Tag: dogs

Don’t ignore these signs your dog is scared of fireworks this New Year

With New Years Eve just around the corner, dog owners are being urged to watch for the lesser-known signs of fear so they can take early steps to comfort their pets, reduce exposure to loud noises and keep them safe.

The dog training experts from Acme Kennels have warned pet owners to recognise the more unknown indicators of stress in their dogs when fireworks are expected, to help prevent long term distress.

New Year firework displays can be extremely upsetting for dogs due to the loud, unpredictable sounds; and while barking and trembling are common signs of fear, more subtle cues such as showing the whites of the eyes, unusual tail carriage and swivelling ears should not be ignored.

Each of these signs offers owners an opportunity to intervene before fear escalates, and by being aware of these early signs, they can respond calmly and provide reassurance to help their dog feel safe and secure, preventing fear from worsening.

If these early signs of stress are missed, a dog’s anxiety can intensify, potentially leading to panic, injury, or longer-term fear and behavioural issues. 

Ben McFarlane, expert from ACME Kennels, said: “Unfortunately, New Years Eve can be extremely distressing for dogs, so it is important that owners recognise the early signs of stress to protect their pet’s welfare. 

“A dog that begins to show mild tension, such as body stiffness, lip-licking or a tucked tail, may quickly progress to trying to escape or a loss of toileting control if those signs are ignored as their fear and anxiety increase.

“By noticing and responding to these behaviours early, owners can provide reassurance, create a calm environment and help prevent fear from developing into a lasting problem.”

Six early signs of fear in dogs on New Years Eve, according to the experts at ACME Kennels: 

  1. Body stiffness and frozen stance: When a dog’s muscles tense and it “locks” in place, it may feel overwhelmed. Unlike a poised retrieve, a frozen stance implies uncertainty.
  2. Lip-licking and yawning: These displacement behaviours often surface when a dog is unsure how to respond. A dog yawning repeatedly or licking its lips could be signalling anxiety.
  3. Whale-eye (showing the whites of the eyes): Turning the head while keeping the body forward, revealing the eye’s white margin, indicates the dog is watching a perceived threat, and could be scared. 
  4. Tail carriage: A dog that carries its tail unusually low or tucked close to the body is expressing unease. On the other hand, a tail held rigidly upright can signal heightened stress rather than excitement.
  5. Paw lifting and pacing: Lifting a front paw or pacing in a confined area suggests the dog would rather escape the situation. 
  6. Ears pinned or swivelling: Dogs rely on ear position to filter sounds. Ears flattened back or constantly swivelling may reveal sensory overload, especially in noisy environments.

For more information on how to look after your dog, visit: 

https://www.acmewhistles.co.uk/acme-kennels

“It’s easier to book a hotel for dogs than disabled people”

Dogs>Disabled: New data reveals pet-friendly holidays outpace accessible stays for families across Europe

  • In some countries, it is 60 times harder to find a hotel that caters for disability access needs compared to one that allows families to travel with their pets
  • Popular European countries lack vital information regarding accessibility 
  • The ‘pet friendly’ box is answered on every booking site whilst information about ‘disability access’ is convoluted

Booking a pet-friendly family holiday is approximately 24 times easier than booking a European break with disability access, according to new research. 

The data, collated by disability holiday specialists World Accessible Holidays, shows there are far more readily available options for a family to go on holiday with their pet than with a wheelchair – leaving families with disability requirements with very limited options.

Whilst approximately 37% of family rooms across ten European countries on booking.com ticked the ‘pet-friendly’ box, only 1.5% offer disability access. 

Across the 10 European countries studied, there were 41,576 pet-friendly hotels offering family rooms, with only 1,684 of these family rooms meeting accessibility requirements. 

It is substantially harder, and in some countries up to 60 times harder, to find a hotel that caters for disability access needs compared to one that allows families to travel with their pets. 

For example, only 0.55% of family hotels offer accessible rooms in Croatia, with only 36 hotels to choose from. However, if the holiday required a pet-friendly room, Croatia offered 2,304 hotels to choose on booking.com. 

Paula Hansen, founder of World Accessible Holidays said: “These statistics are disappointing but not surprising. How can it be acceptable for hotels to provide information about accepting pets on a stay and the facilities they can provide for your pooch, yet when it comes to people with wheelchairs, there’s silence?

“I love my pet, but the fact I know I can take my dog Angus, but not my son who uses a wheelchair and has cerebral palsy, is frankly shocking.”

The 10 European areas analysed included France; mainland Spain; Italy; Greece; The Antalya region in Turkey; Croatia; Portugal; Spain’s Canary Islands; Cyprus and Majorca. 

100% of the 10  areas researched generated more hotel options through Expedia Expedia.com and Booking.com when searching for a pet-friendly family room than one that has wheelchair access.

In addition, information presented by hotels often varied, causing disabled customers confusion about what facilities are available at hotels.

Where hotels who welcome pets had clear wording and policies, there was little consistency in listings of hotels that claim to provide accessibility access, including language like ‘ramp and elevator access’ ‘top floor rooms include lift’ to ‘entire unit wheelchair accessible’. 

Portugal presented the highest number of hotels offering disability access across both search engines, with a 2.4% accessibility rate, but the figure is still low compared to 27.8% of hotels offering pet-friendly rooms. 

Paula Hansen, founder of World Accessible Holidays, established the business after experiencing this disparity first-hand.  Her son, is a wheelchair user and the limited holiday options and stressful booking process instilled the idea for her disability-friendly business. 

Paula is striving to make holidays abroad less stressful for disabled individuals travelling with their families and carers, both adults and children. The business launched as a fully transparent booking platform , one which arranges flights and accommodation at high street prices that meets accessibility needs. 

She said: “The accessibility market is hugely under-represented and badly serviced. There are a few good specialist operators, but they are very expensive, and out of reach for many disabled families. 

“Alternatively, if you try to book with a mainstream operator, it’s virtually impossible to guarantee an accessible room and the booking process is extremely disjointed. Booking platforms rarely list accessible rooms in a clear-cut way or have the option to book an accessible room with equipment. 

“We conducted this research to evidence just how far down the priority ladder disabled people are, but I still can’t believe it’s easier to book a hotel for dogs than disabled people. At World Accessible Holidays we are working to change that — because people deserve more options than pets.” 

For more information about World Accessible Holidays visit:

worldaccessibleholidays.co.uk

Dobbies’ Edinburgh store unveils spellbinding lineup of autumn events

Activities for kids, adults, and dogs

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This October and November, Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to its trio of enchanting autumn events at the Edinburgh store, helping kick-start the season. There’s something for everyone, with events for dogs, kids and families, and a brand-new autumn planting and afternoon tea experience.

Pup-kin Patch

The Pup-kin Patch at Dobbies will be a fun outing for dogs where they can dig into treats, toys, and tail wagging fun. With activities from picking their own autumn themed toys, to enjoying a puppuccino from the restaurant, furry friends are bound to have a paw-esome outing. The event will also have a free digital photo opportunity for dogs to pose in front of an autumnal backdrop at the Edinburgh store, for a beautiful pet ‘paw-trait’.

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Tickets to the event will also include special offers in the pet department, one free hot drink and puppuccino with the purchase of any cake from the restaurant, and £5 off £25 spend in store. Dobbies’ Pup-kin Patch will be taking place on Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £12.50 per dog. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking. 

Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats 

This Halloween, children and families can get ready to take part in some scarily fun activities and afternoon tea at the Edinburgh store Little Scare-lings event. There will be three tiers of savoury sandwiches and sweet treats for the children and spook-tacular tea and cake offers or afternoon tea add ons for adults.

Little ones will get to take part in slime and magic potion making to embrace their inner witches and wizards, alongside other magical activities and games. Dobbies is encouraging attendees to dress up in their spookiest costume as a prize will be awarded during a costume contest. 

The Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats is taking place on Saturday 18, Sunday 19, Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £15 per children and from £7.50 for adults. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.

Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop

Guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea and autumn themed planting experience this October at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store. Dobbies’ Green Team will show attendees how to make their own seasonal terrariums with mini autumn decorations to take home and care for, starting with a demonstration, followed by a Q&A session and the chance to get hands-on and give it a go.

The experience will be followed by a three-tiered Traditional Afternoon Tea in the restaurant, including sweet and savoury treats, and unlimited tea and coffee refills. 

The Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop will take place on the 11, 17, and 18 of October. Tickets are £45, and prosecco or a Luxury Afternoon Tea is available as an optional upgrade at an additional cost. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming customers, from families, dogs and planting enthusiasts, to Dobbies’ Edinburgh store this autumn. She said: “It’s fantastic to have such a variety of events on offer and there really is something for everyone to enjoy, with fun for all ages. 

“Tickets are selling fast for our planting and afternoon tea event, as it’s the perfect afternoon out for couples and friends who love to be creative. Our Little Scare-lings event is a firm favourite for families, with plenty of action-packed activities, and the Pup-kin Patch is back by popular demand, this year in more stores after it was such a hit last year. We can’t wait to celebrate autumn and Halloween with our customers this spooky season.”

Tickets to all autumn events at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store are now available to book at www.dobbies.com/events.

For more information on Dobbies’ events, visit www.dobbies.com/events

Hot summer sparks blue-green algae warning from vets

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners in Scotland to take precautions when walking dogs near freshwater bodies this summer, as the warm weather brings with it an increased risk of toxic blue-green algae growth.

The warning comes after several recent reports of algal bloom sightings in lakes, ponds of rivers in Scotland and the rest of the UK, including the Lake District, Greater Manchester and parts of Wales and Northern Ireland.

Confirmed sightings are identified by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s (UKCEH) Bloomin’ Algae app, which encourages people to submit details and photos if they suspect they have spotted it.

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, is 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 like lakes and ponds. 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 also possible for dogs to come into contact with it even if they don’t go for a paddle, as toxic blooms may be blown to the edges of water bodies.

British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President Dr Rob Williams said: “Lots of dogs love water and won’t hesitate to dive straight in when they see a lake or go for a paddle in a pond. But toxic blue-green algae is very difficult to identify and, if ingested, can make dogs seriously ill and can even be fatal.

“We’re urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leads near water bodies where blue-green algae has been confirmed or, if unsure if a water body is safe, to keep them away from it completely as it is not worth the risk.

“With no known antidote for the toxins, prompt treatment is critical to help give affected pets a chance of recovery. Symptoms can appear within a few minutes or hours of exposure, and commonly include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, trouble breathing, seizures, and blood in faeces. If you have any concerns or are worried your pet may have had contact with blue-green algae, speak to your vet as soon as you can.”

Top tips for pet owners

  • Look out for any warning signs near water bodies.
  • 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.
  • There are other ways to help your dog keep cool in the warmer weather: paddling pools can give them somewhere to cool off and you should always make sure they have access to clean water and shade if outdoors.

1 in 7 dogs treated for heatstroke die: Here’s how to keep your dog safe

As the UK enjoys a weekend of soaring temperatures, Dog Friendly Retreats is urging dog owners to take precautions against one of the most serious seasonal risks facing pets: heatstroke.

Whether you’re away on holiday with your 4-legged friend, or are enjoying the sun at home, dogs are far more sensitive to heat than humans.

As many as 1 in 7 dogs affected by heatstroke die from the condition, according to research from the Royal Veterinary College. It’s also not just life-threatening, it’s costly with the average cost of a heatstroke insurance claim in 2023 hitting £945.25, with emergency care, fluids, and potential hospitalisation often required.

Unlike us, they cannot regulate their body temperature through sweating. Instead, they rely on panting and sweating through their paw pads, which becomes far less effective in hot, humid weather.

With temperatures forecast to exceed 30°C in some regions, the risk of heat-related illness is particularly high for flat-faced breeds, puppies, older dogs, and those with thick coats.

Josh Williams, founder of Dog Friendly Retreats, says: “Heatstroke can affect any dog in a matter of minutes, especially during exercise or prolonged sun exposure which can be more common if you’re on holiday with your dog.

“Many owners, especially on busy summer days are surprised at how quickly it can develop, and by the time symptoms are visible, it’s often already serious. Prevention is far safer and more effective than treatment.”

The symptoms of canine heatstroke can include excessive panting, drooling, bright red or very pale gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, unsteadiness, and in severe cases, collapse or seizures. If a dog shows any of these signs, it is a medical emergency and veterinary attention is required immediately.

  • Excessive panting and drooling
  • Bright red or pale gums
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Disorientation or confusion
  • Staggering, shaking or collapse
  • Seizures in extreme cases

Any of these symptoms may indicate heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Immediate action is critical.

Owners should act fast by moving their dog into a shaded or cool area. Wet towels soaked in cool water (not ice-cold) should be placed over their body, particularly the neck, armpits and between the hind legs.

Paw pads and ears can also be gently cooled with water.

Fresh drinking water should be offered in small amounts, but it’s important not to let the dog gulp it down too quickly. Ice should be avoided, as it can cause shock in an overheated dog.

What To Do If You Suspect Heatstroke

Acting quickly can save a dog’s life. Here’s how:

  • Move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately.
  • Soak towels in cool (not ice-cold) water and place them over your dog’s neck, underarms, and between the back legs.
  • Gently cool their paw pads and ears using water or damp cloths.
  • Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Don’t let your dog gulp or drink rapidly.
  • Avoid using ice, which can trigger shock in overheated dogs.
  • Contact a vet urgently, even if your dog seems to recover, internal damage may still occur.

To reduce the risk, owners are strongly advised to avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11am and 4pm. Early morning or evening walks are safer and dogs should never be left in parked cars or enclosed spaces, even with windows cracked, as internal temperatures can rise to fatal levels within minutes.

Garden surfaces such as patios, decking, and artificial grass can also become dangerously hot and burn a dog’s paw pads. A useful test is to press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

Dogs should have continuous access to clean, fresh water and shaded areas throughout the day. Cooling mats, damp towels, and fans can all help regulate their body temperature. For those joining their owners at outdoor gatherings such as barbecues or garden parties, care must be taken to prevent overexertion, sun exposure, or access to harmful foods and drinks.

Josh Williams adds: “Every year, heatstroke catches owners off guard, and sadly, the outcome isn’t always a happy one.

“This weekend, as we all enjoy the sunshine, we urge dog lovers to think ahead and take those simple steps that could protect their pet’s life.”

Dog Safety Warning Ahead of BBQ-Filled Weekend Heatwave

With a UK heatwave forecast for this weekend with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees in some areas of the UK, in classic British style, BBQs are likely to be ready and raring to go.

But while the sun may be welcome, Dog Friendly Retreats is urging dog owners to take care, because what’s fun for us can be unexpectedly dangerous for our four-legged companions.

Barbecue food and extreme heat are a risky combination for dogs, and with pets expected to join in outdoor festivities this weekend, now is the time for awareness and prevention.

 BBQ Foods That Can Seriously Harm Your Dog

Cooked bones (especially chicken)
One of the biggest BBQ hazards are cooked bones that can become brittle and can splinter into sharp shards when chewed, leading to choking or life-threatening internal injuries. Never give your dog leftovers from the grill.

Skewers and kebab sticks
Whether wood or metal, these are incredibly dangerous if swallowed. Dogs can easily grab a half-eaten kebab off a plate or BBQ tray and the stick could puncture their throat or stomach which is not only incredibly dangerous, but could be costly at the vets.

Greasy, fatty meats
Sausages, burgers, ribs, and lamb chops may be barbecue staples, but for dogs, they can cause stomach upsets or even pancreatitis, a painful, potentially fatal condition triggered by fatty foods.

Marinated, seasoned, or spicy meat
BBQ favourites are often coated in rubs or sauces containing onion, garlic, salt, or spices, all of which are toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms from vomiting to anaemia.

Burnt scraps and charred food
While you might toss a burnt sausage to the dog as a treat, overcooked meat can be tough to digest and potentially contain carcinogenic compounds. It’s best to keep it away from pets entirely.

Alcohol and BBQ sauce spills
Pints on the grass or spilt sticky sauces might not seem like a big deal, but alcohol is toxic to dogs even in small quantities, and many sauces contain ingredients like onion or xylitol (an artificial sweetener that is deadly to dogs).

Hot Weather = Hidden Dangers for Dogs

The barbecue itself isn’t the only risk this weekend. With temperatures set to soar, dogs are at serious risk of overheating, especially breeds with thick coats or short noses like bulldogs, pugs, and spaniels.

Watch out for:

  • Hot patios and garden decking – Dogs’ paw pads can burn on sun-heated surfaces.
  • Dehydration – Ensure your dog has access to cool, fresh water at all times.
  • Heatstroke – Symptoms include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, confusion, and collapse. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate vet attention.
  • Cars and conservatories – Never leave your dog in a parked car or enclosed space as temperatures can reach fatal levels within minutes, even with a window cracked.

Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, comments:

“Barbecues are such a key part of summer, but they come with a lot of hidden hazards for dogs. Between hot weather and dropped food, it only takes a moment for something to go wrong. Whether it’s a skewer left unattended or a guest offering scraps, it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog and educate others too.”

Safe BBQ Snacks to Share with Your Dog

Your dog can still be part of the fun – just safely! Here are a few dog-friendly BBQ options:

  • Plain, boneless, skinless chicken or turkey – A lean protein treat, as long as it’s unseasoned and thoroughly cooked.
  • Cucumber or carrot sticks – Cool, crunchy, and hydrating.
  • Apple slices (no seeds) – A sweet and fibre-rich fruit option.
  • Blueberries or strawberries – Packed with antioxidants and safe in moderation.

Hidden Dangers in Your Picnic Basket: Experts Warn Dog Owners This Bank Holiday

As families across the UK prepare to make the most of the upcoming bank holiday with picnics and garden get-togethers, Dog Friendly Retreats urges dog owners to be mindful of what’s in their picnic baskets.

While harmless to humans, many popular seasonal treats can be highly toxic to dogs, with some leading to emergency vet visits or worse.

Whether you’re having a weekend away or staying at home, below is a timely roundup of common picnic foods that pose serious health risks to dogs, including:

Grapes and raisins 

Whilst grapes and raisins are popular for picnics, especially with children, even a tiny amount can cause kidney failure in dogs. Tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate are found in high concentrations in grapes, and research shows that dogs are particularly sensitive to these acids.

Onions, garlic, and chives 

Often found in quiches, salads, and dips, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, these ingredients can damage red blood cells and lead to a serious condition called hemolytic anaemia. Symptoms might not appear immediately, which makes accidental ingestion especially risky, and as these ingredients aren’t always visible, it’s even more important to be aware.

Chocolate and sweet treats 

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs, yet it is still one of the most common causes of dog poisoning, which is something to be conscious of during your spring picnic. Many spring and bank holiday desserts, like brownies, cupcakes, and Easter eggs, may contain enough theobromine (a stimulant found in cocoa) to cause vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, heart failure.

Cooked bones (especially chicken) 

Whilst raw bones are suitable for dogs, the chicken legs or wings you might take on a picnic can splinter and cause internal injuries or choking, which could potentially be fatal. Cooking makes bones brittle, and when chewed, they can splinter into sharp fragments that may puncture a dog’s throat, stomach, or intestines. 

Corn on the cob 

Whilst corn isn’t toxic to dogs, it can create a significant blockage risk if swallowed, and we all know dogs don’t always chew their food as much as they should, which could lead to expensive surgery to remove. 

Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, commented: “It’s easy to overlook how many picnic staples are dangerous for dogs. Something as innocent as a fruit scone or sausage roll can contain hidden ingredients that cause serious harm.

“Dogs are naturally curious about food, especially outdoors, so prevention and awareness are key. It’s important to watch children too, as they won’t always understand the risk of feeding your dogs these toxic ingredients.”

Your dog also deserves to enjoy the bank holiday picnic, but what foods are safe to share?

Dog-Safe Snacks You Can Share at a Picnic

Carrot sticks

Crisp, low-calorie, and full of fibre, carrots are an excellent snack for dogs. They also help support dental health and are easy to pack in a cooler.

Apple slices (without seeds)

Apples are rich in vitamins A and C; most dogs love the sweet crunch. Just remove the seeds and core, as the seeds contain small amounts of cyanide.

Cucumber slices

Hydrating, low in calories, and gentle on the stomach, cucumbers are a refreshing treat for dogs on warm days.

Plain cooked chicken or turkey (boneless, skinless)

If you’re grilling or packing cold meats, a small amount of plain, unseasoned chicken or turkey makes a protein-rich snack. Just avoid any seasoning, sauces, or bones. 

Blueberries or strawberries

These antioxidant-rich fruits are safe in moderation and can even help support brain and heart health. Wash them well and serve fresh (avoid sugary toppings or syrups).

Strike a paw-se: New Valentine event for dogs at Dobbies’ Edinburgh

Dobbies Garden Centres is encouraging paw-rents to show their pooches some love this Valentine’s Day at its brand-new dog event at its Edinburgh store that will raise money for national dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust. 

Renowned for its love of dogs, Dobbies is hosting this event from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 February, giving customers a great opportunity to take a paw-fect digital picture against the Valentine’s backdrop to treasure for years to come. Dogs will snuffle around the store in a sniff-ari trail, with a gift bag reward at the end featuring a Valentine’s dog toy, dog treats and money off vouchers. 

Customers at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store will be able to share the love and add a donation while booking the event, helping with Dogs Trust’s mission of caring for, rehabilitating, and rehoming thousands of dogs every year.  

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming a variety of dog breeds to the event, supporting a wonderful cause. She said: “This is the first in our series of experiences for dogs at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store this year and we’re excited to see every customer (paws included) enjoy all the fun that can be had at the My Paw-fect Valentine event.  

“Share the love with your pooch, create a memorable moment and support Dogs Trust who are doing remarkable work for dogs in need.”

Well behaved dogs on a lead are warmly welcomed at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store and in a dedicated area of the restaurant. Explore the fantastic range of pet products at Dobbies, with everything from healthy treats and dog attire to terrific toys.

Customers can take part in Dobbies’ monthly social media competition, Dogs at Dobbies, by posting a picture and using the hashtag #dogsatdobbies to be in a chance of winning a gift voucher. 

Dobbies’ Paw-fect Valentine event at the Edinburgh store is priced at £12.50 per pooch.

For more information about the event and participating stores, visit www.dobbies.com/events.

BBC ALBA explores Scotland’s favourite dog breeds

BBC ALBA’s new six-part series, Cù Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig is getting up close with Scotland’s best-loved dog breeds – from firm family-favourites to breeds you may be less familiar with – as we follow presenter Peter MacQueen choosing a new puppy.

TV personality and author Peter MacQueen has been on a journey to find a pup to take home to the cosy rural hut he shares with partner, Coinneach MacLeod (The Hebridean Baker), following the passing of their beloved Westie, Seòras, last Christmas.

Peter sets out to gather as much information as he can about Scottish dog breeds, from the rarest to the oldest, and everything in between. He remarks: “I hope to find a new puppy…but choosing one will be the challenge!”

Peter adds: “We often ask each other ‘Cò leis thu?’ [who do you belong to?]. It’s much more than just asking who your family is – it’s a question about your roots, your ancestors, and your place in the wider community. For me life isn’t complete without a dog, so this also begs the question “Whose dog are you? or ‘Cù leis thu?!” Afterall, the history of our Scottish dogs is so deeply connected to our story too.”

Starting in Skye, Peter meets one of the rarest dog breeds in the world – the Skye Terrier. After playing with the pups, he uncovers hidden secrets about the breed, which leads him to wonder if a Skye Terrier could fit in with their lives. Peter remarks: “From a practical perspective, could I look after that long hair? It’s difficult enough for me to look after my own beard!”

After a few more visits, Peter finds himself in Argyll and Bute discovering more about a dog breed very close to his heart – the West Highland Terrier. In the very place that the Westie originated, Peter learns the fascinating story behind why these charming dogs were bred, and how they got their distinctive white fur. Will the Westie pups prove to be irresistible to Peter?  And if so, does he settle with one and resist the other breeds?

He continues to Glasgow’s famous Kelvingrove Park where, with the help of experts and a group of dog walkers, Peter sets out to see if genes play a role in shaping the dogs’ personalities.

The final episode, airing on Christmas Day, promises to deliver a heart-warming surprise and also discovers the rewarding experience of rescuing a dog. Animal shelters often see a huge increase in abandoned dogs after the festive season, when some owners realise they can’t keep up with the demands of a dog.

The new docu-series is set to entertain but also encourage potential dog-owners to think more carefully about their chosen breed and the responsibilities of bringing a dog into the family. While a puppy may appear to be the perfect Christmas gift Cù Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig reminds viewers that they are a lifelong commitment requiring training, socialisation and lots of love.

Tune in each week on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer to join Peter in pursuit of puppy facts, folklore and fun, from Tuesday 19 November at 8.30pm. 

Don’t miss the Cu Leis Thu? A Puppy for Pàdruig finale surprise at 8.30pm on Christmas Day.  Watch live or on demand (in Gaelic with English subtitles).

Licensing canine fertility services

New plans to improve animal welfare

Proposals to introduce a strict licensing framework for canine fertility businesses have been announced.

The planned licensing scheme will clamp down on unethical breeding practices, regulate the services offered, ensure higher standards of care and protect animal welfare.

Businesses offering canine fertility services will be licensed annually, and subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with licensing conditions.

The proposals are a response to concerns raised by those in the veterinary profession and key animal welfare organisations regarding the unregulated nature of businesses offering canine fertility services.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses. It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.

“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.

“Our intention to bring in these measures demonstrates that we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare in Scotland.”

Scottish SPCA Director of Innovation and Strategic Relations Gilly Mendes Ferreira says: “We have seen a surge in the establishment of canine fertility businesses in recent years, especially involving high value breeds like French Bulldogs who often struggle to give birth naturally.

“We welcome the Scottish Government’s responsiveness to our concerns and support the move to license these businesses. It will be imperative that licensing inspections are conducted by registered, experienced veterinary surgeons.

“We look forward to collaborating closely on the details of the new framework for licensing these establishments in Scotland.”

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed proposals announced today (16 August) by the Scottish Government to crack down on unregulated canine fertility clinics and unethical dog breeding practices in Scotland, following a sustained nationwide campaign by vets and animal welfare organisations.

Under the planned scheme, any businesses offering dog fertility services will need to get an annual licence and be subject to regular inspections.

The announcement follows recommendations published by BVA and BSAVA earlier this year, which included the licensing of establishments offering canine breeding services, a strengthening of enforcement of existing animal welfare regulation, and the closure of the legal loopholes that are allowing unregulated breeding practices to flourish.

Responding to the Scottish Government announcement, BVA President Dr. Anna Judson said: “The British Veterinary Association is pleased to see the Scottish Government act on the veterinary profession’s recommendations and take the lead in clamping down on unregulated canine fertility clinics.

“Vets across the UK have raised concerns over the growth in facilities offering dog breeding services without any qualifications or veterinary oversight over the last few years, fuelling a potential animal welfare disaster.

““Licensing is a hugely important first step in this crackdown. Any dog breeding facility must also have a named RCVS-registered vet in place, with requirements for active veterinary involvement and oversight at the facility at all times.

“Of course, licensing can only be successful if it is accompanied by mandatory inspections, sufficient funding for local authorities, and tough penalties for anyone found to be operating outside the law. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government in the development of a robust licensing framework.

“We are now calling on governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow suit and act swiftly to address this pressing issue of dog welfare and breeding.”

Recommendations from BVA and BSAVA’s joint policy position on canine breeding services, published in January this year, can be seen at:

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/canine-breeding-services/