Animal charity The Humane League UK marked the 200 year anniversary of the UK’s first animal welfare law by asking the UK Government to ban cages for egg-laying hens with a demo outside Parliament yesterday.
Carrying banners saying ‘Let’s make cages history’, each protester represented a historical era which has passed since the first animal welfare law was introduced two centuries ago wearing costumes from Victorian three-piece suits, to flapper dresses and 90s grunge get-ups.
According to a survey by Atomik Research, one third of people believe that egg-laying hens have better lives now than they did 200 years ago, despite factory and cage farming not being invented in 1822.
The survey also found that of those who eat eggs, 72% say that buying free-range is important to them.
Singer Sinitta, who endorsed the campaign, said: “It completely boggles my mind that hens suffer more today than hundreds of years ago. We’ve invented planes, cars, antibiotics, telephones, and the internet but when it comes to our treatment of innocent farmed animals things have arguably gotten worse.
“This is unacceptable – we must ban cages for hens.”
Dr Marc Abraham OBE, media vet and author, says: “There’s going to be a change of government soon and, although disruptive, this can present a major opportunity for change.
“They need to realise that a significantly high proportion of British people want cruel and exploitative cages banned outright, as they should. It’s not fair keeping energetic, intelligent, and curious animals like hens in steel wire boxes, where they suffer unnaturally shortened and miserable lives.
“If those in power refuse to act on their own pro-animal welfare mandate, the nation’s animal-lovers will just keep campaigning until the health and wellbeing of animals is finally and fully respected.”
On July 22nd 1822 Parliament passed The Cruel Treatment of Cattle Act which protected cows, horses, mules and sheep from beatings and abuse.
It was the first piece of animal welfare legislation in the world, and was masterminded by Irish MP and colonel Richard ‘Humanity Dick’ Martin, who defended animals so vigorously he fought at least one duel over cruelty to a dog.
Battery cages began to find wide use in farming from the 1940s onwards and, although barren battery cages were banned in the UK in 2012, millions of hens remain trapped in marginally larger ‘enriched’ cages.
Around 14 million hens, or 35% of the UK’s flock, are still kept in these cages which frustrate natural behaviours like wing-stretching, foraging and dust-bathing.
This is despite strong public opposition to such practices.
The government confirmed last month in the End the Cage Age debate that there would be a consultation on the use of cages for laying hens and farrowing crates for pigs.
Without a ban, members of the public can never be sure that they aren’t purchasing eggs from cruelly caged hens, as even with 80-90% of the egg industry committed to going cage-free by 2025 that will leave 4.2 to 8.4 million birds in cages supplying small single location businesses and restaurants.
These protests form part of Beatrice’s Campaign, which seeks to ban cages for hens and is led by UK charities The Humane League UK, RSPCA, and Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation.
The campaign is named after Beatrice, a hen who was rescued from a cage and now thrives with her adoptive family in Wiltshire, having regrown all the feathers she’d lost during her previous, stress-filled life.
Over two million1 kitties are eating away from home with potentially devastating effects on their health
One in six pet parents (14 per cent) have put their cat on a diet because they get fed seconds – and thirds! – by their neighbours
Cat behaviourist, Nicky Trevorrow, shares her tips for ensuring a healthy and happy cat
Cats are courting more than just other people’s affections according to a new survey which found that nearly a third of cat caregivers (30 per cent) suspect their neighbours of feeding their beloved kitty titbits, treats and even full meals2.
Makers of proper food for pets Lily’s Kitchen, which commissioned the poll, is urging people to serve up ‘tough love’ instead. With findings showing that one in six owners (16 per cent) believe their cat is overweight because of being fed by well-meaning neighbours, it highlights that ‘dining out’ can have an impact on our cats’ health.
14 per cent of those surveyed have even admitted to putting their feline friend on a diet as a result.
What is more, it appears our cats are regularly playing away, with nearly two-thirds of pet parents (64 per cent) saying their cat pays visits to ‘other humans’. Admitting their moggies stand them up, staying out all hours of the day and night, a third (34 per cent) say their outings last five or more hours every day.
But our cats’ intrepid nature can end up with more serious consequences than just missing your kitty. Highlighting the impact of treating someone else’s pet, 34 per cent said their cat ‘eating out’ was a real source of stress for them, while 17 per cent have fallen out with neighbours for feeding their feline without permission.
And proving just how damaging this can be, a worrying 19 per cent of owners questioned describe their cat as overweight.
Gaining some extra rolls isn’t the only cause for concern when it comes to feeding cats you don’t know. It’s not uncommon for cats to have allergies or other special dietary requirements related to medical conditions, so falling for the charms of a wide-eyed kitty could lead to more than just disgruntled neighbours.
However, despite pet parents feeling put out by neighbours feeding their own cat, and proving how hard it can be to ignore feline charm, 32 per cent of the same people admitted they themselves have fed local cats, with a whopping 73 per cent feeding them daily or weekly.
Nicky Trevorrow, Cats Protection’s Behaviour Manager, says: “Obesity is a significant welfare issue for our feline friends that can affect their health and behaviour. All cat caregivers should ensure that they feed a good quality, complete food and avoid feeding too many titbits.
It’s important for caregivers to keep an eye on their cat’s weight. You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily when you stroke their body lightly and you should clearly see a waistline when you look at them from above.
“If you are in any doubt, speak to a veterinary professional about your cat’s weight and how best to reduce it if necessary. However, even the most diligent owners can still face difficulties with their majestic moggy and their weight, if their cat has a penchant for scoping out food at the neighbour’s house.
“If a cat spends a lot of time at the neighbour’s house, it is important to consider why that may be. In a lot of instances it can be that they get extra food and treats there – this, of course, is very enticing and reinforces the cat’s inclination to visit.
“However, many cats will avoid their homes if there are a lot of stressors present, for example, non-socially bonded cats, toddlers or other stressors. It is therefore always worth evaluating your home set-up to see if it is actively encouraging your cat to go seeking other homes and additional meals.
“For all cats, but especially indoor-only cats, it is important to provide them with plenty of play and enrichment to keep them active and burning off calories. A few short play sessions, with a good fishing rod toy, spread throughout the day can help with this.”
How much a cat needs to eat depends on a variety of factors, but as a guide, on average, a healthy and active outdoor adult cat needs around 275 calories a day3. And it doesn’t take much over-feeding for them to start piling on the pounds.
Feeding your moggy proper, nutritious food could even stop them from popping out for sneaky seconds or hunting for ‘takeaways’. According to a recent study by the University of Exeter4, feeding a delicious meal rich in meat protein, such as Lily’s Kitchen recipes, resulted in a 36% reduction in hunting.
Samantha Crossley, Marketing Director at Lily’s Kitchen, comments: “As much as we love our cats, they are rebels whose affections often spread beyond their owners – and their food bowls. Outdoor cats can roam and do as they please, which can often mean neighbours find themselves at the mercy of a loveable kitty begging them for scraps; when they turn on the charm, it’s hard to resist!
“At Lily’s Kitchen we know the importance of good nutrition, and that means not only proper food and complete recipes, but the right quantity of that food. Lots of owners will know all too well that cats can very easily become overweight, and although the extra tummy rolls might mean an extra cuddly hug, it can have a detrimental effect on their overall health.
“As a pet parent, choosing proper food that your cat goes wild for may wellreduce the chance of them dining out, or prowling for a takeaway and piling on the pounds. Exeter University’s recent study found that feeding cats food containing proper meat has a number of benefits including a reduction in hunting behaviours… it may leave them satisfied enough to reduce their visits to no. 31 as well!”
A new report from Open Cages has found that in order to meet demand for the UK’s favourite meat, 61 million chickens died before slaughter last year as a result of major welfare issues.
The authors blame supermarkets like Morrisons for continuing to source meat from genetically engineered “Frankenchickens” whilst M&S, Waitrose, KFC and retailers all over Europe move rapidly towards the Better Chicken Commitment.
Today – animal welfare charity Open Cages has published a scathing report:
Chicken is Britain’s most popular meat, with consumption far outstripping beef, lamb or pork. Nearly 1.2 billion chickens were killed last year to meet demand, with most meat coming from ultra fast-growing Frankenchickens raised in conditions so crowded that in their last weeks an individual bird would have more room in the oven.
Citing figures from DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), the authors claim 61 million chickens died before reaching the slaughterhouse last year as a result of these practices. Around 1.2 million chickens are dying every week.
The intensive conditions routinely cause debilitating welfare issues. The authors estimate that last year nearly 5 million chickens may have suffered heart attacks, 15 million may have had their necks broken by farmers due to severe lameness and over 24 million may have died from infection.
The authors argue that shoppers are manipulated by supermarkets dishing out “deceptive” labels and marketing campaigns which give the false impression that chickens are well cared for. Another recent report accused supermarkets of bombarding consumers with deals and offers on “unsustainable” meat from intensive farms.
Supermarkets like Tesco, Morrisons and Co-op are blamed for “refusing” to sign the RSPCA & Defra-backedBetter Chicken Commitment (BCC) – a policy of improved welfare standards that prohibits the use of ultra fast-growing Frankenchickens and overcrowded conditions. Currently, the vast majority of supermarket chicken comes from the fastest growing breeds available which suffer the highest rates of premature death.
300 companies across the UK and Europe have signed the BCC, including KFC, Nestle and Subway. It is estimated that 27% of the UK’s chickens are covered by the commitment, along with large supermarkets in France, Germany, Denmark, Spain and Poland.M&S and Waitrose are so far the only UK supermarkets to pledge.
Open Cages CEO & Co-Founder Connor Jackson comments:“The scale of suffering behind cheap chicken may be shocking to consumers, but to our major supermarkets it’s business as usual.
“They know full well that 1 in 3 Frankenchickens can barely walk, that millions die of heart attack, and that millions more die of horrendous diseases. And still, not only do even the self proclaimed “high welfare” and “ethical” retailers like Morrisons and Co-op continue to sell Frankenchickens, to package their meat as “welfare assured”, and to tell us Brits that they care deeply about animal welfare … they do all this knowing that alternatives are available.
“Hundreds of companies like M&S, Waitrose and even KFC have signed the Better Chicken Commitment, taking the lead in improving animal welfare. Instead of following, supermarkets like Morrisons ignore and bury the issue behind feel good marketing campaigns and PR spin. But these findings prove once and for all that it is all just a story to keep us coming back to the checkout: animals pay the ultimate price for cheap chicken.”
Chris Packham’s petition calling on UK supermarkets to sign the BCC has gained nearly a quarter of a million signatures. A recent YouGov poll found that a majority of Brits strongly oppose these types of farming practices even when taking cost savings to themselves into account.
The BBC’s Chris Packham comments: “I think consumers would be utterly disgusted to know that a million of these intelligent, sensitive birds are dying every week to get cheap chicken onto their plates.
“The misery these animals face on a daily basis is unnecessary and would outrage even the most ardent meat eaters, because it serves no purpose but to satisfy the profits of our major supermarkets who refuse to help them.
“Fortunately there are many things shoppers can do to help.
“As well as eating less meat to reduce demand, we can dramatically improve their lives in a matter of years simply by showing these large supermarkets that we want them to sign the Better Chicken Commitment.
“There must be a shift towards a middle ground of better, but affordable choices that will help us all take part in improving animal welfare without breaking the bank. It’s not fair for that opportunity to be reserved for only the well off.”
With extreme heat warnings in place across the UK, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe in hot weather.
The advice follows concerns that cases of heat-related illness seen by vets this year could rival the significant numbers seen during the record-breaking summer of 2018, when almost two-thirds of vets reported treating animals affected by the hot weather.
BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey in 2018 found that half of the vets had treated animals for heat stroke (51%) while more than one in three (36%) had seen animals requiring treatment for other conditions relating to hot weather, like breathing difficulties, heart conditions, burnt paw pads and sunburn.
Compared to 2015, the average number of cases of heatstroke and other heat-related conditions seen per vet that year had doubled and trebled, respectively.
Dogs may particularly struggle to stay cool in high temperatures and humid conditions since, unlike humans, they are unable to cool down quickly through sweating, making them vulnerable to overheating. Even a very short in the middle of the day or being locked in a car for a few minutes can prove to be fatal.
Flat-faced breeds such as English or French bulldogs and pugs are at even greater risk, as their short muzzles can make breathing difficult, and therefore they struggle to cool down through panting, which is a dog’s main way to cool its body temperature.
Overweight animals and densely coated animals are also at increased risk.
Like dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs cannot sweat or pant to regulate their body temperature and cool down, which is why it’s important that their hutch or run isn’t exposed to direct sunlight at any time of the day.
Flystrike is also a life-threatening risk for them in the warmer months, so daily inspection around their back end and under their tail is essential. Seek veterinary advice immediately if you see any maggots.
British Veterinary Association President Justine Shotton said:“While most of us look forward to warmer weather, our pets can suffer in high temperatures and humid conditions. Each year, vets across the country report seeing large numbers of cases involving pets who require treatment for heat-related conditions, and this saw a noticeable jump during the record-breaking heat of 2018.
“Vets know that dogs in particular won’t stop enjoying themselves and exercising because it is hot, so it’s up to owners to do all they can to prevent overheating happening in this heatwave. This includes making sure pets aren’t walked or exercised in the middle of a hot day or left inside a hot car or conservatory for even a little while, as ‘not long’ can prove fatal.
“If you’re concerned about your pet in the hot weather, we’d recommend contacting your vet immediately.”
Some breeds of cats and dogs, particularly those with lighter-coloured or finer fur, may also benefit from appropriate sun cream, especially on the ear tips, which are prone to sunburn. In the case of chronic exposure, it can even lead to potentially dangerous skin cancers.
Among dogs, breeds such as Dalmatians, Beagles, Whippets, white Boxers and white English Bull Terriers are among the most commonly affected.
Cats who like sunbathing on windowsills are also at risk of exposing themselves to a lot of sunlight through windows that are generally not UVA-protected.
Blue-eyed white cats are most susceptible, as well as the white-haired skin areas of short-haired cats.
Dr. Shotton added:“The best way to prevent sunburn is to avoid excessive sunlight exposure but, if that isn’t possible, you should apply pet-appropriate sunscreen 10-15 minutes before exposure.
“Products that are waterproof, with a high SPF (30 or higher) and containing titanium dioxide are suitable and should be applied as a thin smear.
“BVA recommends avoiding sunscreens with zinc oxide to avoid zinc toxicity. If pet-safe products are hard to find, hypoallergenic or baby human products may be suitable instead. It’s a good idea to consult a vet to make sure you are applying the right sunscreen correctly and in the right place.”
Vets’ top tips:
Make sure all pets always have access to fresh water to drink, adequate ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times. This includes birds in cages or aviaries and rabbits in hutches. Provide extra shade to guinea pigs by covering the top of wire mesh runs with damp towels.
Don’t exercise dogs in the hottest parts of the day: especially older dogs, overweight dogs, flat-faced breeds or dogs that you know have heart or lung problems. Stick to early morning or late evening walks.
Do the five-second tarmac test before taking a dog out for a walk; if it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Never leave dogs in vehicles. If you see a dog in distress inside a hot car, call 999.
Watch out for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination. Signs of heatstroke in rabbits include drooling, salivating, lethargy, short and shallow breaths, red and warm ears, wet nose and seizures.
If heatstroke or any other heat-related condition is suspected, take your pets to a cool, well-ventilated place, give it small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water to drink, and pour room-temperature water over it to cool it down. Seek immediate advice from your vet.
Spare a thought for wild animals. Keep out bowls of water for wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs.
Dogs Trust is spending the summer honouring their fantastic foster carers by shouting Thank Dog it’s Fostering Friday!
The charity’s bases in West Calder and Dundee are collaborating throughout the summer to share all the fantastic benefits fostering can bring to both people and dogs. The online celebration is inspired by the incredible efforts of the charity’s foster carers to help dogs prepare for the next stages of their rehoming journey.
Thank Dog it’s Fostering Friday, shortened to TDIFF, is a play on the popular phrase ‘Thank God It’s Friday’ (TGIF), typically used to mark the end of the working week. But for Dogs Trust, the celebration of foster carers isn’t limited to the weekend.
Over the next six weeks, Dogs Trust West Calder and Dogs Trust Dundee will be highlighting success stories, real-life fostering experiences, and the joys of opening your heart and home to a dog in need across their social media pages. Followers will also get a peek at all the dogs in their area currently looking for foster homes.
“We couldn’t rehome as many dogs as we do without the help of our foster carers,” said Shona Crosbie, Home from Home Coordinator at Dogs Trust West Calder. “We’re thankful for everything our carers do to help get our dogs back on their paws. And we know our dogs are grateful for their love and support too!”
Foster carers play a major role in helping dogs prepare for a happy future in a new home. There are countless advantages of getting involved in the scheme. It is the perfect way for dog lovers to experience the joy of rehoming without the long-term commitment. Fosterers also receive the committed support of the Dogs Trust team, being provided with everything they need to support their foster dog, from food and bedding to covering veterinary costs.
The event will promote Dogs Trust’s continued fostering expansion throughout Scotland. Having successfully rehomed 140 dogs through their fostering scheme in 2021, Dogs Trust West Calder have recently extended their Home from Home reach across the whole of the Lothians and the Scottish Borders. Dogs Trust Dundee launched earlier this year, rehoming their first dog in the northeast of Scotland in May.
Susan Tonner, West Calder’s Centre Manager said: “We would love to invite more people to join our Home from Home scheme. By recruiting more foster carers, we can increase our support across Scotland and find even more perfect homes for dogs in need.”
The six-week-long celebration will conclude with in-person events on Friday 12 August between 2pm-3.30pm. These events will be an excellent chance for budding participants to meet current foster carers, hear about their experiences, and ask questions. Dogs Trust Home from Home Coordinators will be on hand to provide information and share more about the benefits of fostering.
People based in the Lothians and Scottish Borders can attend an event on 12 August between 2-3.30pm at the Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in West Calder. Those based in the northeast of Scotland can join Dogs Trust Dundee at The Glass Pavilion in Broughty Ferry on 12 August between 2-3.30pm.
Follow the Thank Dog it’s Fostering Friday celebration by keeping an eye on #TDIFF on Twitter and Instagram. See all the latest updates on Dogs Trust West Calder on twitter @DT_WestCalder and Insta @dogstrust_westcalder and Dogs Trust Dundee on twitter @DT_Dundee_ and Insta @dt_dundee
CarStore and Battersea announce partnership to empower dog-owning customers to find the right car for them
With many set to take their pooches away with them this summer, new research of 2,000 dog owners has revealed more than two thirds of drivers (68%)* aren’t aware of the current rules surrounding car travel with dogs.
To mark the launch of CarStore’s partnership with leading animal welfare charity, Battersea, a new study suggests that over half (52%) of us are happiest while out driving with our dogs – yappy days! What’s more, 42% proclaim to treasure them as part of the family, so it’s troubling to find that despite this, 2 in 5 drivers are unknowingly breaking the rules when out travelling with their dogs.
While 1 in 5 (20%) don’t have a designated zone for their pooch, only half (54%) keep their dog restrained while out travelling and just 5% are aware of the severity of the repercussions of driving without due care and attention can entail (up to £5,000 and nine points on your driving licence), it’s clear there is a lot of confusion surrounding the rules of the road when out driving with our four-legged friends.
As one of the first used car brands in the UK to partner with a national animal charity, CarStore is delivering on its commitment to flex to the needs of contemporary car-seekers via the partnership.
Battersea will be hosting training sessions for CarStore Personal Advisors, educating them on how to manage experience centre visits from dog-owning customers and create a more dog friendly environment.
Personal Advisors will also be informed about the legal requirements surrounding car travel with dogs, and the equipment available to meet these requirements. Alongside this training, CarStore and Battersea will co-create useful advice and content to help improve customer understanding of the rules and requirements for travelling with their furry friends.
Kim Costello, Chief Marketing Officer at CarStore, said: “We know there has been a huge surge in pet ownership over the past 12-18 months and as a result, a likely need for individuals and families to purchase a new car to accommodate their new furry friends.
“This new alliance between CarStore and Battersea aims to help as many of the nation’s dog owners as possible find the right car for them.
“Specially trained by Battersea experts, our Personal Advisors will be equipped to support dog-owning customers with the car-buying process. Whether they’re looking for a car to accommodate a large German Shepherd, or something smaller to seat a Cockapoo and a small carrier, our Personal Advisors will be on hand to support and help customers find their perfect car.”
The survey suggested that many do not believe their car is currently practical for travelling with a dog, with almost half (49%) wishing they could do more to dog proof it. However, 10% confirmed they do not know where to source correct and accurate guidance, with many admitting to checking social media (18%) or forums online (18%) rather than reputable sources.
Rob Bays, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with CarStore to further help dog owners travel safely and wisely with their pets.
“With the good weather returning, many families may be looking to travel with their dogs during their staycations and Battersea wants to ensure dog owners have the right knowledge before embarking on a car journey with their pets.
“When in the car with your dog, it’s important that they are comfortable in their environment to reduce stress and anxiety, so familiarising your pet with your vehicle before embarking on a long journey will help them get used to travelling.
“It’s also important to ensure they are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you’re driving or injure you, or themselves, if you need to stop suddenly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, pet crate or guard are all suitable ways to travel safely with your pet.”
CarStore offers customers a combined approach when it comes to buying, selling, and purchasing a used vehicle, blending digital and physical locations to give customers the flexibility and freedom to approach the process in a way that works best for their lifestyle. CarStore’s impartial Personal Advisors provide expert advice and empower customers to make informed decisions that are right for them.
Visit the website to find out more about the partnership and access the content hub:
HOW TO KEEP DOGS COOL WHEN TRAVELLING DURING THE NEXT HEATWAVE
Parts of the UK are set for a second heatwave in the coming weeks, with temperatures set to reach 28C
Dogs are at increased risk of developing heat-related illnesses and start to suffer in just a few minutes
Battersea and CarStore have shared the key watchouts and guidance for looking after your dog in these hot temperatures
With temperatures set to soar again next week, reaching 28C or higher in some areas, it’s important for pet owners to know exactly what to do to keep their dogs safe when travelling in these balmy temperatures.
Looking after beloved pooches is all about planning ahead and being prepared. The aim is to keep them healthy, happy, and hydrated, to reduce the risk of the dog suffering from heatstroke – a genuine threat on a hot summer’s day.
To help drivers stay on top of things whilst out travelling this summer,CarStore have joined forces with Battersea to share their top tips for dog-owning drivers:
KEEP THE CAR COOL
If possible, put the air conditioning on for a few minutes before you set off on your travels, to allow the car to cool down before your dog gets in. Once on the move, make sure you have the windows open for ventilation and use sunshades on the windows, so your dog isn’t in direct sunlight.
You should also make sure your dog has access to water during the journey. The amount of time it takes for a dog to overheat in a car is much shorter than many people think, especially if your dog is long-haired or has a short snout – in some cases, it could be minutes or less. Many of these dogs have difficulty breathing and these problems are exacerbated in hot weather, even from 20°C.
TAKE CARE ON HOT SURFACES
Lots of surfaces heat up in the sun, such as leather car seats or the tarmac in a car park, and this can be painful for your dog’s paws, causing injuries such as blisters. If in doubt, check for yourself using the palm of your hand. If it feels too hot for you, the chances are your dog will feel the same. Use a towel or dog bed in your car to ensure your dog is not sat directly on a hot seat whilst on the move.
PLAN STOPS ON YOUR JOURNEY
If you’re travelling for any kind of significant distance, make sure you take a route that has enough places to stop, so not only can the human passengers take a break, but your dog/s can stretch their legs, go to the toilet, rehydrate, and have a cooling treat too. We would recommend setting off earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler and there is less traffic, if possible.
NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE IN THE CAR
Cars can get very warm, very quickly, and this can be deadly for your dog. Even if your car is parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable, and develop heatstroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan so your dog isn’t left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces. If you see a dog in a hot car, dial 999.
LOOK OUT FOR HEATSTROKE
When your dog gets too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature they are at risk of developing heatstroke, which can be fatal. The signs to look out for include:
Heavy panting
Glazed eyes
A rapid pulse
Excessive drooling
Lack of coordination, or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you need to act fast. Immediately take them to a cool, shaded area and ring your nearest vet clinic.
Once in the shade, lay them down on a towel soaked in cold water and let them drink small amounts of cool water. Never place them directly into ice cold water or give them too much to drink as they may go into shock. Try to keep cooling them down while you take them to the vets.
Wherever you’re heading, we wish you and your dog a summer full of safe and cool car journeys.
For more tips on how to keep your dog cool in summer, visit the CarStore site, or for pet advice, the Pet Advice section on the Battersea Cats and Dogs Home website is full of expert information.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued its annual warning to pet owners to take extra precautions when walking dogs around freshwater bodies, as warm weather conditions spark concerns about an increased risk of toxic blue green algae growth over the coming months.
The warning follows on the heels of confirmed algal bloom sightings in lakes, ponds or rivers in around 50 locations across the UK, including Millarochy Bay, Pullar’s Loch and several other locations in Scotland, as identified by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s (UKCEH) Bloomin’ Algae app. In late April, a cocker spaniel died of suspected blue green algae poisoning after a swim in Anton Lakes, Hampshire.
Blue green algae, or cyanobacteria, are a group of bacteria that can contain dangerous toxins which can be harmful and potentially fatal to pets, livestock and birds if ingested even in small quantities.
The algae may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water. Dogs can swallow it by drinking water from an affected lake, river or pond or while licking their fur after going for a swim. It’s possible for dogs to come into contact with the bacteria even if they don’t go into water for a paddle, as toxic blooms are often blown to the edges of water bodies.
According to trend data supplied by Professor Alan Radford and his team at SAVSNET, University of Liverpool, suspected or confirmed cases reported by veterinary practices peak in July and August, at the height of the summer season, and aren’t restricted to any one part of the UK.
British Veterinary Association President Justine Shotton said:“Many dogs love nothing more than a paddle in a lake to cool off in this weather, but we’d urge pet owners to keep them on a lead during walks near water bodies confirmed to have algal blooms this summer. The majority of blooms are toxic and it is impossible to tell the difference visually, so it is better to be safe than sorry.
“It is also important to be aware of the symptoms of exposure. These commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. They can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, depending on the type of toxin ingested, and can cause liver damage and ultimately be rapidly fatal if left untreated.
“There is currently no known antidote for the toxins, so dog owners should seek prompt veterinary treatment to tackle their effects and ensure a good chance of recovery for their pet.”
Dr Linda May, a freshwater ecologist at UKCEH, explained:“All reports of suspected blue-green algae are rapidly available to view via the Bloomin’ Algae app, so by submitting records, people are providing a useful early warning to pet owners and watersports enthusiasts.
“A photograph must be included with all reports so we can quickly check if the bloom is blue-green algae or something harmless.”
BVA has issued the following advice for pet owners:
Keep pets on a lead and by your side around water bodies known or suspected to have a blue-green algal bloom – don’t let pets swim in it or drink from it.
If your dog has been swimming outside, wash its coat thoroughly with clean water afterwards.
Seek emergency veterinary treatment if you’re concerned your pet may have ingested toxic algae.
Report sightings of suspected blue-green algae with a photograph via the Bloomin’ Algae app. You can also set up notifications for confirmed sightings in your area.
Twenty five MSPs joined Cats Protection at a parliamentary reception in Holyrood to discuss the charity’s work across Scotland to improve feline welfare including through its campaigning work.
The event, on 16 June, was sponsored by Mark Ruskell MSP and held to highlight ways that politicians can help support Scotland’s 685,000 pet cats and their owners.
Among the work discussed was Cats Protection’s campaign to encourage more landlords to allow tenants to keep pet cats, and its calls for compulsory microchipping of pet cats in Scotland.
Cats Protection’s Advocacy & Government Relations Officer for Scotland Alice Palombo said: “It was wonderful to welcome so many MSPs who were keen to find out how they can support cats and the people who care about them.
“Scotland is a nation of cat lovers, with 20% of households owning one, so their welfare is important to a huge number of people. While Scotland already has some strong legislation in place to protect cats, there is always more that can be done, such as banning snares and introducing fireworks licensing. We were pleased to discuss these priorities with so many MSPs as part of our work to help cats in Scotland.”
Cats Protection, the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, has a Scottish network of 24 volunteer-run branches, four adoption centres, and nine charity shops which also offer advice on cat care. In 2021, the charity rehomed 2,500 cats in Scotland and helped neuter 10,500 cats and microchip 1,600 cats.
To find out more about the charity’s campaigning work, please visit:
Extreme temperatures and unprotected exposure to the sun can be dangerous to pets, the UK’s leading cat charity has warned as the country experiences scorching hot weather.
Cats Protection is keen to remind cat owners of the health risks of sun exposure, such as dehydration, exhaustion and sunburn. In the worst cases, sun-related cancer can be a problem for cats, especially on their ears and noses.
Keep pet cats indoors when the sun is at its hottest, typically between 10am and 3pm.
Speak to a vet about suitable sunscreen for pet cats.
Provide opportunities for shade outdoors, such as cat hides, large cardboard boxes, or plant plots placed close together.
There is a risk of your cat becoming dehydrated in the heat, so always provide an outdoor water source.
To stop cats feeling overheated, place a plastic bottle with frozen water inside a towel and place it in an area that the cat frequently visits.
Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer for Cats Protection, said: “White and pale-coloured cats don’t have a pigment called melanin in their skin, which is what protects humans from sunlight. This can leave them vulnerable to sun damage – usually around the ears.
“Over time, the damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase the risk of developing skin damage and cancer. Cats with unpigmented noses or ears are also much more susceptible to sun damage and require additional sun protection.”
Dehydration is a particular risk during warm weather. Cats need to remain well hydrated to maintain a normal body temperature, remove waste products and maintain proper circulation, and it is important to ensure that fresh water is always available.
To check if your cat is at risk of dehydration, try some of these tips:
Look at their gums. If they are tacky, this may be a first sign of dehydration.
Check their eyes. Severely sunken, dry eyes could indicate significant dehydration.
Feel their paws. If the paws feel cool or cold, this could be a sign of dehydration
Test skin elasticity. In a well-hydrated cat, the skin should snap back into place immediately. If it doesn’t, it could well be dehydrated.
With household budgets facing increased pressures due to the rise in the cost of living, at vet charity PDSA, we’re issuing a life-saving X-ray appeal to help us continue providing essential care for sick and injured pets whose owners struggle to pay for their treatments.
X-rays sit at the heart of our emergency treatments and help us to diagnose why a pet is in pain. Amazingly, PDSA carries out one X-ray every two minutes across our 48 Pet Hospitals but, at £135 per procedure, they are a costly yet critical part of our work to get our beloved pets back on their paws.
Our devoted veterinary teams provide free and low cost care for thousands of UK pets every day, offering them a fighting chance of survival and the ability to return home to their loving families.
