dogs – Page 4 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

2 in 5 drivers break the rules while travelling with their furry friends

CarStore and Battersea announce partnership to empower dog-owning customers to find the right car for them

With many set to take their pooches away with them this summer, new research of 2,000 dog owners has revealed more than two thirds of drivers (68%)* aren’t aware of the current rules surrounding car travel with dogs.

To mark the launch of CarStore’s partnership with leading animal welfare charity, Battersea, a new study suggests that over half (52%) of us are happiest while out driving with our dogs – yappy days! What’s more, 42% proclaim to treasure them as part of the family, so it’s troubling to find that despite this, 2 in 5 drivers are unknowingly breaking the rules when out travelling with their dogs.

While 1 in 5 (20%) don’t have a designated zone for their pooch, only half (54%) keep their dog restrained while out travelling and just 5% are aware of the severity of the repercussions of driving without due care and attention can entail (up to £5,000 and nine points on your driving licence), it’s clear there is a lot of confusion surrounding the rules of the road when out driving with our four-legged friends.

As one of the first used car brands in the UK to partner with a national animal charity, CarStore is delivering on its commitment to flex to the needs of contemporary car-seekers via the partnership.

Battersea will be hosting training sessions for CarStore Personal Advisors, educating them on how to manage experience centre visits from dog-owning customers and create a more dog friendly environment.

Personal Advisors will also be informed about the legal requirements surrounding car travel with dogs, and the equipment available to meet these requirements. Alongside this training, CarStore and Battersea will co-create useful advice and content to help improve customer understanding of the rules and requirements for travelling with their furry friends.

Kim Costello, Chief Marketing Officer at CarStore, said: “We know there has been a huge surge in pet ownership over the past 12-18 months and as a result, a likely need for individuals and families to purchase a new car to accommodate their new furry friends.

“This new alliance between CarStore and Battersea aims to help as many of the nation’s dog owners as possible find the right car for them.

“Specially trained by Battersea experts, our Personal Advisors will be equipped to support dog-owning customers with the car-buying process. Whether they’re looking for a car to accommodate a large German Shepherd, or something smaller to seat a Cockapoo and a small carrier, our Personal Advisors will be on hand to support and help customers find their perfect car.”

The survey suggested that many do not believe their car is currently practical for travelling with a dog, with almost half (49%) wishing they could do more to dog proof it. However, 10% confirmed they do not know where to source correct and accurate guidance, with many admitting to checking social media (18%) or forums online (18%) rather than reputable sources.

Rob Bays, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with CarStore to further help dog owners travel safely and wisely with their pets.

“With the good weather returning, many families may be looking to travel with their dogs during their staycations and Battersea wants to ensure dog owners have the right knowledge before embarking on a car journey with their pets.

“When in the car with your dog, it’s important that they are comfortable in their environment to reduce stress and anxiety, so familiarising your pet with your vehicle before embarking on a long journey will help them get used to travelling.

“It’s also important to ensure they are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you’re driving or injure you, or themselves, if you need to stop suddenly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, pet crate or guard are all suitable ways to travel safely with your pet.”

CarStore offers customers a combined approach when it comes to buying, selling, and purchasing a used vehicle, blending digital and physical locations to give customers the flexibility and freedom to approach the process in a way that works best for their lifestyle. CarStore’s impartial Personal Advisors provide expert advice and empower customers to make informed decisions that are right for them.

Visit the website to find out more about the partnership and access the content hub:

https://www.carstore.com/about/battersea/

For tips on how to get your dog used to travelling in a vehicle, visit Battersea’s website for useful advice, videos and downloadable guides:

https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/getting-your-dog-used-car-travel

For more information on the rules around travelling with pets in a vehicle visit:

https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk/rules-about-animals-other-animals.html

HOW TO KEEP DOGS COOL WHEN TRAVELLING DURING THE NEXT HEATWAVE

Parts of the UK are set for a second heatwave in the coming weeks, with temperatures set to reach 28C
Dogs are at increased risk of developing heat-related illnesses and start to suffer in just a few minutes
Battersea and CarStore have shared the key watchouts and guidance for looking after your dog in these hot temperatures

With temperatures set to soar again next week, reaching 28C or higher in some areas, it’s important for pet owners to know exactly what to do to keep their dogs safe when travelling in these balmy temperatures.

Looking after beloved pooches is all about planning ahead and being prepared. The aim is to keep them healthy, happy, and hydrated, to reduce the risk of the dog suffering from heatstroke – a genuine threat on a hot summer’s day.

To help drivers stay on top of things whilst out travelling this summer, CarStore have joined forces with Battersea to share their top tips for dog-owning drivers:

KEEP THE CAR COOL

If possible, put the air conditioning on for a few minutes before you set off on your travels, to allow the car to cool down before your dog gets in. Once on the move, make sure you have the windows open for ventilation and use sunshades on the windows, so your dog isn’t in direct sunlight.

You should also make sure your dog has access to water during the journey. The amount of time it takes for a dog to overheat in a car is much shorter than many people think, especially if your dog is long-haired or has a short snout – in some cases, it could be minutes or less. Many of these dogs have difficulty breathing and these problems are exacerbated in hot weather, even from 20°C.

TAKE CARE ON HOT SURFACES

Lots of surfaces heat up in the sun, such as leather car seats or the tarmac in a car park, and this can be painful for your dog’s paws, causing injuries such as blisters. If in doubt, check for yourself using the palm of your hand. If it feels too hot for you, the chances are your dog will feel the same. Use a towel or dog bed in your car to ensure your dog is not sat directly on a hot seat whilst on the move.

PLAN STOPS ON YOUR JOURNEY

If you’re travelling for any kind of significant distance, make sure you take a route that has enough places to stop, so not only can the human passengers take a break, but your dog/s can stretch their legs, go to the toilet, rehydrate, and have a cooling treat too. We would recommend setting off earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler and there is less traffic, if possible.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE IN THE CAR

Cars can get very warm, very quickly, and this can be deadly for your dog. Even if your car is parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable, and develop heatstroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan so your dog isn’t left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces. If you see a dog in a hot car, dial 999.

LOOK OUT FOR HEATSTROKE

When your dog gets too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature they are at risk of developing heatstroke, which can be fatal. The signs to look out for include:

Heavy panting
Glazed eyes
A rapid pulse
Excessive drooling
Lack of coordination, or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you need to act fast. Immediately take them to a cool, shaded area and ring your nearest vet clinic.

Once in the shade, lay them down on a towel soaked in cold water and let them drink small amounts of cool water. Never place them directly into ice cold water or give them too much to drink as they may go into shock. Try to keep cooling them down while you take them to the vets.

Wherever you’re heading, we wish you and your dog a summer full of safe and cool car journeys.

For more tips on how to keep your dog cool in summer, visit the CarStore site, or for pet advice, the Pet Advice section on the Battersea Cats and Dogs Home website is full of expert information.

Pandemic Puppies – The Next Generation

National survey to determine whether Covid-19 continues to impact puppy buying

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is once again calling on puppy owners to take part in a national online survey to understand the pre-purchase motivations and behaviours of owners of puppies purchased during 2021.

Data from the survey, known as “Pandemic Puppies – The Next Generation”, will be used as a comparison to previous years (2019 and 2020), to determine whether the changes in puppy buying in the UK seen during the COVID-19 pandemic have returned to their pre-pandemic baseline or persisted into 2021.

Following the major success of the RVC’s first study in 2020, this follow-up study will investigate the legacy of this period and the future of UK puppy buying culture, particularly given pandemic restrictions continue to lift within the UK.

While many owners were likely making well-intentioned purchases, the demand has inevitably increased the risk to puppy health and welfare. Vets are concerned that the pandemic puppy boom is persisting, consequently adding pressure to veterinary services in the UK.

Therefore, the findings of this study will be used to help support owners regarding their dogs’ future welfare as well as informing the approach that key players within the veterinary and animal welfare sectors should take when sharing educational messaging with prospective owners to better promote canine welfare.

Dr Rowena Packer, Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC said: “The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in the way many of us bought our household goods, with online ordering and delivery a common feature of lockdown life.

“The pandemic also led to changes in the way the UK bought puppies during 2020, due to the many restrictions to travel and social contact during this period.

“Many of these so-called ‘Pandemic Puppies’ became much-cherished companions, helping households cope with lockdown life; however, there are concerns that some owners were duped into buying from unscrupulous breeders. We are interested in whether pandemic-related changes in puppy buying persisted into 2021, so we can best support owners of puppies bought during this period going forward.

“We would love to hear from anyone who purchased a puppy during 2021 to share their experiences.”

Results from the Winter 2020 survey – which involved more than 7,500 respondents – uncovered several changes in buying habits. Owners were more likely to buy a younger puppy, pay a deposit without seeing their puppy, be first-time dog owners with children in their household, and pay more than £2,000.

Other factors included owners being more likely to see their puppy without their littermates and collecting their puppy from outside their breeders’ property or having it delivered.

These pandemic-related changes, such as viewing and purchasing puppies online, and having them delivered directly to owners may be perceived as ‘convenient’ by some but in fact, threaten canine welfare.

Posing harms to both puppies and breeding dogs, understanding whether this online culture is preferred by consumers, and if so, how to change it to protect canine welfare will be key.

“Pandemic Puppies – The Next Generation” is now open for responses, with findings expected by the summer.

Respondents to the online survey must be over 18 years of age, residents in the UK, have brought home a puppy (any breed or cross breed) aged under 16 weeks during 2021, and to have purchased their puppy from a private seller rather than rehomed or bred the puppy themselves.

If you would like more information, please visit: www.rvc.uk.com/Pandemic-Puppies-of-2021-research or, to take part in the survey, visit:

www.rvc.uk.com/Puppy2021-survey

New stress reduction initiative has paw-sitive impact on staff!

AN EDINBURGH-based financial services recruitment firm has enlisted some four-legged volunteers to help reduce stress and increase activity amongst its staff while raising money for charity.

The 22 strong team at Core-Asset Consulting will be walking 100km for MacMillan Cancer Support throughout the month of November with the help of the team’s various office dogs.

Kicking off during International Stress Awareness Week at the beginning of November, the fundraising initiative will run throughout the month, encouraging staff to take short walking breaks from their desk with one of the eight canines who regularly frequent the office.

Coinciding with the recent introduction of a Friday morning canine running club, the walking challenge is hoped to boost morale, decrease stress and encourage healthy habits amongst staff.

Rachael O’Neill, Associate Director of Investment Operations and owner of one of the dogs taking part, Luca, said: “Stress can have a massive impact on mental wellbeing and one of the best ways to combat it is through exercise.

“We already have a regular running club on a Friday morning – wanted to encourage everyone to move more and take regular breaks from their desks throughout the week.

“Staff can take part as little or as often as they like and can walk for as long as they like too. Each distance will be added to an overall tally so it will be a real team effort.

“Our office is dog friendly and a lot of staff take advantage of this. We have Loki, Atlas, Pluto, Shadow, Ruby, Maggie and Cookie as well as my dog Luca. While they’re not all in at once, on any given day you’ll find at least one or more wandering about the office!

“Luca is in every day and Pluto is in most regularly. They both take part in our Friday running club and are loving the attention and the extra walks.

“Luca is very much a lockdown pup so the extra socialising has been great for her. It’s such a weight off not having the pressure of leaving her at home or finding a dog sitter too.”

In addition to the walking challenge, Rachael has been providing staff with stress balls, dedicated stress awareness podcasts and Ted Talks to help her colleagues manage their stress effectively.

Core-Asset Consulting is Scotland’s pre-eminent recruitment and headhunting agency dedicated to financial and professional services.

Formed in 2005, it was born out of Betsy’s desire to take the best of her experience of large corporate recruiters, applying the focus on infrastructure and training to a more sector-specialised business.

Based in Edinburgh, the £14m firm employs 22 people and works across the entire financial services sector, from the smallest boutiques to the biggest global players.

Initially the firm carved its reputation in Scotland’s globally-renowned asset management sector. However, the success of its model allowed it to expand across the wider financial services market. It now boasts dedicated accounting, investment operations and finance teams and also works in Scotland’s thriving legal sector.

To find out more about Core Asset visit: https://core-asset.co.uk/

Pet obesity paw-demic: PDSA launches #WeighUp campaign

Survey reveals thousands of Scottish pets have gained weight over lockdown

Latest research has revealed that a whopping 160,000 furry friends have gained weight in Scotland since March 2020 – contributing towards a total of 1.4 million pets across the UK who have done so during lockdown.

Vet charity PDSA says that the worrying findings unveil the true extent of what was already a growing pet obesity epidemic, with the pandemic creating a ticking time bomb threatening the lives of pets across the UK.

The study* of more than 4,500 UK pet owners by leading vet charity, PDSA, and YouGov, also found that 84,000 Scottish owners have fed their four-legged friends more human treats since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, adding further fuel to the pet obesity crisis.

More pet owners in Scotland (9 per cent) report that their pet has gained weight since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, compared to the Midlands (5 per cent). However, Scottish pet owners walk their dog significantly more frequently than in England or Wales, with 55 per cent reporting they walk their dog more than once a day, compared to 43 per cent of people living in England, and 36 per cent of owners in Wales.

PDSA GLASGOW PERCY THE PUG AND OWNER CHLOE

A couch-potato lifestyle and excessive food consumption over lockdown is having drastic consequences for our pets. And the love we feel for our pets could also be contributing to the problem, as according to UK owners who said their pet was overweight, the most common factors preventing their pet from losing weight were:

giving in when their pet begs for food (29 per cent),
they like feeding treats to their pet (19 per cent),
their pet is fussy with food (19 per cent), and
they feel giving treats shows how much they love them (15 per cent).

PDSA Vet Susan Hermit said: “Worryingly, the detrimental health effects of obesity in our four-legged family members don’t appear to be well-recognised amongst owners. Three in ten (31 per cent) don’t agree that overweight pets are more likely to suffer from serious diseases, and 35 per cent don’t agree that they are less likely to live as long.

“Obesity has been a huge problem among UK pets for a number of years and sadly our PAW Report indicates this is only getting worse. It is one of the biggest long-term health concerns for our pet population, because it is so commonly seen by vets and nurses, with vet professionals estimating that up to half of their pet patients they see each week are overweight**.

“Animals who are overweight have a much greater risk of developing health problems such as arthritis and diabetes – which can have drastic consequences, even shortening their life by up to two years***. We could therefore see this huge obesity problem impact on our pet’s health for years to come.”

Susan adds: “With many owners spending more time at home with their pets since the start of the pandemic, the potential for weight gain due to increased feeding – particularly of treats – was always a concern.

“Unfortunately, we know from previous PAW Reports that some owners struggle to recognise when their pet is overweight or obese and in need of weight loss, which is the first step towards helping them live a longer, happier life. We’ve created a useful free guide to help owners identify if their furry friend is overweight, along with advice on how they can support their pet back to their target weight.

Professor Alex German, Royal Canin Professor of Small Animal Medicine at the University of Liverpool and world-leading expert in cat and dog weight management, adds: “Pet obesity is a growing crisis that is having an impact on the long-term health and happiness of the UK’s pets.

“Both experience and research show that carrying excess weight can have huge health implications, including associations with shorter life expectancy. We all agree that we need to tackle pet obesity urgently, although losing weight can be challenging if you don’t know where to start.

“PDSA’s #WeighUp guide is an invaluable tool to help empower owners to identify the signs of weight gain in their pet in the first place, and also take practical steps to address it.”

Susan concludes: “The good news is that even if your pooch or kitty is in need of a health kick, it’s never too late to help them eat well, exercise and play more, and live longer.

“In most cases, simply adapting their diet, replacing treats with playtime and encouraging them to move more can make a huge difference, and are all the ingredients needed for our pets to maintain a healthy weight, essential for a happy, healthy life.”

For further information about PDSA’s #WeighUp campaign, which is proudly sponsored by Royal Canin, and to download its free guide to help check if your pet is a healthy weight and what to do if not, visit https://pdsa.org.uk/WeighUp.

The Farmer’s Dog partners with DogLost in “missing” campaign

The Farmer’s Dog has partnered with DogLost, a voluntary organisation helping stolen and missing dog owners, by launching a “missing” campaign reminiscent of the missing children milk carton campaign used in the USA in the 1980s.

The Farmer’s Dog UK, a raw dog food company, will affix stickers with the profiles of six missing dogs produced by DogLost onto their mail order boxes.

Customers are invited to take a picture of the sticker and share on their social media channels to digitally help the search for the missing dogs. The stickers will be changed at the end of each month, so in a year The Farmer’s Dog will highlight seventy-two stolen and long-term missing dogs.

Since the beginning of the pandemic the demand for four-legged friends has risen exponentially with workers and families spending more time at home and lacking social interaction. In the first six months of lockdown, it was estimated that 2m dogs were purchased within the UK.

This increase in demand has led to a rise in dog thefts, with the most sought-after breeds selling into the thousands of pounds.

DogLost, run solely by volunteers, have been overwhelmed with requests by grief-stricken owners who have reported their canine companions either lost or stolen. Penalties for dog-theft remain low so thieves are becoming more brazen with reports of dogs stolen from outside shops and even direct from owner’s gardens.

DogLost recommend the below five theft prevention tips to help safeguard against dog theft during the summer holidays:

· Microchip your dog – microchipping is now required by law. This ensures that your dog can easily be identified and returned to you if they get lost or stolen.

· Social media settings – consider making your social media accounts private as thieves can easily identify targets through these channels.

· Stay alert – beware of strangers and do not let your dog off the lead unless you are sure that they will return.

· Security – make sure your garden is secure and that any gates are locked or have an alarm. Do not leave your dog outside alone for any length of time.

· Insure your dog – and consider policies that include ‘missing pet cover’

Brian Balston, The Farmer’s Dog commented: “The Farmer’s Dog are excited to launch our “missing” campaign with DogLost, a voluntary organisation which does incredible work in returning dogs to their owners.

“We have a nationwide customer base of dedicated dog owners; we are excited to be working with DogLost and we hope that our collaboration helps dogs returned to their rightful owners.”

Justine Quirk of DogLost said: “With dog ownership in the UK at an all-time high, unfortunately so is dog theft. Last year we had 465 reported thefts and to date in 2021 we have had 254 reported stolen.

“We are delighted that The Farmer’s Dog came to us with their “missing” campaign concept which, with the benefit of social media, can only help us in our mission to reunite stolen dogs with their owners.”

www.thefarmersdog.uk

www.doglost.co.uk

The Big Dog Walk goes to Glasgow!

Event designed in a Covid safe environment

Touchpoint Live Media, the organisers of the hugely popular DogFest events, are delighted to announce that their Big Dog Walk Series is coming to Glasgow in August 2021.

Following the government’s green light to open up outdoor events, this is truly the time to start planning days out and booking things to look forward to.

After the success of our first four events in England, we have 4 more Big Dog Walks planned across the rest of the year running through to November at stunning locations across the country including our first in Scotland.

The Big Dog Walk is a unique opportunity for dog owners and their families to walk together in the stunning Pollok 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 at each of the venues, taking place at 10am, 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 onboard 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.”

2021 Date and Venue

Pollok Country Park, Glasgow, 22nd August

The Burrell Collection, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT

https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/pollokcountrypark

For more information, please visit https://www.bigdogwalk.co.uk/

Join the conversation on social by following us at:

• Insta @big_dogwalk

• FB @bigdogwalkuk

• Twitter @big_dogwalk

Adopt instead of shop this Holiday Season

This year due to the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns pet ownership has soared and many charities are warning would be pet owners to consider adopting or rescuing a pet this holiday season rather than shopping for one from an online breeder.

Sadly, the RSPCA has reported that in 2020 there has been a sharp increase in pet abandonments and the charity, like many other pet charities, has concerns that these numbers will continue to rise. Perfect-Pets Books looks at the growing number of pet abandonments and the crisis of re-homing that charities face due to the Pandemic.

Perfect-Pets Books have a variety of essential guides full of practical information to help owners and potential owners provide the best care possible for their furry friend. Why not give a book as a present for Christmas? Visit:perfect-pets.org to browse the full catalogue. Get a 20% discount off any Perfect-Pets book enter Perfect20OFF at checkout.

This year the rise in pet ownership has been complicated by the Coronavirus pandemic. A recent report by Letterone has found that during lockdown a staggering 41% of current pet owners got a new pet, 95% were existing pet owners who got another animal and 5% did not previously own a pet before the lockdown. Some of these pets would have been bought from online breeders with little research done about the breed or the breeder.

According to research by the Kennel Club, the coronavirus crisis has led to a surge in puppy ownership across the UK.

Bill Lambert, head of health and welfare at the Kennel Club said: “There is unprecedented demand. Normally, I get one or two inquiries a month but now it is four or five a day.”

“We do have concerns about those puppies which may have been bought on impulse, without owners doing their homework on how or where to get a dog responsibly, or fully realising a puppy is a new family member for life, not a short-term commodity.”

Although there has been a great surge of interest in pet purchases charities have equally noticed an increase in pet abandonments.

RSPCA’s chief inspector for Cambridgeshire reported a dramatic rise in pet abandonments in her region. She said: “We’ve seen 30% of our usual annual total for abandoned animals in just three months.”

As the UK braces itself for the full economic impact of the pandemic, Dogs Trust is warning we could see a sharp rise in the number of dogs being given up or put to sleep if families struggle to cope with the resulting hardships of the crisis.

The Trust estimates that up to 40,000 more stray or abandoned dogs will be in need of help, especially if – as economists indicate – the country sees a financial crisis on par or worse than the crash of 2008.

Meanwhile, the RSPCA has reported that it is experiencing a “cat crisis” due to Coronavirus and lockdown restrictions. During the first lockdown the charity took more than 600 felines into care, which is more than any other pet. More than 7,000 cat related incidents have been reported to the charity’s hotline since lockdown measures began.

Cats Protection has had some success re-homing its abandoned cats. The charity reported that it has re-homed about 2,400 cats since it began its new “hands-free homing” process during the first lockdown.

The number of cat and dog abandonments reported are staggering and they do not account for the vast array of pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs who are also being abandoned. Many charities are asking potential buyers during the Christmas season to consider re-homing or adopting instead of shopping for a new puppy or kitten.

Even for those not looking for a pet simply offering a donation to support the work of charities such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Cats Protection can help during these difficult times.

For any potential dog owners looking to adopt Rescue Dogs the Essential Guide by Perfect-Pets Books offers clear and precise information about how to adopt and make your home a safe and comfortable environment for a new dog.

Cat Care the Essential Guide is useful for any cat lovers who want to rehome a cat or simply provide a happy home for a new feline friend.

To Learn more about Perfect-Pets Books visit: www.perfect-pets.org.

Which dog is for You?

Covid Encourages Dog Ownership to Soar

Since the appearance of Covid-19 pet ownership has been on the increase. Lockdown has brought a variety of changes to our lives and for many families adding a new canine friend has been a popular choice due to lockdown and months of isolation.

Problems arise once a new puppy or dog is brought into the home and understanding the right type of care to give can be a struggle.

Perfect-Pets books have published a new guide entitled Which Dog? An Essential Guide to Britain’s 20 Most Popular Breeds. Beautifully illustrated with colour photos it is a book that all the family can enjoy that helps dog lovers decide which breed is best for them and offers tips on the type of care they will need.

Owning a new dog certainly has its rewards but knowing which dog to choose can be a difficult choice to make. Some breeds require high-octane activity while others enjoy quieter solitude. The type of home an owner has may or may not be suitable for the type of breed that is desired.

In the beginning a puppy is very cute but depending on the breed that same puppy can grow into a very large dog that needs a great amount of attention, space and exercise. This can be disconcerting for some owners who might prefer a smaller dog, or a dog that has a quieter nature that requires less fuss.

In general, pet ownership has increased due to Covid-19. A recent survey has found that nearly half of all pet owners in the UK added at least one new furry friend during lockdown and 10% of British households currently without pets intend to get one in the next six months.

These are staggering statistics but with 37% of pet owners working from home during the height of the pandemic it was inevitable that owners would get closer to their pets and be tempted to bring another one into their home.

Lockdown has also brought the darker side of dog breeding into the spotlight, as demand soared. Google searches for “buy a puppy” increased by 166 percent since lockdown was announced on 23 March 2020. The increase in demand has caused an upswing in prices for puppies which is a worry for breeders and charities. Siberian

Husky breeder Stephen Biddlecombe points out they have been inundated with emails from prospective owners. He says: “A puppy is a puppy only for a few weeks and then that puppy grows into an adult, an adult dog, and you’ve got a completely different animal on your hands, as you can see.”

It is feared that not all breeders are acting appropriately. The Kennel Club’s Bill Lambert said some breeders had hiked their prices and there is concern that some buyers would look abroad, where welfare standards can be lower. He said: ‘We are hearing stories that some breeders are actually profiteering.”

As many workers return to their jobs and children go back to school there is a worry that the novelty of owning a new puppy or dog will wear off and they will be abandoned or dropped off at a rescue centre.

Since Covid-19 rescue centres have seen an increase in the number of abandoned dogs as rising unemployment hits record levels. The public has shown great interest in adopting or fostering dogs during the crisis, but Dogs Trust said: “Dog ownership is a wonderful thing, but it is a lifelong commitment which must be carefully considered.

“As our saying goes, ‘a dog is for life’ and, in this case, not just for self-isolation.”

Bringing a new dog into a home comes with responsibilities so it is important to research and think carefully before buying a dog or adding any new additions. Perfect-Pets Books have an extensive range of Essential Guides for dog and cat lovers that offer advice and information to help owners provide the best care possible.

Books such as First Aid for Dogs, Dog Rescue and Dog Training act as great complements to Perfect-Pets’ most popular dog breeds Essential Guides.

So, if you are wondering which dog is for you and want to be prepared in order to give the best care possible visit: www.perfect-pets.org

Top dog Kuno to receive Dickin Medal

Retired military dog Kuno is to receive the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal for valour – the animal Victoria Cross – after he was wounded in action while heroically saving the lives of British Forces fighting Al Qaeda.

During a dangerous operation in 2019, three-year-old Belgian Shepherd Malinois Kuno and his handler were deployed in support of specialist UK and host nation forces on a compound raid against a well-armed and aggressive enemy when they came under attack.

Pinned down by grenade and machine-gun fire from an insurgent, the assault force was unable to move without taking casualties.

Without hesitation, Kuno charged through a hail of gunfire to tackle the gunman, breaking the deadlock and changing the course of the attack, allowing the mission to be completed successfully.

During the assault Kuno was wounded by bullets in both back legs. He was given life-saving treatment by his handler and by medics in the back of a helicopter.

His injuries were so severe he required several operations before he was stable enough to fly back to the UK. Sadly, part of one of Kuno’s rear paws had to be amputated to prevent life-threatening infection.

But now he is thriving after becoming the first UK military working dog to be fitted with custom made prosthetic limbs.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Without Kuno, the course of this operation could have been very different, and it’s clear he saved the lives of British personnel that day. This particular raid was one of the most significant achievements against Al Qaeda in several years.

“Kuno’s story reminds us not only of the dedicated service of our soldiers and military dogs, but also the great care that the UK Armed Forces provide to the animals that serve alongside them.”

Kuno underwent extensive rehabilitation under the watchful eye of Army vets and is fitted with prosthetics that allow his to run and play — *Kuno underwent extensive rehabilitation under the watchful eye of Army vets and is fitted with prosthetics that allow him to run and play*

Kuno returned home aboard an RAF plane, receiving in-flight care from a Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) team. Back in the UK he was transferred to the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray where he underwent extensive reconstructive surgery, overseen by Professor Dick White, one of the world’s leading specialists in canine surgery.

Under the painstaking care of Army vets, veterinary nurses and canine physiotherapists, assisted by staff from the University of Nottingham, Kuno then embarked upon an innovative and lengthy programme of rehabilitation to restore function to his nerves and muscles, just like injured service personnel.

Kuno was a friendly and enthusiastic patient throughout, he loves human interaction and especially enjoyed his sessions on the hydrotherapy treadmill.

Within months, he was strong enough to be fitted with a pioneering custom-made prosthesis to replace his missing paw, alongside an orthotic brace to support his injured limb.

Kuno, who was on his second deployment when he was injured, is the first UK military dog to be fitted with such devices. Lightweight and fully bespoke, they enable him to run and jump as he wishes, securing a great quality of life for many years to come.

Colonel Neil Smith QHVS, the Chief Veterinary and Remount Officer, said: “It is important that Military Working Dogs receive a high level of care if they are unfortunately injured, and Defence has military vets and vet nurses to ensure animals receive the care and rehabilitation they deserve.

“Kuno is an amazing dog in many ways, and we are delighted that the PDSA have decided to award him their Dickin Medal.”

Now retired and rehomed, Kuno will receive the PDSA Dickin Medal, the highest animal honour in existence for military animal valour, which will be formally presented by PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary charity who run the world’s most prestigious animal awards programme, in a virtual ceremony in November.

PDSA Director General, Jan McLoughlin, said: Kuno’s heroic actions undoubtedly changed the course of the mission and saved lives. He took on the enemy without fear or hesitation, never faltering from his duty despite being seriously injured.

“For his bravery and devotion to duty, he is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal and we look forward to formally presenting his award later this year.”

The world-renowned PDSA Dickin Medal was introduced by PDSA’s founder, Maria Dickin CBE, in 1943. It is the highest award any animal can achieve while serving in military conflict. Kuno will become the 72nd recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal; previous recipients include 34 dogs, 32 World War II messenger pigeons, four horses and one cat.

*Kuno has now been rehomed and is living happily with a new family*

Scottish athletic heroes on a mission to keep dogs active for life

Today, current GB athletic heroes British 1500 metre record-holder and 2 x European champion Laura Muir, 3 x Paralympian and Rio 2016 silver medallist Lauren Steadman, and 2 x European U23 champion Jemma Reekie are teaming up with YuMOVE, to launch Wagletics – a campaign that will inspire the nation’s pet owners to keep their dogs active for life.

YuMOVE are launching the campaign in response to the soaring number of new dog-owners throughout the UK who have bought, adopted or rehomed a dog during the pandemic.

According to a recent report by charity the Dogs Trust, google searches for ‘buy a puppy’ increased by 166% during the pandemic and leading pet rescue charities like Battersea Dogs and Cats Home have reported record numbers of dogs being rehomed during this period.

In the absence of the Games, GB’s Laura Muir, Lauren Steadman and Jemma Reekie are emBARKing on a different kind of challenge: keeping the nation’s dogs happy, healthy and active for life.

These remarkable women regularly prepare for the world’s most prestigious sporting competitions by training alongside their dogs. In what would have been the final week of the Olympic Games, our GB heroes are swapping gold medals for wagging tails.

The YuMOVE Wagletics campaign will run across YuMOVE’s Facebook and Instagram channels from 7th – 28th August.

Lauren Steadman (@laurensteadmann), Laura Muir (@lmuiruns) and Jemma Rekkie (@jemmareekie) will also be posting content to their own Instagram channels. Each week, the nation will have the opportunity to learn a new exercise for their dogs and will be shown how to master it by our GB heroes.

Exercises will be adapted for dogs of all ages. Routines will focus on mobility, strength, coordination and discipline and will include a doggy agility course, ultimate frisbee, hide & seek and obedience challenges. All of these playful and easy-to-do routines can be performed at home with minimal or no props.

The campaign supports YuMOVE’s mission to keep pets active for life. YuMOVE helps to soothe stiff joints, support joint structure, and promote mobility, helping to keep pets moving for longer. All exercises for the Wagletics campaign have been created by Laura Muir, who not content with flying the flag for Team GB, is also a fully-qualified vet.

Laura Muir said: “As an elite athlete at the top of my game I understand better than most how to keep fit in order to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.

“But as a Vet I also know how important it is for dogs to be mentally and physically fit. So I hope dog owners will be inspired to mix up their daily exercise routines to support their dogs in living a long, healthy and active life.”

Lauren Steadman said: “I regularly train with my German Shepherd Meric Belle. The bond that we share is unbreakable and I know that their love and companionship has played a big part in both my training and allowing me to enjoy my downtime.

“I’m delighted to play a part in the Wagletics campaign and can’t wait to share some of my exercise tips and tricks with you.”

Jemma Reekie added: “As a dog-owner, I know how much people cherish their pets and want to do the best they can for them.

“So with the Wagletics campaign we’re going to remind dog owners just how much fun different exercises can be for them and their dogs and the benefit of these exercises to their long term health and mobility.”

Gemma Cunningham, spokesperson for YuMOVE, commented: “At YuMOVE, we understand that mobility plays a huge part in maintaining a good quality of life, and with the right joint support and by staying active through exercise our dogs can keep moving long into their senior years. So who better to help us improve our doggie exercise routines than three dog-loving GB athletes?

“These inspirational women regularly train with their dogs in preparation for the most prestigious sporting events in the world and, in the absence of the Olympic Games this summer, we hope they can inspire the nation’s dog-owners to help their dogs stay active not only for the remainder of the summer, but for life.”

Follow YuMOVE on social media and search #YuMOVEWagletics to participate and keep your dog active for life.

Amazing prizes, including one-on-one coaching sessions from our athletes, product bundles and doggy toys are up for grabs for all those that take part in the campaign.