In an effort to raise awareness of shopping pre-loved, this month will see the re-launch of Vet Your Clothes, a UK campaign whereby PDSA are calling on the local community to ‘vet their clothes’ – by having a purposeful clear out, donating items they no longer need to its charity outlets.
The campaign is backed by PDSA supporters, and animal lovers, Fearne Cotton and Sarah Jayne Dunn, who have taken on the challenge and vetted their clothes – both donating an item from their wardrobe they no longer need. They are hoping this will encourage many to join in, making some closet space before adding any more fresh finds!
The items up for grabs are a gorgeous, sparkly Olivia Rubin dress that had everyone talking when worn by Fearne, and almost immediately sold out. Now, there’s a unique opportunity to get your hands on this pre-loved by Fearne, highly desired, and no-longer available to purchase, total show-stopper dress.
There’s also a beautiful electric blue textured mini dress, resembling a heap of hydrangea flowers, worn by Sarah. This fabulous dress was from a Forever Unique collaboration with fashion and lifestyle influencer, Tara Maynard. As the collection has come to an end, it’s an opportunity to get your hands on a pre-loved by Sarah, unique, and again, no-longer available to purchase dress.
The items donated by the campaign ambassadors, Fearne and Sarah, will go up for sale in an online auction event, hosted on 4 February.
In the run up to the auction, PDSA is calling on the rest of the UK to also take on the challenge of ‘vetting their clothes’ for a great cause! PDSA has 116 charity shops throughout the UK, so plenty of locations to drop off any unwanted goodies.
Items sold in PDSA’s charity shops go a long way to support pets in need:
Just one item sold for £3 in a PDSA charity shop would pay for a small bottle of a local anaesthetic to provide essential pain relief to a much-loved pet during dental procedures and minor surgery.
An item sold for £5 would provide a poorly cat with anti-sickness to ease their symptoms.
And an item sold for £10 would pay for a heat pad that would help keep a pet warm and cosy following surgery.
PDSA’s Vet Your Clothes campaign runs through January and February 2024. Visit the Vet Your Clothes campaign page on PDSA’s website to find out more: www.pdsa.org.uk/vetyourclothes
With the start of the New Year also being the introduction of the XL Bully ban in England and Wales, the countdown is now officially on for owners to comply with the new legislation before time runs out.
In the latest news from the Scottish Government, there are now plans for an XL Bully ban to come into force in Scotland as well, with little known detail just yet, but it was shared the ban will mirror the measures that have been introduced in England and Wales.
PDSA Vet Lynne James shares a breakdown of the timeline impacting owners in England and Wales, plus some key information, as well as some of the charity’s concerns.
Timeline of the ban
“The timeline of the ban is one of the most important factors, especially now, as owners in England and Wales do not have very long to ensure they comply with the new rules soon to come into force.”
Right now, all XL Bully type dogs must be wearing a muzzle and kept on a lead when in public. It is also now illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon or allow an XL Bully type dog to stray.
Owners can no longer apply for a Certificate of Exemption by email or by post (deadline was 15 Jan) – the only way to now apply is through the government website.
The deadline to apply for an Exemption through the Government website is by midday on 31 January.
From 1 February, XL Bully type dogs must have a Certificate of Exemption.
By 30 June 2024, all XL Bully type dogs over 1 year old on 31 January 2024 must be neutered.
By 31 December 2024, all XL Bully dogs under 1 year old on 31 January 2024, must be neutered.
What we know
“Although there is now a ban in England and Wales, the current population of XL Bully type dogs is going to be around for years to come, and this will likely be the same in Scotland too. With the average lifespan being around 10-12 years, the ban does not mean these dogs will suddenly disappear.
“The government has determined the physical characteristics which will decide if a dog fits the ‘breed type’ of the XL Bully. They have shared DNA or simply what owners were told their dog was when they were bought or rehomed will not count as evidence of breed.
“However, they have confirmed that other established breeds, such as those recognised by the UK Kennel Club, who may meet some of the characteristics of the XL Bully breed type, are not covered by the ban.
“The Government has also stated that owners are responsible for determining themselves if their dog is classified as an XL Bully type or not, and whether that means they should apply for an Exemption.
“We also know, regardless of personal thoughts about the ban, all owners of dogs deemed to fit the XL Bully type will now need to follow the guidance. Owners found not complying with the legislation may face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type without a Certificate of Exemption, and their dog could be seized, or in some cases, dogs may even be put to sleep by the authorities.
“We’re aware this a worrying time for many, in England, Wales and now Scotland, and we maintain our position that Breed Specific Legislation is not the right course of action to protect the public.
PDSA’s concerns
“In addition to our concerns about this rushed through legislation, the timeline of the ban in England and Wales is adding unnecessary pressure on owners who are already in a stressful situation.
“We know recent years have been financially tough for many, with PDSA seeing an increase in demand for our low-cost services. Finding the funds in a short space of time to cover the cost of an Exemption, as well as what is needed to comply, including neutering, may not be easy for many, and may have long-term impacts. With no help to cover these costs announced from the Government, it leaves animal charities like PDSA left to pick up the pieces.
“We’re also concerned that the potential stigma of owning a ‘banned breed’ could sadly lead to owners feeling unable to walk or socialise their dogs. This will no doubt have a severe negative impact upon the welfare of these dogs, whose health and welfare must remain an upmost priority.
“We know the announcement in Scotland may not be the news many want to hear, but we will continue to support owners across England, Wales and Scotland however we can. PDSA’s main focus remains supporting owners with our aim being to keep people and pets together.”
As the weeks go by, and the deadlines get closer in England and Wales, and more information is shared about the upcoming ban in Scotland, PDSA will continue to update their website to ensure all of the information is up to date and relevant for owners.
Winter can be a fun time for pets, but with forecasts of an ‘arctic blast’ on the way, PDSA experts are warning owners to keep our four-legged friends safe and warm in the wintry conditions. Pets can be at risk of hypothermia if they get too cold, but it’s also important to ensure they stay active during freezing temperatures.
PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need, asked their Vet Nurse Nina Downing to put together her top tips on keeping our pets cosy and safe through the big freeze:
Dogs
Giving dogs their daily walks is important for their physical and mental health, even during the colder months. Try to do this during daylight hours if possible, and consider getting a good dog coat.
LED collars or high-vis leads are a good investment, to help keep both you and your pooch visible if you’re braving the dark nights and mornings.
If your dog gets wet while out, dry them off as soon as possible. If you drive your dogs to walks, then keeping a towel in the car is a good idea.
Check their paws after walks too, as snow can build up and form clumps on the fur between dogs’ toes, which can be painful. Salt and grit can also irritate their pads, so when they return from winter walks it’s a good idea to wash their paws in warm water. Keep the fur between their toes trimmed short, and you can even use some paw butter or pet-friendly skin cream which may prevent their pads becoming dry and sore.
Don’t leave dogs in cars – the inside temperature can quickly become as cold as the outside, even if you’ve just been driving with the heating on.
Never leave dogs locked outdoors, ensure they can always access shelter and warmth.
Watch out for ice, this can be slippery for them as well as us, and if it’s broken it can even cut their paws. Keep dogs off icy surfaces, and definitely keep them away from any frozen lakes and ponds.
If your dog is very young, elderly, skinny or poorly then they are at higher risk of hypothermia. They can’t control their body temperature well so need extra care to keep them warm. High risk pets should only go outside for short times in cold weather, and should be closely supervised. Give them extra bedding and consider getting a pet-safe heat mat.
Nina added: “It’s worth considering whether your dog would benefit from a good winter coat to keep them warm and dry.
“Pets that are young, old, unwell, or that have very thin fur, can all benefit from this extra protection. Make sure coats fit well and don’t restrict your dog’s movement.”
Cats
Make sure your cat has a warm, comfy bed, in a draught free area of the house. If possible, make sure this is raised off the floor – cats are often more comfortable when higher up and it will keep them out of the coldest draughts.
Never leave cats locked outdoors, ensure they can always access shelter and warmth.
If your cat prefers to stay indoors during very bad weather, help them stay active by providing toys and enrichment activities. This will ensure they don’t miss out on vital exercise. Also make sure they have a litter tray that’s kept clean, so they don’t have to go outside if they don’t want to.
If your cat prefers to spend time outside, make sure they can always come inside when they want to. Providing an alternative option, in case cat flaps get frozen shut or blocked by snow, is also a good idea.
Nina continued: “It’s really important that our pets stay active during the winter – don’t let them become a coach potato! This can be challenging when the weather is uninviting, but many dogs and cats still enjoy exploring the great outdoors even during the cold and the wet.”
She also has some advice for keeping smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets cosy in the cold weather:
Small pets
Bring hutches under shelter – a shed or car-free garage is ideal, to protect them from draughts, rain and snow. Pets that are used to living outdoors can find a centrally heated home a stark contrast, so a cooler room is better, if you bring them indoors. Make sure they have access to natural light and an exercise run.
Bulk up bedding – give small pets extra bedding during the winter, so they can snuggle right down to keep warm.
Provide protection – if there’s no option than to keep hutches outdoors, then drape a blanket or piece of carpet over the mesh door to keep out the worst of the weather. You could also use plastic sheeting, but make sure any covers don’t obstruct ventilation.
Don’t forget to check water bottles or bowls several times a day to make sure they’re not frozen.
Seven of the weirdest festive objects PDSA pet patients have eaten at Christmas
Christmas is often dubbed ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, but sadly some pets will need to see a vet this year due to a festive emergency.
This Christmas period, PDSA Vets alongside PDSA Pet Insurance are warning pet owners of certain dangers to be wary of this time of year.
PDSA Vet Nurse Shauna Walsh explains: “Festive foods, gifts under the Christmas tree, decorations, and even the most ordinary household objects can tempt curious cats and dogs, putting them in harm’s way.
“Over the festive period, we all eat things we shouldn’t, and that’s no exception for many pets. Our veterinary teams will likely see many poorly pets in need of emergency treatment after they’ve wolfed down something they shouldn’t have over the festive season.
“In December alone last year, our veterinary teams treated over 53,000 pets, conducted over 61,000 consultations, and performed over 2,300 operations. Some of which will have been related to ingestion of a festive hazard.
“This Christmas, we’re urging owners to watch out for prying paws as we revisit seven of the oddest Christmas-themed objects our pet patients have eaten.”
7 of the oddest Christmas-themed objects PDSA pet patients have eaten
1. Fairy lights
Now, you wouldn’t think fairy lights could look appetising, would you? Think again! Cheeky Charlie underwent emergency surgery at Southampton PDSA when his family discovered he had eaten fairy lights. Thankfully, the glass hadn’t cut his mouth or throat, and he hadn’t bitten through the wire when the lights were on, which could have electrocuted him! Thankfully, vets performed life-saving surgery to remove the lights, and Charlie was able to go home with his family.
2. Tinsel
Renowned for eating sofas, carpets, and tinsel in his younger days, when Dexter’s family noticed tinsel was missing from the mantelpiece, they were sure their dog was the culprit. However, Dexter showed no signs of illness until later that night, when he was sick. The following morning, Dexter was taken to PDSA, and x-rays confirmed tinsel in his stomach. Vets performed emergency surgery, and to his owners’ relief, Dexter could go home in time for Christmas.
3. Golf balls
If you’re planning to surprise a friend or family member with golf-inspired gifts this Christmas, be careful around inquisitive pets. When Azar the Doberman suddenly lost weight, his owner took him to her local PDSA Vet. To her surprise, they discovered he had swallowed not one but three golf balls! Sadly, two of the balls had lodged themselves in his small intestine, and he was at risk of suffering stomach injuries. It was touch and go, but thankfully Azar survived the operation.
4. Star-shaped Christmas decoration
When a five-month-old puppy called Charlie was gagging and struggling to breathe, his worried owner knew something wasn’t right. Charlie visited his local PDSA Pet Hospital, where vets performed x-rays and, to their surprise, found a star shining back at them! Vets had to act quickly to remove the star-shaped decoration with forceps to stop the puppy from choking.
5. Nintendo DS game
It was almost game over for Rocco when PDSA Vets discovered the curious canine had swallowed a Nintendo DS game. He started vomiting and refused to eat, so his owners took him to PDSA Glasgow Shamrock Street Pet Hospital for an emergency appointment. Vets found a rectangular-shaped object in his gut on x-rays and performed emergency surgery to remove it immediately. They were stunned to retrieve a video game cartridge from his small intestine, but thankfully, Rocco survived and was able to go home to rest and recover the following day.
6. Christmas tree decoration
Leah’s owner was distraught when her beloved cat began vomiting and losing weight. Her owner took her to Middlesbrough PDSA to get to the bottom of the issue, only to find Leah had eaten a tiny Christmas tree-shaped decoration! X-rays showed a perfectly formed Christmas tree in the cat’s abdomen. Vets performed emergency surgery to remove it, and thankfully Leah was able to go home with her loving owner.
7. Spoon
Don’t forget, pets can be drawn to the most ordinary household objects too. Rottweiler Max bit off more than he could chew when he was fed strawberries and cream from a spoon and ate the spoon too! Worried, Max’s owners took him to her local PDSA Pet Hospital. An x-ray showed the spoon lodged firmly in Max’s stomach, so he was rushed into surgery to remove it. Thanks to PDSA Vets, Max survived.
PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn.
The charity’s insurance arm, PDSA Pet Insurance, offers a range of policies to cover cats and dogs for accidents and illness, as well as providing access to a 24/7 veterinary helpline. Every policy sold raises funds for the charity’s life-saving veterinary work.
PDSA is appealing for support so that we can continue to help keep people and pets together this Christmas.
Our charity provides free and low cost vet care for owners who are struggling to afford the treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. The cost of living crisis is hitting hard meaning many people are struggling – nearly a quarter (23%) of the owners we help have used a food bank for them or their family over the last 12 months. With basic essentials such as food unaffordable for so many, our vital, life-saving services are needed now more than ever.
In December 2022 our dedicated teams treated more than 53,000 pets, and performed over 2,300 operations. In fact, we treat 10 pets every minute! But in the last 12 months there has been an estimated 1.6% increase in people receiving benefits, meaning many more people are now eligible for our charitable veterinary services. This equates to an additional 83,000 people who may turn to us, desperate for help in their time of need.
Our pets give us so much unconditional love and companionship, but without our help thousands of people could suffer a devastating loss because they can’t afford vital treatment for their pet. We don’t receive any government funding, relying entirely on generous public support to keep our 48 Pet Hospitals open.
With the festive season in full swing, the time for gift giving is about to be upon us.
This December, leading vet charity PDSA is hoping people can give the gift of time and do their bit in helping the charity support those who need it most – by volunteering in one of it’s charity shops across the UK.
Jennie Pearson, Volunteering Business Partner at PDSA, said: “We’re heading into a widely celebrated time of year for generosity and giving, and we’d be forever grateful for some helping hands this holiday season. For anyone looking to give back to the community, we’d love to have you on board in our team of volunteers.
“Our volunteers are an amazing group of people who all contribute something very special to PDSA. By giving us the gift of their time, they are helping us to support pet owners in their time of need – who would otherwise struggle to cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills should their pet fall ill or become injured. Their efforts mean we can help families stay together.”
Benefits of volunteering
“We offer a warm and supportive environment for all of our volunteers. The shops enable people to give something back to their local community, all whilst supporting a vital charity cause.
“Our shops welcome people from all walks of life within local communities, whether they are coming to the shop for a browse or to donate an item. They are great social spots for both volunteers and visitors.
“Volunteering can also help people improve their confidence while enabling them to develop and improve on their knowledge and skills.
“It can be a great way to get out of the house, especially for those who may feel isolated, and all for such a good cause.
“Our charity shops are vital to PDSA. They provide much needed funding for our 48 Pet Hospitals across the UK, so the teams can continue to help thousands of the nation’s most vulnerable pets. All of our volunteers provide an essential contribution to the charity, and every hour spared to help out goes a really long way.
“We are extremely grateful to all of the people who support PDSA because they believe in what we do. It’s the generous support from donating unwanted items, making a purchase, or volunteering in our charity shops, that goes back into helping keep people and pets together in their times of need through our Pet Hospitals.”
If you would like to make a positive difference to your own life and the lives of others by lending a hand, there are lots of volunteering roles available across PDSA’s over 100 charity shops up and down the country.
Whether you would like to help customers with their shopping, sort through donations, create eye-catching window displays or serve at the till. To find out more about volunteering, head to PDSA’s website: www.pdsa.org.uk/volunteering
As Christmas approaches vet charity PDSA has issued a chocolate warning for all pet owners, after a 13-year-old dog decided Christmas would come early, tucking into an entire gift-wrapped selection box.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Max, was discovered by his stunned owners next to the Christmas tree, with scraps of wrapping paper and the remains of what was a gift-wrapped selection box.
Having had Max since he was a puppy, he had never shown interest in presents under the tree, or tried to get his paws on chocolate, so his family was in total shock to find he’d ripped open a present from under the tree, and eaten not only all six packets of chocolate in the selection box, but some of the box itself and the wrapping paper!
Max’s loving owner, Stacey, said: “Max is the light of our lives, he’s definitely a real character, but after all these years we never imagined he’d open up a gift from under the tree!
“We know chocolate can be really bad for dogs, so I immediately searched online to find out the total grams, to see how bad it was. I then called the vets, who told me I needed to bring Max in straight away.”
Across it’s 48 Pet Hospitals, PDSA sees a 35% increase in a medication used to treat poisonings around Christmas, which is likely linked to the abundance of dangerous food in the home such as chocolates and mince pies.
PDSA Vet Nurse Shauna Walsh said: “The seriousness of chocolate poisoning depends on how much your pet has eaten, how big they are, and the cocoa content of the chocolate – the darker the chocolate the more toxic it is for your pet.”
Thankfully for Max, it didn’t take long for him to perk up again after being treated with fluids, charcoal and medication to induce vomiting. He was soon able to head home to fully recover, and enjoy the rest of the festive season with his family.
The most severe cases of chocolate poisoning in pets can lead to heart failure, coma and even death. Although this is rare this is why it’s really important to keep chocolate safely away from any curious pets. Especially during celebrations like Christmas when there’s likely more chocolate than usual in the house.
Symptoms of chocolate poisoning usually appear within two to four hours, but can take up to 12 hours. In severe cases, toxicity can cause:
Fast breathing or panting
Shaking, trembling and tremors
High temperature (fever)
Seizures
A fast heart rate
High blood pressure
It’s also important to be aware of mild symptoms too:
Hyperactivity
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Signs of abdominal discomfort/pain
If you think your pet could have ingested some chocolate, don’t wait for chocolate poisoning symptoms to appear, keep the packaging and call your vet immediately.
Thousands of people could suffer a devastating loss because they can’t afford their pets veterinary treatment, together this Christmas we can save pets’ lives. For more information on how you can help PDSA keep people and pets together this visit:
Dog behaviourists reveal why our pets can feel SAD, just the same as humans
Whilst it’s common knowledge that 2 million people in the UK suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), did you know that dogs can be impacted by it too?
Vet charity PDSA found that 1 in 3 dog owners notice their pets appear down or depressed during the dreary, cold months, which equates to around four million dogs across the UK.
With this in mind, the outdoor dog gear experts at Ruffwear have collaborated with Rachel Rodgers, clinical animal behaviouralist at Nose to Trail, on how dogs can suffer from SAD, how to spot if your dog is experiencing SAD and how to overcome it with your four-legged friends:
Speaking to Ruffwear, clinical animal behaviourist Rachel Rodgers said: “When the clocks change, and the dark nights draw in, this can be the time where people notice their dog showing signs of ‘sadness’ or ‘doggy depression’ similar to SAD. Dogs typically thrive off routine, so when this changes, it can throw them off.
“Many breeds, particularly younger dogs with lots of energy, really do need ample amounts of exercise. Hence, if you’re out working all day and then not doing as much with them in the evening, what we may see is them being quite bored and miserable. It isn’t just the physical activity they are missing out on, but walks provide mental stimulation.
“Sniffing releases dopamine which has a calming effect on the brain, it also lowers heart rate and blood pressure so has other benefits for the dogs which they may be missing out on at this time of year.”
Six signs that your dog is suffering from SAD
In order to spot if your dog is suffering from SAD, Ruffwear have provided the top six signs to look out for this winter.
Changes in their sleeping patterns
Much like humans, dogs can experience a change in sleeping patterns which can be influenced by their owners. Excessive sleeping or difficulty sleeping can be indicative of emotional distress.
Decreased energy levels
If your dog seems unusually tired, lacks energy, or is less interested in activities they usually enjoy, it might be a sign of SAD.This can also manifest itself in your dog not wanting to go on walks or not being as physically active as usual.
Naughty and destructive behaviour
During the winter months, in comparison to low energy levels, some dogs may exhibit destructive behaviour. This can include the likes of chewing furniture or personal items.
These naughty and destructive behaviours tend to occur when they are feeling stressed or anxious, and also a result of boredom.
Withdrawal and less interaction
Dogs that are feeling down may withdraw from social interactions. They might not greet you at the door as enthusiastically as usual or may prefer to be alone.
Changes in appetite
A decrease or increase in appetite can be a sign of emotional distress. Some dogs may lose interest in food, while others may start eating more than usual.
Increased vocalisation
Some dogs may express their distress through increased whining, barking, or howling. On the other hand, some dogs may become unusually quiet.
Four expert tips to overcome SAD with your dog
If you’ve spotted these signs of SAD in your dog, Ruffwear have also provided their top tips on how to help overcome it and set a new routine.
It’s important to note that the first thing you should do is to check with your vet to ensure there is no underlying pain causing your dog to seem depressed, as this can sometimes cause behavioural changes in our pets.
Teach your dog a few new tricks
The saying goes you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but when it’s dark and miserable outside, work through some new training.
Make feeding fun
If your dog isn’t getting excited about their feeding time, something is definitely up. Try to make meal times a little more exciting for them by using puzzle games or fun treat dispensers.
Increase your one-on-one time
Spend more one-on-one time with your dog. Rachel advises “As we get closer to the festive season some people will be out more vising friends and family, or at the office Christmas do and your dog may just be missing that social companionship with you.”
Prep for next year
Once you’ve figured out what works for both of you, you can keep this in mind for next year. You know your dog better than anyone, and if you notice something isn’t right with your dog, it’s always best to have a plan in place for when the miserable weather comes back around.
Earlier this year, a fire broke out in the building above the PDSA South Bridge charity shop, causing the shop to close for the foreseeable future. The shop located at 88-89 South Bridge, EH1 1HN, closed in June, but is very nearly ready to officially re-open again.
Before the shop reopens its doors again to eager shoppers, the team are hoping the supportive local community will head over there to donate any unwanted goodies.
PDSA Cluster Shop Manager, Fiona Lawrie, said: “Since the unavoidable closure of South Bridge five months ago, we’ve had a flurry of support from locals at our nearby Nicolson Street shop. We’re hoping before we re-open South Bridge, lovely locals will pop by to donate any unwanted items they may have, so we can open the doors again, stocked with fresh finds!
“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us, the fire was a big shock to our team, but we’re more than ready to head back into the shop and welcome previous supporters, and new faces through the door.”
The shop is not yet open for people to browse around, however the official re-opening date will be announced very soon.
For anyone who wishes to donate any items, please drop any goods off at PDSA South Bridge, 88-89 South Bridge, EH1 1HN.
A puppy from Dundee is back home with his loving family in time for Christmas after needing emergency care at PDSA when he was badly bitten by a larger dog.
The leading vet charity – which treats 10 pets every minute – is sharing 11-month-old Boomi’s story ahead of Giving Tuesday (Tuesday 28 November) and appealing for donations to help them keep pets and people together this Christmas.
Boomi’s story
Crossbreed puppy, Boomi, and his owner, Tom, had nipped outside their home for a toilet break when things took an unexpected turn.
Tom, who has autism, explained: “A large dog saw us from about 15 metres away. He came bounding over with his lead trailing behind and began to jump at Boomi. I knew we were vulnerable, as the owner of the dog hadn’t noticed what was happening.
“The dog was really trying to get hold of Boomi and eventually managed to sink his teeth in. He began shaking Boomi around in the air. I was frantically holding onto Boomi to try to rescue him despite feeling panicked and scared for my own safety.
“Eventually, the owner managed to restrain his dog with the help of a passer-by. I don’t know what I would’ve done if somebody else hadn’t intervened. I immediately scooped Boomi, who was covered in blood and crying out in pain, up into my arms and ran straight to the car to get help.”
Boomi was initially seen at a private veterinary clinic, where he was assessed and received emergency care. The next morning, Boomi was transferred to Dundee PDSA Pet Hospital for ongoing treatment.
PDSA Vet Nurse, Paolo Panetta, said: “Boomi arrived with a large, deep wound on his leg and was admitted straight away. He was put on a drip and given pain relief, anti-sickness medication, and antibiotic injections.
“Once he was stabilised, we anaesthetised him to assess his wounds further. Thankfully, x-rays showed that there were no fractures, though his muscles had been severely traumatised. The large wound was stitched up but, due to the severity of the trauma, a small hole was left in the wound to allow any fluid to drain out. Boomi stayed overnight for ongoing care and pain relief.”
The next day, Boomi was recovering well, so he was able to return home to Tom with antibiotics, pain relief medication, and instructions for strict rest. He also needed to wear a recovery cone to protect the wound.
Tom continued: “I was just so relieved to have him back home with me. As well as his medication, I made sure he had lots of company, cuddles, reassurance, and of course his favourite food!”
Sadly, the trauma inflicted by dog bites can mean that wounds struggle to heal, and Boomi’s wound re-opened a few days later. He returned to Dundee PDSA Pet Hospital to have the wound re-stitched and was discharged the same day with more antibiotics and pain relief.
Over the next month, Boomi attended regular check-up appointments. Each time, PDSA’s vet team were delighted with his progress and eventually signed Boomi off from any further treatment.
Explaining the aftermath of the incident, Tom added: “I experienced severe panic and anxiety attacks, and I struggled to sleep properly as I kept having flashbacks. The horrific sounds coming from Boomi as he was injured are something I will never forget.
“Thankfully, Boomi is back to his happy self, and you wouldn’t know the ordeal he had been through if you saw him. His confidence seems untouched. He has dog friends at the park who are much bigger than him, so it doesn’t seem like the size of the dog who injured him has scarred him.”
Ever since the day Tom brought Boomi home, the two have formed an unbreakable bond: “Boomi’s a cuddly, attention-seeking cutie. He’s got those stereotypical puppy dog eyes that he puts on to get belly rubs and ear scratches. He’s growing into such a confident and social boy too, which is lovely to watch.”
Boomi’s treatment at PDSA cost £1,460.96.
PDSA cared for over 53,000 pets like Boomi last December. This Giving Tuesday (Tuesday 28 November), the charity is appealing for donations so it can help keep pets and people together this Christmas.
Every day across its 48 Pet Hospitals, PDSA protects the special bond between owners and their four-legged friends. The teams provide veterinary care to sick and injured pets whose owners otherwise couldn’t afford to pay the full cost of treatment. The charity has been keeping people and pets together for over a hundred years. Find out more: pdsa.org.uk/learn-why-were-special
You can help save pets like Boomi by supporting PDSA’s vital work keeping people and pets together this Giving Tuesday. Our dedicated vet teams see 10 pets every single minute, but we don’t receive any government funding, relying only on generous public support. Donate and save pets’ lives: pdsa.org.uk/together-this-winter
