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Cruel Puppy Farm Pair Guilty of Multiple Counts of Animal Welfare Abuse

A pair of animal traffickers have each pleaded guilty to 10 offences in relation to selling dogs and cats from their home in Manchester.

Laura Kiseliova (DoB: 14/06/79) and Raimondas Titas (DoB: 13/03/81) appeared at Manchester Crown Court this week for the start of a three-week trial. But, on Thursday (2 June), the pair pleaded guilty to a total of 10 offences each, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Fraud Act 2006, the Pet Animals Act 1951 and the Companies Act 2006.

File photo

The RSPCA launched an investigation into the pair, who were trafficking dogs into England from eastern Europe and selling them to unsuspecting members of the public.

Kiseliova was released on conditional bail and Titas was remanded in custody by the court to establish his correct address.

RSPCA special operations unit chief inspector Ian Briggs said: “When we attended the property in Prestwich on 18 November 2013 we found 41 dogs and puppies and eight cats in a variety of cages, crates and runs.

“Many of the dogs were French bulldogs, bulldogs, and pugs, while there were also pedigree cat breeds.

“It was obvious that this duo were dealing and trading in a large number of animals and that many of them were not receiving the appropriate care and veterinary attention they needed.

“Some of the animals were suffering from problems such as conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis or had sore and infected wounds.

“During our investigation, most of the animals were signed over into RSPCA care and later rehomed.”

Kiseliova pleaded guilty to:

Carrying on the business of Pets 313 Ltd for a fraudulent purpose, namely bringing dogs into the UK from Europe to sell them, misdescribed, at a profit – contrary to section 993(1) of the Companies Act 2006.

Keeping a pet shop without a licence – contrary to section 1 of the Pet Animals Act 1951.

Keeping a dog breeding establishment without a licence – contrary to section 1 of the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973.

Causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for hemorrhagic gastroenteritis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for conjunctivitis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to one dog, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for infected wounds and painful limbs – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to one dog, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for moist dermatitis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Failing to ensure the needs of 41 dogs and eight cats were met by failing to protect them from pain, suffering injury, or disease by failing to establish a formal biosecurity and disease control programme – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Failing to ensure the needs of all animals were met by failing to protect them from pain, suffering injury, or disease by failing to establish a formal biosecurity and disease control programme – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Failing to ensure the needs of 22 dogs and eight cats were met by failing to provide a suitable environment – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Titas pleaded guilty to:

Dishonestly and intending to make a gain for himself or another, made a representation to Petplan which was true or misleading, namely that he was the holder of a valid policy of insurance for a dog named Black Diamond and was entitled to make a claim – contrary to section 1 of the Fraud Act 2006.

Carrying on the business of Pets 313 Ltd for a fraudulent purpose, namely bringing dogs into the UK from Europe to sell them, misdescribed, at a profit – contrary to section 993(1) of the Companies Act 2006.

Keeping a dog breeding establishment without a licence – contrary to section 1 of the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973.

Causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for hemorrhagic gastroenteritis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to two dogs, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for conjunctivitis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to one dog, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for infected wounds and painful limbs – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Causing unnecessary suffering to one dog, by failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care for moist dermatitis – contrary to section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006..

Failing to ensure the needs of 41 dogs and eight cats were met by failing to protect them from pain, suffering injury, or disease by failing to establish a formal biosecurity and disease control programme – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Failing to ensure the needs of all animals, for which they were responsible between 12 April 2012 and 19 November 2013, were met by failing to protect them from pain, suffering injury, or disease by failing to establish a formal biosecurity and disease control programme – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Failing to ensure the needs of 22 dogs and eight cats were met by failing to provide a suitable environment – contrary to section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Kiseliova and Titas are due back at Manchester Crown Court on 8 July for sentencing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Children and Dog Safety: Six Golden Rules

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

June 6, 2016
Can Dogs Swallow Tennis Balls? This Labrador Served up a Surprising Answer

Vets in Margate carried out lifesaving surgery on a dog struck down by a mystery illness – and discovered a tennis ball in his stomach.

One-year-old Labrador, Henry, was taken to PDSA’s Pet Clinic in Margate, The Frank and Ethel Fright Centre, by owners Howard and Dawn Elvy when he stopped eating and began crying with pain.

File photo

“Henry usually enjoys his food, so when he went off it we were worried,” says Howard. “He was crying loudly and was clearly in a lot of pain, so we took him straight to PDSA.”

Henry underwent emergency tests to find the cause of his illness. His worried owners were shocked when an x-ray revealed a tennis ball was blocking his stomach.

Howard said: “We were worried sick. It must have been really nasty for him and it’s terrible to think the blockage could have killed him.”

PDSA Vet Nurse, Christopher Russell, said: “Henry was seriously ill when he was brought to see us. The ball was causing a blockage which, if not removed, would have eventually killed him. He had to undergo major surgery to remove the ball, but thankfully it went well and he’s since made a full recovery.”

Once removed, relieved owners Howard and Dawn recognised the ball as one of Henry’s they had last seen several weeks earlier while playing at the beach.

Howard added: “We treat Henry as one of the family and he means the world to us both. As pensioners, we couldn’t possibly have afforded his treatment, so we’re both very grateful to the vets and nurses at PDSA for helping Henry.”

Two out of every three pets that receive free veterinary treatment from PDSA are funded from gifts in wills and for a limited time PDSA is offering a Free Will-writing service to over 50’s.

Vet Nurse Christopher adds: “Donations such as gifts in wills fund our operations, so we hope local residents will continue to support our work caring for local sick and injured pets by considering leaving a gift in their will.”

June 6, 2016
Actor Eric McCormack Shows Support for Animal Welfare Joining Celebrities Urging US & Canadian Governments to Protect Stray & Shelter Dogs

Actor Eric McCormack, perhaps best known for playing lawyer Will Truman in the hit TV show ‘Will & Grace’, and a team of celebrities have joined Cruelty Free International in urging the U.S and Canadian governments to protect stray and shelter dogs being used in experiments and education, as part of a global campaign to end the use of dogs in research.

The initiative, which has also received support from actors Seth Gilliam (‘The Walking Dead’), Lou Diamond Phillips (‘La Bamba’) and Danny Trejo (‘Breaking Bad’), and Cruelty Free International Global Ambassador and international superstar violinist Vanessa-Mae, will bring the issue to the attention of governments and educational bodies globally.

Stray and shelter dogs are suffering in laboratories and educational facilities worldwide, including in the U.S and Canada, where they can still be used in experiments and for harmful teaching practices at veterinary schools.

According to new opinion polls carried on behalf of Cruelty Free International, the issue raises strong public concern. 68% of American adults and 73% of Canadian adults agree that dogs found or given to animal shelters should not be sold to laboratories for experiments.

Canadian Eric McCormack said: “Shelter dogs should be adopted into loving homes not used in cruel experiments. That’s why I support the Cruelty Free International global dog campaign.”

Michelle Thew, CEO of Cruelty Free International who are behind the campaign says: “Treating dogs as disposable research commodities or teaching tools with no regard for their lives is wrong. We urge the US and Canadian governments to protect all shelter dogs by implementing legislation to finally put an end to this practice.”

June 3, 2016
Dog Owners: Don’t Walk Past This Product Next Time You’re at the Supermarket

Canine arthritis and dog mobility conditions can be painful to observe. A nagging reminder of our once sprightly dogs feeling the effects of age. While there are many pharmaceutical drugs used to help dogs with arthritis, there are also popular natural remedies that are widely used and subject to many positive comments from the dog owners who swear by them. One product in particular, which is widely available in most supermarkets has got lots of owners talking about its health benefits.

Turmeric is a popular natural remedy for dog arthritis. Canine arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation and pain. It is believed to result from years of repeated movements, which causes injuries and degeneration in various areas of the joints.

The cartilage, on the other hand, is that soft tissue covering bones that degrades and exposes bones to inflammation. Joint stiffness, discomfort in getting up, limping, and hesitations in engaging in activities such as jumping are some of the symptoms of the condition.

There are factors believed to contribute to the development of canine arthritis such as inheritance, ageing, obesity, immune system problems, joint infections, and inheritance.

There are treatment options available such as surgeries or non-surgical treatments such as the use of painkillers and steroids. While these medications are helpful, their use has been associated with side effects. These side effects include gastrointestinal problems, kidney disorders, and bleeding.

The natural remedies for canine arthritis are exercise, weight management, and the use of natural alternatives such as turmeric. This medicinal spice has long been used for a range of conditions. Its therapeutic benefits are thought to come from its phytochemical called curcumin.

Curcumin is also a popular natural alternative to humans who suffer from arthritis and do not want to experience any side effects. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis properties that regulate inflammation and inhibit the production of inflammatory chemicals.

“Curcumin supplements can be purchased at local health stores or in just a matter of clicks online,” said VitaBreeze Supplements spokesperson, Michelle O’Sullivan.

This phytochemical is even believed to be effective in preventing the spread of rheumatoid arthritis. Curcumin can also act as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are popular pain medications.

Curcumin just like NSAIDs is believed to inhibit COX enzymes. Regulating these enzymes is believed to help curb inflammation as well as prevent the spread of many diseases. It is also thought to be a lot better than pain relief medications as it can selectively inhibit COX-2.

June 2, 2016
Meet the Dogs (& Their Owners) Who Sold up to Travel Around Europe & Wrote a Book About It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What did you take with you?

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

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

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

Are there any dog laws in Europe?

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

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

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

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

Ozwena at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps

Tell me the best bits of travelling in a motorhome.

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

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

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

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

What’s next?

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

TV presenter Declan Donnelly with a copy of DUST

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

Two UK winners will be chosen at random.

Good luck!

June 2, 2016
What Happens if a Dog Eats Chocolate, Buns & 36 Dental Chews in One Sitting?

A greedy Dalmatian was left needing emergency vet treatment after gorging on buns, chocolate and 36 dog chews while her owner was out.

Mischievous Molly (8), from Middlesbrough, sniffed a bag of food shopping that owner Kerry Buck had put away safely – or so she thought. Molly gobbled up 36 Dentastix, eight sultana buns and a packet of mini eggs. When Kerry (28) returned home she was horrified to find her beloved Dalmatian seriously ill with sickness and diarrhoea.

Kerry said: “I’d only popped out for 25 minutes. When I got home, it was absolute chaos – Molly had been sick everywhere. I rushed over to her, she was frothing at the mouth and very lethargic. I could see what food she had been eating so I rang PDSA straight away.”

Not only did the stolen food stash make Molly unwell, but her very life hung in the balance as sultanas and chocolate are highly toxic to dogs.”

Molly was given immediate treatment at PDSA’s Middlesbrough Pet Hospital to stabilise her condition.

Steph Williams, Head Nurse at PDSA Middlesbrough, said: “Molly ate a potentially lethal cocktail of ingredients. Sultanas affect kidney function and can lead to organ failure, while chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which attacks the central nervous system and can be life threatening.

“It never ceases to amaze me how pets can get themselves into trouble and get their paws on food – even when it’s supposedly out of reach. Thankfully for Molly, seem to be no lasting effects and she has made a great recovery.”

Molly’s treatment was funded by PDSA, which provides free vet care for sick and injured pets belonging to people in need. The charity only exists thanks to the support from animal lovers around the country.

Kerry added: “I’m really grateful to PDSA. Molly means everything to me and without them I wouldn’t be able to keep her. I’ll certainly be keeping a very close eye on her in the future and will make sure any food is locked away!”

June 1, 2016
Enormous Dog Does Cute Little Double Take

You might see the image and think there’s a trick of the camera at play. Well, erm, no. This really is a very sizeable dog we’re looking at. The real pay off here though is the cute little double take the dog gives the camera.

View post on imgur.com

May 27, 2016
These Dogs Had a Party, Just Look How Happy it Made Them

What happens when you put dogs and cake together? Well, my fellow dog owners can probably imagine, but these photographs, released by The Big Lunch team to promote their one-day get-together annual event, are guaranteed to make you smile.

These hilarious dogs were photographed as the ‘London Big Lunchers’ gathered at Tanner Street Park, Bermondsey, with their dogs for a little dog training session to prepare for the big day on Sunday 12th June this year.

Launched in 2009 by the Eden Project, the aim of The Big Lunch event is to encourage a get-together feeding community spirit and helping to build stronger neighbourhoods with the thinking that by bringing communities together, we can reducing loneliness and isolation.

Alongside the photographs, The Big Lunch team have looked at the effect having a dog has on making new friends in the community and have revealed that a study of 2,000 people looked at the positive social impacts of owning a dog compared with not having one, and over half (55%) admitted they are more likely to start a conversation with someone if they have a dog.

While the average dog owner has six chats a week – 312 a year, with people in the community, as a result of their canine companion, results showed dogs make you more approachable than children it seems – with three in 10 people more likely to start a conversation with someone with a dog than someone with children.

The research also showed the typical dog owner has at least three friends that originated directly from them having their pet.

The results make a valuable argument for the impact owning a dog can have on a person’s social interactions – (75%) say having a dog reduces feelings of loneliness and more than half (52%) say that having a dog improves relationships in the community and that getting a dog is one of the best ways to make friends with neighbours.

Oxford University Professor of Psychology, Robin Dunbar, who worked with The Big Lunch as part of the campaign, spoke about the findings: “Research has shown that owning a dog is a good way of combatting loneliness, both because of the company that such a pet can provide, but also because of the way that other people react to dogs and their owners.

Dunbar continued, “The majority of people (52%) said that having a dog improves relationships in your community, and 71 per cent said that people out on the street are more likely to stop and talk to you if you are walking a dog. This is because when we see someone with a friendly animal, we feel safe with them and feel that they will be happy for us to stop and talk.”

And sometimes the dogs are even more memorable than the owners – four in ten Brits know the names of certain dogs but do not know their owners by name, results showed.

Peter Stewart of The Big Lunch added: “While two thirds of us have never shared a meal with our neighbours, we are more likely to strike up conversation with those with dogs. Hosting or joining a Big Lunch on June 12th is a great way to make new friends, share stories, to have fun, whether you have a canine friend or not – it offers a simple way to make lasting relationships and most Big Lunches are also dog-friendly.”

Find out more about how you can get involved in The Big Lunch event this June online at www.thebiglunch.com

Have these dogs inspired you to get a dog?

If you’re thinking about bringing a dog into your home, why not consider adopting – visit our sister site, dogsblog.com today.

May 27, 2016
See The Joy as Beagles Freed From Testing Facility Taste Freedom for the First Time

Witness the amazing scenes when these 156 Beagles were freed from an animal testing facility. See their joy as they experience real sunlight and the freedom to run around for the first time in their lives.

The beagles, aged between two and five years old, were captured and caged for testing purposes for a Bangalore-based pharmaceutical laboratory. The directive to release the animals came from the Committee for the Purpose Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals, which is tasked to monitor any activity relating to animal lab testing and experiments.

May 27, 2016
Have You Heard About the Bat Dogs Upstaging Baseball Giants, Like A-Rod?

Trenton, New Jersey is home to the minor baseball league team, Trenton Thunder. This team is not only known for its affiliation to the giants of the sport, the New York Yankees, but it’s also known for its family of ‘bat dogs’ who work alongside the team retrieving bats and balls before returning them to the Thunder dugout at home games.

Here’s A-Rod having fun with one of the team’s mascots during his 2013 rehab assignment with the club.

And again this week:

Photo Credit: Twitter.com/E_Lipsman

The dynasty of bat dogs began with a special boy named Chase, also known as ‘That Golden Thunder’ who served with the team for around 13 years before retiring in July 2013.

Chase, pictured above, at his retirement ceremony three days before he passed away

His successor was his son named ‘Home Run Derby’, or Derby for short, and named by the fans, showing just how much affection fans have for their four-legged team members.

Derby is now joined by his son, Rookie, on the field at home games.

Watch Derby and the latest recruit, Rookie in action:

How cool! This team and its fans really do go all out to celebrate their canine teammates – and we love it!

May 26, 2016
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.
May 24, 2016
WATCH: Celebrities Speak Out for Dogs in Support of #StopYulin Campaign

Dog loving celebrities Alesha Dixon, Professor Green and Will Young have taken a stand and spoken out in support of the #StopYulin campaign urging China to end the festival and the cruel dog meat trade, which sees more than 10 million dogs killed every year across China.

Watch the Video:

Most people in China don’t eat dogs, and as the Yulin festival approaches, protests and candlelit vigils are expected to take place across the country. On 14 May in China’s city of Dalian, 100,000 people protested against the Yulin festival. Dog lovers in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Dalian are increasingly angered by dog thieves who steal their pets for the meat trade.

Claire Bass, executive director of HSI/UK, said: “We hope to gather millions of signatures against the grisly Yulin festival. Across the world, people are uniting to urge Xi Jingping to direct resources to end the cruel and largely illegal dog meat trade. Our call for action will only get stronger, as we stand united with our Chinese partner groups in saying we must #StopYulin.”

You can support the #StopYulin campaign by sharing and signing HSI’s #StopYulin petition at www.hsi.org/stopyulin

May 24, 2016
WATCH: Meet the Service Dog Who Is Teaching Disabled Children to Surf

We all know how great dogs can be and the role they can play in our lives giving support and comfort whenever needed. They’re always there for us, and some dogs go above and beyond learning skills that set them on the path to become a service dog helping many along the way.

Meet Surf Dog Ricochet whose journey began as a service dog before becoming one of the world’s most famous, award winning surf dogs who surfs for fun, wins dog surfing competitions and most importantly, surfs with purpose helping those she meets along the way.

As the Canine Ambassador for Surfers with Disabilities℠, she’s the only SURFice dog® on the planet who provides therapeutic assistance while creating unique surfing experiences that empower kids with special needs, people with disabilities, wounded warriors and veterans with PTSD.

Watch the Video:

Judy Fridono, who trained puppy prodigy Ricochet, told us: “This service dog to SURFice dog story is about what we all want – to be encouraged to discover who we really are…to find our life purpose…and to be celebrated for being different.”

This surf-loving dog, Ricochet, gives us some serious life goals.

May 24, 2016
The Dog Breeding Reform Group Supports Vets in Call for Brachycephalic Breed Action

The Dog Breeding Reform Group (DBRG) has welcomed moves by the veterinary community calling for action to tackle the serious health issues facing brachycephalic breeds. An online petition launched on Monday has already attracted hundreds of signatures.

Chris Laurence MBE, DBRG Trustee and former veterinary director of the Dogs Trust who has signed the petition, says: “Vets in companion animal practice see dogs with inherited breathing difficulty almost every day and are frustrated that there seems to be no end to the daily suffering of these breeds. The DBRG is delighted that vets are now getting together to highlight the issue and to plead with breeders to stop producing puppies with such malformed heads that they are unable to breathe easily.“

Olive the Pug

Dr Rowena Packer from the Royal Veterinary College and also a DBRG member, whose main area of research interest is brachycephalic health, believes the petition is good news. “There is clear evidence that short muzzles are linked with several problems of major welfare concern, including not only breathing but also eye, skin and dental disorders,” she says.

“We now need to put this evidence into action and move away from these extreme body shapes for the sake of many thousands of brachycephalic dogs internationally who suffer as a result of their look,” she continues.

DBRG’s founder Carol Fowler says. “In 2008 Professor Steve Jones, of University College London, talked of a ‘universe of suffering’ for many dog breeds. Brachycephalic breeds have the additional burden of a conformation that can lead to a lifetime of suffering.”

The petition’s launch comes days after long-time canine health campaigner Jemima Harrison wrote an open letter to UK vets urging them to put their heads “above the parapet” and make a stand, describing brachycephalic health issues as an “epidemic”.

Brachycephalic breeds have experienced a huge surge in popularity. The Kennel Club has seen a five-fold increase in registrations of pugs since 2005 and a whopping 4000 per cent increase in the numbers of French bulldogs.

The PDSA PAW Report, 2015, states that health issues related to pedigree breeding was the third highest concern of owners relating to pet welfare. “Ordinary pet owners and dog lovers can protest as much as they like but few people listen, especially those with the power to instigate change such as breed clubs and the Kennel Club. Now that vets are daring to speak out, I sincerely hope we will start to see real and meaningful change,” says DBRG’s Carol Fowler.

May 21, 2016