Tag: animal welfare

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home launches cattery crowdfunder

Crippling energy price rises has seen costs at the Home soar and funds are desperately needed to enable the cattery roof to be replaced

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has today launched a crowdfunder to raise vital funds to replace their cattery roof which is in great need of repair.  Rising energy prices has seen costs at the Home rocket and so they hope to install solar panels on their new roof which will make a saving of over £2,600 in energy costs every year.

The cattery roof is in urgent need of repair and the team at the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home hope to raise nearly £13,000 to fund a new one and install solar panels.  Currently the outdoor section of the cat pen has a mesh area through which bird poo can fall, which is incredibly dangerous to the cats, putting them at risk of giardia infection. 

The new roof will be solid to keep the cats safe, preventing bird droppings from falling through, which previously required a great deal of time to clean. The improvement means the cats will now have year-round access to the outdoor cattery.

Solar Panels on the new roof would effectively cover the electricity to the Home’s entire cattery and clinic, creating a more sustainable future for the Home and for the environment. With solar panels installed, over five years the Home would save £13,070 – enough to vaccinate 1,378 cats.

Many of the Home’s resident cats, like Mickey who had spent about 6 months with them, enjoyed spending time outside whatever the weather. Mickey loved to sit in his outdoor area, hoping that passing team members would stop to say hi to him (of course, they always would!) The outdoor pens provide important stimulation and enrichment for cats like Mickey, but at the moment they can’t be used year-round due to infection concerns.

Lindsay Fyffe Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “Repairing the roof and installing the solar panels above this section of the cattery will provide much needed shelter and create a safer play area for the cats in our care.

“Not only will we benefit from much needed energy savings, we’ll also improve our carbon footprint. Installing these solar panels means that two tons of CO2 emissions will be avoided every year. Over the panels’ lifetime, this is the equivalent of 69,690 car kms avoided, 50 long haul flights avoided, or planting 448 trees.

“Installing solar panels will not only give essential cover to our cattery, but will generate enough green energy for all the electricity in our cattery and our clinic.

“The welfare of the animals in our care is always at the forefront of our operations. Operating sustainably is essential in our ability to continue to deliver on our mission.”

To make a donation to the Cattery Crowdfunder please visit: 

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/light-up-our-home

National Puppy Day: What to buy before bringing a puppy home

New puppy owners are being advised to make essential purchases ahead of welcoming their furry friend home to ensure a smooth transition.

On National Puppy Day (23 March), the dog training experts at ACME Kennels have revealed the vital items soon-to-be owners should buy so they are properly equipped to give their pup everything it needs to flourish. 

Bringing a puppy home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with a significant financial commitment. In addition to pet insurance and vaccinations, owners must consider essentials like food, training equipment and the correct bedding for their new addition to thrive.

Not having the right gear at home before bringing a new puppy home can lead to several risks, for example a lack of appropriate toys and training tools can lead to boredom and destructive behaviours.

Additionally, being unprepared can affect a puppy’s comfort and health, making house training more challenging and limiting their socialisation opportunities.

Ben Mcfarlane, expert from  ACME Kennels , said: “Welcoming a new puppy is an exciting yet hectic experience for the whole family. To ensure a smooth transition and prevent boredom or bad behaviours developing, it’s essential to have the right supplies ready before their arrival- such as toys, food, and training kit.

“A well-prepared home lays the foundation for your puppy’s happiness and development. So, to help first-time puppy owners, we’ve created a checklist of must-have items to consider before bringing your new pup home, along with information on why each item is so important.”

Seven most important items to get before bringing home a puppy:

1.        Bedding

To ensure the puppy feels comfortable, choose a soft bed with supportive sides and avoid oversized options, as they like to feel cosy. Select high-quality materials that can withstand chewing. Also, consider how easy it is to wash and how quickly it dries, as there may be a few accidents while the puppy settles in.

2.                       Food

It’s important to buy food they’re already familiar with to prevent an upset stomach. If you plan to switch foods, do so gradually after they’ve settled in to minimise stress. Always have a bowl of fresh water nearby so they are well hydrated. Being unprepared with the incorrect food and not enough water can impact their overall health.

3.                       Toys

Toys are vital for puppies who have boundless energy at this stage of their development, so select ones appropriate for their age and size, providing plenty of chew toys to protect your furniture. Without proper toys, puppies may become bored and engage in destructive behaviours, so ensure they have enough stimulation to develop good habits.

4.                       Safety Hazards

Puppies are naturally curious and can easily get into trouble without the right safety hazards in place. To keep them safe and prevent potential injuries, invest in items like baby gates and secure storage for toxic items.

5.                       Training tools

Training tools are crucial for helping puppies learn consistent good behaviours. Once the puppy has settled in, start with housetraining and teaching them their name; using a whistle can be very effective for this. Other useful tools include clickers for positive reinforcement and adjustable harnesses for safe walks, because establishing clear boundaries is key to your puppy’s development.

6.                       Collar & leash 

Taking walks is a great way to bond with your new puppy. Owners can choose between a collar and leash or a harness and leash- experiment to see which works best for your pup. Once vaccinated, start with short walks, five minutes for each month of their age, up to twice daily.

7.                       House training supplies

Puppy pads or designated bathroom spaces are essential for effective house training, because inadequate supplies can lead to accidents that frustrate both owner and puppy. This not only results in uncleanliness and bad odours but can also damage furniture and stain carpets.

For more information on what to buy a puppy, please visit: 

https://www.acmewhistles.co.uk/stories/must-haves-bringing-home-puppy-rescue-dog  

For more information and training tips from Ben visit ACME Kennels.

Edinburgh charity thank public for playing crucial role in stopping needless animal cruelty

  • Scottish public play crucial role in stopping needless animal cruelty
  • OneKind campaign generated support of thousands of Scots to end the use of snares

A leading Scottish animal charity, OneKind, is celebrating the thousands of volunteers and members of the public who helped to locate and report cruel snares ahead of a historic ban to end the capture device comes into force.

This significant milestone means that wild, farmed, and companion animals across the country will no longer endure the inhumane mental and physical agony inflicted by snare traps.

The Scottish Government’s historic decision to ban snares, passed through the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act, marks a monumental step forward in ending animal cruelty. OneKind had been working on getting snares banned for many years and thanks to public interest and support finally got the ban confirmed in November 2024.

Snares, which have long been used by gamekeepers to trap wild animals like foxes in the name of protecting game birds for shooting, are indiscriminate and often cause immense suffering to a wide range of non-targeted species, from deer and badgers to cats and dogs. The new law, which came into effect in November 2024, makes it an offence to use snares or cause harm to wild animals through snaring.

This win was made possible thanks to various funding streams for the charity including that of Bighearted Scotland which helps fund essential campaigns through Payroll Giving.

Bob Elliot, Director of OneKind said: “The ban on snares is a victory that will end the suffering of countless animals across Scotland. For years, we have seen the devastating impact of snares on both target and non-target species alike.

“The distress caused to pets, wildlife, and even livestock has been heartbreaking. The Scottish Government has underlined its commitment to bettering animal welfare across the country with this landmark decision, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the general public who helped us locate many snares in the Scottish countryside, our dedicated donors – including Bighearted Scotland – and supporters.”

OneKind has been at the forefront of this battle, campaigning for many years to eliminate the use of snares in Scotland. The charity’s efforts included public marches, rallies outside the Scottish Parliament, petitions, and extensive outreach to raise awareness of the cruelty caused by these devices.

The snare ban is the culmination of years of hard work by OneKind, but it also signals a shift in how we view wild animals. By protecting them from these inhumane traps, Scotland is taking a strong stance on the ethical treatment of wildlife.

Bighearted Scotland’s ongoing support of OneKind’s campaigns, particularly through payroll giving, has been crucial in securing this win. Payroll giving allows employees to donate a portion of their salary directly to causes like OneKind, ensuring a consistent and reliable funding stream that powers crucial campaigns.

Deborah Roe, Chair of Bighearted Scotland said: “We are proud to be part of a landmark moment for Scotland, our wildlife and our beautiful countryside through our ongoing support of OneKind.

“We want to make donating and giving back as easy as possible which is why, this Payroll Giving Month, we are encouraging people to opt in to payroll giving to benefit four Scottish Charities including Erskine, OneKind, Epilepsy Scotland and Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland.

“By donating via payroll giving you can be guaranteed you are supporting a range of charities spanning various causes and making a real impact, to real people.”

Bighearted Scotland is a consortium that has been supporting Scottish charities for over 30 years. Bighearted Scotland is dedicated to enhancing fundraising efforts through payroll giving, or Give as You Earn, which allows employees to make regular, tax-efficient donations straight from their gross pay.

In February, Payroll Giving Month, Bighearted Scotland and its member charities raise awareness about the power of payroll donations, which are often a consistent and reliable source of funding. However, despite the program’s impact, the amount donated through payroll giving has decreased by 15% over the last decade, with the number of donors also declining by 13%.

For those interested in supporting OneKind and other member charities of Bighearted Scotland, visit www.bigheartedscotland.co.uk to learn more about how to set up payroll giving in your workplace.

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home announces in-person cat first aid training course

The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is proud to announce the launch of in-person Cat First Aid Training courses, designed to equip cat owners with the vital skills needed to handle emergencies and common health issues with confidence.

With cats being prone to a variety of injuries and illnesses, this innovative course aims to empower owners and ensure their feline companions receive immediate and effective care when needed most.

The full day course, priced at £110, will be held at the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home and covers a wide range of crucial topics to help cat owners deliver first aid.

Participants will be taught; how to respond quickly in cases of choking or suffocation, how to handle wounds with proper care and bandaging and how to identify and manage common medical conditions like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism.

The course also covers environmental hazards, including poisoning and electric shock, and provides guidance on maintaining a proper diet and nutrition to support a cat’s overall health.

Participants will learn how to perform a weekly health check to identify early warning signs of illness and injury in their feline friends, as well as how to assess vital signs and effectively evaluate their cat’s condition. The course also includes essential life-saving skills such as recognising and responding to shock and performing CPR.

Carla Harris-Tait, Education Officer at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, explains: “Cats are incredibly good at hiding pain, so it’s vital that owners know how to spot subtle signs of distress and illness.

“This course provides them with the knowledge and confidence to take action, which could mean the difference between life and death for their cat.”

This course marks a significant development in cat welfare education, as it is one of the first in-person Cat First Aid courses to be offered in the UK. While similar courses are available online, this hands-on approach ensures that pet owners gain practical, lifesaving skills in a real-world environment.

In the UK, there are over 10 million cats*, yet a significant number of cat owners are unaware of the common health issues that can affect their pets. Only 45% of cats are insured*, making costly vet bills a concern for many owners.

This training course will help mitigate these concerns by teaching preventative care and early detection, which can reduce the likelihood of serious health issues and lower vet bills.

Lindsay Fyffe Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, added: “Our mission at the Home has always been to support pets and their owners, and this new training course is a vital step in achieving that.

“By equipping owners with these essential skills, we’re empowering them to be their cat’s strongest support system, ensuring their pet gets the care they truly deserve.”

The total cost of the Cat First Aid Training delivered by Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home goes directly to the home, supporting their mission. As they receive no government funding, every contribution helps them continue their vital work.

For more information on how to book Cat First Aid Training, please visit Cat First Aid – Edinburgh Dog & Cat Home

Charity urges Scottish Government not to forget cats as new Dog Theft Bill is introduced

The introduction of the Dog Theft Bill is a significant step forward for dog welfare, but Cats Protection is deeply concerned that cats have been overlooked in this important legislation, leaving thousands of Scottish pet owners without the same legal protections.

Alice Palombo, Advocacy Officer for Cats Protection, said: “For too long, the theft of beloved pets has been treated no differently than the theft of any other personal property.

“This Bill is a huge development in recognising dogs as sentient beings with strong emotional bonds to their owners, ensuring that this is considered when sentencing. Scotland is a nation of animal-lovers, and it is disappointing that the same logic has not been applied to cats and other pets.”

The new Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill acknowledges that the theft of a dog causes loss to both the owner and the dog itself. Furthermore, the penalties for stealing assistance dogs will be more severe, reflecting the vital services they provide to their owners. But the charity asks – what about cats?

Alice continues: “The theft of a cat is no different than the theft of a dog, it causes the same emotional impact for owners and distress for their stolen pet. Despite this, under this Bill, cat owners will not receive the same protections as dog owners.

“While we acknowledge that Maurice Golden MSP, who has proposed this Bill, hopes that it will act as a catalyst for wider reform and future legislation, cat owners should not have to wait years for the same legal protections that dog owners will immediately benefit from.

“The promise of a government review in years to come offers little comfort to the thousands of families who have already suffered the heartbreak of a stolen cat.

“We urge the Scottish Government to take immediate action, not wait for a review of the Act in five years’ time, but by introducing specific protections for cats and indeed other pets in this legislation. All pet owners deserve equal recognition under the law which we believe is essential for improving animal welfare in Scotland.”

Cats Protection welcomes call for compulsory microchipping in Scotland

Cats Protection welcomes the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC)’s recently published report on responsible ownership and care of domestic cats in Scotland, supporting its microchipping recommendations to improve cat welfare across Scotland.

Advocacy Officer for Cats Protection, Alice Palombo, said: “We are delighted that SAWC has recommended the introduction of legislation for compulsory microchipping and the registration of owned cats in Scotland.

“This would be a vital step in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of pet cats, one that Cats Protection has long campaigned for.

“Animal welfare charities take in thousands of unchipped cats every year, and Scotland has the second lowest microchipping rates in the UK at 72%. This legislation will help reunite lost cats with their owners, reduce the number of unowned and stray cats, while also reducing the burden on our teams.

“Trying to find the owners of unchipped cats often takes up valuable space in our pens – space that could otherwise be used for cats in urgent need.”

The charity further supports the development of a centralised database to simplify the registration process, giving an efficient way for pet owners, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare organisations to search for cats when needed.

In addition to legislative measures, SAWC has recommended that Scottish Ministers implement a public education programme to encourage voluntary microchipping and registration ahead of legal requirements.

Alice continues: “The combination of compulsory microchipping and a centralised registration system will be a game-changer for cat welfare in Scotland.

“A public education initiative will be crucial in raising awareness among cat owners and the wider public about the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“We hope Scottish Ministers do take action by implementing these proposals as soon as possible, which we believe are essential for improving cat welfare.”

Avian Influenza Prevention Zone

Zone declared in Scotland and England

Following an increase in the number of detections of avian influenza (bird flu) in wild birds and other captive birds, the Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer from Scotland and Chief Veterinary Officer from England have declared a national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading amongst poultry and other captive birds.

This means that from 12:00 noon on Saturday 25 January, it will be a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Scotland and England to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks from the threat of avian flu.

Surveillance has indicated that the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus is currently circulating in wild birds in the UK and their risk to poultry and other captive birds is currently assessed as being very high. Maintaining strict biosecurity is the most effective method of protecting birds from the virus.

Keepers with more than 500 birds will need to restrict access for non-essential people on their sites, workers will need to change clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures and site vehicles will need to be cleansed and disinfected regularly to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

Backyard owners with smaller numbers of poultry including chickens, ducks and geese must also take steps to limit the risk of the disease spreading to their animals.

Public Health Scotland advises that the risk to public health from the virus is very low and Food Standards Scotland advises that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

Scotland’s Deputy Chief Vet Officer Jesus Gallego said; “While the risk to public health is very low, we are currently experiencing a heightened risk of an incursion from this virus and so it is vital that appropriate precautions are taken to protect poultry and other captive birds from infection. 

“The introduction of this zone is a preventative measure, aimed at minimising the effect that this, often devastating virus, can have on Scottish kept birds”.

Letters: Fireworks cancellation was a relief for some

Dear Editor:

The cancellation of New Year fireworks events as the UK braced for extreme weather was a relief for everyone bracing for a night of extreme stress, and Edinburgh could protect humans and other animals by permanently banning fireworks.

The loud bangs, vibrations, and flashes, which terrorise some communities daily, confuse and terrify wildlife and companion animals, putting them at risk of injury, displacement, and death. They also distress humans, such as those who suffer from PTSD and children sensitive to noise.

Yet over 90% of Brits would gladly be dazzled by laser shows, drones, or silent fireworks out of consideration for others, and the use of these technologies by major events would further increase their popularity.

In 2024, a report revealed that blasts kill or injure over 100 horses a year, a 1 million–strong petition called for greater restrictions on these menacing missiles, and two endangered red pandas died after booms shook Edinburgh around bonfire night.

In 2025, event organisers must embrace stunning spectacles that everyone can enjoy and celebrate without leaving devastation in their wake.

Yours sincerely,

Elisa Allen

Vice President of Programmes

PETA Foundation

Society Building

8 All Saints Street

London N1 9RL

+44 (0) 20 7837 6327

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home calls for community support to reach its Winter Appeal goal

As the festive season brings warmth to many homes, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is calling for a final wave of support for its Winter Appeal to ensure no pet—or person—feels abandoned during these difficult months.

With record demand for its services this year, the Home aims to raise £134,500 through its Winter Appeal to cover the rising costs of care, including £22,000 for heating over the cold months. 

Over the past year, the Home has processed 1,635 surrender requests, a figure nearly matching the entire estimated dog population of Edinburgh’s EH1 postcode. The rise in demand this year has brought extraordinary challenges for Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, leaving the home in a position where it has no choice but to turn people away. 

Between January and June 2024, the helpline handled an incredible 17,995 calls, exceeding the total of 17,021 calls received in all of 2023.

These calls amounted to 872 hours of support—equivalent to watching all of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films 44 times. From desperate surrender requests to heartfelt pleas for advice on keeping pets during financial struggles, each call highlights the vital role the helpline plays in supporting pet owners through challenging times. More than numbers, the calls represent people in crisis, seeking support and reassurance during some of their darkest days. 

Amid these challenges, due to the hard work of the Home, there have been bright moments, too. So far this year, the Home found loving families for 216 cats and dogs and reunited 95 missing pets, proving that even in difficult times, hope and happy endings are possible. 

Beyond rehoming animals, the Home provides vital emotional support to pet owners through its helpline. Each call represents a person or family facing tough decisions—seeking guidance, advice, or just a compassionate ear. The team works tirelessly to keep pets in loving homes whenever possible, offering signposting to resources, training tips, and practical advice. 

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “We’ve seen an overwhelming demand for our services this year.

“Each call we take, and each family we support, reminds us why this work is so vital. Our Winter Appeal is about ensuring we can continue being a beacon of hope for pets and their people in the toughest of times.

“Every donation, big or small, makes a real difference.” 

Staggering operational costs mean that every penny raised will ensure that the animals of the Home are well cared for this winter and donors can be part of creating more stories like Maple’s—a young dog rescued in desperate need of care who now thrives in her forever home.  

Donations of as little as £10 can provide essential vaccinations for a cat, while £150 could keep all the Home’s dogs warm for the day. 

Founded in 1883, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has been a lifeline for the community for over 140 years, relying entirely on public donations to sustain its vital work.   

To support the Winter Appeal, visit www.edch.org.uk/winterappeal or text WARMHEARTS to 70085 to donate £10. 

Pet expert shares tips to keep your pet calm this Bonfire Night


Bonfire Night can be a very stressful time for a pet owner and their pet. The loud crashes, bangs and booms, and inability to pinpoint where they are coming from can be extremely distressing for a dog and they can perceive it as a threat. The anxiety can also be caused by the smell of the gunpowder, the reaction of other pets or owners and the lights flashing.

If you’re worried your dog is struggling with anxiety from fireworks, some of the key signs include: shaking, whining, hiding and refusing to go out, restless, and clingy. To help pet owners across the country, Bella & Duke’s Expert Dog Behaviourist, Nikki Mather has shared some tips to limit anxiety and combat stress on Bonfire Night in the future:

  1. A long walk or run before dark: This will allow your dog to get their energy out and ensure they’re able to get home before most fireworks are likely to be let off.
  2. Providing a safe space: Having the curtains closed to avoid the flashes of light, provide a bed or crate with a cover that they can hide in, and you can be nearby for comfort, play white noise to help drown out the sound of the fireworks, and reduce stress in your dog.
  3. Be there for your dog: A good option would be to wear comfort clothes that have a familiar scent for your dog and to allow them to cuddle up for reassurance if they are seeking that. Try to remain calm for them so they don’t sense your anxiety for them.
  4. Use calming products: You can purchase calming sprays that can be beneficial to helping your dog relax, chew toys and treats are also a good option to help distract them and relax them – and also just to have a well-deserved treat at an anxious time!
  5. Preparation and patience: Being prepared can help manage your dog’s anxiety ahead of time, instead of acting once they are already afraid. Find out when any local events are planned to reduce the element of surprise and have your safe space and any products, treats or music you may be using ready to go.


Nikki Mather, Expert Dog Behaviourist at Bella & Duke, said: “We all hate to see our pets suffering and seeing the anxiety they go through when hearing fireworks is heartbreaking.

“While there are steps we can take as pet owners to limit the stress they go through, unfortunately there isn’t a magic fix. Patience and preparation will be your greatest allies and remaining calm yourself can help in keeping our pets’ distress to a minimum at this time of the year.”

To find out more information on how to keep your pets calm during Bonfire Night please visit www.bellaandduke.com