Dogs Trust has extended its successful Home from Home Scheme into Dundee and the surrounding counties of Angus, Perthshire and Fife and is calling on locals to get in touch.
Megan Wilkinson has just been employed as Dogs Trust’s first Home from Home Co-ordinator in Dundee and is hoping to hear from dog loving locals who are willing to become foster carers, opening their hearts and homes to dogs that await their forever home.
Megan said: ““Our Home from Home foster scheme is a very important part of Dog Trusts work finding new homes for every dog that comes into our care. Some dogs are more suited to a home environment than kennels and these are the dogs that we look to place into a foster home.
“The long-lasting impact of the pandemic means some dog owners are finding themselves having to make very difficult decisions which may include giving up their pets. We need to be there for as many people and dogs as possible so increasing the number of foster carers we have is a positive way to increase our support during this challenging time.
“Expanding Home from Home into Dundee and the surrounding areas will allow us to provide more support in Scotland. I’m excited to be working within the local community to find forever homes for more dogs within Tayside, Perthshire, Fife and Angus and am keen to hear from locals who want to help us.”
Susan Tonner, West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager said: “Having the option of foster homes locally in and around the Dundee area is fantastic. It allows us to help local dogs more readily and also offers local people the opportunity to adopt a dog closer to home.
“Since the Home from Home scheme started at West Calder at the end of 2016, we have rehomed over 500 dogs through fostering. Last year we found new homes for 130 dogs through the scheme thanks to the wonderful help of 20 fosterers. We are about to place our first dogs into foster in the Dundee area with our aim being to rehome over 100 every year.
“A lot of our current fosterers don’t want the long-term commitment of owning a dog but miss having a four-legged friend in their life. Fostering can be a perfect solution where you care for a rescue dog on a temporary basis. Thanks to our fosterers, we really get to know our dogs and how they are in a home environment, which enables us to match each individual dog with their perfect new home.
“To foster you must have the time and patience to help the dog adjust to their new surroundings and also be prepared to say goodbye when their forever home is found. As a fosterer you can be assured you have played a pivotal role in the successful happy future life of the dog and your next foster dog could be patiently waiting for your help. We couldn’t do our vital work without our fosterers and we are so incredibly grateful to have their loyal support.”
Fosterers must have a love of dogs, a secure garden area, be at home most of the day and preferably not have young children.
Dogs Trust will support you every step of the way providing food, bedding and any other practical things you need to make your new canine friend feel at home.
The charity also covers the costs of all veterinary treatment and is working in partnership with Parkside Veterinary Group in Dundee. The length of time a dog is in foster care differs in each individual case.
Dogs Trust is currently looking for Home from Home fosterers in Dundee, Tayside, Perth and Kinross, Fife, Angus and Kincardine.
Anyone interested can call Megan on 01506 873459 or email:
With the bank holiday Easter weekend fast approaching, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, is reminding dog owners to keep chocolate out of reach of our four-legged friends.
As Easter eggs and other tasty cocoa treats find their way into homes, the charity hopes to raise awareness of the continued risk that the consumption of chocolate poses to our canine companions. Dogs Trust is providing top tips and advice for owners on how to have a dog-friendly Easter.
Josie Cocks, Dogs Trust Veterinary Surgeon,explains the importance of not allowing dogs to eat human chocolate: “Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, so owners should ensure they keep it out of reach of their four-legged friends. Whilst some chocolate is more toxic than others, any amount is potentially harmful to your dog.
“If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, we advise owners to contact their vets immediately. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, excitability, drooling, seizures and potentially kidney and heart failure.”
The charity advises:
Never give your pooch any human chocolate as a treat. Ensure that children and visitors understand why and adhere to this rule too.
Make sure that bins are dog-proof to prevent them scavenging through rubbish.
Never leave any chocolate unsupervised, such as cakes cooling on worktop surfaces.
Teach your dog to move away from something when you ask them to ‘leave it’. This valuable life skill will come in handy if your dog reaches for something they shouldn’t have.
Keep a close eye on your dog whilst out walking, to avoid them scoffing discarded food that is potentially harmful.
Although our canine companions won’t be eating human chocolate, there are plenty of other ways for them to enjoy the holiday weekend.
Charlotte Huggins, Canine Behaviour Officer at Dogs Trust,offers some suggestions: “There are plenty of exciting things we can do with our pets over the holiday weekend.
“Taking them on their own Easter hunt around the house or garden, that includes dog-friendly treats instead of chocolate is a great way of bonding and giving our dogs lots of stimulation.
“You could also use the front of Easter egg boxes to teach your dog to do the snoot challenge or use the boxes to hide their toys or treats in for them to sniff out. If you want to have a go at something a little bit different, get a couple of boxes set a little distance apart and holding your dog’s treats or favourite toy in one hand, slowly start to guide them in a figure of eight around the two boxes. Then reward your dog!
“Dog owners could also build them their own Easter bunny burrow, or ‘Doggy Den’ so your furry friend has a cosy, comfortable place to sleep undisturbed in the house.”
With storms on the way, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, is providing top tips and advice on how to keep our four-legged friends happy and safe.
Charlotte Huggins, Canine Behaviour Officer at Dogs Trust, says: “Extreme weather can be distressing for dogs. Signs to look out for include pacing around the home, excessive barking, or trying to run and hide.
“There are steps owners can take to comfort their dog and help them cope if their dogs are becoming anxious. If you’re worried about the weather, keep your dog indoors as much as possible.”
Top tips
Make sure your dog has enjoyable things to do indoors to keep them stimulated, such as a toy filled with food or a long-lasting chew
Play games or practice reward-based training with your dog
Close the curtains, turn lights on and turn up the volume on your TV or radio
Make sure your house and garden are secure, in case your dog tries to run away if they are scared
Provide a safe hiding place – for example, a comfy bed under a table with blankets which will make it cosy and help with soundproofing.
If your dog wants to hide, allow them to stay where they feel safe
If you can head out safely, always keep your dog on a lead
Stay out of flood water as it may contain raw sewage and toxins and other hazards that could injure your dog.
Sisters ad best pals Thelma and Louise are hoping to melt someone’s heart this Valentine’s Day as they search for their forever home together.
The playful, one year old greyhounds have been in Dogs Trust care at the charity’s West Calder Rehoming Centre since October last year. Originally coming from Ireland, not much else is known about their past, except that everything they have gone through in life, they have experienced together.
Like most siblings they have different personality traits, but their strong bond is clear for all to see. Excitable and energetic Louise is more outgoing, enjoying running and playing. Thelma is more laid-back and loves a snooze with her sister.
Centre Manager Susan Tonner said: “It was never in any doubt that Thelma and Louise had to be rehomed together as they are best friends. The super sweet girls are polite and friendly with everyone they meet, whether human or canine.
“The sisters’ confidence has blossomed since arriving at West Calder. They have become more adventurous, enjoying trips to the beach and showing their happy, playful natures. Whether playing with toys or snuggling up in a cosy bed for their afternoon nap, Thelma and Louise always stick together. They quickly form attachments to human friends too, making them very loving companions.”
In their forever home Thelma and Louise could live with children, aged 10 and over, and with another dog, but no cats or small animals due to their desire to chase. They walk well on the lead and are happy wearing a muzzle. A secure garden is required so they can play.
Anyone interested in rehoming the gorgeous greyhounds can call West Calder Rehoming Centre on 01506 873 459.
One hundred and fifty years to the day since Greyfriars Bobby died, Dogs Trust staff paid tribute to his memory.
The Skye terrier who passed away on 14th January 1872, aged 16, is renowned throughout the world for his loyalty and devotion to his owner John Gray by sitting by his Greyfriars Kirkyard grave for 14 years. Bobby was so loved by the people of the city, that following his death he too was buried in the Kirkyard close to his owner’s grave.
Today (Friday) in Greyfriars Kirkyard after Edinburgh’s one o’clock gun was fired, a Dogs Trust posy of flowers was laid on Greyfriars Bobby’s grave by pupils from George Heriot’s School followed by the solemn sound of bagpipes played to remember Bobby’s life.
Speaking at the ceremony Dogs Trust Regional Manager Jack Johnstone said: “As the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, it’s a privilege to be here today to pay our respects to Bobby, who symbolises everything that dogs can bring to the lives of humans, not only as pets but as members of family.
“His story resonates so strongly with the work that we do at Dogs Trust, to protect vulnerable dogs like Bobby.
“Our Rehoming Centres, like those nearby in West Calder and Glasgow, allow for vulnerable dogs who end up in our care through no fault of their own to experience another opportunity to live their lives to the fullest and find their forever homes.
“Dogs Trust was founded in 1891, 131 years ago and 19 years after Bobby was laid to rest. To this day, we continue to campaign for a better future for dogs like Bobby who was cared for so kindly in his years on the grave of his owner, and we will continue to do so for many years to come.”
Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager Susan Tonner and Assistant Manager Kim McNeill attended the memorial event with French Bulldog Minnie.
The affectionate three-year-old loves a cuddle and is currently in Dogs Trust care awaiting her forever home.
Dogs Trust staff welcomed Mairi Gougeon MSP to West Calder Rehoming Centre last week where she met handsome hounds patiently awaiting new homes.
As well as a behind the scenes tour of the West Lothian centre, The Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands and MSP for Angus North and Mearns, met with Dogs Trust staff including Veterinary Director Paula Boyden to discuss the charity’s work in Scotland.
Paula said: “It was lovely to meet Mairi at one of our rehoming centres in Scotland where she was greeted by lots of waggy tails!
“It was a great opportunity to discuss current progress around dog welfare in Scotland, including proposals to tackle puppy smuggling, and how, as the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, we will continue to work with the Scottish Government on a range of issues to improve the lives of our four-legged friends.”
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “The work undertaken by the Dogs Trust contributes significantly to safeguarding the welfare of dogs in Scotland. I want to thank the staff at the West Calder facility for taking time out of their day to introduce me to some of their resident dogs and for updating me on the vital hard work they do every day.
“Canine welfare is an issue that the Scottish Government and Dogs Trust take extremely seriously and we are fully committed to tackling the scourge of low-welfare breeding and dealing of dogs. We will continue to work together to ensure the wellbeing of dogs across Scotland.”
Susan Tonner, West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager said: “We were delighted to welcome Mairi to our rehoming centre to showcase the work we do with the dogs in our care.
“It was a pleasure to show Mairi the hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes to prepare our canine friends for their forever homes.”
Dogs Trust has two rehoming centres in Scotland, West Calder and Glasgow in Uddingston. On average we rehome 700 dogs a year in Scotland and have over 430,000 supporters across the country.
In this research, 88%1 of households involved in domestic abuse, animals were also abused by the perpetrator
In over 1 in 10 (12%)2 of households researched, animals were brutally killed by perpetrators to punish, frighten and entrap
Where a pet was given as a ‘gift’, abuse against the animal occurred in 94%3 of these households
Dogs Trust reaches landmark milestone of 2,000 dogs fostered through its specialist domestic support service. In Scotland 115 dogs have been fostered. More foster carers are urgently needed throughout Scotland to help people and their dogs fleeing domestic abuse.
16 days of action against gender-based violence begins tomorrow (25th November)7
Almost nine in 101 households who experienced domestic abuse have said that animals were also abused by the perpetrators, according to shocking new research carried out by Refuge4Pets who work in partnership with Dogs Trust.
These figures have been released as Dogs Trust reaches a milestone 2,000 dogs fostered on its Freedom Project, supporting people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.
The research surveyed 107 victim-survivors of domestic abuse and interviewed victim-survivors across the country, to better understand the link between domestic abuse and animal abuse.
Worryingly, the research – carried out by Dr Mary Wakeham – showed that in one in ten (12%)2 of households where domestic abuse was present, the animal – and often multiple animals – had been killed.
Furthermore, in 94%3 of households where an animal was given as a ‘gift’, the animals were then abused and, in some cases, killed by the perpetrator – demonstrating that pets are used as tools by perpetrators of domestic abuse to control and coerce.
In addition to the physical abuse that pets may suffer, Dogs Trust found that 97%4 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, launching in Scotland in 2019.
The project works alongside 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 and in 30 counties across England. This year the Freedom Project will have fostered 2,000 dogs and helped 1825 people since launching.
In Scotland we have fostered 115 dogs and supported 86 people to flee domestic abuse. We have also reunited 96 dogs with their families since launching. During the pandemic, incidents of domestic abuse soared and the charity fostered 64%5 more dogs across the country in 2020 and 2021, compared to the previous two years.
Amy Hyde, Freedom Project Manager at Dogs Trust said:“Unfortunately, this new research revealing further links between animal abuse and domestic abuse is not shocking to us.
“We see first-hand the myriad 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.
“This year we mark the 2,000th dog fostered through the Freedom Project since we began. This sobering milestone demonstrates 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.”
Audrey6 and her dog, Millie6, were supported by the Freedom Project in Scotland, she said of her experience:
“I had been in the relationship for many years and at one point I was completely reliant on my ex-partner. You don’t realise what’s happening at the time, they had full control over everything.
“I ended up falling out with my family because of the relationship and that made me even more isolated, particularly when the pandemic hit.
“During lockdown, we were in the house together 24/7, the physical abuse was bad but the emotional abuse was much, much worse.
“My ex-partner never hurt Millie, but it was always in the back of my mind, what would happen if I left her? The minute tensions rose Millie would run away and hide. She has witnessed a lot of abuse which has really affected her. You can’t raise your voice around her otherwise she cowers.
“I think if I had known about the Freedom Project earlier, I would have left years ago. I remember sitting outside praying to the stars for someone to give me some ideas – I just didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t lose my dog; I would have rather lived in my car. If it wasn’t for Dogs Trust having a safe place for Millie to go, I would have stayed and I honestly don’t think I would have survived.
“At one point I let the team know it was Millie’s birthday, they sent me photos of Millie with her birthday presents. I cried my eyes out when I received those photos, just to know she was being so spoiled was incredible.
“It was amazing to be reunited with Millie, as I walked around the corner she recognised me instantly. It has been such a difficult road to get here but I am so proud of what I’ve achieved. I’m free and I’m me and that’s all that matters.”
Marsha Scott, CEO of Scottish Women’s Aid said:“We know that one of the problems for survivors accessing housing or refuge is the fear of what will happen to their pets.
“This research highlights just how commonly perpetrators use animals as one of their tools to coerce and abuse. There is already so much loss for a family experiencing domestic abuse, including for many having to leave their home.
“Having a service like the Freedom Project is invaluable in helping increase choices and space for action while providing stability and safety for survivors and their dogs in the process of recovery.”
Dogs Trust Freedom Project urgently 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
With firework season set to whizz-pop into our lives again with the approach of Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night, Dogs Trust is issuing advice to dog owners to help pets who might be scared by the unexpected bangs and bursts of fireworks.
Susan Tonner, West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager says: “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 for their dogs. Simple steps such as providing safe spaces for them to hide or settling them before the fireworks start can make a big difference.
“We would also urge anyone thinking of putting on their own fireworks display to consider the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following our Firework Dog Code.”
Here are Dogs Trust’s top tips: –
Walk your dog before dark – make sure your dog is exercised and has had a toilet break well before any fireworks could start.
Feed your dog before the fireworks begin as they may become unsettled and not want to eat during the fireworks.
Make sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks, as some dogs may try to run away if they’re scared.
Provide a safe hiding place – make sure your dog has somewhere safe in their favourite room, for example a comfy bed under a table with blankets to make it cosy and help with soundproofing. Close the curtains, turn lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to mask the firework noises.
Keeping your dog busy indoors can help take their mind off the noise. Play games or practise some reward-based training.
Comfort and reassure your dog. Try to remain calm yourself and avoid telling your dog off as this might make them more worried.
If your dog just wants to hide away then don’t force them to come out of their hiding place, allow them to stay where they feel safe.
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.
Susan adds: “For those who have welcomed a puppy into their life recently, we also have free sound therapy programmes on our website that can help to gradually expose puppies to different noises in a positive way, so they perceive them as normal.
“If your dog is very worried by fireworks or other loud noises, they might need longer-term treatment. If that is the case, it would be a good idea for owners to have a chat with their vet. They can check there are no underlying health conditions that might be affecting behaviour, and then owners can discuss referral to an accredited behaviourist for support and tailored advice.”
For further advice about preventing and dealing with fear of loud noises such as fireworks, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks
Touchpoint Live Media, the organisers of the hugely popular DogFest events, are delighted to announce that their Big Dog Walk Series is coming to Chatelherault Country Park, Glasgow on October 10th, our first in Scotland.
The Big Dog Walk is a unique opportunity for dog owners and their families to walk together in the stunning Chatelherault Country Park. Dogs and their owners can choose from either a 2k, 5k or 10k route and walk times have been staggered this year for the comfort and safety of all taking part.
Brand new this year, there will be a Puppy’s First Socialisation Walk, this will be a 2k walk for those with little legs and is a fabulous opportunity to introduce your new addition to other dogs and socialise them in a safe organised way.
If your dog is not one for crowds you can join our ‘Beat the Rush’ walk for dogs who love their walkies, but may be a but more anxious s and prefer having their own space. You and your dog will be left to explore the walk at your own pace on our first walk of the day.
Our walks aim to bring together dog lovers and dogs to encourage socialisation and exercise. The walk will be the best walk ever for dogs as you join hundreds of other pups and their owners on a beautiful route with photo points and pit stops on the route for you and your dog to stop and have a drink and a snack at.
Back at the Event Village there will be plenty to do and see including shopping, expert advice, the fun dog show, and plenty of festival food and drink.
We are delighted this year to have the Dogs Trust on board as our Official Charity Partner who will be bringing along their Temptation Alley to challenge your dog. Participants can also raise more money for any charity of their choice upon signing up.
Prices are £10.50 per adult and children 5-16 years are free of charge. For more information and to book tickets, visit The Big Dog Walk.
Nicole Cooper, Managing Director of Touchpoint Live Media, says: “The Big Dog Walk is a wonderful opportunity for all dog lovers to get out and walk with the four-legged member of the family.
“We are so thrilled to be hosting walks again this year at these six beautiful locations, and very excited to be bringing these events to Scotland for the first time. These walks are a brilliant way to all get together in the great outdoors with all the family, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone.”
Dogs Trust in Scotland is calling on local dog lovers to take part in the biggest ever nationwide survey to help dogs and owners of the future.
The National Dog Survey, launched by Dogs Trust, will help the charity better-understand the UK’s 12.5 million-strong pooch population and the part dogs play in their owners’ lives, shaping the support the charity offers to canine companions and their families.
Dogs Trust has two rehoming centres in Scotland, one in Glasgow and the other in West Calder, both of which find homes for hundreds of rescue dogs each year.
Sandra Downie, Rehoming Centre Manager for Dogs Trust in Glasgow, says: “Through this survey we want to learn as much as possible about dog ownership to inform what we do to improve dog welfare and support dog owners.
“Dogs Trust has been around for 130 years and in that time so much has changed when it comes to dogs being at the heart of our family.
“This is the first time we have carried out a survey of this kind and we want to hear from dog owners as well as people who don’t currently have a dog but have lived with one in the past. By gathering as much information as we can, we will be able to help people and dogs live the best lives possible together.”
The online survey asks dog owners about everything from how their dog behaves and what training they do with their four-legged friend, to questions about their relationship such as do they celebrate their dog’s birthday and do they tell them they love them.
It also covers people’s post-pandemic plans for their dog such as are they hoping to take them into the office with them or will they employ a dog walker, if they are returning to their workplace.
The survey, which can be completed online at www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk, also asks people to say how having a dog improves their life, what advice they would give to people looking to welcome a dog into their family and what one thing could Dogs Trust do to help them and their dog live happily together.
Sandra adds: “We always love to hear tales from owners who have adopted from us, and every single one of them has a different story to tell. We now want to capture the experiences of all local dog owners so we can build a picture of dog ownership today and what more Dogs Trust can do to help them and their dogs.
“This will be the most comprehensive census of dogs and dog lovers ever completed and we would love it if everyone who is passionate about dogs could do their bit to help our four-legged friends of the future have the best lives possible.
“What people tell us today will help us make sure we are able to do everything we can to support dogs and their owners for the next 130 years and more.”
