Rescue & Animal Care - October - Issue 168 by Rescue and Animal CARE Magazine

RESCUE and ANIMAL CARE

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29th September - 29th October 2021 - Issue 168

ISSN 2050-0572

FREE TO READ Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Welfare

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

Matt cycles 4500 miles for a Labrador New research finds pet dogs can predict their owner’s epileptic seizures

Ruff Guide to Spotting Problems in your Dog’s Poop Cover Image

Watch our Border Collie Trust GB ‘Hero’ Fundraiser of the Month Video

on page 7

Neglected donkeys struggling to walk The Ultimate Dog Walking Map of the UK

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RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE

Dear Readers

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Welfare

Autumn is here and dare I say it… It won’t be long until Christmas! How quickly this year seems to be going. Animal Lovers do amazing things for charities and in this issue we feature: – A former NHS worker who gave up her job to support animal shelters and organisations around the world is running the Virtual London Marathon... On a cruise ship! – Plus Matt cycles 4,500 miles for a Labrador. – Are you raising funds for one of your favourite rescue centres? Please let us know. One of our charity stories is about three neglected donkeys whose hooves had grown so long they were struggling to walk, are now recovering thanks to the help of international animal welfare charity, The Donkey Sanctuary. It’s coming up to that time of year again when we have to worry about animals being shocked, injured or even killed by fireworks. See some ways we can try to protect our pets inside this issue. There’s an interesting feature on ‘Pooch psychology’ and ‘What’s Going on in your Dogs head’? And another on spotting problems in dog poo! These and many more articles are within the following pages. Hope you enjoy and thank you for reading.

Love Jennifer x In this issue ...

THE TEAM PUBLISHER: Jennifer Prowse FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS Mary Lloyd, Bio-Life International Juliet Abrahamson DESIGN Vicki Barnes WEBSITE WDL Website Design Ltd ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHERS. ANY OPINIONS STATED WITHIN THE TEXT OF RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHERS. ANY PRICES QUOTED MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. SOME OF THE ANIMALS FEATURED WITHIN THIS ISSUE MAY NOW HAVE BEEN REHOMED.

46 Many lockdow n pets celebrat ing their first birthday

struggling to cted donkeys

Negle

On this Month’s Cover

walk

Border Collie Trust GB

Hedgehogdog toy Visit www.sophieallport.com

It’s coming up to that time of year again when we have to worry about animals being shocked, injured or even killed by fireworks.

Pet Remedy Cat Luxury Grooming & Massage Kit Visit www.petremedy.co.uk

PHONE: 07885 305188 EMAIL: Jennifer@jspmedia.co.uk TWITTER: Troublesome Treacle

Follow us on facebook Rescue and Animal Care www.facebook.com/rescueandanimalcare RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE MAGAZINE: JENNIFER PROWSE MEDIA, 21 THE MALTINGS, BURES, SUFFOLK CO8 5EJ

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Chilling in my bed!

Apart from the change of seasons it is also the dreaded Fireworks time and their explosions really scare me! Hello Dear Readers, Mistress has been playing with her phone camera and produced this rather gorgeous black and white picture of me. Through my eyes, It doesn’t look much different than the others she takes but I’m liking my regal pose! As you know, dogs do not distinguish as many colours as people do and since blue and yellow are the easiest colours for us to see I would like all my toys to be in these hues going forward. A couple of weeks ago I had a very irritating itchy ear and despite Mistress gently administrating ear drops it didn’t do the trick. Fortunately, one of our lovely advertisers Jennie from The Animal Health Company came to the rescue and send me a bottle of ear drops for Dogs. ‘OzOil’ contains tea tree oil, which has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal

properties helps to keep dog’s ears clean and free from waxy build-up. I begrudgingly let Mistress tilt my head to one side and place drops into my itchy ear. I was rewarded with a treat and a tummy rub. After a few days I no longer had that ticking feeling! If you are having trouble with your ears my furry friends then go to https://animalhealth.co.uk/product/ear-drops It is Autumn now and I just love the fresh morning feeling. I’ve tried to get Mistress to get up really early and take me for a walk but there’s no waking her before 8am. I could go on my own as the park is only next door but I would have trouble reaching the front door handle to let myself out or back in.

Apart from the change of seasons it is also the dreaded Fireworks time and their explosions really scare me. I wish humans wouldn’t let them off and perhaps instead buy some dog food to give to a local charity. Make sure you stay indoors for Halloween 31st October and try and distract yourself. I usually play ball with Mistress and sometimes she puts a woolly hat on my head to gently cover my ears. We also use Pet Remedy calming pet products www.petremedy.co.uk Keep safe Goodbye for now and see you next month!

Please contact us or visit our website for more information. Heathway, Colton, Rugeley, Staffs WS15 3LY Tel: 01889 577058 www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk Reg Charity No1053585

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Dogs Trust Canine Carer Ella Humphries is pictured with Collie Cross, Speedy, who is waiting at Dogs Trust to find his forever home

Dog lovers needed to take part in ‘land-bark’ survey Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is calling on dog lovers to take part in the biggest ever nationwide survey to help dogs and owners of the future.

he National Dog Survey will help the charity better-understand the UK’s 12.5 million-strong pooch population and the part dogs play in their owners’ lives, shaping the support the charity offers to canine companions and their families.

Sue Bromley, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust’s rehoming centre in Shrewsbury, says: “Through this survey we want to learn as much as possible about dog ownership to inform what we do to improve dog welfare and support dog owners. Dogs Trust has been around for 130 years and in that time so much has changed when it comes to dogs being at the heart of our family. “This is the first time we have carried out a survey of this kind and we want to hear from dog owners as well as people who don’t currently have a dog but have lived with one in the past. By gathering as much information as we can, we will be able to help people 6

and dogs live the best lives possible together.” The online survey asks dog owners about everything from how their dog behaves and what training they do with their four-legged friend, to questions about their relationship such as do they celebrate their dog’s birthday and do they tell them they love them. It also covers people’s post-pandemic plans for their dog such as are they hoping to take them into the office with them or will they employ a dog walker, if they are returning to their workplace. The survey, which can be completed online at www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk, also asks people to say how having a dog improves their life, what advice they would give to people looking to welcome a dog into their family and what one thing could Dogs Trust do to help them and their dog live happily together. Sue adds: “We always love to hear tales from

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owners who have adopted from us, and every single one of them has a different story to tell. We now want to capture the experiences of all dog owners so we can build a picture of dog ownership today and what more Dogs Trust can do to help them and their dogs. “This will be the most comprehensive census of dogs and dog lovers ever completed and we would love it if everyone who is passionate about dogs could do their bit to help our four-legged friends of the future have the best lives possible. What people tell us today will help us make sure we are able to do everything we can to support dogs and their owners for the next 130 years and more.” n For more information and to take part in the National Dog Survey, visit www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk Dog owners who complete the survey will get tailored behaviour advice sent direct to them. The closing date is 17th October. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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WATCH NOW

Watch our ‘Hero’ Fundraiser of the Month Video

Border Collie Trust GB

To watch our Animated video go to https://vimeo.com/580243340

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CRASH, BANG, HOWL! It’s coming up to that time of year again when we have to worry about animals being shocked, injured or even killed by fireworks. Juliet Abrahamson

hile some love the noise, excitement, colours and patterns in the sky, to our dogs and cats they must seem like bombs going off, and their fright can be very real indeed. But the effect of fireworks can be much more extensive than to just our closest companions: farm animals, birds, hedgehogs and other wild animals, bees and even fish can be impacted.

Impact on animals’ lives.

The RSPCA estimate that as many as 45% of dogs experience fear of fireworks. Many dogs are afraid of sudden loud noises, and the anxiety they experience can last for hours or days, or even have a lasting impact where injury can cause pain, or a lasting phobia of sudden noise or lights that can cause high anxiety levels. Dogs have been known to break their teeth in an attempt to get out of a kennel, and in the home to retreat shivering with fear to a far corner in order to hide. Cats also will run away in fear, or go into hiding, and even can be lost. Farm animals can be affected too: horses can be injured in fields or 8

stabling if loud noises cause them to run into fences or walls, pigs and lambs are very susceptible to noise and bright lights. The effect on wild animals has been harder to quantify, but they can flee, sometimes abandoning their young. Flocks of birds have been known to abandon nests by the noise of fireworks. Other wildlife and fish may eat firework debris that is poisonous. Air pollution and chemicals that enter the soil and water are also dangerous to both humans and animals. Bonfires, which are often associated with fireworks, can cause hedgehogs or other small wild animals who have sought shelter in a bonfire to be burnt to death.

What can be done?

Fireworks are probably here to stay, but their impact on domestic animals can be lessened. It doesn’t mean we just have to put up with fireworks altogether – children can be educated to realise the effect of fireworks on the environment; protests can be made; petitions signed for the restriction of the sale of fireworks and the duration of the days they are allowed to be let off to be limited; requests to be notified when a firework display is taking place and more adherence to the laws that

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are in place now are all valid responses. But we can certainly help our pets to be more comfortable. Here are some suggestions: • Keep pets indoors when there are known displays, and be there for them. • Shut windows and curtains, and play radios, music or television to dull the external noises. • Act normally with dogs, but be ready to reassure them. • For outside pets such as rabbits provide some extra bedding to hide in or bring them indoors for the evening. • Stir or rake bonfires before lighting to move wildlife. The RSPCA believe that more awareness about the effect of fireworks on animals should be made, and that there should be tighter restrictions on the sale of fireworks, lower maximum noise levels and licensing for events. None of these restrictions are unusual in other countries around the world – some ban the sale of fireworks to the public altogether. The effect of these restrictions, plus more consideration to making fireworks carbon neutral would surely be of real benefit to animals and nature at a time when it is becoming increasingly important to us all. Photo image: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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FREE PET REMEDY CALMING WIPES FOR EVERY READER

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Neil and Fern on Castlewellan Lake training exercise

Neil and Fern

New research ﬁnds pet dogs can predict their owner’s epileptic seizures New research led by Queen’s University Belfast has shown that dogs can predict epileptic seizures, offering a warning sign to owners that has the potential to save lives.

pileptic seizures are associated with a specific smell which is detectable by pet dogs. The study analysed the reaction of dogs to odours and found that the dogs could predict when a seizure was imminent. A reliable early warning system to make people with epilepsy aware of an impending seizure has the potential to save lives, reduce injury, provide an opportunity for medical intervention and return a sense of independence to those living with unpredictable seizures. Epilepsy is a debilitating and potentially life-threatening neurological condition which affects approximately 65 million people worldwide, of whom 30% (20 million), are unable to control their seizures by medication. There is currently no reliable and simple early warning seizure-onset device available, which means many people with unstable epilepsy live in fear of injury or sudden death and the negative impact of social stigmatization. There have been anecdotal accounts of pet dogs predicting their owner’s epileptic seizures by becoming attentive and by demonstrating attention-seeking behaviours, but to date no scientific study has investigated the veracity of these claims. Lead researcher Dr Neil Powell, from the School of Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “We hypothesized that, given the extraordinary sense of smell of dogs, a

volatile organic compound exhaled by the dog’s epileptic owner may provide an early warning trigger mechanism to which make dogs react before the seizure. The results have shown pet dogs to be a reliable source to detect an on-set seizure.” The study has been published in the journal MDPI Animals. The researchers explored how a cohort of pet dogs reacted to the emergence of seizure-associated odours. Using two specially designed pieces of apparatus called the Remote Odour Delivery Mechanism (RODM), the researchers separately delivered epileptic seizureassociated odours and nonseizure associated odours and recorded the reactions of the dogs to each. Using 19 pet dogs with no experience of epilepsy, the researchers exposed them to odours that were deemed to be characteristic of three seizure phases, by using sweat harvested from people with epilepsy. By altering the alternating odours emerging from sweat samples, captured before seizure, during a seizure and after a seizure, and two nonseizure controls, the researchers recorded the response of the 19 pet dogs. They found that all 19 dogs demonstrated more affiliative behavioural changes when confronted by seizure-associated odours, compared with their response to control odours. Dr Powell added: “Our findings clearly showed that all dogs reacted to the

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seizure-associated odour whether this was through making eye contact with their owner, touching them, crying or barking. There is a unique volatile smell linked to epiletic seizures, detectable by dogs who can in-turn warn their owner a seizure is likely to occur. “Our research was based on pet dogs with no prior training. If we can train dogs, this has the potential to make a big difference to owners who experience unpredictable seizures and should go a long way in improving not only their safety, but also their quality of life.” The research was funded by and conducted in partnership with Epilepsy Ireland and Disability Assistance Dogs. Peter Murphy, CEO of Epilepsy Ireland, said: “A reliable method of seizure prediction and detection is the holy grail for many people living with epilepsy as well as the parents of children with the condition. This is especially the case where seizures involve the loss of consciousness, with a high risk of injury. While recent efforts have focused on technological solutions, it is exciting and very welcome news that anecdotal reports of dogs’ ability to predict seizures have now been backed up by scientific evidence. We have been immensely proud to support Dr. Powell’s work and we hope that the findings will lead to new approaches alongside ‘man’s best friend’ that promote safety and offer reassurance for people living with epilepsy.” www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Older dogs: some call it History, we call it Character Older dogs have a magic all of their own and they still have a few tricks up their sleeve. Check out all the reasons why you shouldn’t overlook an older dog.

he saying goes that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but here at Battersea we know that’s certainly not the case. Older dogs have a magic all of their own. Their experience only adds to their character and by rescuing an older dog you can look forward to companionship, heaps of charm and a whole lot of love. Here are just some of the reasons why a senior dog might be the right choice of dog for you.

They’ve done their Homework, and they promise not to eat yours

Rescuing an older dog is a great way for first-time dog owners to learn all about what it takes to look after a dog. Most older rescue dogs will already be house-trained, as well as just generally more settled in terms of who they are and what they like. Puppies are hard work; trust us! Older dogs are normally less destructive, so if you’re particularly house proud, rescuing an older dog means you are significantly less likely to find teeth marks on everything you own. 12

They still have a few tricks up their sleeves

When it comes to party tricks, older dogs actually have longer attention spans than puppies. As with all ages of dog, if you’re prepared to be consistent and keep up your end of the bargain when it comes to training sessions, there’s no reason why you and your older rescue dog won’t be wowing friends and family with impressive new skills in no time at all.

Older Rescue dogs are Second hand, not Second best

Older dogs find themselves in rescues like Battersea for lots of reasons. More often than not it’s through no fault of their own and instead the result of a change in circumstances of their previous owners. New babies, house moves, and changes in lifestyle can all prompt people to give up older dogs. Some older rescue dogs come to Battersea as strays, or may have had a more colourful history, but they still have just as much love to give, maybe even more.

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It’s all child’s play to an older dog

Often, an older dog is a safe pair of hands. By rehoming an older dog from a rescue centre like Battersea you will have some understanding of their behaviour and how they’re likely to act around different family members, either from previous owners, or from expert staff who will have spent lots of time working with them and taking care of them. As with all dogs, children will still need to be taught to interact with older dogs in a safe, respectful way, but with peace of mind from our expert assessments, an older dog from Battersea could be right at home on your sofa. n If you think an older dog would be the perfect addition to your family, visit our rehoming galleries www.battersea.org.uk where you can meet the dogs ready to be rehomed. Photo image: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com

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Naylor Agility Equipment Competition Standard Jump Wings

Naylor Agility are pleased to introduce their new range of dog agility equipment to complement their popular range of Dog Agility Tunnels. Naylor Agility Equipment is manufactured using high quality materials in the UK. The new range of dog agility equipment is ideal for agility training at home and at club level. 60 The new range comprises:

• Wobble Board – a 60cm diameter board with paw print design and a secure wobble dome in the centre. Fantastic for building confidence on unstable surfaces, promotes balance and co-ordination and is great for rehabilitation exercises. The wobble board is also fully rubberised for safety. • 4ft Contact Trainer – for training stop and 2 on 2 off contacts at

0mm-diameter-rainbow -dog-tunnel

home. Fully resin bound rubberised surface with contrast colour contact area. The contact trainer is 4ft in length and 1ft wide with the contact end angled to sit closer to the ground when in use. • Stacking Blocks – ideal for posture and form training. The stacking

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blocks are fully reversible with wider and narrow sides for big and little paws, both sides are rubberised. Suitable for creating a still position for standing pose and can also be used to grow confidence and teach paw awareness. • TanGo Mat – a 180cm x 90cm resin bound rubber surface on rubber backing with durable plastic buckles to fix to Marker Poles. Rolls up for transportation. • 4ft Rocker Board – a 4ft long x 1ft wide fully resin bound rubberised surface with angled ends to sit closer to the ground when in use. Each end of the rocker board has contrasting colour contact sections. The rocker board is ideal for building confidence in movement under foot for young and nervous dogs and is a perfect introduction to seesaw movement. • Competition Standard Jump Wings – supplied with 2 pairs of removable www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Full Agility 600 5M Red Tunnel

jump cups and weighted pole. Made using high quality treated timber with removable feet for easy transportation and storage. All 4 KC standard heights, with 200mm available on request for UKA select height the specification allows use in KC and UKA competitions. Can be ordered directly via the webshop www.nayloragility.co.uk or phone our sales team on 01226 444378 to discuss your exact requirements. Please note all agility equipment is made to order with a 6 week lead time.

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Agility tunnels don’t need to just be for dogs!

Donkey Bond takes to the agility tunnel www.nayloragility.co.uk

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Pet Remedy Rescue Partnership Andy Hale explains how this exciting new Programme can help the Animal Rescue community

have been a Certified Behaviourist for nearly 10 years . (Sorry, need to take a moment – where does the Andy Hale time go!) In that time, I have been heavily involved in supporting my colleagues in the rescue community. I see us all part of an animal social services, each playing our part in the support and care of these wonderful and often vulnerable animals. I joined forces with Pet Remedy a couple of years ago; attracted by their strong ethical approach to business and understanding of the emotional needs of animals. The Pet Remedy product is something I had used and valued for many years , as part of behavioural support plans. Part of my role within the company, is 16

to work with the team; looking at ways to support the valuable and important work done by the rescue sector. To start the process, i set up a panel of animal rescue professionals , including representatives from a wide range of different sized operations. We learned a lot from this focus group. The two things that really stood out were, the importance of finding risk free ways to maximise revenue, and the need to ensure adopters fully understand the care and support needs of the animals they are taking home. From this feedback we formed the Pet Remedy Rescue Partnership, something we are very proud of as we feel it addresses both of the main challenges that were shared in the focus group. With the partnership scheme, the rescue receives 20% discount off our wholesale prices with stock on a sale or return basis, so no up front costs. This provides a great opportunity to maximise revenue from sales, with no upfront risk.

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We also supply free product to be used in the rescue centre. All the partnership agreements are bespoke, so regardless of size of operation, we can create a special tailored package for everyone. We are most proud of our pre-adoption videos. They are beautifully made and give all the important information needed to support a successful adoption. The videos are customised with each rescue centres logo, giving a personalised feel. The videos are provided free of charge to all rescues in our our partnership programme. n To find out more about how our partnership programme can benefit your rescue and to arrange a special viewing of the pre-adoption videos, please contact either Andy or Gill by emailing rescue@petremedy.co.uk or calling 01803 612772 or visit www.petremedy.co.uk Photo image: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Pet Calming Spray Ideal for pets including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, rodents and birds. Can be used in conjunction with plug-in diffuser. £18.50. Visit www.petremedy.co.uk

Pet Power!

TO SUIT ALL YOUR DOGS’ NEEDS Customisable Whelping boxes. Any colour, Lightweight, Robust, Come pre-assembled, Easy to clean and maintain. Visit www.thedaleskennelcompany.co.uk/whelpingbox

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar with Turmeric and Black Pepper What an excellent combination! Organic and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (so is with the ‘mother’ beneficial bacteria), turmeric and black pepper. Added to water or food this supplement can be helpful for digestive health, joint support, skin and coat, nails and hooves (suitable for hoofed animals too!) and general overall condition. This can also be used as an ear cleaner if diluted with water, and as a parasite deterrant spray. Available in 500 ml. £5.45. Visit www.naturallyhealthypet.co.uk

Great products for you and your Pets

Colloidal Silver for Pets 20ppm Pocket Spray 20 ml. Keep it in your pocket for those unplanned doggie emergencies. Visit www.naturesgreatestsecret.co.uk

Play time This Sophie Allport Hedgehogdog toy will give your pooch hours of fun. £13.00. Visit www.sophieallport.com

RAISED BED Dogmatic Headcollar The New Luxurious Soft and Lined Leather Dogmatic Headcollar. £39.99. Visit www.dogmatic.org.uk

This raised trampoline bed is perfect for ‘lounging on’, in a kennel run, garden or house. Great for Dogs that like to be raised off the ground. Visit www.thedaleskennelcompany.co.uk

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COULD YOU ADOPT ME? Can you give any of these lovely pets a place in your home and your heart? Nylah F9

She is a super soppy girl who loves to spend all her time with her human besties. Available to rehome from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home www.battersea.org.uk

Nylah

Tilly Tilly F5

Eclair F2 mths

I am still young and learning about people, so will need someone around for a lot of the day to begin with, until I am older and are used to your routine.

Eclair

Available to rehome from Blue Cross www.bluecross.org.uk

Tilly is a sweet, gentle little soul who really needs a settled home without any distractions. She likes a bit of fuss and will pop on your lap from time to time. Above all else she needs a nice chilled out home where she can be her best self! Available to rehome from The Mayhew www.themayhew.org

Snowy M8

Snowy is a really lovely boy, a little shy at first but then really enjoys a head, cheek and chin rub. Available to rehome from Woodlands Animal Sanctuary www.woodlandsanimalsanctuary.org.uk

Bowie

Snowy

Bowie 15640

Once I trust you, I will love you forever. I prefer a calm environment, and will give you my heart.

Richie M1

Richie is a happy and sweet natured boy who likes to chat. He can be quite independent, but he is affectionate and loves a nice cuddle. Available to rehome from Edinburgh Dogs & Cats Home www.edch.org.uk 20

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Richie

Available to rehome from RSPCA Danaher www.danaheranimalhome.org.uk

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Lockdown pets lead lavish lifestyle • With the first ever lockdown now over a year behind us, many lockdown pets will be celebrating their first birthday • More than 1 in 3 pet owners confess to celebrating their dog’s birthday, spending on average £26 per pet • More than half of pets now have a social media account

ith over 3.2 million households buying pets over lockdown[1], many people have discovered the joy of having a little furry companion around the house – and as many look to celebrate their pets first ever birthday, new research has revealed just how much they plan to splash out on the occasion. A survey of 1,012 British pet owners carried out by One4all Gift Cards found that some lucky pets now enjoy their birthdays just as much as humans, with more than 1 in 3 (36%) confessing to celebrating their pet’s birthday regularly. 1 in 5 (18%) of pet owners shower their pets with birthday gifts, while 15% admit to singing happy birthday to their furry friends. When it comes to pets, some owners spare no expense, with the average UK pet owner spending more than £26 celebrating each pet’s birthday. Remarkably, it is men who are the more generous of the sexes when it comes to gifting the animals in their lives, spending £31.40 on each pet’s 22

birthday - £10.57 more than female owners do. The research also found that it’s not just birthday’s which Brits celebrate, as almost 1 in 10 pet parents receive a Mother’s or Father’s day gift from their furry family members. Pet owners in London are the most lavish when celebrating their pet’s birthday – spending more than £60 each year on each pet. The nation’s obsession with its furry friends doesn’t stop at elaborate birthday celebrations or gifting, as the data found that half of UK pets now have a social media account where those celebrations can be shared with the world. What’s more, an animal loving 28% of those surveyed confess they post more pictures of their pets on social media than the people in their lives. Aoife Davey, Senior Marketing Manager at One4all Gift Cards, said: “Brits are well-known for doting on their pets, but the research has uncovered some interesting data surrounding just how far we will go to spoil our furry

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friends, not just on their birthdays but all year round. “The data also found that UK pet owners spend more than £100 on each pet per year on treats alone, and that doesn’t take into account food or any other necessities such as vet’s bills – this is an astonishing figure, especially for those who have more than one pet in their household.” “The gift exchange goes beyond birthdays as the research found that 1 in 10 pet owners give gifts to their friends and family on behalf of their pet and 16% of pets receive gifts from their friends and family at Christmas. “It’s interesting to see just how many gifts are exchanged between pets, their owners, and owners’ friends and families throughout the year – it’s clear to see that our animals are considered part of the family”. n For more information visit www.one4all.com https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business56362987

[1]

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Discover some of the best walkies in the country! The Ultimate Dog Walking Map of the UK

Welcome to the ultimate dog walking map of the UK, designed for pet parents or professional dog walkers covered with dog walkers insurance. Here, you can find the best routes to spend quality time with your pooches. We’ve gathered ratings from Tripadvisor to find the best locations. Each location has a dog-friendly score based on how many times ‘dog’ was mentioned in a Tripadvisor review, as well as a safety score designated by the number of safety mentions. Plan safe and fun dog walks with Cliverton www.cliverton.co.uk

A specialist team of animal lovers with almost 50 years’ experience in meeting the unique insurance needs of rescues and other animal-related trades

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RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Cat in a Flat: 8 ways to prepare your ﬂat for an indoor cat There has been an increase in cat owners across the UK since lockdown began with an estimated 7.5 million cats part of household families across the UK.

any people get a pet to keep them company. For those living in apartments, an indoor cat may seem like a great choice of furry friend - and those warm cuddles will be very welcome as we head into winter. However, having a cat live in an apartment is different from a cat that has ample space in a house. There are measures you can take to prepare your flat for your incoming cat. We have spoken to Ele Hacheme, Cat Nutrition expert at the Republic of Cats to give us the top tips on how to prepare your apartment for your new feline friend:

1. Find a good vet

When you are looking to adopt a cat or kitten - no matter their age, you need to find your new cat a good reliable vet. Your cat will need a yearly check up and your vet will be able to look out for signs that owners may not notice within their cat that may need attending to 24

especially for first time cat owners. The best thing to do is be prepared and know that if you need a vet you have one ready to take your furry friend to.

2. Vaccines

We know - there's a lot of news about vaccines right now - but your cat's vaccines are important for their health and wellbeing. Though your indoor cat is less likely to pick up viruses found outdoors, you should still make sure your cat has the relevant up to date vaccinations and booster jabs. For indoor only cats, cat nutrition expert, Ele Hacheme, says to “make sure your cat has the cat flu and feline enteritis vaccinations. If you plan to let your cat go outdoors they will need others, such as the vaccine against feline leukaemia (FeLV).” Your vet will be able to tell you any relevant vaccines necessary and can suggest any treatment your new cat may

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need e.g. deworming, de-flea treatment etc. From here, you will be able to make a fully informed decision about what is best for your cat’s wellbeing.

3. Scratching posts

When adopting a cat, it is important for both your furniture and your feline friend that you have at least one scratching post (ideally 2-3) around the flat. These give cats a place to play on, and most importantly to keep their claws in the best condition. Scratching can help remove material under their claws and also stop their claws getting too long and uncomfortable. Scratching posts are even more important for indoor cats, who have less opportunity to scratch rougher materials than cats who spend time outdoors, climbing trees and so forth. cont. on page 26 www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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cont. from page 24

4. Water on the move

We have all seen the videos of cats licking and flicking water as it cascades down from a tap. This is because some cats prefer running water to that in a bowl. Though outdoor cats still need an in-home water supply, outdoor cats tend to find water sources to drink from when out and about. This is because many cats like to drink from running water sources. Running water bowls are therefore a good option if you are worried your indoor cat isn’t drinking enough. We also find that each cat is different so some may prefer deeper bowls whilst others prefer shallow bowls to drink from - you may want to try a few different variations of bowls to see which your cat specifically likes best. Another tip is to try to move your cat's water bowl away from the rest of its food - this is because cats are natural hunters and they sometimes prefer to drink water away from where they eat their food. Do not worry too much if your cat is not lapping up an entire bowl of water in front of you. Cat’s wet food should provide a lot of the moisture needed in their diet - Republic of Cats’ wet food is designed specifically to help with your cats hydration.

5. Cat-proof your balcony

If you are welcoming a new cat into your home and plan to keep them indoors but you have a balcony or raised outdoor space, you will want to make sure this space is as cat-proof as possible for your furry friend's safety. If you rent, you can talk to your landlord about getting this installed, or you can find options online to put a temporary screening. You will want to make sure there are no gaps that your cat can climb or fall through.

6. Toys

Toys are not just for our doggy pals, cats also need toys to occupy their active minds - and this goes especially for indoor cats. Outdoor cats have a lot more to explore and intrigue them, but an indoor cat will need toys and challenges even more so to keep their minds active. A cat can feel down or depressed if not kept entertained so challenge toys such as interactive treat mazes and treat circuits are great options to invest in when bringing home your new cat. If your apartment is not particularly big, you may want to consider investing in a cat wheel, or some form of cat exercise equipment for your new furry friend. Cats have more energy than people may realise and they need space to run around and release that energy if they are to be kept indoors. It is also important to remember that, though cats may want their alone time (don’t we all), most cats do want cuddles and strokes from their humans. They also really enjoy playtime with their humans too, whether this be playing with string or sitting with them as they get used to a new toy.

7. Private litter area

Whether you choose to get a covered litter tray or not, it’s a good idea, if possible, to put your cat's litter tray in a more private area of your home as long as this area is easily accessible for your cat at all times. Covered litter trays are good for both cat and owner as the odor from the tray is usually

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kept within the box until emptied. The covered trays also give your cat more privacy - let’s be honest, none of us want to be doing our business with a full audience. It can be hard in an apartment to mask a strong smell, but you can find animalfriendly diffusers or oils that you can either plug in or place around the area where your cat's litter tray is (though we suggest not around their food as the smell can put them off). Just make sure they are cat-friendly before you buy as several essential oils can be harmful to our furry friends e.g. eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus and pine. Republic of Cats' food plans help your beloved pet have a healthier digestive system, which will in turn help with that litter tray whiff.

8. Comfy sleeping spots

Cats love a good sleeping spot - and though they may choose one spot they like to begin with, cats love to have several comfy spots around the home to snuggle up for a nap. When bringing a new cat into the home, make sure you have plenty of comfy spots - blankets and beds, for them to sleep on. Warm spots near radiators are usually a good bet. Cats love to look out of windows so, if possible in your flat, try to place a comfy bed for them up on a shelf or somewhere where they can watch the world - and birds, go by. n The cat expert team at Republic of Cats https://www.republicofcats.com/aboutus/

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Preparing your rabbits for Winter With Autumn truly here, but weather still warm enough to enjoy the outside (hopefully!), nows the time to prepare your little ones for winter, and decide if you’re going to keep them outside through winter, or bring them inside until the warmer Spring arrives.

hilst rabbits have traditionally been seen as outdoor pets, house rabbits are now very common, and it is well understood how they can thrive here too. Certainly they enjoy both the warmth and additional stimulation, but their area needs careful planning, as does their interaction with other members of the household - be they two-legged or four! Rabbits need time to adjust their fur and grow a winter coat if being kept outside. But if they’re to come indoors,

it’s best to bring them in before their coat starts to develop, to prevent excessive moulting, overheating and other possible health issues. If you plan to keep them outside during the winter, this also needs careful planning. Their accommodation may need moving to a more sheltered spot, or repairs and weather-proofing be carried out before it gets cold. So whether your little ones are going to stay out, or come inside, there’s a lot to consider.

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Here’s just a few considerations we’ve put together to help make the descision:

• Can you provide a quiet and secure space inside, away from noise and strong odours (many cooking smells will not be enjoyed!)? • Do any of your household have allergies that could be an issue if not managed? • Will you be happy spending time with your little ones outside, even during the freezing cold weather? And are you comfortable walking in the snow and ice? • Does the external accommodation offer shelter from wind and rain, and can it be insulated against extreme temperatures and be located in a sheltered spot? • Do your little ones have any health issues, or be more susceptible to the cold? Are they elderly, or healthy and active? Alone, or with a partner? • Do you live in an area with an active predator population that may be bolder during winter? • Can you ‘bunny proof’ inside accommodation? This includes electrical cables, skirting boards, furniture, carpets and doors. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Science Selective House Rabbit caters for the needs of house rabbits with a high fibre mix of forages that more closely reflects natural grazing patterns.

Burgess Excel Rabbit Light is ideal for those rabbits who have a tendency to become overweight or for older, less active rabbits where weight gain is a concern.

• Will you carry out daily health checks outside - even in heavy rain? • Do you plan to have large family gatherings or parties over the festivities? If so, can your little ones be cited in a quiet and secure location? • Do you have other pets that may cause stress? A curious or obnoxious cat, or excitable, barking dog? Free-range parrot, perhaps?? View the area from the predator/prey perspective. • Are you planning a vacation? Can

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you get a pet sitter, or boarding accommodation with inside or external accommodation in line with your needs - and are their vaccinations up to date? • Can you put up with hay and bunny poop in your home? No matter how hard you clean, these are part and parcel of having a house bunny … and you will find poop in strange places!

whether rabbits should live outside or inside. Just as cats and dogs were long ago, rabbits were designed to live outside - but in underground burrows where the temperature could be regulated and they could be safe from predators and weather. There’s no doubt rabbits have adapted extremely well to living indoors, just like our other domesticated pets, and if brought inside at the right time, can adapt to the warmer environment extremely well. It’s often easier to manage - and spot health issues with an indoor bunny, but being inside also may require additional nutritional consideration - vitamin D, for example, can be supplemented by feeding an indoor food, and lower energy requirements may be needed - else a little weight may start to pile on! But some rabbits just love the great outdoors, and thrive in the closeness to their natural environment and sense of the great outdoors. And it’s easy to provide a warm, safe and secure area for them with a bit of planning and research. Only you can decide what’s right, knowing your little ones as you do. Just remember that if you’re planning to make a change, nows the time! Visit www.thehayexperts.co.uk

There’s no right or wrong answer to

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Do you run an Animal rescue centre or shelter? Recording details of the animals, your supporters and keeping on top of assessments, medication, feeds and appointments taking too much time?

ANCTURease, the new animal management system will help you. Store details of the animals in your care in one central location, accessible via a web browser, the system will record full details of the animals in your care. Our unique assessment builder allows you to design your own assessments, with multiple questions to meet the needs of your organisation exactly. Whether you rescue or rehome, SANCTURease will streamline your animal and supporter administration.

Recording details of Supporters who support you, whether as Volunteers, rehomers, donors or any other connection that you define. Connect supporters to animals, recording finders, claims and fosterers. Our mailing feature allows you to keep in constant contact with the supporters via email or letter at the click of a button. Send email newsletters, flyers and individual emails to keep in contact. SANCTURease has been developed by ICARIS, who have been developing animal

management systems for large centres for over 20 years, with clients including Birmingham Dogs Home. Let us help you with the administration of your centre, freeing up more time to help the animals. n For further information visit www.sancturease.co.uk or email sales@icaris.co.uk or call 0845 075 8175. Photo image: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 30

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

www.dogmatic.org.uk www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Soraya Wasenieu

Animal lover set to run London Marathon... On a cruise ship! A former NHS worker who gave up her job to support animal shelters and organisations around the world is running the Virtual London Marathon... On a cruise ship!

oraya Wasenieus, 51, who lives in Royden, Essex is taking on the October 3 challenge in aid of the NoToDogMeat charity. The former medical typist, who worked at the Princes Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, gave up her job five years ago to dedicate her time to travel and animal activism. She has now been on 60 cruises, and makes sure to visit shelters and sanctuaries wherever she goes, offering help and support to animals in need. Soraya, who rescued her own cat Fluffy ten years ago when he came to her as a stray, will get up early on the day of the marathon, and complete laps of Royal Caribbean’s Celebrity Silhouette liner, which will be sailing towards Portugal. Because of the pandemic, for the second year in a row, the London Marathon has become a virtual event, meaning that people can register and run on the day wherever they are in the world. Soraya said: “This is my first marathon, and in a way I am sad that I’m not able to do it in London, as I am a London girl and would have really loved the atmosphere. 32

“But this is the next best thing, and feels like a really unusual and special way to raise money for NoToDogMeat and complete my first ever marathon challenge. “I’m going to get up really early, so it will just be me and the domestic staff, hopefully they will cheer me on!” NoToDogMeat is an NGO, which works in countries where there is a dog and cat meat trade, helping people who live there make a difference. The charity, which advises the United Nations on these issues, currently provides a home to around 450 dogs at its largest shelter in Beijing, some of which were rescued from the barbaric Yulin Dog Meat Festival which went ahead this year despite the pandemic. Explaining why she wants to use her marathon efforts to support NoToDogMeat, Soraya added: “I have supported lots of animal charities over the years but this is the most important to me. “The crimes that are committed against animals at events like Yulin are the most heinous in the world, it is a controversial subject which means sometimes charities like NoToDogMeat don’t get as many donations, and that’s why they deserve our support even more.

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“I’ve been training by running about nine miles a day near my house which is quite rural. I was a member of a running group once, but nowadays I actually prefer to run on my own, it’s my thinking time, and I really love it.” Julia de Cadenet, who founded the NoToDogMeat charity in 2009, said: “Thank you so much Soraya for choosing NoToDogMeat as the charity that will benefit from her marathon sponsorship, we are so proud of her. “Many people think that the dog and cat meat trade is simply different countries having different cultures, but that couldn't be further from the truth. In countries like China many people are working hard to effect change in attitudes, and stop this appalling animal cruelty, and we are there to help them every step of the way.” n To find out more and donate to NoToDogMeat go to www.notodogmeat.com To donate to Soraya and team NoToDogMeat’s marathon efforts go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/notodogmeat1

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RSPCA appeals for pet food donations as food bank project expands into North East The charity has expanded its pet food bank partnership into South Tyneside and Newcastle

he RSPCA is appealing for pet food donations from kind animal lovers to help the pet food bank project expand into North East England. RSPCA Animal rescue Officer (ARO) Heather Wade is coordinating the effort across South Tyneside and Newcastle to ensure that owners who are struggling with the costs of feeding their pet can get access to pet food. The project began in Lancashire during lockdown as a response to the number of people the charity was seeing who were facing financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic. Deputy Chief Inspector Alison Fletcher, who works in Lancashire, decided to link-up with food banks in the area to provide them with pet food for owners who were struggling to make ends meet. Starting with five areas across Lancashire, the scheme has now been rolled out across 35 different food banks across Lancashire, Cheshire, Merseyside, West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Northumbria and four in Greater Manchester. Heather said: “We’ve seen pets become a real source of comfort to people during the pandemic and it’s fantastic to see those strong bonds between owners and their animals. However, the pandemic has put a strain on people’s finances and we’re seeing a lot of people experience tough times at the moment. The last thing we want is for a loving owner to have to give up their companion and so we set up the scheme in the hope that we could provide as much pet food as possible and keep families and their pets together.” Now the RSPCA is asking for donations of pet food to help the project. Generous members of the public can donate pet food at the following drop-off points (please specify it is for the food bank project when donating):

Insp Susie Micallef delivering Purina donation in the January food bank run l

RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre, Waldridge Lane, DH2 3BF

RSPCA Newcastle and North Northumberland Branch Shop, 200 Shields Road, Byker, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE6 1DU

RSPCA Newcastle and North Northumberland Branch Shop, 186 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2TA

Heather added: “We have so far linked up with four food banks across Newcastle and Northumberland which means anyone who is struggling can not only get human food but can now get pet food for their furry friends too. We’re so

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

pleased to be able to help in this way and are so grateful for any donations we receive to help this project.” The food banks who have signed up to the project are: - Key 2 Life Food Bank (South Shields) - Washington Community Food Project - Walker and District Food Bank - Newcastle West End Food Bank n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website www.rspca.org.uk or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Pets for Young & Old Pets are a wonderful addition to every day life but selecting the right pet that is compatible with your age and lifestyle is extremely important. Dogs and cats are by far the most popular but there are a wide variety of other small pets too Mary Lloyd tells us more and destructive. Again they have a long life span. Birds are not suitable for children with allergies and weak immune systems because they can carry Psittacosis and Avian Tuberculosis. Lizards are quiet and low maintenance but have very specific dietary requirements e.g. insects. Make sure you know precisely what they need before you take them on. Contrary to popular opinion, hamsters are not particularly well suited for young children because they are nocturnal. If you disturb them in the daytime, they can become aggressive and bite. The beautiful chinchilla is also nocturnal and gets very stressed if disturbed during the day.

Child Friendly Pets Dogs are by far the most popular choice for households with children but it is important to make sure that you and the children have the time to take care of them. Making the children take responsibility for their care is an important part of their social education that can ensure that they become animal lovers for life. Cats are more independent and require less care but individual personalities vary greatly. It is important that cats are socialised from when they are kittens if they are to make good companions for children. Some do not have the temperament at all and breed has a significant affect. Rabbits are active and social but need plenty of stimulation or they can get

bored and destructive. Two rabbits are always better than one because they like company but make sure they are both the same sex when you acquire them. Recently, our friends acquired 2 “female” rabbits that turned out to be male and female with the result they now have 22 rabbits!!! Rabbits need bunny proof housing, room to run around and a careful diet. Some are good with children and others get very stressed and even aggressive with too much picking up and cuddling. The children too need to know how to behave around their beloved companions. Guinea pigs need regular grooming, cage cleaning and fresh food at the ready. Two are better than one because they are very sociable pets and like company. Guinea pigs are easily startled so need to become accustomed to being handled at an early age and of course, children need to be taught how to handle them with love and care. Turtles are cute but complicated to take care of. They also have very long life spans so be prepared to look after them long after the children have flown the nest. Birds arre intelligent and sociable especially parrots but they can be loud

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Pets for Older People Dogs are excellent companions for older people and furthermore, encourage exercise and fresh air. However, we would not recommend dogs who need a lot of exercise such as Springer Spaniels. Dogs can certainly alleviate loneliness, depression and anxiety. Cavaliers, Shih Tzu, Bichon frisse and Yorkshire terriers are ideal companions for elderly people. So too are Labradors and Retrievers who are very people

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empathic. You may find that some older people are afraid to take on a pet in case their life is shorter than the pets. Re-assure them that you are prepared to look after the little one after they pass away and make certain it is a little dog that you would also love. Cats can also be good company without the need for exercise. Ragdolls and Birmans are ideal because they are quiet and playful and love a cuddle. However, they do need regular grooming. Guinea pigs can be kept in or out of the house. They are “chatty” and very good company and awake for up to 20 hours a day! Similarly rabbits, gerbils and hamster can be great for older people.

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Dogs are “ excellent companions for older people. ”

Perfect Pets for Elderly People Cavalier King Charles Shih Tzu Yorkshire Terriers Bichon Frisse British Shorthaired cat Ragdoll & Birman cats Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits and gerbils

n For further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Bio-Life Helpline on 01608 686626 (Open 8am to 8 pm, 7 days per week) or ask for advice from your veterinary surgeon. Visit www.biolife-international.co.uk Photo credits: ©Adobe stock

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Pooch psychology: What is going on in your dog’s head?

· From following you to the toilet to excitable sneezing, Canine Cottages has teamed up with accredited dog trainer Joe Nutkins to help pet owners understand their dog’s quirks and unique behaviour · Dogs love spending time with their humans; their heartrate increasing 46% when being told how much it is loved · Plus, an expert explains why certain dogs struggle with separation anxieties and what causes them to act out

ith life returning to normal, it can have an unusual effect on our furry friends who have been so used to having us at home. In fact, searches for ‘dog behaviourist near me’ and ‘how to stop separation anxiety in dogs’ have increased by 250% this year.1 We all love our dog’s unique traits and quirks, but why do they do it? To help understand why our pooches sometimes behave this way, dog-friendly holiday lettings specialist Canine 38

Cottages has teamed up with accredited dog trainer Joe Nutkins to take a closer look at the psychology behind dog’s behaviour to help uncover what is going on in your furry friend’s head.

Why do dogs love humans? Dogs are naturally giving and trust the humans they are with. When they have a person or family that cares for them and protects them, they very much want to

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be part of that family for safety and affection. Dogs can sense Oxytocin, which is the ‘love’ or ‘feel good hormone’ you release when interacting with a dog that makes you happy. In fact, in our recent study, we found that when we told dogs we love them, their heart increases by 46%! Then, when snuggled up against you on the sofa, their heart rate decreased by 26%, showing just how much your dog trusts you and relies on you for safety. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Why do dogs beg? Dogs tend to beg when they want something, however, dogs actually learn this behaviour from our own reactions. By responding and giving attention to a dog’s actions, such as petting them when they’re looking at you when you’re eating, you help the dog understand that begging usually means reward and attention of some sort. Giving your dog attention and any food from the table only gives the dog confirmation that its begging works, and that’s why they’ll continue doing it!

Why does your dog follow you to the bathroom? Who hasn’t experienced their dog being a bit too nosey and following you to the bathroom, or lying down right outside the door? Our dogs love to know what their humans are doing. Fearful of missing out, your dog will follow you into whichever room you go to, as they don’t know what you’re up to and what you’re planning to do. Separation issues are also something that can cause your dog to follow you anywhere since they do not know when you’ll come back from the bathroom if the door is shut.

Do dogs understand we are different from them? Dogs understand you are slightly different from them, and that their fellow canine friends are similar to them, no matter the size and appearance. They will sometimes use dog language to interact with you, but also knows there are mannerisms reserved for other dogs that you will not understand.

Why does your dog sneeze when excited? Has your dog ever sneezed when they got excited? In smaller breeds, there’s a palate in the back of their throat that can become irritated when it’s excited or having fun. When it becomes irritated it narrows, which causes the dog to sneeze and wheeze.

Why does your dog bring you their toy? Dogs love spending time with their humans. This means they’ll even try to bring you a toy, or something else to get your attention to make you interact with them. Simply put, they might bring you their toy to make you play with them or get some extra cuddles!

What are the signs of separation anxiety now that we are returning to normal? It is normal for dogs to experience separation anxiety at least once in their lives. Some dogs take it well, while others might suffer more. The problems with separation anxiety can occur when the dog experiences changes, such as you returning to working full-time after having spent the last year-and-a-half at home with your pooch. Dogs can display anxiety by barking, howling or chewing on furniture and their toys to calm their stress. This is an inherently worried reaction from the dog’s side, and not something done in revenge.

Commenting, Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at Canine Cottages, explains, “Dogs are naturally attention-seeking, loving creatures and will do anything to gain their owner’s attention, whether this is bringing you their toys or being interested in everything you do – even going to the toilet! It is important to understand a dog’s behaviour in order to give them the best care, and love, we can offer them. This is imperative now that more people are being called into the office, and dogs will be left alone for a longer period during the days.” https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/blog /separation-anxiety-in-dogs 1

Google Search Trends data from September 2021

Photo images: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 www.rescueandanimalcare.com

www.dogmatic.org.uk RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Pandemic pets in ﬁnancial crisis:

Over half new pet owners say would have to give up pets within months if lost their job or face cuts to income Thousands of pet owners registered for charity vet services to treat their pets since first lockdown

Pet charity Blue Cross launches new pet food banks to help owners in poverty or on low incomes

Less than one in four know they will always have financial resources for their pets

he surge in pet ownership during the pandemic as seen a huge rise in the need for charitable support. More than three million pets were taken on during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic and new research by Blue Cross reveals that more than two-thirds2 of new pet owners are not aware of the costs of raising a new pet, which can amount to £4.5-£13k for dogs and over £12k3 for cats. Sadly, over half4 admit they would be forced to give up their pet within just six months if they lost their job or faced a sudden loss of income. Less than one in four say they will always have the financial resources to meet the need of their pet5. To keep people and their pets together wherever possible Blue Cross has added new services during the pandemic including pet food banks, a donation based animal behaviour line and increased chartity vet support to support pet owners with limited finances or low incomes. The charity already offers reduced and free veterinary services in London and Grimsby for pet owners on means-tested benefits through it’s animal hospitals and since March 2020 there have been over 15,0006 new clients sign up for the service with new pets or because they have suffered a loss of income and need help with veterinary costs to be able to keep their pet. The charity began its new, donation based, behaviour helpline in March 2020 to help new and existing pet owners needing help with their pets‘ behaviour and who could not afford to seek advice from a private animal behaviourist. The team have helped hundreds of owners, including some who were so desperate they were considering rehoming their pet or even 40

organisations and charities a need was identified for Blue Cross Rehoming, Advice and Behaviour unit (RABU) in Sheffield to offer free pet food through a food bank for owners in the community. The pet food bank in Sheffield has given out over 350 portions of dog food and more than 650 portions of cat food plus helped four rabbits since January 2021. In Manchester, a simlar need was also indentified to support low-income pet owners and over 100 cats and dogs plus two Guinea pigs have received food through the service since it began in February this year, with 160 litres of cat litter also provided.

Sheffield food bank AWA Chloe Thorpe

having them put to sleep. Issues have involved aggression, guarding behaviours and separation anxiety. Rachel Myers, Blue Cross Animal Behaviourist said: “With such drastic changes to our lifestyles during the lockdowns, we knew this would also have a huge impact on the lives of our pets. Families spending much more time at home meant pets were forced into a new routine and this led to several worrying trends in pet behaviour with some showing signs of aggression and even nipping their owners or guarding precious items. While we ask for a donation for our advice, sadly, more than half7 of callers to the helpline stated they simply couldn’t afford to give us a donation so we know there many owners really struggling to cope.“ Following consultation with other

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

n Blue Cross has also launched a campaign urging pet owners across the nation to get their pet care costs into shape. The new campaign offers free support and guidance to those who need it, including tips on how to avoid expensive vet bills and even includes how-tos on DIY pet treats and toys. Visit www.bluecross.org.uk/petcosts to find out more. #PetCareCostsInGoodShape 1 – PFMA statistics. https://www.pfma.org.uk/news/pfma-releases-latest-petpopulation-data 2 – Survey undertaken for Blue Cross by Censuswide with 2,000 dog and cat owners. 77% of pet owners who got their pet since the start of the pandemic were surprised by the true estimated cost of raising a pet. 3 – PDSA Paw Report 2019, www.pdsa.org.uk/dogcost and https://www.pdsa.org.uk/taking-care-of-yourpet/looking-after-your-pet/kittens-cats/the-cost-of-owning-a-cat 4 – Censuswide survey: 57% of pet owners who got their pet since the start of the pandemic know that, if they lost their job, it would be 6 months or less before they could no longer meet the needs of their pet. 5 - 18% pet owners who got their pet since the start of the pandemic know that they will always have the financial resources to meet the needs of their pet. 6 -15,799 owners have registered their pets to receive Blue Cross charitable clinical services since March 2020. 7 – Between September 2020 and June 2021 there were 425 calls for behavioural support. 190 ( 44.7%) were able to give a donation.

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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MATT CYCLES 4500 MILES FOR A LABRADOR The Labrador Lifeline Trust is now entering its 27th year of rescuing and rehoming unwanted, ill-treated and abandoned Labradors irrespective of age or infirmity.

ike other rescues Covid 19 took its toll and the price of Labradors increased beyond measure. Owners were demanding money for dogs they could not longer keep. Along came Barney who was 8 months old with severe elbow and hip dysplasia. We were determined to get him the operations he needed to live a pain free life. The cost of his first operation was quoted as £5000. Meet Matt Cook with his dog named George, a yellow Labrador who is nearly 6 years old. Matt is cycling over 4000

miles – from Waterlooville in Hampshire clockwise around the coast of England, Wales and Scotland. He is hoping to cycle around 100 miles per day and is aiming to complete the challenge in six weeks. Currently he is half way. Matt is collecting sponsorship for this ride and all money will be donated to the Barney Fund and supported Labrador Lifeline dogs. If you live anywhere along the route(see www.labrador-lifeline.com for itinerary) then I am sure he would appreciate a

Matt Cook with his dog George

wave of support to spur him on. Donations can be made by visiting our website at https://labradorlifeline.com/matts-ride-for-barney/ for further information visit www.labrador-lifeline.com

The Labrador Lifeline Trust is a charity dedicated to rescuing, rehoming and helping Labradors They are now in their Twenty ﬁrst year of helping Labradors in need of new homes and their main priority is placing the right dog in the right home. They cover the areas of Berkshire, Hampshire, Lincolnshire, Middlesex and Surrey

Registered charity number 1076061

Tel: 01256 884027 / 07860 691251 / Email: info@labrador-lifeline.com

www.labrador-lifeline.com www.rescueandanimalcare.com

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Research links tree health to how birds respond to climate change New Research from Oxford University has revealed that shifts in the timing of egg laying by great tits in response to climate change vary markedly between breeding sites within the same woodland and that this variation is linked to the health of nearby oak trees.

reat tits in the UK lay their eggs around 14 days earlier than they did in the 1960’s. As a result, these songbirds are keeping pace with the other members of their food chain winter moth caterpillars and the oak trees on which these insects feed which have also advanced their spring timing in response to climate change over recent years. ‘Much of our understanding of how animals respond to climate change comes from studies that assume all individuals within a population experience the same environment. However, we know this isn’t the case, particularly for animals that are limited in how far they can travel from dependent offspring. Neighbouring individuals may experience very different environments. Studying these differences helps us understand what might limit the ability of animals to adjust to changing environments and therefore the scope for populations to cope with climate change.’ Said Dr Ella Cole, who co-led the research. The new study from the Department of Zoology, Oxford University, has 42

revealed marked spatial variation in the extent to which great tits are adjusting their timing of egg laying within a single woodland. Analysis of breeding events from over 13,000 great tits over a 60-year timespan showed that the slowest nesting sites have only advanced by 7.5 days, whilst the fastest sites advanced by 25.6 days. This variation is linked to the health of the oak trees nearby the nesting site. The healthier the oak trees around the nest, the larger the advancement in timing a laying. Birds breeding in areas with healthy oaks advanced their laying by 5.4 days more than those breeding in areas with unhealthy oaks. The findings, published in the journal Nature Climate Change, demonstrate how examining responses to climate change at small spatial scales reveal patterns and relationships that are masked by population wide studies. The research, which was carried out at Oxford University’s Wytham Woods, used breeding data from 964 fixedlocation nest boxes, together with information on the health of 5,748 mature oak trees. ‘Oak trees are extremely important to

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

tits during the spring because of the huge numbers of caterpillars that feed on their foliage. We know from previous research that great tits nesting in territories containing lots of oak trees begin laying earlier and are more successful breeders.’ ‘Our findings suggest that birds nesting in areas with poorer oak health are less able to keep up with the advancement of spring. This could be because they are unable to find the resources they need to start breeding or because declines in oak health affect the cues birds use to time breeding.’ Added Dr Regan, who also co-led the work. n This work suggests that studying response to climate change at a scale that is relevant to individual animals can provide new insights in this field. The researchers hope that the findings will promote more studies that explore the causes and consequences of small-scale variation in response to climate change. https://www.nature.com/articles/s415 58-021-01140-4 Photo image: ©Adobe Stock stock.adobe.com www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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www.kennedywildbirdfood.co.uk

Supplying the UK with high-quality wild bird food and bird seed We are a family run wild bird food and wild bird seed supplier based in rural Lincolnshire. We supply only the ﬁnest quality products. SUITABLE FOR ALL YEAR ROUN D FEEDING FROM BIRD TABLES

Ground feed mix Our orginal ground feed mixture that's so adored by Robins, Blackbirds, Song Thrushes and all other ground feeding birds. Suitable for all year round feeding. Either scattetered on the ﬂoor or placed on a table or ground feeder. Contains no wheat. £35.90/25kg

SUITABLE FOR ALL SMALL BIRDS

Split Peanuts

Economy wild bird mix

Small blanched, split peanuts (skins removed). Extra rich in both protein and oils, thus making an excellent and essential food for all year feeding. Peanuts are suitable and liked by most species of birds, and have long been the most popular of wild bird feeds. All our peanuts are certiﬁed as nil detectable signs of aﬂatoxin. £42.99/25kg

ADORED BY ROBINS, BLACKBIRDS AND SONG THRUSHES

With our specialised blending of a number of nutritional seeds, this mix is suitable for a large variety of birds. High in black sunﬂower thus providing oil and protein and meeting all essential feeding requirements. Suitable for all year round feeding. £26.25/25kg

Superior high energy mix An extremely high energy mixture blended with the highest quality seeds. Suitable for all small birds and ideal for all year round feeding. Best fed from a seedfeeder or scattered on a bird table. Contains nowheat. £38.25/25kg

ATTRACTIVE TO ROBINS, BLACKBIRDS AND THRUSHES

Dried mealworms Dried mealworms are a tasty treat for garden birds with all the nutrition of live mealworms without the 'worm factor'. Attractive to robins, blackbirds, thrushes and all other insect eating birds. Available in sizes ranging from 250g to 10kg. £33.50/3kg

ALL YEAR ROUND FEEDING

Sunflower hearts Bakery grade premium sunﬂower hearts. No unsightly husk. A food that is loved by most species of birds being high in both protein and oils. Makes a most desirable all year round food. £39.99/25kg

SUITABLE FOR A WIDE RANG E OF WILD BIRDS

Suet special blend mix

Small fatballs The best, fattiest fat balls on the internet. Small Fat balls (no nets) offer a wide range of wild birds a nutritious and important source of energy speciﬁcally during winter and nesting season. Each fatball at approx 95g available in either boxes of 150 or 2 boxes of 150. £45.80/ 2 x 150.

This blended suet mixture is packed full of highIy caloriﬁc ingredients, it is ideal for all year round feeding and will attract a great variety of both small and medium sized birds to your garden. No re-growth under feeding station. Contains no wheat. £47.70/25kg

5% DISCOUNT on all orders OVER £50 Tel: 01778 342665

FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY

info@kennedywildbirdfood.co.uk

Won’t grow mix Blended with 60% bakery grade sunﬂowerhearts, this energy rich mixture has been blended to ensure no re-growth under your feeding station. Suitable for all year round feeding. Best fed from seed feeder, scattered on bird table or from ground feeder. Contains no wheat. £42.75/25kg

Superior finch mix This classic mixture was blended specifically with finches in mind. Contains a wonderful selection of the finest seeds and is suitable for all year round feeding. Best fed from seedfeeder or scattered on a bird table. Contains no wheat. £40.75/25kg

10% off first order for new customers use promo code NEW10 at checkout

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Vitabiotics SuperDog Health & Vitality Contains a complex blend of 25 essential nutrients to promote the overall health and wellbeing of your dog, whatever their size or breed. Available in delicious, braised beef flavour that your dog will love. RRP £12.95 www.vitabiotics.com

Vitabiotics SuperDog Joints & Bones

Pet Remedy natural de-stress and grooming is the perfect way to give your cat a calming and relaxing massage whist removing loose hair from the coat. £15.00. Visit www.petremedy.co.uk

Pet supplements contain a unique all-in-one combination of joint health ingredients as well as 22 essential nutrients to promote overall wellbeing, help maintain flexibility and keep your dog active. Available in delicious, braised beef flavour that your dog will love. RRP £18.95 www.vitabiotics.com

Pet Power! Great products for you and your Pets

Pet Remedy Cat Luxury Grooming & Massage Kit

Embroidered Paw Print Cap Lovely adjustable cap featuring a paw print design and embroidered greyhound head. £12.00. Visit www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk

Jute shopper bag Lovely Jute shopper bag printed with 2 galgos and a heart on one side and designed by Judy Zatonski. Premium quality and perfect for shopping trips. £10.00. Visit www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk

A solution for every horse that suffers as a result of Sweet Itch

The Boett® Veterinary Blanket The blanket provides a totally effective barrier against insect attack and prevents the typical symptoms of this allergy.

The Boett® Veterinary Hood The Boett Hood is made from the same tough breathable fabric as the Boett Blanket, the eyes are protected with a mesh that has excellent visibility.

Bio-Plus capsules for horses These improve general health, reduced stress, stronger immune systems and resistance to disease.

National Sweet Itch Centre Advice Line: 01352 840333 / 01352 771718 / 07825 152490

www.itchyhorse.co.uk 44

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

email: info@itchyhorse.co.uk www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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Powair Spray Eliminate those nasty odours safely and permanently with PowAir Spray, a proven, industrial strength, essential oil based odour neutraliser infused with refreshing aromatic scents.

Bio-Safe Space and surface spray. A breakthrough in disease and odour control. 100% safe for animals, the environment and you. A blend of organic acids, wetting agents, essential oils with Tea Tree Oil and Eucalyptus. Bio-Safe can be sprayed into the air while the animals are present and has a range of excellent uses.

Cleaning products All these products are available from our www.animal-health.co.uk Odor-Kill The ultimate deodoriser for you home, kennels, patios, astro turf, litter trays etc. Mix 20ml in a litre of water and spray or mop away. Prices start at £6.00.

Pet Bed Wash Our pet bed wash will help you to deep clean your dog bed, cat bed or animal bed with ease. We understand just how dirty pet beds can get, so we’ve created a formula that can get rid of all germs and bacteria, as well as potent smells and odours, with little to no effort. 1 Litre £9.00.

Parvo-Virucide

Defence 7 E The Defence 7 stable disinfectant is a total biocide active against viruses, bacteria and fungi and is DEFRA approved. £15.05.

This product is one of our best selling, effective, disinfectant for puppies and dogs. It can be used to safely and effectively disinfect animal cages, kennels, catteries, litter trays, veterinary surgeries, table tops, floors, utensils, equipment etc.

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Gilly, Holly & Snowy (L-R) six months on with Sally Bamforth (The Donkey Sanctuary)

Neglected donkeys struggling to walk Three neglected donkeys whose hooves had grown so long they were struggling to walk, are now recovering thanks to the help of international animal welfare charity, The Donkey Sanctuary.

illy, Holly and Snowy’s untreated hooves were 10 centimetres longer than they should have been making, it extremely difficult for the donkeys to walk around their home at a farm in Carlisle, Cumbria. Sally Bamforth, Donkey Welfare Adviser from The Donkey Sanctuary said: “Even from a distance you could see how abnormally long the donkeys’ hooves were, making it difficult for them to walk naturally. It was the worst example of foot neglect I have ever seen. “When walking they lifted their legs up much higher than would be usual to reduce the chance of their hooves

Snowy at time of rescue 46

catching the ground and clipping into the dirt.” It was clear that the donkeys, Gilly, Holly and Snowy had been suffering from neglect for some time for their feet to be so overgrown and that all three would need urgent veterinary treatment. The donkeys were also extremely overweight, as they had been left on a farm, to graze on acres of lush pasture, after their owners had to move due to a change in circumstances. Donkeys are prone to obesity and their diets need careful management. Too much lush grass can cause weight gain as well as laminitis, a painful foot condition. The donkeys were relinquished into the care of The Donkey Sanctuary with collaboration of the owners and the RSPCA. The animals were transported to a holding base where they received expert veterinary and farriery treatment. All three have made good progress after months of dedicated care. Sally said: “It is incredible to see the transformation of the donkeys’ hooves and how Gilly, Snowy and Holly are now

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

moving about freely, without discomfort. “Sadly situations like this are not uncommon. Lack of appropriate hoof care is still one of the most common welfare issues faced by donkeys in the UK today. “Our welfare team works throughout Great Britain to offer free advice and information to donkey owners about the easy steps that can be taken to avoid this type of suffering.” Gilly, Holly and Snowy were rescued in December 2020, following a call from a concerned member of the public. The donkeys will remain in the care of the international animal welfare charity, either in one of its sanctuaries or in a Guardian Home through its rehoming scheme. n The Donkey Sanctuary is a global leader for equine welfare, research and veterinary care. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation. Visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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SILICON COLLAR LIGHT The nights will be drawing in soon and you need to be safe and be seen with your dog. These tags are ideal and give a bright light which can be seen for up to half a mile. £3.75.

Kong Shaker The ultimate dog toy for shakers and movers! Squeaks and rattles to satisfy natural instincts. £10.00.

Charity products

Childs Labrador Apron Any child would be proud to have an Apron with their favourite dog imprinted on it.

All these products are available from www.labrador-lifeline.com

LLT XMAS CARD This delightful card is 14.5cm square and comes in pack of 10 with envelopes. £5.50.

LED POCKET TORCH These little torches emit a very bright led light.£3.50.

LABRADOIR CHOIR CARD Exclusive to Labrador Lifeline Trust the latest in the series by Alison Lingley of Alison’s’ Animals, Pack of 10 cards with envelopes. Greeting inside ‘Wishing you a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year’.

Xmas card Star Gazing Pack of ten cards and envelopes. Exclusive to LLT. Inside “Wishing you a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year” Contains our logo and details. £6.50.

PAWPRINT FRIDGE MAGNET If you buy one of these you are supporting many rescues, not just LLT. It will make you smile each time you see it. £3.00.

KONG OCTOPUS TOY Kong Octopus Toy. Hours of fun for the dog and Bramley the office dog absolutely loves his. £10.00.

SOPHIE ALLPORT – FAB LAB MUGS This white fine bone china mug features the Black Lab, Yellow Lab, Fox Red Lab and Chocolate Lab. £14.00.

Dog Bowl – Small Feed your dogs in style with this lovely Labrador Dog Food Bowl. A perfect gift for any Labrador owner or for your own cherished pet. £12.00.

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Tennis Ball With Strap This design of Tennis Ball with Nylon Strap allows the throwing of the tennis ball to fly much further than if you were throwing one single handed.

Wubba Friends The tails also make the toy great for games of tug and fetch. Choose from either a Rabbit, Bear or a fox.

Border Collie Trust GB

Border Collie Mounted Print £9.99 Overall Size 10”x 8” – Print Size 8” x 6”.

www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk

Kong Cozies he KONG Cozie is an ideal toy for softer chew sessions and indoor fun. The KONG Cozie toy is sure to delight during snuggle and play time. Available in blue, pink or grey.

Jumbo Jaws Cotton Rope Dog Toy Dogs will have hours of fun with the huge and hefty Jumbo Jaws Cotton Rope Toy! 43cm X 9cm.

Made From Ring This toy is made From rope is the earth-friendly dog toy sourced entirely from t-shirts that would otherwise go into landfill.

Totally & Utterly Pawsome Border Collie Mugs These mugs are seconds there is no damage to the mug itself just very minor imperfections to the writing on the mug. Dad mug £5.99. Mum mug £5.99.

SPE CIA O L F B uy F E one R of f or £ e 9.9 ach 9.

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Donkeys play key role in wildﬂower conservation scheme Donkeys are playing a key role in an innovative conservation scheme encouraging the growth of wildflowers at the headquarters of international animal welfare charity, The Donkey Sanctuary.

addy and Kelley, a pair of rescued donkeys, are being regularly walked through a wildflower meadow at the site in Sidmouth, as part of their routine training and exercise. As the donkeys walk through the meadow their disturbance helps spread seeds from wildflowers. The animal’s footfall can also fix plant seeds into the soil, helping to create a vibrant meadow next year. Healthy wildflower meadows are home to many species and provide a huge benefit to a wide range of insects including pollinators and in turn, the wildlife that feeds upon them. The donkeys also benefit from the experience of walking through new areas. The Donkey Sanctuary’s animal behaviourist, Ben Hart, explains: “Donkeys evolved to walk long distances searching for food. “Walking more and exploring new environments while helping to re-seed the wild flower meadow creates opportunities to meet the donkeys’ natural needs, which in turn helps to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.” The donkeys have been walked through the meadow which is home to wildflowers such as common knapweed, bee orchid, ox-eye daisy, bird’s-foot trefoil, yellow rattle.

Grooms Olivia Sancey with Kelley (dark donkey) and Maya Willis with Paddy (lighter grey donkey). Photo credit: The Donkey Sanctuary. When in full bloom, the wildflower meadow attracts pollinating insects such as common carder bee and hoverflies as well as butterflies such as the small skipper, common blue. Insects are important food for threatened farmland birds such as skylarks and linnets as well as bats such as the brown long-eared bat, common pipistrelle and serotine bat. Ecology and Conservation manager Ruth Angell said: “Wildflower meadows are one of several types of habitat which we are trying to improve here at the sanctuary.’ ‘As part of our conservation work, we are exploring ways in which donkeys can help us manage habitats, and in turn benefit from living in an enriched environment.’ ‘Biodiversity is essential for supporting life and natural processes which make our environment more resilient.’ The Donkey Sanctuary is increasingly involving donkeys from its resident herd to carry out conservation tasks. For the last three years, donkeys from the Sidmouth herd have grazed species-rich grassland in the sanctuary’s Weston valley. Donkeys have also grazed another wildflower meadow at Sidmouth for the first time this summer. The meadow, managed manually by conservation team volunteers, is expected to be improved by the natural action of donkey grazing. n The Donkey Sanctuary is a global leader for equine welfare, research and veterinary care. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation. Visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

www.rescueandanimalcare.com

RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Ruff Guide To Spotting Problems In Your Dog’s Poop Our dog’s poop can tell us a lot, including if there’s something wrong – we’ve spoken to head vet Sean McCormack to find out what signs to look out for when you’re scooping the poop.

“P

oop smells, we know that – but is your dog’s poo a little (or a lot) smellier than usual? Stinkier-than-usual poos can indicate your dog’s diet isn’t working for them. Treats, new dog foods or feeding your dog too many scraps from the dinner table are usual suspects when it comes to smelly poos. The colour of your dog’s poo can also depend solely on your dog’s diet – reddish, greenish, or dark brown poop are all normal. If it’s looking black – it could be a sign of internal bleeding, whilst pale yellow or grey poo can be a sign of fat digestion issues in the pancreas or problems in the liver. 50

When it comes down to it, dogs aren’t so different from us humans – sometimes an out-of-the-ordinary poo isn’t too much to worry about – diarrhoea can be caused by stress, anxiety – or even excitement! Whilst sometimes constipation can be a tell-tale sign your dog needs to get out more or isn’t drinking enough water. You know your dog better than anyone if you feel like there’s something wrong – or common problems such as constipation or diarrhoea don’t seem to go away after a few days – don’t hesitate to take your dog to the vet, and take a stool sample with you.”

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

What causes stinky or runny dog poo? It’s not unusual for dogs to have stinky or runny poos. In fact, dog diarrhoea is one of the most common problems vets see every year. There are many causes for dog or puppy diarrhoea, but here are a few of the most common.

Sudden change in diet – A sudden

change in your dog’s diet can cause irritation leading to diarrhoea. If you’re changing your dog’s diet, it’s best to do it gradually as explained in our guide to changing dog food. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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your dog’s poo is too hard, this can cause constipation. If your dog is constipated this could be due to a lack of water or fibre in their diet, or a case of worms. More commonly, when diarrhoea or loose, runny poo occurs, this can result from many different causes.

Frequency – most dogs poo around

Dietary indiscretion – If your dog eats something new or inappropriate, this can cause digestive upset. Whether that’s a piece of ham, rocks, a plant, or even dog poo! Stress – Stress, anxiety and excitement

can all cause dog diarrhoea, just like in us humans.

Parasites – Intestinal worms can

cause irritation to your dog’s gastrointestinal tract resulting in stomach upset. However, parasites that cause diarrhoea are more common in younger puppies.

Infections – Viral and bacterial

infections can cause dog diarrhoea. This occurs more frequently in younger dogs.

twice a day, but this can depend on their feeding schedule. Puppies tend to poo more frequently because they eat more regularly. If your dog poos more than three times a day, this could signal there’s something not right with their diet. Equally, if your dog has a food intolerance, this can also make them more poo more often. If your dog doesn’t poo every day or only once a day, they could be constipated. Always consider what’s normal for your dog. If your dog’s toilet habits have changed dramatically after switching diet, we can help.

Volume – sudden larger or smaller poos can indicate internal problems. Huge volumes of poo can mean your dog isn’t digesting their food properly, or their diet is high in fibre. Low volumes could indicate gastrointestinal problems or even a blockage. If it’s out of the ordinary, always get your dog checked over by a vet. If your dog has experienced any changes after switching to tails.com food, get in touch and we’ll happily help.

Odour – dog poo should have a mild

odour; any dramatic changes can indicate problems. Flatulence or a particularly stinky poo could signal a change in your dog’s gut flora, or they’re struggling to cope with a new diet or ingredient. Treats and human foods are common culprits! Dog poo is always going to smell, but with a good diet, your dog’s poos should be bearable.

Colour – the colour of your dog’s poo depends a lot on your dog’s diet. Only you know what is normal for your dog. Shades of greenish-brown, red-brown or dark brown are all normal. However, abnormal colours like dark black tarry substances could indicate internal bleeding and digested blood in the stool. Pale, yellowy or greasy poo can indicate fat digestion issues with the pancreas, or malabsorption where your dog can’t absorb fat. Any dramatic changes in colour, from very pale, bright orange or visible blood is a cause for concern. In this case, always see your vet and take a stool sample with you.

What to do about your dog’s irregular poos? So if your furry friend’s poo seems out of the ordinary, always get them checked out by a vet. https://tails.com/blog/2021/05/02/ta ckling-dog-poo-worldwide-research/

Inflammatory disorders – Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease are common in both dogs and people. Many gastrointestinal disorders can result in diarrhoea.

What makes a good dog poo? Consistency – the ideal poo is log shaped and firm, but not too solid. If

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 www.rescueandanimalcare.com

www.dogmatic.org.uk RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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World Animal Road Accident Awareness Day Our campaign centres around cats due to our own experiences, and the lack of legislation protecting cats as opposed to dogs on UK roads. PetPlan figures reveal that 630 cats are hit by cars every single day in the UK, with 25% of these incidents being fatal.

e challenge UK law and continuously work with the Government/DEFRA on this, and have so far succeeded in ensuring cats being microchipped is set to become law in England, so as cats can first be identifiable one reported, and generally aim to change mind-sets and spread awareness to enlighten people on the best ways to help an injured animal. One good way we thought of doing this was to establish a national remembrance and awareness day which we will use to commemorate, promote and further mobilise action. Our RTA awareness day will be recognised internationally and will be a period to observe the pressing issues of concern and raise awareness, as well as being a day to remember the fallen and pay tribute to lost beloved pets. Although our campaign centres around cats, we fully appreciate this is an issue affecting all animals and we are, of course, huge animal lovers all round. No animal deserves to be hit by a car and left in the road alone, 52

scared, in pain, or worse! Our pets are lucky. With human owners who love them as family, people often say to us things such as, 'owners deserve closure', 'someone will be heartbroken', or 'I would want someone to help my cat'. Although these are very true, our primary focus is the animals themselves, regardless of human emotion and heartbreak, which should be secondary to animal suffering. What then about wild animals who don't have the luxury of being loved by a human, or have a nice warm bed to go back to every night and food on tap? Do they not matter because there won't be an upset human behind their death? Of course not. all animals matter and every single one of them deserves a chance at survival should the worst happen. All us drivers have a moral obligation to help all living creatures they injure while driving. In Britain, annual road casualties are estimated to account for 100,000 fox deaths, 50,000 badgers, 50,000 deer, 30 million birds and Hedgehogs once

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

topped the death table with 29% of them being killed by cars... that was until they entered on the critically endangered list. Based on statistical analysis of those potentially unrecorded, the realistic death rate is estimated to be around 70 million animals. Highways England states 2,143 dead animals were found on just 4,300 miles of motorway accounting for just 1% of the UK's entire road network. More stats in detail can be found here. Worldwide, Brazil alone recorded 1.3 million animals die every day after being struck by cars, that's 475 million animals every single year in one country alone - about 15 animals every second. The USA acknowledges that one million animals die every single day on roadways, including 26 million cats annually. A waste of life summed up in numbers that are hard to comprehend. Don't get us wrong. We don't want to demonise drivers whatsoever. Yes, some drive distracted without being vigilant, others tend to use our streets www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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like Brands Hatch, but the majority on our roads will sadly find themselves in the position of hitting an animal through no fault of their own. Unfortunately, animals are incapable of learning the green cross code, and they can dart out in front of cars, on occasion leaving little time for a driver to react. What we ask of drivers is that they do the right thing and simply stop to check on the animal. Should the animal be injured but alive, they will need to see a veterinarian immediately. Deceased domestic pets should also be taken to a vet so as they can scan for a microchip and alert the owners. By the creation of an awareness day, we hope to coordinate a message which will be shared internationally, for all animals. We can't stop roads being built, or stop animals wandering on to them, but what we can stop is the needless suffering and pain these animals go through, simply by highlighting the issue and bringing it to the forefront of drivers minds. Our awareness day is held each year on October 10th. Of the UK seasons, August is the time vets tend to see more cats who have been hit by cars. For this reason, we wanted an autumn date. The specific day marks the day Mosh lost his fight to stay alive. Mosh, who was our cofounder Mandy's childhood cat, was hit by a car who fled the scene. He bravely managed to drag his paralysed body to a nearby bush, where he awaited help for 4 days. After an extensive search, he was finally found by his family who rushed him to the vet. He fought as hard as he could, but it was eventually determined vets could do no more for him, leaving his family devastated. You might see the above figures as 'just numbers', but you should see each and every number as an individual soul. Each number had family, friends, and a life. Each

number was also able to feel excruciating pain. Most of these numbers would have died a slow, painful and lonely death. This is one thing we can stop! We can help put a stop to the millions of unnecessary and avoidable deaths happening on our roads each year. Driving with that extra due care and attention will save many lives but accidents can, and always will, happen - even to the very best animal loving drivers! What is then hoped is that the drivers will do all they can to help the animal they have just hit. There is never an excuse to be so morally bankrupt as to flee the scene without checking on an animal. The wonderful team at Starlight Trust have helped us ensure we provided the very best advice in terms of wildlife rescue, which differs slightly from that of domestic pets. When helping wildlife, you will need to approach the situation differently, both to potentially protect yourself from injury, and causing further stress or injury to the animal. Your nearest

wildlife rescue should be the first port of call as they will be trained specifically in the care and rehabilitation of certain species. Instant life saving treatment by a vet may be a good option initially, but informing the local wildlife rescue also is advised. Vets are only obliged to administer pain relief to relieve suffering which could lead to wildlife casualties being unnecessarily euthanized, as is the case of RSPCA Collection Officers. You can find your nearest wildlife rescue here https://helpwildlife.co.uk/map/ n Last year, vets and rescues from all around the world also used the day to raise awareness of the most common road accident victims in their country, and inform people of how they can help, from squirrels in the channel islands, to dogs in Belarus. Visit www.catsmatter.org

We are delighted to support the Animal Charities featured in this Magazine Tel: 01952 245330 www.rescueandanimalcare.com

www.dogmatic.org.uk RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE 29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021

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Crackdown on puppy smuggling can’t come soon enough as imports surge in 2021 Latest figures reveal 75% increase in commercial imports of dogs in midst of boom in pandemic puppies

ew Government figures have revealed a 75% increase in the number of dogs being commercially imported into the UK, prompting the RSPCA to urge quick action to crackdown on puppy smuggling. This week, the Government released (in response to a question to Defra) its figures revealing the number of dogs imported commercially between January and August 2020, 31,138, jumped by 75% to 54,615 between January and August 2021. RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said: “We saw a big rise last year, with the number of dogs imported for commercial reasons jumping by 52% from 2019 to 2020 as the demand for dogs surged during lockdown. Now, as many people remain working at home, the demand for dogs has continued and we’ve seen another big spike in commercial imports. “What’s particularly concerning is that these figures only account for the number of dogs being brought into the UK legally; this is probably just the tip 54

of the iceberg. The reality is that there are likely tens of thousands more puppies who are being smuggled into the UK to be sold on the black market. “This is why we’re welcoming the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare, which has pledged to crackdown on puppy imports, and we’d urge them to bring in new regulations and tougher enforcement as quickly as possible. There are dogs and puppies suffering right now and we want to help them.” Following the RSPCA’s #ForPupsSake campaign, the Government outlined plans to increase the age puppies can be imported from 15 to 24 weeks, block the importation of dogs with cropped ears and docked tails, and block the importation of heavily pregnant bitches. The stats show that the number of dogs being commercially imported rocketed in April to 8,411 (compared to 1,399 in January).

Buying a puppy

The RSPCA urges anyone thinking of

29 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER 2021 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE

getting a puppy to first do lots of research and make sure they have the time and finances to commit to a dog for the rest of their lives. We’d also encourage families to consider adopting instead of buying a puppy. Anyone who wants to buy a puppy should use The Puppy Contract to help them find a breeder and guide them through the questions to ask and the warning signs to look out for. Be sure to visit the puppy multiple times and see him interacting with his mum. Never feel pressured into buying a puppy, don’t pay in cash and never agree to meet someone at a service station or by the side of the road. If you have any concerns about a seller or the puppies you should walk away and contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, police on 101 or your local Trading Standards team. n To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website www.rspca.org.uk or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181. www.rescueandanimalcare.com

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www.dogmatic.org.uk

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