magazine reader Kerry. She was puzzled about a particular piece of behaviour her dog put on when they were out for a morning walk.

    Here’s her email (which she has given us permission to publish):

    http://i.imgur.com/yAhzgAo.png

    This morning, Tina our nine month old pup encountered a fairly fresh pile of horse dung. At first she sniffed it and then she tried to eat it so I shouted for her to stop and then she started to roll around in it. My question is whether this is normal behaviour or does she have some sort of deficiency in her diet that would make her want to eat something nasty like that?

    Well Kerry, your dog is neither strange nor sick. Many dogs appear to have this particularly unpleasant predilection for eating or rolling in horse mess.

    First things first. You were right to try and prevent your dog from eating it. It’s not good. Horse dung can also include the presence of horse wormer so that’s even more reason to prevent your dog from doing it along with the fact that it’s just plain nasty!

    The presence of equine parasite treatments such as Ivemectin can be very hazardous to dogs (breeds such as Collies, Staffies, Whippets/Greyhounds and Australian Shepherds are particularly vulnerable), so if you witness a dog that has recently eaten horse poop behaving strangely, consult your vet immediately and explain what’s happened.

    Why do dogs eat horse dung?

    Ever smelled a can of freshly opened dog meat? How about tripe that’s been hung for a while? What about an animal carcass that’s been in the sun for a few hours? Disgusting, right? Your dog will try to eat ALL of those things and don’t pretend otherwise. You know it, I know it, they know it. Let’s not try and deny the obvious, our dogs show a fondness for consuming some seriously smelly stuff.

    What seems awfully off putting for us can serve as a delicious treat to our four legged pals. The smellier the better seems to be their motto. So horse poop is just another delicacy on the canine menu. To a dog, a fresh pile of horse dung is a high fibre breakfast meal with a particularly arousing odour. It’s like an enticing bowl of Weetabix, if the Weetabix came out of a horse’s bum. As stated though, if you don’t personally know the backside the horse it came from and everything that’s been given to that horse then you should be quick to stop your dog before they get too many mouthfuls down their neck – and even if you do know the horse in question, don’t let your dog scoff their delicious dung deposits, it’s just, you know, nasty.

    You might be somewhat comforted to know that from our mini survey of dog owners, there wasn’t a single one of us who owned or had owned a dog that DIDN’T try to scoff horse muck. They seem to view it as free food that should be eaten as quickly as possible. Yuck!

    Why do dogs roll around in horse poop?

    There’s a school of thought that dogs smear themselves in pungent material (like horse poop) because it disguises their own smell. Well, they’re not wrong are they? You take the dog out for a walk smelling all fresh and reassuringly doggy and the journey home you find yourself holding your nose so as to not get a strong whiff of Stinky McStinkface who seems quite proud of himself as he showcases his fondness for eau de dung.

    A dog might want to disguise his smell because somewhere, in the very back of the ancient part of his canine brain, he thinks by smelling like horse poop he’s gained an advantage over his predators and his prey. By smelling like animal excrement he’ll be less detectable and will blend in to his environment more. Now, quite why he’d want to do that when he lives in a nice detached house in Cheshire we can only guess. But he does. He still thinks he’s a wolf, bless him. Speaking of which, you won’t be surprised to learn that wolves do this to. They roll around in horse muck, buffalo dung and all manner of stinky animal carcasses. Wild wolves have the same penchant for coating themselves in smelly stuff as our domestic pet dogs which is just another reminder that domesticated canines, at heart, are never slow to show us they’ve got a few ancestral tricks up the sleeves of their designer dog coats even if some of those tricks happen to be, quite frankly, gross.

    Rest assured Kerry. Your dog is 100% normal.

  • Staying Safe When Walking Your Dog

    For those of us partial to a heart-warming re-homing story or the occasional cheeky Labrador video, the pet news is a regular coffee break go-to. Unfortunately for dog owners, it seems that dog thefts and malicious acts against our pets are constantly in the headlines at the moment.

    Coupled with the time of year, many of us are still walking our dogs in the hours of darkness, making those usual strolls seem a little more secluded and lonely.

    spot

    While it’s nice to think that your faithful friend will protect you if you were ever threatened, for most of us our soft, loveable pets are more likely to lick a perpetrator then growl at them. We also know that most dogs can’t resist anything edible, making recent ‘spiking’ stories (The Mirror, 28/02/16) even more worrying.

    Staying safe when out and about is a matter of keeping alert, but it helps to reinforce those key safety guidelines that we often forget to put into practise when we’re going about our daily routines. Read our top tips and add your own safety advice to the comments below.

    Tell somebody where you’re going

    Even if the rest of the house is still sound asleep when you’re heading off into the elements, send a text or write a note letting everybody what route you’ll be taking and what time you set off. It’s also worth going on a route that you regularly take with the family so everybody has a good idea of roughly where you’ll be at what time. For more information about walking alone (or working alone if you’re a professional dog walker), The Suzy Lamplugh Trust website is full of useful advice on personal safety – http://www.suzylamplugh.org/personal-safety-tips/

    It’s also worth sticking to routes where you know you’ll have phone reception if you should injure yourself on your walk or see anything which immediately causes suspicion.

    Clear your head

    For many, an early morning or evening walk is an ideal time to relax, but try not to listen to music at times when you need your wits about you. As well as potentially failing to hear oncoming traffic, it makes it easier for somebody to approach you from behind without your knowledge. Wearing things around your neck (such as head phones or placing a lead around your shoulders) also makes it easier for somebody to apply pressure to your throat. Wear a hat instead of a hood too – hoods restrict your peripheral vision, making it harder to see traffic and anybody else who might be around.

    If you’re worried about visibility in poor light, LED dog collars and fluorescent strips are widely available from pet stores. If you can, try and spread any fluorescent clothing/lighting evenly about you and your dog – this will ensure that it’s clear you’re a dog walker (as opposed to a single person or cyclist) to oncoming traffic.

    Set up a walking group

    Most dog owners get to know all the local dogs – from the bulldog around the corner to the dachshund from the park. If there’s fellow dog owners you get on with, set up a walking group with set times that suit everybody. If you live in a rural area, this may be even more essential when your usual routes become increasingly isolated in the colder months.

    Dog in woodland

    Don’t assume a boisterous dog is safe off its lead

    If your dog is unpredictable around other dogs, don’t assume an early morning jaunt is going to mean you’re the only one about. A classic long lead will allow you to give your dog some freedom and bring him in if any other dogs come in sight.

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    Sadly, there have been numerous news articles of late reporting ‘spiking’ in popular dog walking spots. The Mirror and the Manchester Evening News have shared news of spiked food reports at Dovestone Reservoir (North West), Wandsworth (London) and Connah’s Quay (North Wales) in recent weeks. If anything makes you suspicious, call the local police line and report what you’ve seen. If you can try to alert other dog walkers and report your findings to the RSPCA.

    Dog Thefts

    Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t only pedigree dogs that get stolen for selling on. Criminals can target any pet where there’s a chance of a reward. When you’re out and about, always keep your dog in sight and train him to be obedient to your calls (easier said than done!). By simply calling him back and giving him some fuss and a small treat when he responds, you can soon train your dog to come running even when they’ve spotted something that really tempts them! It’s also worth making your garden secure from snoopers by fitting a bell or security light on your garden gate. It goes without saying that dogs should be micro-chipped, but the Blue Cross also suggest avoiding adding your pet’s name on their identification tag.

    This article was provided by the pet care team at Swell Pets. Specialising in dog food, bedding, healthcare and grooming, please contact our team for advice on caring for your dog – http://www.swellpets.co.uk/dog/dog-food-698.html

    screenshot-www.swellpets.co.uk 2016-03-14 11-31-12

  • If You’re Thinking About Getting a Dog, Let This Rescue Centre Act as Cupid This Valentine’s Day

    This Valentine’s Day Yorkshire and East Midlands based Jerry Green Dog Rescue will be acting as matchmaker for each of the 70 dogs currently in its care to help them find the perfect forever home.

    Top of the list of eligible dogs at the North Yorkshire centre is an eight-year old Lurcher, Cooper, who arrived into rescue around four months ago.

    With his athletic build, boy next door good looks and flowing auburn mane Cooper is seeking a long-term relationship with a food fanatic and lover of nap times. In return he will offer loyalty and a GSOH (great sense of humour)!

    “Cooper is your typical lovely, silly, sleepy Lurcher who loves to cuddle,” said Emma Cook, Centre Support Officer at Jerry Green Dog Rescue. “He is housetrained, walks well on the lead and loves to be around people.

    “He is an absolute treasure and when his forever home does come along, they’ll wonder why they waited to so long to meet such a fantastic dog.”

    Since coming into the rescue centre Cooper has been working hard to attract the attention of his pawfect match. The team at Jerry Green are hopeful that Valentine’s Day will remind potential adopters that all you need is love…and a dog!

    For more information about Cooper or any of the dogs currently looking for a forever home please contact your local Jerry Green Dog Rescue centre. Details can be found on the website: www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk/RescueCentres

     

    If you’re looking to adopt a dog from around the UK you can also check out www.dogsblog.com – bring joy, adopt a dog.

  • Peritonitis Nearly Killed This Dog, Find Out How Vets Saved Her Life

    Peritonitis Nearly Killed This Dog, Find Out How Vets Saved Her Life

    A Border Collie from Leicester has cheated death thanks to PDSA vets who battled against the odds to save her from a deadly condition.

    Holly was given just a 10 per cent chance of survival when vets diagnosed her with one of the worst cases of septic peritonitis they have ever seen. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum – the thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity.

    In Holly’s case it had developed into infected fluid filling her whole abdominal cavity, covering her vital organs.

    The 18-month-old dog underwent three lifesaving operations and spent a week in intensive care at the vet charity’s pet hospital in Braunstone, Leicester.

    Her owners, Alan and Jude, from Belgrave, said they were preparing themselves for the worst after PDSA vets gave them a dire prognosis.

    Alan said: “Holly had been off her food and just didn’t seem herself. Initially we thought she might have worms or something but then her stomach became swollen and we began worrying it could be more serious.

    “We took her to PDSA who examined her and ran some tests which confirmed that she had a very serious infection. They warned us that her chances weren’t good and we had to prepare ourselves for the worst. We were absolutely devastated.”

    But following difficult operations which involved draining infected fluid from Holly’s abdomen, and treatment with intravenous antibiotics, she began to rally and showed major improvement over the next few days.

    PDSA Senior Vet, Elly Hopkins, said: “Holly’s case was one of the worst cases of peritonitis we’ve ever seen at Leicester Pet Hospital.

    “Miraculously, and against the odds, Holly has survived. But sadly many pets don’t survive this condition. Holly was lucky that she’s young and healthy, and it’s great that she’s gone on to make a full recovery.

    Alan said the family were hugely grateful to PDSA for the treatment Holly received:

    “I honestly don’t know what we would have done without PDSA, they have been amazing.

    “Her treatment would have cost over £1,000, which we would never have been able to afford. We can’t thank them enough for saving Holly, it really is a miracle.”

    Alan and Jude’s son Tim, was so moved by what happened he launched a fundraising challenge to give up alcohol to raise money for PDSA.

    He has already raised over £200 and is being joined in the challenge by Judy and his sister Victoria. To sponsor Tim please visit https://www.justgiving.com/Tim-Gray4

  • Important Advice About Cold Weather & Your Dog

    Important Advice About Cold Weather & Your Dog

    The RSPCA has issued a set of tips to help animals cope with the impending cold weather snap expected to hit the UK.

    Freezing temperatures, more rain, and snow is forecast so make sure your pets and animals are warm and safe this winter
    As the Met Office forecasts frosty conditions and possible snow in the coming days, the RSPCA is urging people to ensure their animals are safe and warm.

    Following an unseasonably warm December and start to 2016, weather forecasters have predicted that temperatures will continue dropping over the weekend and into next week.

    Weather warnings for further rainfall remain in place in parts of the England and Wales. And the Met Office is forecasting snow in some areas next week.

    As the winter weather finally arrives in the UK, the RSPCA is releasing advice to ensure animals stay healthy during the colder weather, and tips on how to help wildlife survive the wintry spell.

    Pets & Cold Weather

    As the temperature begins to drop, the RSPCA advises keeping a closer eye on outdoor pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs. If the temperature starts to reach freezing, you may wish to consider moving your rabbit hutch inside or into an outhouse, shed or unused garage. We recommend that guinea pigs are housed indoors when temperatures are below 15OC. If you do bring your rabbits or guinea pigs indoors, they still need plenty of time and room to exercise in a safe and secure environment. If you have to leave them outside, you must provide them with lots of extra bedding, such as dust-free hay, and make sure their home is protected from adverse weather. For example, covers can be purchased to help insulate hutches in the winter months, but care must be taken to ensure there is adequate ventilation.

    For rabbits and guinea pigs housed in a hutch, a sloped roof is preferable to allow water to drain away. Hutches should be raised off the ground by at least four inches and placed in a sheltered position, facing away from wind and rain.

    If your rabbit or guinea pig gets wet, rub them dry with a towel and make sure they have plenty of warm bedding.

    For more about rabbits, go online, and for further guinea pig information visit the website.

    Cats should have constant access to the house or to a warm, inside area such as an outbuilding or barn with appropriate heating. You should also ensure the cat’s bedding or sleeping area is warm, dry and away from any draughts.

    Be aware that antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets.

    If you have an elderly or sickly dog, you can buy a special coat or jumper to keep them warm when you’re out on walks. Make sure your dog can still behave normally, for example, go to the toilet easily and that it is a good and comfortable fit.

    When walking your dog in the dark, wear reflective clothing and think about a reflective collar or light for his collar to keep you both safe.

    Keep your pet dog away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers which can pose a danger, and make sure their paws don’t get impacted with snow.

    If you keep pet birds in aviaries, coops, or runs, then you should also protect them from the cold weather. Cover enclosures to keep the wind and rain out, and ensure the birds always have access to food and fresh water.

    Don’t house animals, including birds, in greenhouses and take caution if housing them in conservatories.

    If you have a fish pond check it every day to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gasses can build up under the ice. Don’t break the ice as this can harm the fish, but carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to gently melt a hole in the ice. Never tip boiling water straight onto the pond either, as this can also harm or kill any fish living there. And never try to use antifreeze or salt to thaw frozen ponds or birdbaths.

    Horses and livestock

    Horses and livestock require extra time and care in the colder, winter months.
    Ensure they have adequate shelter to escape adverse weather and be prepared to provide extra feed and good quality long fibre, as grass is often sparse. It is also important to check water troughs and buckets are clear of ice.

    If shelter is not sufficient, owners should use waterproof rugs to give their horses added protection from the cold and wet weather.

    If it is particularly wet and muddy, it is important to regularly check hooves, for problems such as abscesses and loose shoes, and legs, for any signs of mud fever. Owners should ensure horses have access to a dry resting area, out of the mud.

    When riding in the winter, beware of getting your horse sweated up as they can easily catch a chill. Always wear reflective clothing when riding on the roads.

    Make arrangements with a reliable and experience person to take care of your horse or livestock in case of an emergency, such as being cut off by bad weather.

    Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to baby and young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.

    Wildlife

    Birds can struggle to find food during the winter months so, to help them stay strong over this period, householders can leave out extra food for them.

    You can feed them suitable seeds and grains, like oats and sunflower seeds; cooked pasta or rice; boiled potatoes, cheese, or uncooked unsalted bacon rind; raisins and sultanas; net-free fat or suet balls; apples, pears and soft fruits; insects such as mealworms or waxworms. Only feed peanuts if unsalted, fresh and sold for human consumption or by a reputable feed shop, and make sure to either chop them up or put them out in good quality mesh feeders.

    Keep bird baths free of ice, leave out bowls of clean water, and keep any feeders and water bowls clean.

    Make sure you check carefully any wood or leaf piles for wild animals such as hedgehogs, frogs and mice, before lighting any fires or bonfires. If you find wild animals in hibernation, be sure to leave them be.

    Remember – if you see an animal outside in the cold that looks like it is suffering, take a note of the location, the time and date and call the RSPCA on the emergency line 0300 1234 999.

    RSPCA scientific officer Llewelyn Lowen said: “As the weather turns colder it is important to think about what we can do to help our animal friends.

    “Every year, between one and two thousand wild animals are brought into RSPCA wildlife centres in December, January and February suffering from dehydration, hunger and cold.

    “A few little changes to your everyday routine can really make a difference to animals. For example, a little bit of extra food left out for a hungry bird may be the help it needs to last through a spate of frosty weather or, if you have rabbits kept outside, you will need to provide them with lots of extra bedding and their home should be placed in a sheltered position, facing away from the prevailing wind and rain.”

    Met Office forecast:
    It is expected to be unsettled on Friday and into the weekend with more heavy showers moving in and some hill snow in the north. Rain and snow will continue in the north next week and, from Wednesday, a cold spell is expected to lead to widespread overnight frosts. Forecasters have also predicted sleet and snow in parts.

  • These 10 Dogs Would Love a Home to Call Their Own for the New Year – Could It Be With You?

    These 10 Dogs Would Love a Home to Call Their Own for the New Year – Could It Be With You?

    As another year draws to a close, the UK’s animal rescue and charity system has experienced yet another rise in dogs being abandoned and taken into care, according to the UK’s largest dog adoption site, www.dogsblog.com.

    But there is hope for the dogs currently sitting in kennels and foster homes across the UK, and that’s the hope that someone out there is looking for a dog just like them.

    Here are 10 dogs who are looking for a loving new home to call their own in 2016, could it be with you? If you know someone who’s thinking of getting a dog please do share far and wide. Your share could be the one which helps their dream of a forever home come to life.

    Meet Benny!

    Benny’s a beautiful 3 year old brawny, active Staffie boy who has spent over a year in rescue waiting for a new home to call his own.

    We are confident that with lashings of TLC, some encouragement and patience a true friend and great pet is waiting underneath his sometimes nervous exterior. Once on his walk, Benny enjoys taking in the air and keeps a cracking pace comfortable with human company and would be best suited to experienced owners who can work with him and in an environment with older children.

    Find out more about him here: http://www.dogsblog.com/benny-38/

    Meet Ripple!

    Ripple is 1 year old and a English Springer Spaniel cross who is as fun loving as she is gorgeous. She has long legs and doesn’t really act like a Spaniel so could have some sighthound in her.

    We are looking for a calm home that can continue with her training. She can get very excitable around children, so we are looking for an adult only home or a family with teenage children.

    Could she be the ripple to your raspberry?

    Find out more about her here: http://www.dogsblog.com/ripple-5/

    Meet Norman!

    Norman is a 7 month old Doberman boy who’s legs clearly belong to another bigger dog or possibly a giraffe! He is going to be a big boy and this should definitely be something to consider.

    A fan of the Christmas jumper trend, we are looking for a home that already has a resident dog to show Norman the ropes and continue his love of doggy company and is fine with cats. He can live with children over 7 years old as he is still a goofball puppy.

    Find out more about him here: http://www.dogsblog.com/norman-17/

    Meet Precious!

    Precious is a 3 year old small, female Chihuahua cross Shih Tzu. She’s a girl of few words who’s looking for a home with lots of cuddles and in return she’ll repay you with bucket loads of love.

    Being so small, she’s looking for a home without larger dogs and would be best suited in a home without small furries.

    Find out more about her here: http://www.dogsblog.com/precious-5/

    Meet Sherman!

    Sherman is an adorable 14 year old Parson Russell Terrier boy who is in an Oldies Club foster home in Lincoln, waiting for someone to offer him a permanent home. He would make a wonderful companion for an older person who he can snuggle up with, once he trusts them. Life is very much on Sherman’s terms (and who can blame him!).

    Sherman’s favourite pastimes: Eating and sleeping, with occasional bursts of energy playing with his fosterer’s little Yorkie. He also likes squeaky toys, but they don’t last long.

    Sherman has been good with his foster carer’s grandchildren aged 10+. He should be fine to live with sensible older children who will allow Sherman to do his own thing.

    Find out more about him here: http://www.dogsblog.com/sherman-4/

    Meet Alice!

    Pretty Alice is a friendly and happy young medium sized tan and white 13 month old Podenco girl, with a cheeky loving character. A very lovely girl and standing about as big as a Springer Spaniel. She was abandoned in a box on the pavement outside a shop at only 4 weeks of age.

    She is very intelligent, and learns quickly and would easily take to obedience or agility. She has a comical air about her and she keeps her foster carers laughing with her antics. Alice loves her cuddles as you can see and is fine with other dogs but isn’t keen on cats (sorry cats!).

    Find out more about her here: http://www.dogsblog.com/alice-32/

    Meet Badger & Bowen!

    Badger and Bowen are two 10 month old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross Sharpei’s brothers who are looking for a loving new home together. This beautiful double act have come into the Leicester centre as their owner could no longer care for them.

    They are medium sized, neutered dogs and such happy souls, full of spirit and can’t wait to get back into a home and a routine. They are very friendly, a little too enthusiastic sometimes but are just eager to love everyone they meet!

    They LOVE to play and would need a supply of non-destructive toys to enjoy and an active new home where they could continue their adventures together meeting new people and other dogs along the way.

    Find out more about the boys here: http://www.dogsblog.com/badger-bowen/

    Meet Cinnamon!

    Cinnamon is a gorgeous 6 month old female Lurcher cross with a Collie (we think). She is a wonderful, friendly, playful girl and all she wants to do is play, cuddle, run, play some more.

    She’s a fantastic all rounder, great with everyone and other dogs. What a super personality lovely Cinnamon has. Everybody who’s met her loves her – could she be the one for you?

    Find out more about her here: http://www.dogsblog.com/cinnamon-2/

    Meet Milo!

    Milo is a one year old standard Chihuahua, who is being fostered in South Wales but can be rehomed to the right home anywhere in the UK.

    Milo is large for his breed and there is potential that he has some terrier in him, but we are not 100% sure of this. He’s a gorgeous boy, who’s also a handful having no real manners and little socialisation until arriving in rescue. But he is young and so can be taught while he grows, and he’ll repay you in spades for all you teach.

    Milo is very active and loves going out for his daily walks and can walk for miles and miles. In the evening he is contented to curl up on a lap or sofa to watch TV with his humans.

    Find out more about him here: http://www.dogsblog.com/milo-159/

    Meet Holly!

    Holly is the most beautiful girl with ears almost as big as her personality, she’s just super. She is the most beautiful, obedient, Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross French Bulldog and we think she’s approximately 5 years old.

    She came to us from the council pound as an unclaimed stray, she was due to be put to sleep and so we took her in, as such we have no previous history for her.

    In foster care she is impressing everyone she meets, she is always on your lap wanting cuddles. She is fantastic on and off the lead, brilliant with other dogs but untested with cats.

    She is not food aggressive and will not steal other dogs food. She enjoys a good play session with a ball and is eager to please.

    Find out more about her: http://www.dogsblog.com/holly-153/

     

    You can find many more dogs of different ages and breeds all looking for a loving new forever home online at www.dogsblog.com

    #bring joy, adopt a dog!

     

  • Hero Dog Saves Cats Dumped in Crisp Box

    The RSPCA is appealing for information after an unlikely hero came to the rescue of a cat and her kittens which had been dumped in a crisp box in Middlesbrough.

    The terrified trio had been left to die, trapped in a box with no food and water and dumped in bushes in a park under the cover of darkness.

    By an incredible stroke of luck the cats were sniffed out and saved by Vader the dog who was out on a late night walk with her owner Sharon.

    Sharon Smith, who lives near Pallister Park in Middlesbrough, said: “I had been throwing the ball for her, she went into the bushes to get it and I could she was nudging a box and whining. I knew it must be something important because she’d left her ball behind and she’s crazy about her ball.

    “I went over to take a look could see there were some holes in the box and it was moving so I called my son and he came and helped me take Vader and the box home.”

    Sharon was stunned when she opened the taped-up Doritos box and found a tortoiseshell cat and two ginger tabby kittens inside.

    She said: “When I pulled off the tape and opened the box I saw the cat and kittens inside and I was shocked. They were terrified. It was a small box for them, it was just heartbreaking.

    “It’s is disgusting that anyone would dump them like that. It’s absolutely appalling.”

    The mother cat, who is thought to be between one and two-years-old, and her kittens who are thought to be about eight-weeks-old, were taken to the vets to be checked over and are now in RSPCA care.

    RSPCA Inspector Emma Stainthorpe said: “The box was very small for the three of them, there was no food or water and the bottom of it was soiled with urine.

    “The mother cat was not microchipped so we do not know who her owner is. She is friendly so it would appear she’s been handled and was someone’s pet. It’s really important that people get their cats neutered if they do not want kittens.

    “Vader is such a lovely little dog, without her these little kittens may not have survived. She really is the hero of the hour.”

    Vader,a five-year-old white Staffordshire Bull Terrier named after the Star Wars villain Darth Vader, is being spoiled rotten as a reward for finding the dumped cats.

    Proud owner Sharon added: “I wouldn’t have looked in the box unless Vader had brought my attention to it. I thought it was just rubbish.

    “I don’t know what would have happened to those poor kittens if Vader hadn’t found the box, I dread to think.

    “Thank goodness for Vader, she really is a hero. I’ve given her three new tennis balls as a treat for finding the kittens as she was so focused on the box she lost her ball.”

    Anyone with information about who abandoned the kittens late on Tuesday 22 September can contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave a message for Inspector Emma Stainthorpe.

  • 5 Amazing Dog Hacks Every Owner Should Know About

    5 Amazing Dog Hacks Every Owner Should Know About

    1. For most dogs they have a discreet feature connecting their body to their heads. It is called the neck. The dog’s neck is almost custom made to fit a range of collars and leads. No longer do you have to take your dog out on to a busy high street and let him walk in a dangerous (and illegal) manner, frightening worried onlookers as you ‘show off’ what a great dog owner you are by allowing your dog to walk ahead of or behind you and risking your dog causing an accident/being killed simply because you’re ‘too good’ to put your pet on a leash in public.

    2. Most towns and cities have a small to medium sized building out of which a group of specially trained animal experts work. They are known as veterinarians and they have a fair to good understanding of many ailments and problems affecting dogs. With this knowledge, the next time your dog is showing signs of being genuinely ill, in discomfort, pain or close to death as a result of an injury or sickness you no longer have to ask for the advice of random people in your Facebook friend’s circle as to what to do about your dog who is clearly in desperate need of professional attention. So instead of posting a status update like,”My dog was stung by a bee and is now violently convulsing on the kitchen floor. What should I do? lol.” You can instead use the internet to find the address of one of these small buildings where veterinarians work from and they will actually be able to physically do something to stop your dog suffering.

    3. Most dogs require food and water to operate in a functional and efficient manner. As a result they will sometimes need to demonstrate the full workings of a mammalian digestive system, leading to them depositing small parcels of digested food from the tiny hole that sits neatly at the base of the dog’s spine. In order to prepare for this quirky little habit, a small bag can be used to neatly collect the dog’s deposit which can then be safely placed in a refuse bin rather than simply gawking in amazement at how astonishing your dog’s bowel movements are before walking off and leaving a nasty pile of warmed up excrement for everyone else to navigate around.

    4. Referring to hack number one, now you know about the head-to-body connection device on your dog – the neck – when your canine is running merrily in a public place and makes a beeline toward other dogs, people, children or wildlife you can avoid accidents, injuries and all round distress by teaching your dog to come back to you (a hack known as ‘dog training’) and utilising your dog’s head-to-body connection feature by temporarily installing a leash, thus giving you full control over your dog’s movements. This is a great way to avoid your dog getting bitten or preventing your own dog from playfully attempting to remove other dog’s heads from their own head-to-body connection mounts.

    5. Most dogs have a great internal intelligence unit. It is commonly referred to as their brain. They use this device for learning and remembering things, things that you have the ability to input. One of the best uses of the internal intelligence unit is its ability to respond to clear, consistent commands which are then followed up with acknowledgements by you such as giving the dog something they enjoy. The internal intelligence unit has not yet been effectively modified enough to respond to repeated shouting from you as you stand, slack-jawed, observing your dog from a great distance whilst you simultaneously carry out a conversation on your mobile phone pausing randomly to bellow toward your run-away canine companion who is in the process of terrorising all pets, people and animals at a distance of about 1,000 yards from where you are.

    Bonus hack: Your dog’s internal intelligence unit rarely breaks down. If your dog’s appears to have malfunctioned and the person standing opposite you behind the reception desk of your nearest animal shelter is nodding politely and seems to give the impression that this sort of thing happens regularly, it’s because they are being polite and they are nodding and smiling as they suppress the urge to inform you that they have goldfish in their care who are better informed and mentally adroit than you. The reality is, your dog does not need to be rehomed because ‘he’s too much of a handful’, it’s more the case that your own internal intelligence unit not fit for purpose.

    Various examples of dogs with brilliantly functioning internal intelligence unit’s can be found at dogsblog.com.

  • Are Certain Dogs Really Overlooked in Rescues Because of Their Colour?

    Are Certain Dogs Really Overlooked in Rescues Because of Their Colour?

    Well, yes, according to the RSPCA brindle coloured dogs aren’t given the same chance that others are.

    According to the charity, over the last three years it has taken on average 41 days to find loving new homes for the dogs in their care, yet for brindle dogs this figure is 65 days.

    Here are six fantastic brindle dogs currently in rescue across the UK who can’t wait to find a home – could it be with you?

     

    1. Pippin

    This lovely cross-breed girl is around 20 months old who was rescued by Lea Valley Dog Rescue from a dog pound. She is an affectionate little girl who has gained in confidence since coming into rescue. She is roughly the size of a small Cocker Spaniel and we think she has some Whippet in her, judging by her lovely looks.

    Pippin loves the company of humans and dogs alike. She loves long walks and would love to get her very own family, someone to love her and show her how good life could be, someone who will let her enjoy the spring air and the summer sun. Pippin is ready to start the next length of her journey.

    Find out more about Pippin here

     

    2. Luca

    This fabulous blue brindle 5 year old Greyhound boy is a big huggable chunk of a boy! No longer ‘required’ he has thankfully landed on his feet with Kerry Greyhounds UK and is now in a foster home awaiting his new life with his (hopefully) soon to be forever family. He is a stunning boy with a lot of love to give.

    He really will make a lovely addition to the lucky family who adopts him. Luca always keeps a favourite soft toy close by so he can play with it and fling it in the air at any given time! He is a ray of sunshine and will make anyone and everyone smile and laugh with his funny antics and lovely character.

    Find out more about Luca here

     

    3.  Rosie

    What a stunning little girl Rosie is! This 3 year old female Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs a supportive family to offer time and tolerance to allow her to settle into her new home. Rosie was found stray/abandoned and unclaimed within a council pound until Rescue Remedies stepped forwards to offer a rescue place and save her life.

    Rosie is a gem and is now prepared for her home. She walks beside you and meets most dogs well but would tell a bouncy dog off, as indeed she should. Rosie is fostered with a young child and is marvellous amongst children in general, but would prefer to be the only dog in her new home.

    Find out more about Rosie here

     

    4. Bia!

    This beautiful girl is Bia, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier who is currently in the care of the RSPCA’s Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, Aylesbury, where she’s been for over a year. She has spent almost her whole life in kennels after being removed from her home in January 2014 where she had been tethered in a garden without proper shelter, food or water.

    When Bia came to Blackberry Farm she had a problem with lameness caused by a floating knee cap. She needed an operation to fix it but is now waiting patiently for new owners who can give her the care and attention she needs. She’s looking for an active home where she can go on lots of walks and enjoy playtime. Could this playful bundle of brindle fun be the one for you?

    Find out more about Bia here

     

    5. Smiley Skye

    This lovely girl is at the RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre, she’s a seven-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Five months ago poor Skye was abandoned at the RSPCA’s London vet hospital and is still waiting to find a new family who will love her and look after her properly. Skye is very sweet but a little unsure of her new kennel environment. She really is a people dog and loves to have cuddles. The kennel staff describe her as a ‘constant companion’ and say she wants to be friends with any person she meets. She’s lots of fun off lead and absolutely loves playing with footballs.

    Find out more about Skye here

     

    6. Sugar!

    This sweet 2 year old Pug cross girl is Sugar. She’s very Pug like in nature and stamps her feet in true Pug style. She gets very excited but she’s such a young girl, she’ll need a home where she gets plenty of love and exercise.

    She’s a proper little poppet who will repay her new family in buckets with love, laughs and stamps.

    Find out more about Sugar here

     

    If we’ve inspired you to bring a new dog into your home, sign up to the DogsBlog.com Daily Digest eNewsletter to be kept up to date with the latest dogs looking for new homes.

    Register online >> www.dogsblog.com

  • How Good Is Your Dog at Catching?

    We’ll be honest, over the years we’ve had our fair share of dogs who’ve caught something only to then drop it. Bonnie, Chloe and Danny, to name a few.

    Let’s see how Fritz fairs against some brocolli. Watch his related videos to find out how he does vs other foods how can essay writers help you?. We’re all rooting for you Fritz!

  • How To Give Your Dog A Birthday To Remember – Mia Turned 9!

    How To Give Your Dog A Birthday To Remember – Mia Turned 9!

    Mia’s time as an eight-year old was an action packed one for her, sadly not for all the best of reasons.

    She lost her best friend, Chloe – regular followers of Chloe and Mia’s reviews will know these two came as a package and wherever Chloe went Mia followed – even if it meant just an ear making an appearance in the photograph. She had two operations (the second after being diagnosed with cancer) but she ended her time as an eight-year old beating cancer and getting the all clear on other worries.

    Such a year took its toll and for a time her personality changed, but after gradually getting back to her old self she decided to celebrate her birthday in style with a birthday bash, including her own birthday song which played when her cake was served, with two new pals – Christopher and Danny.

    First up…the presents!

    What do you get the dog who has it all? That was what we asked ourselves.

    She has more beds than Beyoncé (we assume), she has two toy baskets which were overflowing (the introduction of two new dogs who have a penchant for tug-o-war has some what diminished the fluffy toys who have now been kept in a safe and secure location until they can be released once again), so we decided to surprise her – and us – with a monthly gift box from PawPost.co.uk.

    When selecting the hamper we found we could choose to receive one single hamper, or one each month for 3, 6 or 12 months ranging in prices from £17.95-£22.95 per month depending on how often you’d like to receive (you can find out more here) before you sit back and wait for them to be delivered!

    The hampers are tailored to your dog, or cat, based on age, weight and each box of goodies will include 5-7 items which are designed to keep your dog happy, healthy and entertained.

    Mia’s hamper this month, as above, included six great gifts:

    – Beautiful Joe’s handmade, air-dryed liver treats including a treat tin to store them in – these have become Mia’s absolute favourites and we only discovered them thanks to this hamper.

    – A Busy Buddy football treat trapper which can hold dry treats, biscuits or cheese sticks while your dog tries to get them out – this was Danny’s favourite (yes, Mia did share – that’s just the sort of girl she is) and has kept him entertained for hours.

    – A Nose2Tail salmon terrine tin of dog food. Hypoallergenic and a premium pet food – Mia said yum!

    – A Nose2Tail lamb loaf tin of dog food. Including a special blend of herbs, fruit, vegetables and minerals alongside the lamb – Mia let Christopher and Danny have a mouthful before tucking into the rest herself!

    – A Danish Design ‘Peter the Parrot’ toy – A plush, squeaky dog toy that also rattles and crackles – Christopher couldn’t be held back from this one and Mia was happy to share (until she’s decided it’s hers, all hers, that is).

    We can’t wait for next month’s hamper to find out what other treats lie in store!

    Find out more about PawPost.co.uk online and see what your dog or cat could be getting through the post each month.

    Next up in Mia’s birthday bash…we have – of course – the all important cake!

    Mia’s birthday cake was a personalised 6-inch peanut sponge cake from Lincolnshire dog bakery, M&M’s Kitchen costing £14.99.

    Topped with dog-safe carob chocolate and finished with peanut butter flavoured bones around the sides, this cake looked as good as it tasted – we assume from Mia, Christopher and Danny’s reaction. All ingredients are of course dog friendly and this size of cake can feed up to 6 dogs – safe to say that Mia, Christopher and Danny all enjoyed two pieces each.

    The first piece of which was served to Mia’s own personalised birthday song playing – yes, you read that right 🙂

    Mia was also lucky enough to sample a doggie cupcake (£2.99 each) and some individual peanut butter flavoured bones (£3.00 for 125g) as an added treat. With the bones having a shelf life of up to 12 weeks Mia has been savouring these.

    This cake absolutely made the party, it was a fantastic addition. Depending on where your tastes lie, a 4-inch similar cake is available for £9.99 – or you could splash out on a two-tier cake for £35.00

    Find out more about the doggie bakery online on Facebook where you can read more reviews, find out about special offers and visit their site.

    A huge thanks to PawPost.co.uk and M&M’s Kitchen for making Mia’s 9th birthday special! Watch her enjoy her special day with her friends in the gallery below…

    Happy birthday Mia, love Christopher and Danny – thank you for sharing your goodies with us!

     

  • Mia’s Big Christmas: A Dog Christmas Hamper Review

    Mia’s Big Christmas: A Dog Christmas Hamper Review

    Our pets play as important a role in our festive plans as our friends and family do, and so choosing the perfect gift can be something we spend a good amount of time thinking about. What will they like? What do they need? What will they most enjoy opening when they find their present under the tree?

    All of these things play an important factor in our decision making process and so over the next week or so Mia will be getting in the Christmas spirit reviewing some pet gift ideas. She will be casting her expert eye over the gifts and entertaining with her gallery of photographs, which may or may not feature her new sidekick, Christopher who’s not yet used to the limelight like she is.

    First up, wearing her obligatory Christmas jumper Mia has the pleasure of reviewing the Dog Christmas Hamper kindly sent into her from the team at JustRewardPetHampers.co.uk. Packed full of goodies and health treats, the hamper is priced at £49.99.

    Just Rewards Pet Hamper web

    Who are Just Reward Pet Hampers?

    Set up with the help of canine CEO, Arthur, Just Reward Luxury Pet Hampers was set up to deliver quality products direct to your door. Combining dog treats, toys and grooming products using only the best from both local and UK wide brands, the hampers are designed to stand out from the crowd.

    Mia’s Dog Christmas Hamper

    Being a big fan of anything food related, this hamper was perfect for Mia. Packed with posh quality dog treats, she took an immediate liking to home baked dog treats by the Daft Dog Bakery. Free from Gluten and made with human grade ingredients, they have no added salts or sugars.

    After Christopher woke up and taking inspiration from Mia, he landed (quite literally) in the hamper. We thought if he’s going to be involved, he has to look the part so with the bandana from the hamper suitably worn, he decided the Good Breath Rubber Dog Bone, Antler Chew and filling were all his.

    The Antler chew is naturally shed and responsibly sourced from premium Grade A Antler. The rubber bone toy should keep him occupied for hours and because it’s infused with a strong minty flavour we can say goodbye to puppy breath!

    In addition to Mia and Christopher’s favourites the hamper also included:

    • Lily’s Christmas Biscuits – 100 % natural and hand-baked, these bite-sized, heart-shaped dog biscuits are made with freshly-prepared turkey, liver, cranberries and thyme, plus a sprinkling of yummy Christmassy cinnamon which is also a wonderful anti-inflammatory that can help boost energy, circulation and brain health.
    • Lily’s Three Bird Feast – A tin of grain free Christmas dog food made with freshly prepared turkey, goose, and duck combined with parsnips, Swiss chard, carrots, cranberries, apples and thyme for an irresistible and wonderfully nourishing canine Christmas lunch.
    • Hungry Hector Turkey Delights Made with Turkey, whole Cranberries and some sage and approved by a qualified vet. The best treat for any dog without spoiling their appetite before having their delicious Three Bird Feast Christmas Dinner.
    • Dogsbody Shampoo – A mild yet deep cleaning shampoo which removes dirt and odour without stripping the coat of its essential oils, its ‘Easy Rinse’ technology keeps washing time to a minimum, and built in conditioners and Pro-Vitamin B5 help improve the health, strength and condition of the coat.

    Mia received the hamper with a bandana sized for her breed, but if you let Just Reward Pet Hampers know what size your dog is when ordering they will pick a bandana to best fit your dog.

    As a dog who has virtually everything a dog could need this hamper was perfect for Mia, she loves her yummy snacks and with more toys than she can shake a stick at, an almost fully treat filled hamper with one chewable toy and some shampoo to keep her coat as shiny as a TV hair model, this makes an ideal gift.

    Find your dog’s perfect Christmas hamper online at JustRewardPetHampers.co.uk!

  • These Seasonal Habits Could Seriously Harm Your Dog

    These Seasonal Habits Could Seriously Harm Your Dog

    As we venture in to that time of year when seasonal good cheer begins to manifest at the forefront of our minds, it’s worth the effort to remind ourselves of some of the hidden dangers that could turn our dog’s festive spirits decidedly sour.

    Take a look at this list of things to think about over the winter holiday period as they might apply to your own circumstances. Some are hopefully things that you already know but others might just surprise you:

    Food

    • Too much sodium can kill animals, so if you are going to give your pet some of your leftover Christmas dinner, make sure it isn’t covered in salt or gravy.
    • Chocolate is poisonous to dogs: keep your tins of chocolate covered up and don’t put up chocolate tree decorations that your dog can reach.
      Cocktail sticks can get eaten by dogs and cats and end up stuck in their throats or puncture their gut. Be careful what you serve and be careful where you keep party food and rubbish.
    • Mesh that covers your roast meat is often hastily discarded after removing the joint from the oven. If it is left to lie in meat juices it can be gobbled up by cats or dogs when your back is turned. Mesh can cause severe damage to the gut and cause bloat, which is often fatal if medical attention is not sought immediately.

    Decorations

    • Fir trees are poisonous to cats, and cats also like to bite and eat tinsel. Cats, dogs and small mammal pets can bite through wires so be sure to tuck your Christmas tree lights away safely.
    • Holly, ivy, poinsettias and mistletoe are all poisonous to pets.

    General

    • Always supervise dogs with children – no matter how well you think you know your dog and trust it, over-excited children plus all the changes going on in your dog’s surroundings can make even a calm dog snap.
    • Many vet practices are closed over the Christmas period. Before they close, make a note of their emergency service number in case you need it urgently.

    Finally, remember that there undoubtedly will be fireworks let off on New Year’s Eve at midnight in your local area. If your pet is of a nervous disposition then make sure it is kept near you so that you can offer lots of reassurance, and bring all outdoor pets inside.

    Bonus: How To Create a Dog Friendly Christmas Tree

    Creating a Christmas tree that is both beautiful to look at for you and unattractive to your dog is a special challenge. Here are some suggestions to keep your tree pet-friendly.

    1. Tree water at the base of live trees can be harmful if preservative chemicals have been added to prolong the life of the tree. Keep your dog from drinking the water by covering the tree basin with foil or a tree skirt.

    2. Place dog-safe ornaments near the bottom of the tree in case your dog decides to use the ornaments as playthings.

    3. Tie up loose electrical cords of the lights used to decorate the tree and keep them concealed by attaching them with wire or cord to the trunk of the tree. End-to-end lights eliminate individual cords dangling from the tree that might entice your dog to chew them.

    4. If you have lots of tree lights that are not end to end, purchase a power strip in which to plug the lights. Attach the strip to the tree trunk at a level that is higher than the height of your dog. As a result, you will have only one heavy-duty power cord running from the tree to the outlet instead of several flimsy cords from single strings of lights.

    5. To prevent your dog from knocking over your holiday tree, anchor it with cord or wire to the ceiling directly above the tree’s trunk. Don’t attach it with wire to a wall behind the tree because your dog could get caught in the wire if be darts behind the tree.

    6. Spray the tower branches of the tree with bitter apple, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus, or other unappealing scents.

    7. Hang your ornaments with ribbons rather than hooks to keep your dog from accidentally swallowing something that could get lodged in his throat.

    8. Do not use tinsel or angel hair on your tree. Angel hair, made of glass fibre, and tinsel, made of metal, can cause internal damage if your dog swallows any.

    9. Avoid decorating your tree with strings of berries or other edible ornaments – many are harmful if swallowed. The string on which they are attached can cause damage to your dog’s intestines if swallowed, and a dog, eager to get to the “treats,” could knock over the tree.

    10. If you like, decorate a small, artificial tree for your dog with items he will find appealing, such as doggie biscuits and dog toys. Hide the tree until you are ready for your dog to open his presents.

  • How Does Your Dog Eat His Food?

    How Does Your Dog Eat His Food?

    An oldie but a goodie to start the week – has your dog ever dined at your table? We bet they’ve asked!

    Two Dogs Dining from EBD Teacher on Vimeo.

    Has your dog ever tried to get up at the table while you’ve sat down to eat? Let us know and share your photos on Twitter @K9Magazine – we’d love to hear from you!

     

    Take the Butcher’s 10-Day Taste Challenge
    …your dog will love you for it!

    At Butcher’s Pet Care, we believe dogs will enjoy their dinner so much more when they are served one of our mouth-wateringly meaty meals.

    Why? Because every dinnertime, you’ll be giving your dog a tasty meal made with fresh meat, no artificial flavourings and natural ingredients – guaranteed to get them licking their lips.

    Each delicious recipe has been developed with leading nutritionists so you can be sure your dog is getting all of the meaty proteins, vitamins and minerals they need to be as Fit as a Butcher’s Dog™.

    What’s more, there are no artificial flavourings and no fillers such as soya or wheat, so they are gluten free too. An appetising bowl of Butcher’s has everything that your dog needs and nothing it doesn’t!

    For more information on the 10-Day Taste Challenge and Butcher’s Pet Care, like our Facebook page – or click the button below to visit our website.

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