Saving Animals in Scotland
Your Scottish SPCA magazine Autumn/Winter 2015
Pine martens rescued Sea eagle chick saved
Scafell returns home
Illegal puppy trade warning
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04 News
Colin Seddon
Pine martens Caillen and Edan rescued, sea eagle chick saved, a racing pigeon takes a helicopter ride, a plastic donkey causes confusion and much more!
10 In court
Your Scottish SPCA Magazine.
Ban for dog neglect and a conviction for antifreeze poisoning
Scottish SPCA
We keep our costs as low as possible to ensure even more of your kind donations can be used to help defenceless animals in Scotland. This magazine, which keeps you up to date with the fantastic work taking place thanks to your support, costs just 38p to print and post. If you donate £5 a month, that’s less than 1% of your annual donations.
14 Feature
We think our supporters are fantastic. Watch our online ‘thank you’ video at scottishspca.org/thanks
Exposing illegal puppy dealing – big business, pain and suffering 16 Events Help Scotland’s animals by taking part in a sponsored challenge or collection event
Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Kingseat Road, Halbeath, Dunfermline KY11 8RY 03000 999 999 | scottishspca.org | info@scottishspca.org Scottish Charity No. SC 006467
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Editor: Ben Supple Design: 39steps Cover photo: Colin Seddon ISSN: 1360-8207
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News.
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Caillen
Photos: Colin Seddon
Pine martens Caillen and Edan rescued Adorable pine marten kits Caillen and Edan were found orphaned earlier this year. Caillen was discovered in an industrial estate, while Edan made newspaper headlines after sneaking into a house through a cat flap, helping himself to some cat food and curling up for a nap! Both pine martens were cared for at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre. Centre manager Colin Seddon said, “Caillen and Edan were introduced to each other which was great for their development and we recently released them back into the wild. “The release site was an area of low pine marten density to strengthen the existing population and encourage growth.”
Edan
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04 Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015
Did you know... Our National Wildlife Rescue Centre can care for more than 7,000 animals each year.
News. Photos: Scottish SPCA
Scafell returns home It’s not every day we take in a dog rescued by Scottish holidaymakers from the top of the highest mountain in England! A collie cross was discovered at the summit of Scafell Pike in the Lake District by a couple who took him home to Ayrshire. Anna O’Donnell, manager of our Glasgow rehoming centre, said, “The people who found the dog, who we nicknamed Scafell, said he was petrified and nervous. “They advised they did try and get help in England and had called the police but they hadn’t been able to assist so they took Scafell home because they were so worried about him and then called us. “Unfortunately, Scafell wasn’t microchipped so we couldn’t contact his
owner directly but thankfully they came forward following our appeal and solved the mystery. “Scafell’s real name is Sid and it turns out he’s a working dog owned by a local sheep farmer. He believes Sid took off after a bitch in season and had been looking for him. “While he was surprised when he found out Sid was in Scotland, he was also very relieved he was safe. “Sid was delighted to see Jason, who works with his owner and came to collect him. This is a good example of why it’s important for pets to be microchipped.” Last year we reunited 1,386 animals with their owners
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 05
News.
Newborn kittens dumped
Scottish SPCA
Five newborn kittens were left for dead at a rubbish tip in Dunfermline. Sadly, one of the kittens had already passed away and another two siblings died shortly afterwards. Animal rescue officer Joanna McDaid said, “This was a disgusting case of animal cruelty. The helpless kittens were only hours old and found with their umbilical cords still attached. “The two surviving kittens have been successfully bonded with an adult cat who has recently given birth and we are hopeful they will make a full recovery.”
Bearded dragon found on coastal path We are looking after a bearded dragon found next to the Firth of Forth at Inverkeithing. Sandy, as we have called him, was discovered on rocks near the water and is improving in our care. Animal rescue officer Kirsty McQuade said, “Sandy was found by two people who were walking their dog along the coastal path. “It’s likely Sandy wouldn’t have survived the night if he hadn’t been found.”
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News. Colin Seddon
Sea eagle chick saved A white tailed sea eagle chick who ingested two fishing hooks has been successfully returned to the wild after a life-saving operation. The six week old bird of prey was rescued from Loch Arkaig in Lochaber and taken to our National Wildlife Rescue Centre. After recovering in our care, the sea eagle was successfully released in an area close to his nesting site.
Centre manager Colin Seddon said, “The bird had been feeding on a fish which still had hooks in it and would undoubtedly have died a very slow and horrible death if he hadn’t been found. “Our vet Romain Pizzi did a fantastic job and managed to remove the hooks using an endoscope. “There were several people involved in this bird’s rescue and recovery and without them he would not have survived.”
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 07
News.
New home for blind dog
Scottish SPCA
We were delighted to find a special home for blind akita Kingston. The Tinney family from Glenrothes came forward to offer him the care and attention he needs following our public appeal. Diane Aitchison, manager of our Edinburgh and Lothians rehoming centre, said, “Despite having practically no sight, Kingston loves going for walks and uses his hearing and sense of smell to help him when he’s out and about. “We think he should learn to navigate around his new house without any problems and we are delighted the Tinneys have opened their heart and home to him.”
We are caring for a baby rabbit abandoned with three others in Queens Park, Glasgow. Animal rescue officer Amy Burke said, “When I arrived I found an empty box containing shavings, which I believe belonged to the rabbits. “Sadly, the rabbits weren’t contained as the box was open and three ran away. We have asked locals to contact us if they see the other rabbits as we are concerned for their welfare. “Domestic rabbits don’t have the same survival skills as wild rabbits and they could come to harm.
Scottish SPCA
Rabbit rescued from Glasgow park
“We have named the rabbit in our care Tulip and will soon be looking for a new home for her.”
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If an animal is in danger or distress please call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
News.
Helicopter ride for lost racing pigeon A lost racing pigeon was airlifted to safety by helicopter after crash landing on a North Sea oil rig. We were contacted after the exhausted bird landed on the Clyde platform 160 miles offshore. The pigeon, nicknamed Pedro by workers on the rig, was flown by helicopter before being taken to our National Wildlife Rescue Centre. Animal rescue officer Kirsty McQuade said, “It was my boyfriend Kevin Mitchell who found Pedro. He crash landed on deck and Kevin managed to catch him and take him inside.
“It was fantastic that Pedro was able to ride in the helicopter with the crew who were coming back to the mainland and we would like to thank everyone for their assistance.”
Plastic donkey causes confusion Scottish SPCA
Here’s another of those ‘rescue’ stories which make us chuckle! When we received a call about a donkey being kept in a back garden, tied to a fence without any shelter we found a life-size garden ornament! Senior inspector Bill Little said, “The donkey is made of fibreglass and goes by the name Joshua. “This job can be very tough as we deal with cruelty cases and severely injured animals on a daily basis, so it’s nice when something like this makes us smile.” Joshua’s owner, Reverend Georgie Baxendale, said, “This is the funniest thing
I’ve ever heard in my life. “Joshua is very eye-catching and has appeared in many nativity plays over the years.”
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 09
In court.
REPORT ANIMAL CRUELTY ) Animal Helpline 03000 999 999
Scottish SPCA
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Sadly, not everyone in Scotland cares for animals as much as you do. We investigate abuse and neglect and help take those responsible to court.
Ban for dog neglect A Borders man who neglected his dog has been convicted following our investigation. Darran Whitelaw, 20, of Hawick, was banned from owning or keeping a dog for three years and given a 90 hour Community Payback Order. Senior inspector Jenny Scott said, “Bella, a whippet cross, was being kept within a cage inside a cupboard. “There was an overpowering smell of urine and no light within the cupboard with the door closed.
“Bella was emaciated with her ribs, hip bones and spine clearly visible and easily felt. She also had urine and faeces on her paws and legs. “Poor Bella weighed just 9.8kg, when she should have been at least 15kg. The vet stated that Bella had suffered as a result of general neglect and underfeeding over a period of at least two months. “Bella was taken into our care where she gained 5.5kg in the space of a month. “Thankfully she has since been rehomed to a family who treat her with the love and care she deserves.”
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In court.
Shadow suffered brain damage and organ failure after being poisoned with antifreeze.
Conviction for antifreeze poisoning A Kirkcaldy man has been convicted of causing a cat suffering by leaving out chicken contaminated with antifreeze. Norman Fairfull, 74, pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the cat and was fined £200. An undercover Scottish SPCA inspector said, “Fairfull had placed contaminated cooked chicken within his garden, which was in easy reach of animals and also a potential danger to any children passing by. “The cat, who was under two years old and named Shadow, was taken to a vets
where he was found to be suffering from brain damage and organ failure. “Sadly, the only option was for him to be put to sleep to prevent any further pain and distress and his owners were understandably devastated. “Unfortunately, the illegal poisoning of cats is widespread throughout Scotland and antifreeze is commonly used, causing tremendous levels of suffering and often death to animals such as cats, dogs, foxes, badgers and birds. “We would appeal to anyone with information about the deliberate poisoning of animals to contact us in confidence on 03000 999 999.”
We are sorry if you are distressed by any of the images in this magazine. Unfortunately, many of the animals we care for have been caused a great deal of suffering. We feel it is important to show the reality of cruelty to animals in Scotland and how we are able to help by investigating abuse and neglect.
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 11
Feature.
Finding homes for 27 Shetland ponies
Cookie and Casper
W
e launched an appeal for new homes when 27 Shetland ponies arrived in our care – and the result was fantastic! Aberdeenshire rehoming centre manager Graeme Innes said, “Taking in 27 ponies all at once is a huge task and it’s real credit to our staff that we coped so well. “The ponies were all ready to go to new homes and as we had so many we appealed to the public. “Thankfully the response was great and so far 23 have been found wonderful owners.
“It was also vital we identified good homes. Shetland ponies can make great pets but they should never be rehomed on a whim as they need the right care. “They may be little but they can also have really big characters as well. “Anyone interested in equine ownership should carefully consider the costs involved and think about whether they have the time and resources needed.”
We rehome equines from our Aberdeenshire and Edinburgh and Lothians rehoming centres.
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TO FIND OUT MORE Visit our centres daily from 10am-4pm Call 03000 999 999 (option 2) Visit scottishspca.org
Here are some of our Shetland ponies in their homes and with their new owners...
12 Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015
Feature.
Domi
no a nd C hec
Dante and B andit
kers
Nala Ozzie
Magic
Rufus
Pirate
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Feature.
Scottish SPCA
Exposing illegal puppy dealing – big business, pain and suffering 14 Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015
Feature. When a well-meaning member of the purchase from a reputable, licensed public buys a puppy in a supermarket car breeder and insist on seeing the mother, park they rarely have any idea they may ideally both parents, as well as the living be funding a criminal industry which can conditions,” said our undercover inspector. inflict misery on the animals involved – as “No one should buy a puppy in a public well as the unsuspecting new owners. place such as a car park and it should set alarm The dark side of the puppy trade was bells ringing if this is suggested by the seller. exposed earlier this year in the BBC “Although it will be difficult because documentary The Dog Factory, which animal lovers will want to give the puppy followed the work of the Scottish SPCA’s a good home, we would urge people to Special Investigations Unit. walk away in these situations and contact We have been inundated with calls since the Scottish SPCA. the programme aired and are warning of the dangers “While we would always recommend of buying a puppy from an rehoming a rescue dog, if someone is intent unlicenced breeder. on buying a puppy they should purchase An undercover Scottish from a reputable, licensed breeder and insist SPCA inspector said, on seeing the mother, ideally both parents, “Unfortunately, this trade is big business in Scotland, as well as the living conditions.” with thousands of dogs being brought into the country each year, “There are reputable breeders who from Northern Ireland and the Republic of advertise online. However, we generally Ireland in particular. advise against buying animals via the “The animals are the main victims as they internet and sites such as Gumtree. are often bred in poor conditions and can “We would also suggest searching the suffer from serious illnesses which can be fatal. seller’s phone number online, which may “This can be heartbreaking for the reveal if they are dealing in multiple litters new owners, who can lose their pet in and breeds of dogs. horrendous circumstances and be left with “If they are they would need a licence to huge veterinary bills. breed and should be able to show this to “The information received is being acted the buyer.” upon by the Scottish SPCA and a number of organisations and agencies we are working alongside.” ) Do you have concerns about illegal puppy dealing? We have issued advice to anyone Anyone with concerns should call our considering taking on a puppy. helpline on 03000 999 999. Information is received in strict “While we would always recommend confidence and can be left rehoming a rescue dog, if someone is anonymously. intent on buying a puppy they should
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 15
Events.
Raise funds and help save lives part in an abseil for two reasons. The first was to overcome my acrophobia and really challenge myself. The second was to raise funds for a charity which means so much to me. The work the Scottish SPCA does is phenomenal, from rescuing animals to caring for them until they find their forever
Peter Devlin
So far in 2015 our fantastic volunteers have been out in force helping Scotland’s abused, abandoned and injured animals. We have had successful collections for Rehoming Week, Scottish Animal Week and our summer Pets at Home collections.
“I knew if I pledged to raise funds I would never look back as the Scottish SPCA is close to my heart.” Dianne Turpin
Our kind supporters have also organised their own events, including football club collections, bake sales at their workplace and running a stall at their local country show. A huge ‘thank you’ to all of our dedicated volunteers! One way you can get involved in raising vital funds for Scotland’s animals is to take part in one of our exhilarating sponsored challenges. One of our volunteers, Dianne, managed to conquer her fears by taking part in the Forth Rail Bridge abseil earlier this year. Dianne says, “I decided to take
homes. I knew if I pledged to raise funds I would never look back as the Scottish SPCA is close to my heart.” Why not follow Dianne’s example and challenge yourself by taking part in an event on behalf of the Scottish SPCA? From marathons to desert treks and cycling to skydiving, we have something for everyone! These are all fantastic ways to make a difference and get active at the same time. If you would like to get involved please get in touch with our fundraising team.
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Events.
Forth Rail Bridge Abseil volunteers
John O’Groats to Land’s End cycle
We have skydives on-going throughout the year
Run the Edinburgh Marathon in 2016!
Organise your own sponsored challenge!
Take part in one of our collection events
Can you spare a few hours to collect funds on your local high street in the run-up to Christmas or at various events throughout the rest of the year? We’re coming to a city near you soon! You can also get fit, have fun and support our work by taking part in one of our exciting and memorable events and challenges in 2015 and beyond.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE GET IN TOUCH Call 03000 999 999 (option 4)
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Email fundraising@scottishspca.org
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Visit scottishspca.org
Saving Animals in Scotland Autumn/Winter 2015 17
Sponsor a Space: the perfect Christmas gift!
Dog kennel £95
Cat unit £65
Horse stable £135
Hedgehog unit £30
Rabbit enclosure £45
Seal pen £100
Small animal enclosure £40
Bird unit £70
Are you looking for a Christmas gift with a difference? You can Sponsor a Space at our rescue centres, from dog kennels, cat, bird and hedgehog units, to horse stables, small animal and rabbit enclosures and seal pens. Your sponsorship will last for a full year and will help pay for the food and veterinary treatment of the animals cared for in the space you have chosen. We’ll send you a certificate of thanks, window sticker and an update letter along with a photo of one of the animals your
sponsorship has helped. If you Sponsor a Space as a gift you’ll also receive a special gift card. Please order by 11 December to receive sponsorship packs in time for Christmas!
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FOR MORE INFORMATION Call 03000 999 999 (option 4) Visit scottishspca.org
Thank you for saving my life! Every year the Scottish SPCA rescues and finds new homes for thousands of defenceless animals – and we couldn’t do this without our fantastic supporters.
Help Scotland’s animals on your special day Wedding favours £2 Presented on a delightful gift card with a heartfelt thank you message from the Scottish SPCA inside. Badges available in puppy, kitten, hedgehog or paw print style. 03000 999 999
fundraising@scottishspca.org Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals | Scottish Charity No. SC 006467