A DOG'S TEN COMMANDMENTS............ Sunday November 15 2009
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years any separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you buy me. 2. Give me time to understand what you want from me, don't be impatien, short- tempered, or irritable. 3. Place your trust in me and I will always trust you back. Respect is earned not given as an inalieable right. 4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment, I am not capable of understanding why? I only know I have been rejected, you have your work entertainment and friends I only have you. 5. Talk to me sometimes, even if I don't understand your words I understand your voice and your tone, "you only have to look at my tail". 6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'lll never forget it, and if it's cruel it may affect me forever. 7. Please don't hit me I can't hit back, but I can bite and scratch and I really don't ever want to do that. 8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right foods or I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak, I may be just dog tired 9. Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old and may also need love, care, comfort, and attention. 10.Go with me on difficult journeys, never say, "I can't bear to watch" or "Let it happen in my absence". Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, irrespective of what you do I will always love you. © Stan Rawlinson 1993 Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer www.doglistener.co.uk ~ Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters. ~ Now please pass this on to other dog owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and has four legs!
K-9 Congressional Medal of Honour Winner Sunday November 15 2009
Brutus is a military K9 at McChord. He's huge - part Boxer and part British Bull Mastiff and tops the scales at 200 lbs. Brutus won the Congressional Medal of Honour last year from his tour in Iraq . His handler and four other soldiers were taken hostage by insurgents. Brutus and his handler communicate by sign language and he gave Brutus the signal that meant 'go away but come back and find me'. The Iraqis paid no attention to Brutus. He came back later and quietly tore the throat out of one guard at one door and another guard at another door. He then jumped against one of the doors repeatedly (the guys were being held in an old warehouse) until it opened. He went in and untied his handler and they all escaped. He's the first K9 to receive this honour. If he knows you're ok, he's a big old lug and wants to sit in your lap. Enjoys the company of cats.
Toilet rescue puppy Monday August 31 2009
You hear lots of amazing stories about dogs surviving ordeals but this one takes the biscuit! It all started when four year old toddler Daniel Blair put his muddy puppy in the toilet as he thought he needed a wash. Unfortunately Daniel flushed the loo and down the puppy went! His mother Alison assumed the puppy was dead but says ”I went into the garden, managed to lift up the drain cover and was amazed to hear him crying”. She called the fire brigade and RSPCA but he was wedged in the pipes too far away. Dyno-Rod came to the rescue and located his exact location using special cameras that they use for finding blockages. They then gently pushed him to the closest manhole where they fished him out. Ms Blair told the Mirror: ”I never thought a dog could survive being flushed down the loo. He’s a real little fighter.” Poor little Daniel was really upset and told his mum ”I had to give him a wash. I’m so, so sorry. I won’t do it again.” You can bet on that!
Hero Iraq dog Sandbag not allowed to return with troops Monday August 31 2009
Downing Street have said no to the return of the British service personnels dog, Sandbag, from Iraq, as they say ’The base in Um Qasa where Sandbag and Hesco (the cat) were living has now been handed over to American forces.’ They went on to say that ‘Our U.S. colleagues have assured us that both Sandbag and Hesco will be well cared for. Both are currently fit and healthy. Commanders on the grounds always take decisions on the future of mascot animals on a case-by-case basis. The Government supports the decision taken in this case.’ Sandbag has been living with the troops of B Squadron of the Queen’s Royal Hussars at the base in Um Qasa, near Basra, where he protects them from stray dogs that roam around their base and even goes out on patrol with them which has earned him a heros status. One soldier said: ‘He’s very loyal to the troops – if you get mobbed by other dogs, he will literally fight every single one of them. He’s a Tyson among the pups.’ Sandbag has survived numerous shootings and is therefore looked on as being the mens lucky mascot. The troops fear that when they withdraw Sandbag will be killed by local dogs or the Iraqis.
Farmers unions warn of danger of cows with calves Monday August 31 2009
Dog owners are being warned by farmers unions about the danger of walking dogs in fields where there are cows with calves as the cows are naturally protective of their calves and will attack dogs if they feel threatened Recently there have been three deaths by cow stampedes. The former Home Secretary David Blunkett had a narrow escape while out walking with his guide dog Sadie in the Peak District. He spoke of the terrifying ordeal which caused him to suffer three broken ribs and bruising. “It made me realise how serious this can be and I’ve had literally scores of letters from people injured or relatives of people who have been injured or even killed,” said Mr Blunkett. According to the BBC, farming unions say walkers who feel threatened by cattle should always let their dog off the lead.
'Pit Bull types' and The Dangerous Dogs Act Tuesday July 07 2009
Bruce the dog whos life hangs in the balance has been placed on 'death row' because of the way that he looks. His situation has come to the attention of dog lovers all over the world. In UK law dogs that are 'Pit Bull types' can be put down just because they look like Pit bulls even if their parents were legal dog breeds. For example if a Boxer were crossed with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier the dog produced could be called a 'Pit Bull type' and be destroyed. Since the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act was brought in many dogs have lost their lives unnecessarily. Through the media attention of the continuing Northern Ireland trial of Bruce many people feel that perhaps the law needs changing to become more effective and not have innocent dogs killed.
Springer Spaniel to go to Olympics Tuesday July 07 2009
A Springer Spaniel, Jessie, is to go to the winter olympics as a specialist sniffer dog. She will be employed to sniff for explosives for the duration of the competition. Like the athletes competing Jessie has been training for years. To date she has been to premiership football games and at international cricket matches along with her trainer and owner Jas Hayer. Mr Hayer, who has been training sniffer dogs since 2004, says "Essentially it's all a big game of hide and seek. After a dog has been evaluated as a specialist sniffer, all fun and games are converted into a purposeful work ethic, but you always make sure the dog is rewarded at the end" On the breed used he commented: "Not all dogs are suited to the role. We use springer Spaniels because they are fast and compact, and Labrador Retrievers, which are methodical when it comes to searching, not to mention less intimidating."
RSPCA warns owners not to leave pets in hot cars Tuesday July 07 2009
July has had heat wave records and although we can enjoy the weather its a different story for dogs trapped in hot places. Dogs continue to die while left in hot cars and the RSPCA urges owners to act responsibly. Two police dogs lost their lives while left in a hot police car parked outside the headquarters of Nottinghamshire Police. An RSPCA officer was called to the site and found the two German Sheperd dogs dead. The RSPCA has been inundated with calls from people who are worried about dogs left in cars or areas, such as gardens, without shade.
President Obama shows off Portuguese Water Dog Bo Thursday May 07 2009
The Presidents new six month old dog Bo stood with tail wagging for a photo shoot on the lawns of the White House. The newest member of the Obama household seemed to be enjoying all the media attention with the President commenting that he obviously has "star quality." The dog had been promised to the Presidents daughters during his '08 campaign trail because of late nights and time spent away form home. It appears that the Portuguese water dog was chosen to be the 'first dog' as it is believed to have a hypo-allergenic coat. Commenting on the amount of news coverage being given to the dog the President said it was not short of being "spectacular". When asked where Bo was to sleep the President said, laughing "Not in my bed". President Obama then took the pooch for a walk around the White House grounds with his daughters and reporters in tow.
RSPCA and animal refuge homes report more than ever abandoned pets Thursday May 07 2009
Keeping a pet is not cheap especially with expensive vets bills. As the going gets tougher for many households the RSPCA and other animal refuge homes are seeing more and more dogs being abandoned as owners can no longer afford to keep them. Our advice: Keep your dog healthy with Whites Premium, the Premium brand that is over 25% cheaper than other Premium foods. Make sure your dog stays healthy with plenty of exercise, explore the country side with your family and friends, maybe take an inexpensive pic-nic and make a day of it. Keep fit with your dog! Swap dog walking favours with friends and family. Keep your dog regularly wormed and make sure all vaccines are up to date. Ask your vet how much medications and treatments cost and compare with other practices to make sure you are getting the best deal.
Cesar Millan and puppy farms Thursday May 07 2009
The well known Dog trainer Cesar Millan who has written several books and has a hit TV show 'The Dog Whisperer' has a new show out called 'Dog Whisperer: Inside Puppy Mills'. The show highlights the neglect and high turnover of breeding that occurs in these factory farming conditions. Cesar Millan is invited to join the animal welfare organization LCA - Last Chance for Animals -while using hidden cameras as they go into various Los Angeles dog-breeding establishments who could be breaking the law. From one breeder they rescue 11 dogs in their attempt to help save dogs' lives. Cesar Millan then shows the rest of the team how to go about retraining and dealing with the dogs that have been rescued. On the show Sharon Osbourne, the entertainer, adopts one of the retained dogs. “We are from two different points of rescuing,” Cesar says of LCA. “They do the physical rescue, I do the psychological rescue. So together it’s a team, it’s a good pack.”
Dog freed after two days in hole. From the BBC Thursday May 07 2009
Stan became trapped in the hole during a walk on Sunday afternoon A Jack Russell dog which was stuck down a hole in a Kent quarry for two days has been rescued by fire services. The dog, Stan, became trapped 30ft (9.1m) down the hole on Sunday afternoon at Quarry Wood Nature Reserve in West Farleigh, near Maidstone. Specialist teams located Stan using a "snake eye" camera and brought digging equipment to try to reach him but had to abandon the job until Monday. Stan was finally reunited with his owner shortly after 1230 BST. Fire station manager Greg Theophanides said: "We managed to locate Stan last night but he'd got himself well and truly stuck which is why we had to start again this morning." Stan's owner Matt Hayes said he had been concerned that he might not be released and added it was "brilliant" that he was out. "Stan seems quite unshaken by the ordeal and was soon sniffing round other holes so I got him on the lead quickly," he said.
Black Labrador Jack's amazing story Thursday May 07 2009
Two year old Labrador Jack went missing from outside his home in Horsham late February. The family were devastated and put out hundreds of posters, contacted the RSPCA, the police, vets and local pet shops. He was first taken in by a couple in Surry who thought he was a stray and was renamed Carlos, however when his new owners split up he was rehomed again. He went to live in Hampshire with relatives of the family and was renamed Sam. When police were called one evening to the house they discovered his microchip. He was reunited with his family eight weeks later. DC West said: "This is a true shagy dog story with a happy ending. Jack went berserk when he saw them and we knew then that he had definitely met them before." The children were over the moon. Mrs Dall said: "He had been missing about eight weeks. The children had been devastated, really upset, and as soon as they found out he was coming back they wanted to come with me to collect him. They are really pleased to have him back."
Marley and Me. From Total film Tuesday April 14 2009
Golden-skinned, golden-haired journalist couple John and Jenny Grogan (Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston in a mis-match that somehow works) live a sun-kissed life in Florida. Worried that the missus will want to advance their partnership to parenthood, John buys aLabrador pup, Marley, in the hope that looking after a furry friend will take her mind off procreation.Thing is, Marley needs a hell of a lot of looking after as he humps poodles, eats sofas and poos in the sea. Aww, adorable, right? But can the Grogans’ marriage survive the ‘worst dog in the world’? Based on the 2005 bestselling book by the real-life John Grogan, Marley & Me starts out as a curiously flat pratfall comedy that leaves Owen and Jen to roll their eyes as the canine calamities mount up. Kathleen Turner (looking like Travolta in Hairspray) cameos as a dog trainer who Marley ‘abuses’; hilarity ensues as the terrible hound takes a restaurant table for a walk. Enchanting perhaps for dog lovers, but others may struggle to see the charm in a mutt who destroys everything. Thankfully, the bad-pooch antics slow down in favour of more satisfying family business as the Grogans weather difficult parenting, suburban stultification and career disappointment over 13 years. All the while Marley (played by 22 different dogs) is a regular fixture. The third act, though, is the real emotional sucker-punch as director David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada) segues from domestic comedy-drama to full-on heartstring-pulling. There are no surprises in how this shaggy-dog tale ends, but only the hardest heart will fail to summon a lump in the throat the size of a golf ball, shed a furtive tear and leave the cinema wanting to rub the ears of the first man’s best friend they can find. Manipulative and sentimental the movie may be, but many viewers will be putty in its paws.
President Obama and family have 'first puppy'. From the BBC Tuesday April 14 2009
Mr Kennedy, a fan of the water dog, is said to have given one to the Obamas The promised US presidential pooch has been picked, US media reports say. The soon-to-be "first puppy" is a six-month-old black-and-white Portuguese water dog that the Obama girls have named Bo, the Washington Post reports. The girls - Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7 - were promised a puppy by their father, US President Barack Obama, as a reward for coping with the election campaign. The water dog, which does not shed hair, is said to be less aggravating for Malia who suffers from allergies. The identity of the puppy - which had been one of Washington's best kept secrets - will be officially revealed by the White House on Tuesday afternoon, the Post said. But news of the furry addition to the Obama family was leaked by unnamed staffers to the Washington Post and AP news agency. 'Good behaviour' They said young Bo - who sports a white chest, white paws and a white goatee - was a gift to the Obama daughters from close family friend, Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts.
Dogs rescued from fire in Ireland to be re-homed. From the BBC Thursday April 09 2009
The dogs were found after a flat at Ross House in Mount Vernon Two dogs rescued from a fire at a rubbish-strewn north Belfast flat are to go into the care of an animal sanctuary, a judge has ruled. They were removed from the Ross House flat of Ken McMillen in Mount Vernon after a fire last November. Belfast Magistrates Court was told Mr McMillen had been led to safety when three dogs were found on a balcony. One had to be destroyed. A judge ordered the remaining dogs stay at Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary for re-homing. Mr McMillen did not attend Tuesday's hearing. A police officer who went into the flat told the court it was piled with rubbish - chest high in one room. He said the three dogs, border collies and a collie-springer cross, were found on an outside balcony. The eldest of the animals, which were covered in urine and looked generally dirty, appeared unable to walk. No water or food bowls could be seen in the flat, the court heard. Although the dogs were taken away, by a member of staff at the Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary, the eldest had to be put down because it was suffering so much. District Judge Fiona Bagnall granted the request for the animals to be kept at the kennel until they can be re-homed. "I'm satisfied the dogs are to be disposed of by way of being placed in the care of the Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary," she said. "Hopefully they will get a home."
Dog survives shark-infested waters and lives as castaway. From the BBC Thursday April 09 2009
The springer spaniel's story of survival comes amid reports that a dog which was washed overboard and believed drowned was found four months later - as a castaway on a remote Australian island. Sophie Tucker - named after the famous US entertainer - vanished as Jan and Dave Griffith sailed through stormy waters off Queensland last November. But unknown to her owners, the plucky dog survived a long swim across shark-infested waters to an island. There she lived on a diet of baby goats until being found by visiting rangers.
Springer Spaniel survives five weeks and two days in Scottish Hills. From the BBC Thursday April 09 2009
Oliver went missing while out on a walk with his owners An ageing and partially deaf springer spaniel has survived five weeks and two days lost in the hills. Oliver's owners had given him up for dead following fruitless searches after he ran off during a walk up Ben Fhionnlaidh near Glen Etive. He went missing on 24 February, but was found curled up in a shed on 2 April - eight miles as the crow flies, but 44 by road, from his home in the glen. His owner Deborah Wyton said Oliver had been very hungry and thirsty. She said: "He is my wonder dog." We thought he had gone off to die because 12 weeks earlier he had a stroke and the vet wasn't sure how long he would last Deborah Wyton Mrs Wyton and her husband Michael spent hours looking for 12-and-a-half year old Oliver after he disappeared while on a walk with three other of the family's dogs. She said: "We thought he had gone off to die because 12 weeks earlier he had a stroke and the vet wasn't sure how long he would last." The dog was discovered at a property on the opposite side of the munro Ben Fhionnlaidh. The man who found him gave him food and water and had to clean his tag of mud to see who the owner was. Mrs Wyton said: "I think I almost deafened the man when he told me he had found Oliver. I screamed. I was so happy."
Jack Russel terriers rescued by fire men - From the BBC Thursday April 09 2009
Fire crews rescue burrowing dogs It took six hours to free the two lost pets from the underground burrow Fire crews mounted a six-hour rescue operation to find two Jack Russell terriers that became lost in an underground burrow in West Sussex. Teams used special listening and camera equipment to find the two pets, called Charlie and Rosi, on Tuesday. They were eventually found in two separate locations in a burrow in Whitemans Green, Cuckfield - Charlie ended up 5ft (1.52m) underground. Owner Rachel Hartshorn said they saw the woods, got overexcited and ran off. 'Couldn't resist woods' Ms Hartshorn, from Southwick, who was visiting a friend in Cuckfield at the time, said: "I'm normally quite cautious when walking the dogs because I've lost them once before. "But they just couldn't resist the sight of the woods and nearby stream, so I let them off their leads so they could enjoy themselves." She added that she was reluctant to call the fire service but crews were fantastic and she would not have had a chance of finding her dogs without them. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said permission had to be sought from Natural England to dig in the burrows near Haywards Heath. Rosi was rescued at about 1750 BST, and Charlie was found nearly two hours later. Both dogs were recovering at home on Wednesday. Rosi needed treatment for conjunctivitis caused by her ordeal.
Dogs to be on leads so birds can get sexy! From the BBC Thursday April 09 2009
Dog lead threat to amorous birds Dog walkers in Berkshire have been asked to keep their pets on leads to help protect amorous birds and their unborn offspring. Nesting birds on Greenham Common are easily scared by roaming dogs and often fly away until the threat has passed. This leaves their eggs at risk from predators or to go cold and not hatch. A team of wardens will be on the common until the end of July, when the breeding period finishes, to offer advice to dog owners. Paul Hendry, from West Berkshire Council, said: "Dogs by their very nature... are running about and will disturb what is on the ground. "That causes the birds to fly and it is possible the eggs will become cold and not hatch." Jacky Akam, from the local Wildlife Trust, added: "We are just trying to help people understand just how vulnerable they are. "If they can help by keeping their dogs on a lead until the end of July then we will continue to have a fabulous area for nesting birds."
President Obama and family decide on dog Sunday March 01 2009
Michelle Obama has told People magazine that the family will be adopting a Portuguese Water Dog after the April Spring break vacation. Sasha and Malia are of course very excited, as any children would be, at getting a pet dog. They are having fun thinking up names for their future pet. However Michelle is not too struck on her daughters' ideas so far, saying "There are names floating around and they're bad. You listen and you go – like, I think, Frank was one of them. Frank! Moose was another one of them. Moose. I said, well, what if the dog isn't a moose? Moose. I'm like, no, come on, let's work with the names a little bit." Watch this space!
Hollywood films go barking mad Sunday March 01 2009
Dogs have been all the rage in Hollywood films recently with the Disney animated movie Bolt fetching a fantastic £2.8m in its first weekend in UK cinemas. The film is about Bolt, a dog who is the unknowing star in his own TV show who thinks his super powers are real. He goes on the loose from the TV film set and meets Mr. Mittens, a female cat, and a hamster called Rhino. During his incredible journey he learns that he doesn't have superpowers and that the show is not the real deal. The film is being shown in 3D and normal 2D. Another canine caper on offer is the film Hotel for Dogs. Starring Emma Roberts and Jake T Austin the story follows the antics of a brother and sister who convert a closed up hotel into a home for stray dogs. The film has already grossed over £1.5m showing that dogs are in fact mans best friend!
The actor Mickey Rourke mourns his Chihuahua Sunday March 01 2009
The actor Mickey Rourke is mourning his beloved Chihuahua Loki, who at 18 passed away while being held in the actor's arms. Rourke said of the dog's passing: "Loki is deeply missed but with me in spirit. I feel blessed that she fell asleep peacefully in my arms." Mickey Rourke, star of The Wrestler, praised and thanked all of his dogs, both alive and dead, during his Golden Globe acceptance speech. He said: "Sometimes when a man's alone, all you got is your dog." According to RadarOnline He is now so lonely he is planning to get a new dog as soon as possible. "Mickey has other dogs but he misses Loki terribly. He doesn''t want to wait long either - he wants to get his new pooch this week,” the Daily Express quoted Rourke''s friend as telling the website. "The new dog won''t replace Loki but by naming it Oscar Mickey says he''ll make his comeback year even more special," the friend added.
From BBC News: Want good health - get a dog! Sunday March 01 2009
Dog-owners 'lead healthier lives' Dogs can provide companionship If you want to live a healthier life get a dog, research suggests. The companionship offered by many pets is thought to be good for you, but the benefits of owning a dog outstrip those of cat owners, the study says. A psychologist from Queen's University, Belfast, said dog owners tended to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Writing in the British Journal of Health Psychology, she says that regular "walkies" may partly explain the difference. Dr Deborah Wells reviewed dozens of earlier research papers which looked at the health benefits of pet ownership. In some cases, the social support offered by an animal is greater than the support than another human could offer Dr June McNicholas Health psychologist She confirmed that pet owners tended in general to be healthier than the average member of the population. However, her research suggested that dog ownership produced more positive influence than cat ownership. As well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol, she said dog-owners suffered fewer minor ailments and serious medical problems. There was also the suggestion that dogs could aid recovery from serious illnesses such as heart attacks, and act as 'early warning' to detect an approaching epileptic seizure. Stress-busting Dr Wells said the precise reason for the benefits was not totally clear. "It is possible that dogs can directly promote our well-being by buffering us from stress, one of the major risk factors associated with ill-health. "The ownership of a dog can also lead to increases in physical activity and facilitate the development of social contacts, which may enhance both physiological and psychological human health in a more indirect manner." Dr June McNicholas, a health psychologist who has specialised on research into the health effects of pet ownership said that an important reason for the improved health of dog-owners was not just the exercise received while taking it for walks, but the opportunity for social contact with other dog-owners. She said: "For older people, an animal can fulfil the 'need to be needed', perhaps after children have left home. "In some cases, the social support offered by an animal is greater than the support another human could offer."
Whites Premium sponsor Sex on Sunday Tuesday February 10 2009
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From BBC News: Dog owner rewarded for ice rescue Friday February 06 2009
Jarvis the dog was stranded when the ice cracked A man who waded into icy water to save his dog on a frozen lake in Greater Manchester has been given an award by an animal charity. Marc Greenhalgh, 25, was in Alkrington Woods, Middleton, on New Year's Day when his cocker spaniel Jarvis ran onto the ice to chase ducks. The ice broke and Mr Greenhalgh braved the water to save his pet. He is to receive the Hero to Animals Award from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Europe. 'Dog's best friend' PETA Director Robbie LeBlanc said: "The bravery, determination and compassion that Marc Greenhalgh showed in saving the life of his beloved dog, Jarvis, is an inspiration to others throughout the community and beyond. "In this case, you could reverse the old saying, 'A dog is a man's best friend', because Marc Greenhalgh proved beyond a doubt that he is a dog's best friend." Mr Greenhalgh has vowed to keep Jarvis away from lakes in the cold weather after the rescue. He said: "You don't want to think about it at the time, I just wanted to get to him really." Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have warned people to keep away from icy waters. It said Mr Greenhalgh was "extremely fortunate" in being able to survive the conditions that he entered in.
Blue Cross to attend Crufts 2009 Friday February 06 2009
The animal welfare charity The Blue Cross is still to have a stand at Crufts 2009 “in order to support pet owners who are concerned about the health and welfare of pedigree dogs.” The RSPCA, PDSA and Dogs Trust have all withdrawn. In a statement The Blue Cross said: By championing the pet owner and providing them with practical and reliable advice, the charity believes that individuals can really influence the issue of hereditary disease through their informed choices and by supporting responsible breeding practices. Kim Hamilton, The Blue Cross chief executive said: “While there is some very positive work going on at high-level to tackle the problem of inherited diseases in dogs, we mustn’t forget the millions of pet owners in this country who also have a powerful voice. The British public has voted with its feet on other animal welfare issues in the past and we believe that by making the right choices, every single pet owner can make a difference to the health of pedigree dogs.” In a survey of over 1,000 pet owners commissioned by the charity last month, 74% admitted they were concerned about the issue of inherited health defects in some dog breeds but 38% felt powerless to do anything about it. A further 33% of pet owners thought they could help reduce the problem if they knew more about it but 65% did not know where to find reliable information about the health and welfare of pedigree dogs. As one of the UK’s oldest animal charities with a network of animal adoption centres and hospitals, The Blue Cross sees the daily impact of irresponsible breeding practises on all species of companion animal and is well placed to offer practical advice to pet owners. Following the controversial BBC documentary on pedigree dogs last year, the charity is keen to ensure that pet owners can access information from a trusted, independent source. The Blue Cross stand at Crufts will feature guidance for pet owners on the health and welfare of pedigree dogs and the charity’s experienced animal behaviour advisers and veterinary professionals will be on hand to answer questions about how to find and keep a healthy pet.
Want to take your dog on holiday? Thursday February 05 2009
More and more of us want to take the whole family on holiday, including our dogs. But the experience can often turn into a nightmare if the trip is not planned well in advance. Start preparing now and your summer holiday can be a dream come true. 1) Healthcare:- Your dog needs to be up to date with all vaccinations and it is wise to travel with a valid vaccination certificate (in some instances you will have to have one). Flea and tick treatment should be up to date and it's worth checking with your vet and DEFRA to find out if there are any infectious diseases that your dog might be at risk catching. Make sure your dog is Microchipped. Microchipping is an inexpensive but very effective way of safe guarding your dog should he/she go missing. Your details are held in a central computer and you can change your address to where you are staying while on holiday. 2) Insurance:- Make sure your insurance is up to date and covers travel 3) Travelling:- Your dog needs to be in a safe secure area such as a crate or the back of the car with a dog guard fitted. Do not feed for several hours before the journey but give plenty of fresh water to drink and take a good supply with you. Stop and exercise your dog en route and give water to drink. 4) Travelling to or within the European Union:- Your dog must be Microchipped Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies You must have a blood test certificate for your dog passed by a Vet six months before you wish to return to the UK You will need a Pet Passport from your vet 5) Make sure your dog will be OK:- Don't take your dog somewhere with a very different climate unless they have time to acclimatise. Very hot or cold temperatures or high altitudes could cause your dog an upset or distress. Check with your vet if your dog is old, chronically ill or very young. Make sure you have plenty of your premium dog food with you and if you have to buy dog food abroad try to get a premium product with very similar ingredients. 6) ENJOY! - Happy Holidays!
Dog adoption on the up Sunday January 25 2009
The 44th president of the United States, President Barack Obama, has caused much interest in dog adoption through his decision to adopt a shelter dog and have it live in the White House. Many of the people now concidering dog adoption would not have entertained the idea before. Another dog in the media being adopted is Worth the Woolworth's dog. The internet site DogsBlog.com are adopting him and it is hoped that the adoption can become a symbol of how fulfilling and rewarding it can be to give an unwanted dog a new home and happy life. From BBC News: Drug dogs put brake on motorists Sunday January 25 2009 The dog teams were used during roadside vehicle checks. Drug detection dogs working at vehicle checkpoints in West Yorkshire identified eight people who were carrying illegal substances. The dogs were working alongside officers checking vehicles in Golcar and the Colne Valley earlier this week as part of a crackdown. In one case an amount of drugs was found in a vehicle by the dogs. Police said the dog teams would now become a regular feature of roadside vehicle checkpoints. Inspector Mark Trueman said the introduction of the passive drugs dogs to the operation made an immediate impact. He said: "We had a total of eight positive results whilst using the dogs which included an amount of drugs being seized, three adult street cautions for possession of cannabis and an offensive weapon was also located in one of the vehicles searched. "There were also five stop searches where no drugs were found, however all of those stopped admitted to earlier using the drug. "We will look to utilise the drugs dogs in future operations across Kirklees in order to clamp down on those who involve themselves in its possession or illegal supply."
From BBC News: Missing dog found after accident Sunday January 25 2009
Pet dog Jodie went missing after the accident two weeks ago A pet dog which went missing from a car involved in a crash in Aberdeenshire has been found and reunited with its owners. Three people were left requiring treatment following the crash on the A96 near Keith almost two weeks ago. Jodie, a black Labrador-cross, with a white mark on her chest, ran from the car into neighbouring fields. Owner Claire MacGillivray said Jodie had been found in Fochabers and seemed "delighted to be home". She said: "After many sightings and failed attempts to catch her, she was found. "We were relieved it was her, she has lost weight but is very excited and wants to eat everything." Ms MacGillivray thanked the media for coverage of their appeal, explaining: "We are convinced if it wasn't for that she wouldn't be at home right now.
From BBC News: Carers sought for police puppies Friday January 16 2009
A number of carers are needed to look after the puppies for the first year Temporary homes are being sought in Devon for puppies which may one day be trained to become police dogs. Devon and Cornwall Constabulary's Dog Unit is to take ownership of a number of German Shepherd puppies at its Exeter-based headquarters. The force is now seeking volunteers to offer homes to them for up to a year. The aim of the Puppy Development Scheme is for the dogs to have caring and friendly upbringings so they can become efficient and obedient police dogs. Costs paid will be paid by the force. After the year is up, the puppies will be reintroduced to the force where they will be assessed on a range of skills to test their likelihood of becoming a police dog. The only criteria necessary is that households have a secure garden and, preferably, have no other dogs living there too said Sgt Paul Glennon: "Ideally, in order that the puppies become well socialised, the house will be located in an urban environment in Devon". Sergeant Paul Glennon of the Force Dog Unit at Middlemoor said: "The aim of the Puppy Development Scheme is to prepare the puppy for life as a confident and social police dog. "All the puppies that come to us are very adorable and I am sure they will bring much enjoyment over 12 months. "The force will provide dog food and pay any veterinary costs incurred so all that we require of carers is that the puppies get sufficient exercise and regular grooming." Anyone interested in becoming a puppy carer should contact Devon and Cornwall Police's dog training school.
Kennel Club is Looking for New Crufts Broadcaster Friday January 16 2009
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, has announced that the Kennel Club are looking for a new broadcast partner for their number one Dog Show, Crufts. The news came at the same time as the new outlawing of incest, which up until now has always been allowed by the club, and several changes to breed standards. (The British Bulldog Breed Council has threatened the Kennel Club with legal action over proposed changes to its breed standards.) Caroline Kisko is quoted in The Telegraph: “We said in the autumn that a new review standards would be bought out, long before the BBC pulled out of Crufts. As far as we’re concerned, we’re looking for different broadcasters. We’re currently under BBC contract, whether they choose to broadcast for the next year or not.” The BBC did not seem to think that a change was certain with a spokesman saying: “We remain open to the idea that Crufts will return to the BBC and this (changes to breed standards) is an interesting development.”
From BBC News: Hero Dog learns to save owner Friday January 16 2009
A guide dog in County Durham saves her owner's life on a daily basis by detecting whether he is close to a diabetic collapse. Zeta, one of the first "hypo-dogs" in the North East, has been trained by diabetes sufferer Cherry Kearton and his wife Angela. She puts her paws on his stomach to test whether the amount of sugar in his blood is at the correct level. If there is a risk of coma, she warns him and he takes his medication. Angela, who trains guide dogs for a living, taught Zeta the life-saving skills when she was a puppy. 'Saved his bacon' She said: "Zeta was being trained as a guide dog but at the end of her training she went lame and could not carry on, that's when I thought I could use her to help my husband. "Believe me, she has saved his bacon on many an occasion. She is not always 100% accurate but she does seem to err on the side of caution." She trained the Labrador by leaving traces of her husband's sweat, which would either be high or low in blood sugar, on a ball of handkerchiefs. Zeta started to familiarise herself with the smell, and when she detected the difference she was awarded with a treat. Ms Kearton added: "It took just over two weeks, the hardest part was persuading her to jump up and alert my husband as she was used to being an obedient guide dog. She has definitely got the hang of it now though." Dog Names
Thursday January 08 2009
Dog owners are using traditional names such as Fido, Rex and Rover less when coming to choose a name for the new member of the family and in fact these names are not even to be found in the top 100. The poll, carried out by VPI (Veterinary Pet Insurance),found that the three most popular names for dogs in 2008 were Max, Bailey and Bella. Curtis Steinhoff, the senior director of corporate communications for VPI, commented that people see their dog as being a member of the family so want to give them a more human name. He said: "Max may sleep on his owner's bed, eat gourmet food and wear clothes to go out on the town - Rover probably does not. "Max is short, yet easy to distinguish from common commands, so it is easy to understand why it's such a popular pet name." Figures released from the University of Glasgow reveal that pet owners have recently been inspired by brands such as Gucci and Chanel when naming pets.
A Dalmatian in Melton Mowbray,Leicestershire, has had a litter of 18 puppies! The puppies were delivered by Caesarean section by veterinarian Con Hassett who stated that his team was "confronted by 18 pups in a nine or 10-minute period". "They had to revive them, clamp the cords and check them for abnormalities," said the owner Mr Morley. "It was a hectic time for them." And the dog, Button, has a claim to fame - she is the daughter of the dog who starred as Dipstick in the Disney sequel film 102 Dalamtians. As she has had a record number of puppies Buttton is needing help with feeding and that's where it starts to become a 'Hectic time' for owners Adam and Nicola Morley. Sleep isn't really on the agenda much! "We feed all of the pups several times a day because Button can't feed them all constantly," said Mr Morley. "We all take it in turns to feed them - my stint is usually 3am." Leicestershire Dalmatian Club representative Paul Hoskins said: "It is the biggest (Dalmatian) litter I have ever heard of. Guinness World Book of Records said it did not have details for individual breeds, but the current record for a dog was 24 pups A Mastiff called Tia gave birth to the two dozen puppies in 2004.
Dog dies falling through frozen lake Thursday January 08 2009
A safety warning has been issued by emergency services after a dog and two men fell through a frozen lake in Hertfordshire. Staff at the Fairlands Valley Lake in Stevenage tried to smash through the thick ice as quickly as they could to retrieve the dog who had run onto the frozen water. Paramedics and firefighters on the scene did all they could giving heart massage and oxygen but to no avail, the dog sadly died. The two men were more fortunate, they survived the pluge into the freezing sub zero waters below and were admited to a local hospital. Gary Sanderson, from the East of England Ambulance Service, said: "On this occasion the two lads were very lucky to crawl out to a place of safety. "We urge the public to stay well away from anywhere which is frozen over." Dave Harold, fire service district commander for Stevenage and North Hertfordshire, added: "This tragic incident highlights the dangers of walking across frozen lakes, both for people and animals. "It's impossible to tell how thick the ice is and how deep the water is underneath, and our advice is to stay well clear."
Ladies Kennel Association 12-13 December Thursday January 08 2009
This years LKA (Ladies Kennel Association) show, held at the N.E.C in Birmingham on December the 12th -13th was bigger than ever with over 12,000 dogs entered. The groups were: Terrier Group, Gundog Group, Hound Group, Toy Group, Utility Group, Pastoral Group, Working Group, Group Judging and Best In Show. The competition was fierce with fabulous show dogs everywhere. The dogs are kept in stalls while at the show and what a pleasure it was to walk up and down coming face to face (or should one say mussle!) with so many champions, rosettes and cups adorned many walls. The trade stands and shops were also interesting with everything from desinger dog clothing to dog tred mills. We wondered what our dogs would think of a massage coat, probably heaven! BEST IN SHOW Judge: Mr T Nethercott BEST : 1067 PARKINSON, Mr M & DILLON Mr B - Sh Ch Dillonpark Ambrogina JW - SPANIEL (COCKER) - Bitch RESERVE : 10698 SMITH, S, MYCROFT, S & BENNETT T - Ch Supeta's Ozzy Osbourne JW - DOBERMANN - Dog BR>