Tag: Dogs Trust

Pet charities unite to issue hot weather warning to cat and dog owners

Cats Protection and Dogs Trust have joined forces to help owners keep their cats and dogs safe in the sun this summer.

The two leading pet charities say that despite their different quirks and behaviours, cats and dogs are equally as vulnerable when it comes to hot weather.

Alison Richards, Head of Clinical Services for Cats Protection, said: “We’re a nation of pet lovers and whether you’re a cat person or a dog person – or maybe a bit of both – you’ll want to keep your pet safe this summer.

“Many pets love to enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s important to bear in mind that very hot weather can put them at risk of illness and injury.”

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, says: “The sunshine might be great for us, however hot weather can cause problems for our canine friends. 

“Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken, especially when exercising or travelling in the car. In this weather, there is no safe amount of time to leave your dog alone in the car, even if you leave the window open.  

“The good news is that steps can be taken to prevent our dogs suffering, such as only walking dogs in the coolest parts of the day, reducing their exercise, ensuring dogs have access to somewhere cool and shady to lay down and making sure they always have access to fresh water.”

The two charities have come up with a checklist to help owners keep cats and dogs safe this summer:  

  • Be sun safe: Very hot weather can cause serious injuries in both cats and dogs.  Dogs walked on tarmac can suffer painful burns to their paws, so it’s important to check the ground on warm days. You can do this by holding your hand to the ground for five seconds – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. While cats will generally find themselves a cool spot on hot days, it’s important to remember they can suffer sunburn and develop skin cancer. Cats with white ears are particularly at risk, so speak to your vet about suitable suncream.  
  • Keep cool: Heatstroke can be serious for both cats and dogs and in some cases, it can be fatal. It’s a good idea to keep your pet indoors between 10am and 3pm on hot days and wait until it’s cooler in the evening to walk dogs or let cats outside. Even in mild temperatures, the biggest cause of heatstroke in dogs is exercise. In both cats and dogs, brachycephalic breeds – those with flat faces such as pugs or Persian cats – will be at increased risk of heatstroke, as their short facial structure can cause breathing difficulties and make it harder for them to keep cool. Kittens, puppies and elderly cats and dogs will also be at higher risk, as will those which have underlying health conditions.  
  • Signs of heatstroke: Cats or dogs suffering with heatstroke will need urgent veterinary treatment, so owners should be familiar with the signs. For both cats and dogs, this can include heavy breathing or panting, excessive drooling, diarrhoea, confusion, restlessness, vomiting, being drowsy and collapsing. If you suspect your pet has been affected by heatstroke, call your vet immediately for advice.   
  • Water and shade: Just like humans, cats and dogs can easily become dehydrated in hot weather, so make sure they have plenty of fresh water. Pop an extra water bowl in the garden if your pet is outdoors a lot, and make sure pets always have access to shade.
  • Be plant aware: Some garden plants can be highly poisonous, so take a look around the garden to see if there’s anything which may pose a risk to your pet. Lilies are particularly dangerous for cats, and ingesting just a small amount of pollen can be fatal.
  • Garden hazards: Most cats and dogs love spending more time in the garden in warm weather, so take a few minutes every week to check its safe for them. Check fences for any broken panels which dogs can escape from, or any sharp edges which may catch your pet. If you keep chemicals, engine oils or antifreeze in your shed, make sure these cannot be reached by inquisitive pets, as these can be toxic.
  • Never leave pets in cars: Pets should never be left alone in cars as even just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal. As cats and dogs can’t cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.   If you see a pet in a car in distress, call 999 immediately.  

For more information on keeping cats and dogs safe this summer, visit:

 cats.org.uk or dogstrust.org.uk

Dogs Trust delivers Christmas hope to people experiencing homelessness across Scotland 

The Christmas elves at Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, are busy getting ready to spread Christmas cheer across Scotland by delivering gifts to the canine companions of people experiencing homelessness.  

Every Christmas, through its Together Through Homelessness scheme, Dogs Trust brings festive cheer to the dogs of people experiencing homelessness by delivering canine hampers of collars, leads, coats, treats and toys to dogs and their owners.

Dogs Trust has been running the unique service for over 30 years and as well as Christmas gifts, provides free veterinary treatment to dogs whose owners are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness.  

 In recent months* Together Through Homelessness have seen an 82% rise in phone enquiries, as Crisis Homelessness Monitor 2023 shows that homelessness is on the rise in the UK. 

This year, Together Through Homelessness will deliver almost 2,000 Christmas parcels to dogs and their owners at over 215 homelessness services across the UK. Services in Scotland that benefited from the scheme include Scottish Veterans Residences, Simon Community, All4Paws, The Salvation Army, Big Issue and Right There. 

Richard Kerr of Streetwork at Simon Community Scotland, says: “The hampers from Dogs Trust benefit the people we are working with massively. It is a great idea and gives our clients and their dogs an experience that they might otherwise not have.

“The people we work with are generally very attached to their animals and create very strong bonds with their companions as in some cases they don’t have anyone in their lives that they can rely on for companionship. I know this support means a lot to our clients.” 

Megan Evans, Together Through Homelessness Team Leader at Dogs Trust, explains:  “Everyone knows that the bond between a dog and its owner is a strong one but for people experiencing homelessness, the bond is often unbreakable. Christmas can be an especially difficult and lonely time for people in housing crisis, but the company of a canine friend can often help to ease some of this loneliness.” 

“However, thanks to the generosity of Dogs Trust supporters, this year we’ll spread a little bit of Christmas cheer and help almost 2,000 dogs celebrate Christmas with their best friends. Not only that, but we will be able to continue to support them into the New Year and beyond so that more dogs can stay with their owners, regardless of their housing situation”. 

As well as distributing Christmas hampers and offering free veterinary treatments Together Through Homelessness supports homelessness services to accept clients with dogs and helps them put in place practical guidelines.  
 
To support Dogs Trust Together Through Homelessness and help dogs and their owners who are experiencing homelessness, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/how-we-help/hope-project/donate 

Long-legged and short-legged dogs: Do they measure up to what you are looking for?

Dogs Trust West Calder is on a mission to promote their lovely long-legged and somewhat shorter-legged dogs with their ‘Long and the Short of It’ rehoming promotion.   

When considering adopting a dog people may initially focus on their size thinking of lanky long-legged lurchers or gangly greyhounds sprawling on the sofa or a short-legged tiny terrier scampering around.  However, the team at West Calder believe it’s important to recognise that all dogs have unique qualities and personalities beyond their physical appearance and never to rule out a dog due to its size.   

As part of the promotion dogs currently available for adoption are being renamed according to their leg length with a ‘Long and the Short of It’ event being held on Sunday 11th June. Anyone thinking of rehoming a dog now or in the future is welcome to come along to West Calder Rehoming Centre between 12 and 4pm to learn more all about the range of qualities unique to each of the dogs currently available for rehoming at the centre.   

West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager Susan Tonner said: “A dog’s size is often one of the first things people consider when choosing a dog. We currently have 14 dogs that we have renamed Longlegs or Shortlegs as we wanted to find a fun way of showing that long or short legged dogs each have very different personalities that might surprise you beyond their first physical impression.  

“We believe if you limit yourself to choosing a dog by size alone, you could miss out on the dog of your dreams. We hope people will get involved in the promotion and come and meet some of our fantastic dogs up for adoption.” 

Long-legged and short-legged dogs currently awaiting their forever homes include: 

Scooby Shortlegs is a nine-year-old terrier. He is a playful and lively little dog who is a massive sports fan, with football being his speciality. As keen explorer, he loves to travel and is always up for an adventure. After having lots of playtime he loves to snuggle under his cosy blankets keeping warm and snug.  

Stuart Shortlegs is a seven-year-old Jack Russell Terrier. He is a little pocket rocket with the cheekiest personality. He loves his carers and will always welcome them with the cutest wiggle and waggiest tail. He loves to go for walks, is very playful and can often be found carrying his favourite toys. 

Lucy Longlegs is a three-year-old Lurcher who is the smartest dog we know. She loves to learn and has lots of fun tricks to show you. She is sweet, affectionate, and loves to stretch her long legs by chasing after a bouncy ball. 

Levi Longlegs is a three-year-old Lurcher who is a gentle boy with the best ears in the world. He loves to chill and relax in your company. He enjoys his walks, playing with his favourite teddys and snuggling up next to you on the sofa. 

You can view all the dogs patiently awaiting new homes at West Calder Rehoming Centre here: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/west-calder or call 01506 873 459.  

You can follow the team at West Calder on Instagram @dogstrust_westcalder and twitter @DT_WestCalder 

Dogs Trust Dundee celebrates a milestone first year of rehoming from foster home

Within a year, 49 dogs have had their lives transformed thanks to Dogs Trust Dundee and their team of volunteer foster carers.   

With no traditional rehoming centre in Dundee, Dogs Trust launched its unique approach to finding dogs new homes in the area in April 2022, rehoming dogs direct from foster homes within Dundee, Tayside, Fife and Perthshire. 

Dogs Trust Dundee now has 12 Home from Home foster carers who volunteer their time by providing a temporary home for dogs being cared for by the charity until they find their forever families.   

This small but mighty team has achieved great success within the year by finding loving new homes for 45 rescue dogs with a further four currently available for adoption. 

Magic milestone moments from the charity’s first year of rehoming in Dundee include: 

·       Cockapoo puppy Ollie (above) was the first dog to be rehomed through the scheme, finding a permanent home in Perthshire with his foster carer who couldn’t bear to part with him. Ollie also made a guest appearance at the charity’s Holyrood Dog of the Year Competition in May 2022 being paired with Claire Adamson MSP. 

·       15 of the dogs rehomed have been Older Age Pooches – with the oldest perfect pooch to find a new home being 14-year-old collie Angel 

·       29 of the dogs were male with 16 females 

·       The top three most popular breeds finding homes were Terriers (19), Labrador/cross (5) and Poodle/cross (5). 

·       Dandy and Beano, named after the comic magazines published by Dundee based publishers DC Thomson, featured on TV news and in the Scottish press before finding their new home together in Renfrewshire. 

·       Murphy the poodle cross was the quickest dog rehomed, being adopted just seven days after arriving in foster. Murphy is now enjoying lots of walks and cuddles in his new home in Fife. 

·       Dogs have been rehomed across Scotland, including to Bridge of Don, Nairn and the Isle of Skye. 

·       The Home from Home team attended 25 local events throughout the year including Broughty Ferry Gala, Dundee Dog Show, Arbroath Fun Dog Show and Dundee Dog Barket. 

·       The Dundee team held three ‘Thank Dog It’s Fostering Friday’ events for members of the public interested in finding out more about fostering in Perth, Dundee and Arbroath. 

Megan Wilkinson, Home from Home Co-ordinator at Dogs Trust Dundee said:  “It’s fantastic that our foster scheme has taken off within Dundee and surrounding areas allowing us to give all these wonderful dogs the chance of a lifetime by going into a home temporarily, until we find them a forever one.

“Some dogs may take a little longer than others to rehome but, as we have found, there really is a home out there for every dog. Our Home from Home fostering has also given people the chance to rehome a dog in their local area which is good for locals and the dogs. 

“Rehoming all of these dogs in need would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of our volunteer foster carers who do such an amazing job.  We cannot thank them enough. 

“It’s also important for us to remind people in the area that we are here to help anyone wrestling with the difficult decision to give up their dog.  For anyone in the area concerned about continuing to care for their dog for whatever reason, please reach out to us and we will do everything we can to help.” 

Anyone interested in rehoming from Dogs Trust Dundee should visit: 

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/dundee 

To find out more about fostering or to speak to the team about your dog please call the Home from Home team on 07918606722 or 07780469309.  

Gorgeous Gregor’s gold star report from foster carers

An eight-year-old Shar-pei who has received a gold star report from his Dogs Trust foster carers is hoping being on his best behaviour will help him find his forever home.  

Gorgeous Gregor arrived at the charity’s West Calder Rehoming Centre in May 2022 after being found as a stray. It didn’t take long for staff to realise Gregor wasn’t suited to life in kennels, so a temporary foster home was sought. 

Gregor landed on his paws when he first went into foster care in July 2022 with Fiona Jardine from Grangemouth. She said Gregor was a very well-behaved boy and perfect house guest.   

Gregor is now enjoying life in a foster home with Meta Brockie from Dunfermline who said: “Gregor is a wonderful, calm, gentle and easy going dog. He has a very sweet nature and is friends with everyone he meets whether dog or human.

“”When out walking he takes his time and loves to stop and look at what people are doing rather like a nosey neighbour.  He is also very funny, loves his food and sleeps through the night.  There really is nothing not to like about Gregor.”

Shona Crosbie, Home from Home Coordinator at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Gregor’s personality is now shining bright after what has been an unsettling time in his life. He has lived in two foster homes now with both of his foster carers agreeing what a delight he is in the home. 

“A dog can be in foster from a few days to a few weeks, with the average time being 21 days.  Gregor has been in foster nearly eight months and we cannot understand why he hasn’t been snapped up.  He has the looks, a loving nature, is housetrained and is very well-mannered. We are keen to hear from anyone who thinks our gorgeous boy could be the canine companion for them. 

“We are so grateful to Fiona, Meta and all our foster carers for everything they do for dogs like Gregor.  For dogs that cannot adapt to life in a rehoming centre having the option of a foster home is vital for their happiness and wellbeing.  We learn so much more about our dogs when they are in a home environment and this also helps with finding them the right forever home.  Our foster carers are simply the best.” 

While Gregor is friendly on his walks, happily saying hello to dogs of all shapes and sizes, he is looking for a home where he is the only pet.

He could live in a home with children aged 16 and over. Gregor isn’t keen on the rain so prefers to go for walks in fair weather. He appreciates a little time to meet new people but once the bond is made, he is loyal and loving. Gregor is on medication for arthritis which he takes no problem at what is one of his favourite times of day, food time.    

If you are interested in rehoming Gregor you can apply here: 

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/shar-pei/1257238 

For more information about fostering for Dogs Trust email:

HFHWestCalder@dogstrust.org.uk 

Thank Dog it’s Fostering Friday!

Dogs Trust Dundee staff are honouring their fantastic foster carers by shouting Thank Dog it’s Fostering Friday!

Over the next two weeks, Dogs Trust Dundee will be using its social media channels to highlight fostering success stories, real-life fostering experiences and the joys of opening your heart and home to a dog in need.

As well as sharing the stories of dogs looking for foster homes, the charity will also 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.

It will also promote Dogs Trust’s continued fostering expansion throughout Scotland as well as celebrate the Dundee teams successes in 2022 – finding loving new homes for 34 dogs.

The TDIFF celebration will conclude with an in-person event on Friday 27th January between 2pm-3.30pm at The Townhouse Hotel, Arbroath.  

The event 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.

“We couldn’t rehome as many dogs as we do without the help of our foster carers,” said Chloe Dixon, Home from Home Coordinator at Dogs Trust Dundee.

“We’re thankful for everything they do to help get our dogs back on their paws. And we know our dogs are grateful for their love and support too. We are looking forward to celebrating our foster carers in the next couple of weeks and encourage anyone considering fostering to get in touch.”

Foster carers play a major role in helping rescue dogs prepare for a happy future in a new home. It can be the perfect way for dog lovers to experience the joy of rehoming without the long-term commitment of owning a dog.

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.

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 Dundee on twitter @DT_Dundee_ and Insta @dt_dundee

Anyone interested in fostering or finding out more about the #TDIFF event can email HFH.Dundee@dogstrust.org.

Dog fosterers providing room at the inn this Christmas

Thanks to dog-loving volunteers in Scotland homeless hounds from Dogs Trust Dundee have found room at the inn this Christmas.   

As well as opening presents on Christmas Day, volunteer foster carers have opened their hearts and homes to dogs in need of a temporary abode whilst they wait to be adopted.   

Dogs Trust’s Home From Home scheme launched in 2015 to find foster homes for dogs that need a little extra care and attention, away from the hustle and bustle of rehoming centre life. This can include young puppies, older dogs and those that have lived their entire life in a home.  

Earlier this year Dogs Trust extended its Home from Home Scheme into Dundee and the surrounding counties of Angus, Tayside, Perthshire and Fife. Two dogs will spend this Christmas in Dogs Trust foster homes in these areas with 34 being rehomed this year through the scheme. 

Volunteer foster carers also help to free up space in Dogs Trust kennels, something that has proved to be essential this year as the charity faces the busiest time in its history.  Since January, Dogs Trust has received a record number of enquiries throughout the UK from owners needing to rehome their dogs, and there are currently around 1,000 dogs on the waiting list to come into Dogs Trust care. 

Foster carers, Malcolm Rae and Judy Butellova, live in Glenrothes and Labrador/cross Seth is the first dog they have fostered through the scheme since October when they became fosterer carers.  

Malcolm said: “Being a foster carer is a new experience for us and we are finding it so rewarding, especially seeing the change in the dog as they settle into a home environment and their personality starts to emerge.

“We love lavishing our attention on them and taking them into our home whilst they wait to be adopted. Having a dog with us at Christmas is particularly special and we are looking forward to celebrating the festivities with Seth and spoiling him with a present or two.”  

Eight-year-old Seth, who came into Dogs Trust care after being found as a stray, is a super sweet boy who loves a snuggle on the sofa. He can be a little shy at first but soon comes round and when he does you have a best friend for life. He loves toys and thoroughly enjoys playing with his favourite ball. He’s housetrained and can live with children aged 16 and over. He enjoys walking with doggy friends and can live with another calm dog. 

Megan Wilkinson, Home from Home Co-ordinator at Dogs Trust Dundee, said: “Our foster scheme means some of the dogs that have found themselves in our care can continue to enjoy the home comforts which come with being part of a loving family.

“Our team of volunteer foster carers are amazing and allow us to look after even more dogs as every dog in foster care, frees up a kennel for another dog in need. 

 “Christmas is often thought of as a time for family so we are so incredibly thankful to our fantastic foster carers taking in our rescue dogs at this special time of year. They are dedicated to providing our dogs with a safe and loving home environment whilst they await a visit from Santa and their new families.  

“For anyone who is a dog lover but can’t commit to having a dog long-term, fostering could be the ideal solution.” 

Volunteer foster carers are provided with everything the dog needs including food, bedding and toys, and the charity will cover the cost of any necessary vet bills. They are also supported by the Dogs Trust team for guidance and advice whenever needed.    

If you can help or would like to find out more, please contact Dogs Trust Dundee on 0303 003 000 or email HFH.Dundee@dogstrust.org.uk 

For more information about Seth or any of the dogs in Dundee patiently waiting to find their special someone check out our website https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming 

Dogs Trust sees 85% increase in dogs being referred in Scotland so owners can flee domestic abuse

  • Dogs Trust sees 85% increase in dogs referred through its specialist domestic abuse support service
  • Dogs Trust Freedom Project supports people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs. 
  • Dogs Trust has fostered over 150 dogs in Scotland since its launch in 2018 
  • The charity is appealing for more foster carers to help people and their dogs fleeing domestic abuse
  • Figures released to coincide with 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence which begins on 25th November1 

Worrying figures released by Dogs Trust show that they have seen an 85% increase in dogs in Scotland being referred through its specialist pet fostering service, The Freedom Project, which supports people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.

These figures have been released as Dogs Trust announces it has fostered 153 dogs in Scotland since launching its Freedom Project four years ago. 

From January to September this year, Dogs Trust has seen 89 dogs referred to its Freedom Project service in Scotland compared to 48 the same period the previous year, a sobering statistic which demonstrates just how vital the service is as the charity experiences a growing demand year on year.  

Pets are often abused and, in some cases, killed by the perpetrator of domestic abuse in order to control and coerce. In addition to the physical abuse that pets may suffer, Dogs Trust found that 97%2 of professionals working in the domestic abuse sector also said that animals are often used as a means of controlling someone experiencing domestic abuse. 

In 2004 Dogs Trust launched its Freedom Project, offering vital support for dog owners escaping from domestic abuse and launched the service two years ago in East Anglia.

To date, the Freedom Project has fostered 2,400 dogs and helped 1,900 people. The project works alongside three other specialist pet fostering services; Cats Protection Paws Protect, Endeavour and Refuge4Pets providing foster homes for pets and enabling survivors to access safe accommodation without the fear of what may happen to their pet if left behind.

As many refuges are unable to accept pets, these important services give survivors the opportunity to escape abuse, safe in the knowledge that their pets will also be safe and well cared for.

The pet fostering organisations are also members of the Links Group, which raises awareness of the links between abuse of animals and humans. 

The Freedom Project currently operates across the whole of Scotland, in 30 counties across England and has recently launched in Wales due to a demand for the service in the country. 

Sarah Petrov, Freedom Project Regional Manager at Dogs Trust said: “Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in demand for our service, so it’s more important than ever that we are there to support anyone experiencing domestic abuse who needs to flee to safety with their pet. 

“We see first-hand the ways that perpetrators use dogs to coerce, control, physically harm and threaten within abusive relationships. This is incredibly frightening for survivors and is often aimed to leave people isolated.  

“We have heard of perpetrators not letting survivors walk their dogs alone, stopping them from accessing vet care for their dogs or being able to spend money on dog food and even repeatedly threatening to harm, kill or ‘get rid’ of their dogs.  

“To instil fear and entrap, perpetrators prey on the strong bonds people have with their beloved pets – making these animals vulnerable to abuse because of the psychological and emotional damage that this causes. As many refuges are unable to accept pets, survivors are understandably concerned about their dog’s safety when they need to escape; the Freedom Project offers them a vital lifeline. 

“Whilst we are pleased to have been able to help so many people, there is still very much a need for our service, and we urgently need more foster carers across the UK so that we can continue this life-saving work.” 

Carlie is a victim/survivor supported by Dogs Trust’s Freedom Project when she was escaping domestic abuse. The charity fostered her dogs so she could seek safety.

She said: “I had to leave my home with my children as I was experiencing domestic abuse. I was offered temporary accommodation from the council, but they wouldn’t accept my dogs who we consider part of our family.

“The thought of giving them up was absolutely heart-breaking as the dogs had been the only constant in the children’s lives during such unsettled times at home; the dogs had always helped and supported them and this was another reason we felt trapped in an abusive home with no way out.

“He knew how important the safety of the children and dogs was to me and therefore used this as a means of control.  

“I heard about the Freedom Project from my support worker and within a few days we were making arrangements for them to go into foster – the relief was amazing.   

“We are now all reunited, happy and safe in our new home thanks to the Freedom Project. We couldn’t have done it without them.” 

A spokesperson from West Lothian Women’s Aid, said: “The Freedom Project is a life-saving programme for women who are fleeing domestic abuse.

“Their dogs are not just pets but part of their family so won’t leave their pets behind meaning they end up staying in the abusive relationship. With the Freedom Project, women can flee safely, knowing their dog will be well looked after and will be reunited when they are settled into their own home.” 

Dogs Trust Freedom Project needs more specialist foster carers in Scotland to support this vital service.

If you think you can help, would like to donate or would like more information on the service, please visit: 

www.dogstrustfreedomproject.org.uk 

or email freedomproject@dogstrust.org.uk or call 0808 169 4315. 

Dogs Trust issues Howl-oween Advice 

Halloween can be a scary time of year not just for those participating in trick or treating, but for dogs, who may find unexpected knocks at the door and people dressed in costumes unsettling.

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is sharing its top tips for dog owners to help their pets have a safe and happy Halloween. 

Susan Tonner, Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Halloween can be fun for all the human members of the family, but for dogs it can be a frightening time of the year.

“Your dog may be exposed to many unfamiliar sights and sounds, and they could easily become overwhelmed by the number of knocks at the door from people they don’t recognise, combined with being unnerved by the sound of any fireworks.” 

There are lots of simple steps you can take to help keep your dog safe and happy this Halloween with Dogs Trust’s top tips: 

·       Adapt your routine in order to miss the costumes and fireworks  

It’s a good idea to head out before any festivities may begin and take extra tasty treats with you. If you spot any trick or treaters whilst you’re out, head away from them and reward your dog with a treat whilst you turn around to avoid any ghoulish encounters that might scare your dog.  

In the weeks leading up to Halloween, gradually change your dog’s routine by walking them earlier in the day to allow them time to exercise and toilet before dark. With more people out at night than normal, it’s best to keep your dog at home and in sight for safe keeping, whilst ensuring microchip details are kept up to date with the database in case they vanish out of the door during a trick or treat visit. Your dog also needs to wear an ID tag on their collar. 

·       Ensure your dog is comfortable 

Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried. This should be a quiet and cosy familiar place in the house that will give them the chance to relax undisturbed.  

Some dogs may cope better by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out and try to stay with them in the room they are most comfortable, so they know they aren’t alone. 

For other dogs who may not appear worried, it’s good to keep them occupied with their favourite items or activities. Experiment before the firework and spooky evenings begin, and slowly introduce them, to find out what your dog will enjoy the most.    

·       Keep human treats and sweets safely out of your dog’s reach 

Many human treats, especially chocolate, are toxic to dogs. It’s safest to keep these treats well out of your dog’s reach, and in case they accidently sneak a human treat, you can teach your dog to leave it before the trick or treaters start knocking.  

·       Be careful when opening doors so your dog doesn’t accidentally escape 

Before Halloween arrives, think about your dog’s access to the door. Popping your dog on a lead before you open the door or ensuring they don’t have access to the door when trick or treaters pop by will help to keep them safe. If you can’t close off access to your door, you can teach your dog to wait at doorways, decreasing the chance of your dog running out the door or jumping up at trick or treaters. 

·       Keep the costumes and dressing up for humans only 

Adding a new and unfamiliar item for your dog to wear can cause them to be uncomfortable. You should also be aware of anything that could cause abrasions or irritations, resulting in your dog overheating, or stopping them from expressing normal behaviour. 

·       Feed your dog their main meals before the trick or treating begins so they can eat at a relaxed time 

You could save a small portion of their food to prepare some food-based enrichment activities for later in the evening, to help keep them calm and relaxed. 

·       Think twice about taking your dog out trick or treating 

Even dogs who aren’t fazed by people dressed up and all the excitement involved with Halloween may not enjoy it for as long as you do. They might prefer to be at home in their safe and comfy space with their favourite enrichment activity and toys. 

Halloween is the start of a disruptive and noisy week for dogs with fireworks also happening in the lead up to Bonfire Night.  

Susan adds: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them.

“Following the recent news that firework displays that are run by local councils have been cancelled in some parts of the UK, there may be a rise in people hosting private firework displays at home.  

“We urge dog owners to be extra prepared for a rise in neighbourhood displays, and to look at our full guidance on how to help their dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. Private firework displays may not be limited to one night, so it is very important for all dog owners to seek out advice early, in order to have a comfortable fireworks season with their dog.” 

For guidance on how to help your dog cope during fireworks, visit the Dogs Trust website  

If you are planning to host a firework display at home: 

·       Let your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs.  

·       Limit your display to 30 minutes or less.  

·       Opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.   

For some fun, dog friendly ideas for a ‘cosy night in’, try our pumpkin treats. 

For further information on keeping your dog safe and happy at Halloween, please head to our website: Halloween advice | Dogs Trust 

Dogs Trust issues advice for owners ahead of the firework season

Firework season will soon whizz-pop into our lives and for this Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night, Dogs Trust West Calder is issuing advice to dog owners to help our canine companions, who might be scared by the unexpected bangs and bursts of fireworks. 

Susan Tonner, Dogs Trust West Calder Manager said: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying and confusing experience for them.

“Fireworks tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination can be distressing and have a lasting impact on dogs. 

“There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful including having a clear plan, ahead of time, to help their dog cope. Dogs will respond to fireworks in different ways, some will want to find a cosy hiding place, whilst others will want reassurance. It is important to recognise the individual needs of your dog, whilst also letting your dog do what makes them feel most comfortable.” 

The charity urges owners to visit its website for full guidance on how to help dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. The top tips include: 

·       Adapt your routine – To avoid taking your dog out when fireworks have started, gradually change their routine in the weeks leading up to events. For example, it may be a good idea to start walking them earlier in the day alongside gradually changing their feeding time to allow them time to exercise, eat and toilet before dark.   

·       Plan ahead – Ensure you are aware of any local firework displays and make arrangements so your dog is not left alone. Prepare their environment in advance, close curtains, turn on the lights, and turn on the television or some music to help block the outside noise. 

·       Keep your dog safe – Make sure your house and garden are secure.  

·       Recognise the needs of your dog – Fireworks can spark varied reactions from dogs, some will appear relaxed and unbothered by the loud bangs; others will show signs of anxiety or fear. They may show subtle signs, such as panting or licking their lips, finding somewhere to hide or seeking attention from their human family. Or they may show more obvious signs, such as pacing, barking or even toileting in the house. Whilst these signs can be directly related to fear of noise, they can also indicate underlying health problems so please contact your vet as early as possible. 

·       Enable their preferred response by letting your dog do what they feel most comfortable with. Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried by fireworks. Introduce this safe place well in advance and encourage them there by building up positive associations with their new ‘den’. Other dogs will cope best by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out. Some dogs may not seem worried, and it’s best to keep them occupied with their favourite toys or activities to reduce the likelihood of them becoming anxious – experiment before the firework season begins, and slowly introduce them, to find out what they enjoy the most. It is important to remember, fear of fireworks can appear at any time and any age, so it is essential to support your dog throughout their life.   

·       Seek guidance from your vet – they can help with advice, refer you to a clinical behaviourist, and may also prescribe medication if deemed necessary to help your dog cope. Medication can be extremely useful where dogs are fearful as it can not only help them cope during the fireworks event, but also stop their fear escalating after each event. Give any prescribed medication well in advance of events starting. 

Susan adds: “We recommend noting down how your dog reacted during the fireworks and what worked well to help them cope in preparation for the next firework event.

“The following day, after an evening of fireworks, we would also advise returning to a normal routine to help dogs settle down. If they were worried during fireworks, it is a good idea to seek professional help before the next firework season starts.” 

If you are planning a firework display at home, please consider: 

·       Letting your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs. 

·       Limiting your display to 30 minutes or less. 

·       Opting for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.  

For those who have welcomed a puppy into their life recently, check out the free sound therapy programmes, that can help to gradually expose puppies to different noises in a positive way, so they can perceive them as normal.   

For detailed advice on preparing your dog for fireworks season visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks 

Dogs Trust recommends dog owners to seek veterinary advice for any concerns. They can check if there are any contributing medical problems, and if necessary, refer you to a clinical behaviourist. Read our advice on finding a qualified behaviourist