Scottish pet owners cutting back on weekly food shop to afford pet’s care

The true cost of loving: 21% of Scottish pet owners cutting back on weekly food shop to afford pet’s care

Figures from leading vet charity PDSA, which provides vital care for pets during the cost of living crisis, have revealed that 32% of owners in Scotland are having to make personal sacrifices to ensure they can continue to provide for their pets.

PDSA provides free and low-cost treatment to pets in need and has released the data to raise awareness of the lengths pet owners are having to resort to while navigating the cost of living crisis.

19% of Scottish pet owners are reducing how much fuel they use so they can pay for their pets care¹. This comes as Google searches for ‘save money on heating’ spiked by a shocking 878% in 2022.

Having juggled expensive bills throughout winter, alongside the soaring cost of living, owners may face a further hit this April. While the energy price cap is being reduced, meaning the amount suppliers can charge goes down, government help – in the form of the energy price guarantee – is set to come to an end. This means a household’s energy bills could increase by around £3,000 per year.

The looming spring Budget announcement also isn’t expected to go a long way in easing the strain on UK pet owners’ pockets. The huge hike in everyday living costs means pet owners will continue to struggle with the cost of loving their companions.

Giving up personal luxuries (19%) and cancelling or not going on holidays (9%) are among the other sacrifices owners in Scotland are making to save as much as possible in order to continue caring for their pets.¹

39% of Scottish owners are worried about affording the cost of treatment if their pet should fall ill or be injured – making PDSA’s support crucial. Nationally, a quarter of all pet owners (26%) said they’d go into debt³, either with family and friends or via credit and loans, to cover the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment¹.

Yet, with 95% of people are determined to do whatever possible in order to avoid having to make the agonizing decision of rehoming them or having them put to sleep – primarily due to the ever-increasing costs to live¹.

PDSA Veterinary Surgeon, Lynne James, said: “Everyone wants the best for their pets and hearing the lengths loving owners in Scotland are having to go to so they can continue providing for them is heart-breaking.

“In 2022 we provided veterinary care for over 390,000 pets, whose owners would otherwise have struggled to afford the cost. Now more than ever, the treatment we provide is a lifeline for families who face the horrible decision of eating regular meals or treating their furry family member.

“It’s PDSA’s mission to keep people and pets together. Last year we helped hundreds of thousands of families. With more than half of those who rely on our services aged 55 and over, and 37% disabled or living with a serious health condition, their pet often provides vital companionship. For lots of our clients, their pets are their only companion, and their lives would be unimaginable without them.

“I’d encourage anyone struggling to afford the cost of veterinary treatment to find out if they are entitled to access our services by visiting the eligibility checker on our website. We also have lots of free advice on how to reduce the cost of caring for pets, while ensuring they remain healthy and happy.”

PDSA relies on donations to deliver life-saving treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK. To help keep pets and people together, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heart-breaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost of loving crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis.

How the cost of living crisis is affecting pet owners in Scotland:

32% making personal sacrifices
21% are cutting back on their weekly food shop
2% going without necessities, such as skipping meals
19% are reducing how much fuel they use
19% giving up personal luxuries
9% cancelling or not going on holidays
39% worried about the cost of treatment should their pet fall ill or become injured

The charity has warned these unsettling findings reflect the stark reality for pet owners, many of whom are being forced to make drastic cutbacks as they desperately struggle to stay afloat.

A worrying 21% of owners in Scotland are cutting back on their weekly food shop, and 2% even admit to going without necessities, such as skipping meals to afford the costs associated with looking after their beloved companions¹.

PDSA provides free and low-cost treatment to pets in need and has released the data to raise awareness of the lengths pet owners are having to resort to while navigating the cost of living crisis.

19%¹ of Scottish pet owners are reducing how much fuel they use so they can pay for their pets care¹. This comes as Google searches for ‘save money on heating’ spiked by a shocking 878% in 2022^[ii].

39%¹ of Scottish owners are worried about affording the cost of treatment if their pet should fall ill or be injured – making PDSA’s support crucial¹. Nationally, a quarter of all pet owners (26%) said they’d go into debt³, either with family and friends or via credit and loans, to cover the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment¹.

Pet owners are invited to come and ‘Weigh Up’ their pets

American Bulldog Roscoe has managed to shed over 23kg so far!

With success stories like Roscoe’s, a 13-year-old American Bulldog who came into PDSA’s care weighing a whopping 75kg – PDSA are inviting pet owners across Scotland to join in and visit a participating vet practice to get their pet weighed for FREE!

With one month left to go, PDSA and Royal Canin are calling on pet owners across Scotland to take advantage of a free weight check for their four-legged friend by signing up to the new ‘Big Weigh In’ initiative.

The new PDSA Big Weigh In initiative is taking place throughout February and March 2023 and is now in its final month countdown to join in! The campaign is in conjunction with veterinary practices across the UK to help the pet population shed some pounds.

A weight loss success story is Roscoe, a 13-year-old American Bulldog who initially came into PDSA’s care weighing a whopping 75kg and after a tremendous effort from his owner, Craig, Roscoe has managed to shed over 23kg and he is very nearly at his ideal weight!

The excess weight was affecting Roscoe’s daily life through his breathing and energy levels, so losing the weight was vital for his health and happiness.

Craig said: “From struggling to walk him around the local green to seeing him run around with dogs in the park, I’m so pleased we got expert advice to kick-start his weight loss journey. Roscoe has such a big personality, he’s cheeky, loving, and is very intelligent, but when he was overweight he wasn’t the same dog.

“Thankfully, he’s back to his old, happy self and I can’t thank PDSA enough for giving us the support we needed to get Roscoe to where he is today. And I’m so pleased we’ve been able to keep the weight off, although Roscoe does get a little confused still when we don’t give him any leftovers from a Sunday roast.”

The main aim for PDSA Big Weigh In is to help other pets like Roscoe live a better and hopefully longer life, by maintaining a healthy weight.

For dog and cat owners in Scotland; you are able to find which vet practices across the UK are taking part and inviting pets to come in and get weighed on the veterinary practice map.

In 2022, the charity’s annual PAW (PDSA Animal Wellbeing) Report revealed 60% of owners regularly give their pet human food in some form, such as leftovers (26%), cheese (22%) and bread or toast (10%).

Human food is often high in fats and sugar, and can contribute to obesity and weight problems as well as potentially leading to an unbalanced diet for our pets. As per PDSA calculations, feeding a dog a slice of toast with butter, is the equivalent of a human eating two portions of fries.

Similarly, feeding a cat three small cubes of cheese, is the equivalent of a human eating two quarter pounders!

2023 WeighUp Infographics Dog Toast Chips 72dpi

2023 WeighUp Infographics Cat Cheese Burgers 300dpi

PDSA Veterinary Surgeon, Lynne James said: “Our Weigh Up campaign was popular amongst pet owners who were keen to understand more about their pet’s weight, in order to keep them fit and healthy.

“Now we are taking the next step and launching PDSA Big Weigh In – where we are inviting owners to join in and visit a participating practice for a free weight check.

“We have also launched the PDSA #WeighUp Pet Weight Loss Support Group, for fellow pet owners to join, share their progress and access exclusive tips and content, including weekly Q&A’s with PDSA vets and vet nurses, all to help each pet owner with their pet’s weight loss journey.”

If you would like to find out more before visiting your local participating practice, please visit PDSA’s website.

Fat or furry?

I’m a pet expert and here is how to keep the extra inches off of your dog

For World Obesity Day, 4 March 2023, PDSA are shedding the light for how to know if your dog is overweight, and how energetic your dog breed truly is.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Shauna Walsh, shares expert insight into some of the UK’s popular dog breeds and how to know if your four-legged friend is carrying extra weight around the edges:

“It sounds obvious, but dogs who eat too much and don’t exercise enough, get fat! If you feed your dog a lot of treats as well as their normal food, most of the extra calories will turn into excess inches.

“It can be easy to dismiss any extra weight on your dog, especially if their fluffy coat hides the excess pounds! With images of plump pooches – tubby terriers or rotund retrievers being increasingly showcased and viewed as ‘normal’, it can be difficult to know what a healthy shape is for your dog.”

Dogs come in all different builds and sizes depending on their breed-type, but a healthy shape is the same for every dog. Your dog’s body shape will help to give you an idea of whether they’re carrying too much weight.

The veterinary term for this is ‘Body Condition Scoring’ (BCS), and it is simple and easy to do at home with your canine companion:

Run your hands along your dog’s sides. The skin should move freely over the ribs, which you should be able to feel with a light touch.
Run your hands along your dog’s back. You should be able to feel the spine and hipbones under the skin without being able to see them – they shouldn’t be sticking out.
Gently feel the base of your dog’s tail, there shouldn’t be a build-up of fat where the tail joins the spine.
Feel under your dog’s tummy, it should go in, not bulge out.
Look at your dog from the side and from above. You should be able to see a waist. If not, your dog may be overweight.

Knowing your pet’s body condition score helps you to know if they need to lose some pounds, but it’s also important to know your pet’s current weight – use both together to work out what their ideal weight should be.

Weighing them regularly means you can quickly spot any changes, and then tweak their diet and exercise to correct it. You can visit your vet to weigh larger dogs, and small dogs can also be weighed at home quite easily using bathroom scales.

Maintaining a healthy weight is down to feeding the right amounts of a balanced diet, as well as appropriate levels of exercise.

Shauna advises: “All dogs need daily exercise, but how much they need depends on lots of factors, including their age, breed, fitness level and any health conditions they may have.

“Every dog is an individual, so it is very important to consider your dog’s specific needs when exercising them – young dogs won’t need as much exercise as they grow, and that may be the same for some senior dogs, who could benefit from resting their aging paws! For dogs with health concerns, the levels of exercise they need will be best discussed with your vet and adjusted appropriately.

“Unless your vet advises otherwise, all dogs need at least one walk a day for their physical and mental health – some dogs prefer a long leisurely walk, and others prefer multiple shorter walks split up throughout the day. You can also incorporate games and playtime into your dog’s daily routine to keep things fun in-between walks.”

Your dog’s breed plays a large part in their natural energy levels, which affects how much exercise they need. Some high-energy breeds need significantly more exercise than others, as well as mental stimulation throughout the day. Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzu’s still need exercise, but often struggle to breathe due to the shape of their face so they need extra consideration to not over-exert them during walks and playtime.

Very high-energy breeds

These breeds are ideal for active owners who will take them out on adventures and make sure they have plenty to do all the time. They need plenty of varied exercise opportunities every day and we recommend spreading these across the day in several walks to have a good sniff around, with off-lead time on top. As well as keeping their paws active, you want to keep their brains busy, too! Make sure you have plenty of time to play with your dog, have training sessions and create some games that will really challenge their minds to prevent them from getting bored. Popular very high energy breeds include: Labradors, Siberian Huskies, Border Collies, German Shepherds, Dalmatians and Golden Retrievers.

High-energy breeds

Whilst these breeds still require plenty of exercise opportunities, they may want a little more downtime than the very high-energy breeds. They will still want daily varied exercise, on top of some brain games to provide mental stimulation, however will also appreciate some time to relax and rest their paws, more than breeds with more energy to burn! Popular high energy breeds include: Whippets, Poodles, French Bulldogs and Cocker Spaniels.

Moderate-energy breeds

Although these breeds aren’t known for bouncing off of the walls with energy, they will still require a good amount of exercise in order to keep them fit, active and healthy. All dogs, regardless of energy levels still require exercise, as well as mental stimulation to avoid becoming a couch potato! If your dog prefers a gentle plod over a run around, be sure to offer plenty of brain games for them to participate in. Popular moderate-energy breeds include: Miniature Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers and King Charles Spaniels.

Being a healthy weight and shape will improve your pet’s quality of life, as they can enjoy walks and activity, which in turn improves their mental health, and can delay the onset of long-term diseases, helping them to live longer.

Shauna added: “it can feel like a big challenge to get a pet to lose weight or keep off the pounds, but trust us, it’s worth it for the long term – we all want our dogs to be in our lives for as long as possible! When your dog is their ideal size and shape, they will be healthier, happier and more active. They will also have the best chance of living a long, healthy life. If you are struggling with your pet’s weight, contact your vet for help and advice.”

PDSA Big Weigh In launched in partnership with Royal Canin – the aim is to help pets live a better and hopefully longer life, by maintaining a healthy weight. With just one month to go, pet owners across the UK are invited to join in and visit a participating practice for a free weight check throughout March.

PDSA has also launched the PDSA #WeighUp Pet Weight Loss Support Group, for fellow pet owners to join, share their progress and access exclusive tips and content, including weekly Q&As with PDSA vets and vet nurses, all to help each pet owner with their pet’s weight loss journey.

To find out more before visiting your local participating practice, please visit PDSA’s website.

Worried about your pet’s pounds?

PDSA and Royal Canin invite pet owners in Scotland to join in and ‘Weigh Up’ their pets

PDSA and Royal Canin are calling on pet owners in Scotland to take advantage of a free weight check for their four-legged friend by signing up to the new ‘Big Weigh In’ initiative.

The partnership launched their Weigh Up campaign in 2021, offering pet owners free online resources to assess and understand their pets’ weight throughout the pandemic. The new PDSA Big Weigh In initiative will take place during February and March 2023 in conjunction with veterinary practices across the UK to help tackle the pet obesity crisis the UK pet population faces.

One weight loss success story is Roscoe, who initially came into PDSA’s care weighing 75kg and after a tremendous effort from his owner, Roscoe managed to shed 23kg and he is very nearly at his ideal weight!

The excess weight was affecting Roscoe’s daily life through his breathing and energy levels, so losing the weight was vital for his health and happiness.

The main aim for PDSA Big Weigh In is to help other pets like Roscoe live a better and hopefully longer life, by maintaining a healthy weight.

For dog and cat owners in Scotland; you are able to find which vet practices are taking part and inviting pets to come in and get weighed on the veterinary practice map.

“Now we are taking the next step and launching PDSA Big Weigh In – where we are inviting owners to join in and visit a participating practice for a free weight check.

If you would like to find out more before visiting your local participating practice, please visit PDSA’s website.

I’m a Vet Nurse – here’s five reasons why a pet is great for your wellbeing

Research by leading animal charity PDSA has revealed that 84% of owners believe their pet improves their mental health, which is unlikely to come as a surprise if you are an animal lover.

Four-legged friends can have a positive impact on our life in many ways, both mentally and physically. This Blue Monday (16 January 2023), PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, shares her top five reasons why owning a pet is beneficial for our overall health.

The power of companionship

“Spending quality time with your pet is beneficial to the wellbeing of both you and your four-legged family member. Humans and animals are social creatures, so this companionship can go a long way in reducing loneliness. Giving your furry friend love and attention, as well as receiving it in return, can significantly boost mental wellbeing – particularly for those who are socially isolated and may not see other people during the day.

“As well as being a great bonding activity, and essential for their own wellbeing, walking with your pooch can also be a social experience for you, allowing you to meet other dog walkers while out and about.

“Having a two-minute chat with neighbours as you pass each other in the park or conversing in a pet shop can make all the difference to your mood. These human connections are also easier to form, as you already have an established common interest – the love for your pets.

Animals and stress-busting

“For many, pets are calming figures in our lives and can offer solace in our darkest moments. In 2022, Google searches for emotional support dogs rose by 50% – indicative of the positive impact animals can have on our mental health.

“Whether you find comfort in petting your pup or confiding in your cat’s ear for a chat about your troubles, this stress relief plays an important part in maintaining wellbeing.

“In fact, research shows that spending just 10 minutes interacting with your pet each day can lower levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. As well as reducing stress, receiving an animal’s unconditional love without fear of judgement can help build self-confidence.

Thriving on routine

“Like people, most pets benefit from an established routine. From feeding and grooming, through to playing games and taking them out for a walk, the responsibility of caring for a pet can provide a clear day-to-day purpose and a reason to get out of bed in the morning. These actions also help establish structure in your day and are excellent habits for your own wellbeing, as well as your pets.

Finding the fun in everyday

“Sometimes the monotony of everyday life can feel overwhelming, which is where our furry friends come into play – literally!

“A good game of tug, chase, or fetch can get you up, moving, and having fun, and brings lots of benefits for our pets as well. Activities like this not only encourage you to get more active but can help you feel less overwhelmed by stressors in your life, too. When you engage in regular play or exercise sessions, a chemical called dopamine – a feel-good hormone – is released by the body, helping you feel positive and motivated.”

Knowing they need us too

“Having a pet means they are reliant on you to meet their welfare needs and, for many, this responsibility can stimulate positive feelings such as a sense of belonging, added security, and being in control.

“The accountability and structure that comes with pet ownership can be highly motivating and encourage you to create the very best life for them and, in turn, for you! That’s why so many people make sure they are doing everything they can to give their pets a happy and comfortable life.”

PDSA relies on donations to deliver vital treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK.

To keep families together this winter, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support more than ever to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heart-breaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost-of-living crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis

PDSA issues safety advice for pet owners in the wake of flood warnings

The UK’s largest veterinary charity, PDSA, is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their furry family members safe as stormy weather and flooding sweeps the nation.

The MET Office has issued 90 weather alerts and the Environment Agency has put out 29 warnings regarding heavy rainfall over the coming days, potentially putting the lives of people and pets at risk.

While floods can occur at any time of the year, particularly in areas near rivers, large lakes or the sea, winter time is a particular pinch point, so pet owners should keep a close eye on the weather forecast and act quickly if necessary.

According to the Environment Agency, 5.9 million properties (one in six homes) across England are at risk of flooding. Flood water rises rapidly, so if there is a warning in your immediate area, don’t just hope for the best – act early.

PDSA Vet Claire Roberts said: “Being well prepared is the best way for owners to protect their pets when bad weather hits.

“Make sure pets are microchipped and that the contact details registered on the chip are up to date. If you have an outdoor cat, make sure you have a litter tray available for them to use if needed. Should you and your pet be separated, having the correct contact details means you are more likely to be reunited. Pack a bag of emergency pet supplies, including a week’s worth of sealed pet food, fresh water, collapsible food bowls, poo bags, bedding, a lead, medication, and proof of vaccinations.

“Create an emergency flood plan and escape route and keep your supplies in one place for ease of access, and always have a pet carrier in your home for cats or small animals. It is important to make sure they are desensitised to being in a carrier and to never leave them unattended while inside one during a flooding situation.

“Remember, flood water is often contaminated and could seriously harm your pet if swallowed. Dog vaccinations protect against Leptospirosis, a disease caused by bacteria found in and around water, and can be fatal so, it is important to check that your dog is up to date with their vaccinations.”

Claire continued: “If your home is at risk of flooding, bring any pets that live outdoors, inside and shut them in an upstairs room with plenty of access to food and fresh water, but try to keep different species of pets separate if possible as they are naturally territorial.

“Don’t take dogs outside until it is safe to do so as hidden objects within the water could injure them, and prevent cats from becoming stranded, lost, or hurt by keeping them inside with access to a litter tray.

“If your home is a potential flood risk, you may need to leave quickly if you are told to evacuate. If possible, arrange to stay at a friend or relative’s home that is on higher ground, taking your pets, emergency supplies, dog’s collar and ID tag with you. Insurance companies may move you to temporary accommodation and it might not be possible to take your pet with you. In this instance, be prepared to use a boarding kennel or pet sitter. If you are unable to leave your home, stay in an upstairs room with your pets.”

Steps that owners are advised to take include:

If you live in a high-risk area, consider getting life jackets for your pets as well as you and your family
Make sure your pet insurance is up to date and you have your vet’s contact details to hand in case your pet needs veterinary care
Check your home insurance policy to see if you’re covered for the cost of pet accommodation if damage to the home means you cannot stay there
Put important documents (e.g. microchip paperwork, vet details, insurance policies) in a sealed waterproof bag, along with a photo of your pet in case they get lost
Know what pet sitters or boarding kennels are available locally – ideally outside of flood zones – in case you need to find temporary accommodation for your pet.

“If the worst happens and you have no choice but to leave your pet behind, put them in a safe room upstairs with plenty of food and water, leaving a note on the door or window to inform the emergency services that there are pets inside the property,” added Claire. “Once you are safe, contact the RSPCA or a local flood warden to let them know that there are animals in your home that need rescuing.”

Other advice to help owners stay safe:

Sign up to receive flood warnings – you can choose to be notified through a telephone call, text message, or email
Visit the MET Office or Environment Agency website for the latest information on the weather or any warnings in your area
Keep up to date with local news and weather reports
Find out if your home is one of those at risk of flooding

For further advice of keeping your pet safe visit pdsa.org.uk

Pet care in the cost-of-living crisis

The most recent PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report – the longest running annual survey of pet wellbeing in the UK – revealed 30% of owners worry how they’ll pay for vet bills if their furry family member fell ill or became injured.

With the report also detailing that 61% of cats and 39% of dogs are currently uninsured, thousands of owners could find themselves with an unexpected vet bill should the worst happen.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “The cost-of-living crisis is affecting all of us in one way or another, meaning we’re looking for ways to save money wherever we can – and this is no different for costs associated with our pets.

“Veterinary treatments can become costly, so one of the best ways to safeguard your furry friend and avoid unplanned vet bills is by keeping on top of their preventive healthcare. The following tactics could help you save in the long-term:

Stay up to date with vaccinations

“While cutting back on annual booster vaccinations or regular flea and worming treatments may seem like saving money in the short-term, it can cause issues down the line. Avoiding these measures can put your pet’s overall health at risk, meaning they may need intensive veterinary care, which can soon add up.

“Keeping vaccinations up to date provides your furry family member with antibodies to fight off serious but preventable conditions. Using regular flea treatment prevents your pet from developing uncomfortable skin problems, while buying products to treat all types of worms including lungworm, can be lifesaving.

The benefits of neutering

“Neutering your pet will not only prevent unwanted pregnancies, but it also reduces the likelihood of developing certain health issues too, including some types of cancer or life-threatening infection of the uterus which can affect unneutered females.

“Castrating male dogs helps reduce their risk of prostate disease and stops them from developing testicular cancer. Male cats and dogs are less likely to roam looking for females and male cats are less likely to get into fights if neutered, too. Up to 80% of unspayed female rabbits will also develop uterine cancer by the time they’re five or older, so the procedure is highly beneficial for pets, big and small.

Watch weight gain

“It’s important to monitor your pet’s weight and take action if you believe they are gaining a few too many pounds – this will help avoid weight related health problems which may require costly lifelong medication.

“The best way to help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight is by incorporating daily exercise into their routine and ensuring they eat a complete, well-balanced, nutritious diet.

Don’t ignore insurance

“Having the correct insurance plan in place will be vital to avoid expensive bills, should the worst happen.

“There are several types of cover and the monthly cost will depend on a range of factors, including your pet’s breed and age. Cheaper policies are often ‘accident only’ and won’t cover anything illness related.

Lifetime cover policies are usually more expensive, however, they do provide cover for any accidents or illnesses (they don’t cover vaccinations or other preventive treatments) as long as the policy is continued, without a break.

“It is a good idea to insure your pet as soon as you bring them home – don’t wait for them to get ill – as pre-existing conditions are not typically covered. If you insure them while they are young and healthy, many providers will continue to cover them as they get older. However, you may find changes to excesses for older pets, so – it’s important to read the policy, so you know what to budget for.

Explore additional resources

“There are lots of free resources available on PDSA’s website, which provide helpful advice and low-cost ways to care for furry family members.

“Personal circumstances can change at any time and if you do find yourself struggling to afford your pet’s veterinary care, see if you are eligible for free or low-cost support by using the eligibility checker on the PDSA website.”

PDSA relies on donations to deliver vital treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK.

To keep families together this winter, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support more than ever to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heart-breaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost-of-living crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis

PDSA appeals to the pet-loving public to donate unwanted Christmas gifts

PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need, is appealing for animal lovers to support its vital veterinary work by donating unwanted Christmas gifts to its charity shops.

PDSA’s shops play a pivotal role in helping to fund its 48 Pet Hospitals which provide a lifeline to owners who would otherwise struggle to afford veterinary treatment if their pet unexpectedly becomes ill or gets injured.

With inflation at a 40-year high and millions of households already facing extreme financial hardship, demand for PDSA’s services is expected to rise, meaning donations to its shops are more important than ever.

In 2021, PDSA treated over 370,000 pets and saved the lives of 134,000 animals – ultimately keeping furry family members united with their owners. As day-to-day prices continue to soar and households are hit by increased financial pressures, the charity expects demand for its services to grow.

The 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, conducted in March, found that nearly a third of pet owners surveyed are worried about affording veterinary costs – leaving them facing potentially heart-breaking decisions should their pet require treatment.

The results follow shocking statistics from the 2021 PAW Report which revealed a staggering 930,000 pets were at risk of being put to sleep if their owners were hit with unexpected vet bills.

PDSA Head of Retail and Buying Lloyd Hughes said: “PDSA receives no government funding and relies solely on public support to fund our vital work. Without the money raised in our shops and donations given to us by kind-hearted members of the public, we wouldn’t be able to fund the life-saving treatment we provide in our 48 Pet Hospitals.

“By donating unwanted Christmas gifts, that may otherwise sit in a cupboard or even be thrown away, to our charity shops, people can make a real difference to the lives of pets and their owners, keeping families together.”

No pet owner should be faced with losing a beloved pet because they can no longer afford to pay for treatment. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn.

PDSA encourages all supporters to sign up for Gift Aid* if they are a UK tax payer, to help their donations go even further. Gift Aid allows PDSA to claim an additional 25 per cent of the value of each item sold.

To find out more visit PDSA’s charity shops page.

PDSA estimates over seven million pets are afraid of fireworks

Vet charity’s top tips on coping with New Year celebrations

As New Year approaches, fireworks are bound to burst back into our lives once again. And while the dazzling displays are a hugely popular way to bring in the New Year, the UK’s largest veterinary charity, PDSA, is warning that they can cause fear among a large number of our pet population.

The charity – which helps more pets and owners than any other of its kind in the UK – is urging owners to prepare for the celebrations, which can last for several days in a row and potentially expose pets to a prolonged period of suffering.

The PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report revealed that a vast number of dogs and cats are scared by the unexpected bangs of fireworks, citing that 4.1 million dogs and 3.3 million cats are afraid of the noise. In total, 16 per cent of rabbit owners (160,000 rabbits) also reported that their bunnies were scared of the sounds associated with fireworks.

PDSA Veterinary Surgeon Lynne James said: “We may think our pets aren’t too bothered by firework displays, however their senses are much more acute than ours. The unexpected loud bangs and sudden flashes of light can cause distress for our four-legged family members.

“There are lots of things owners can do in the short term to make fireworks less frightening for their pets. Simple steps, from creating a den to introducing soothing sounds, can go a long way to making this firework season more pleasant for pets.”

PDSA’s top tips on tackling anxiety among pets this festive firework season:

Seek advice early – it is important to find out what works best for your pet as soon as possible. If they have previously struggled during firework displays, contact your vet for advice – they may be able to prescribe medication that can help.

Prepare for an early night – be sure to walk your dog before it gets dark and keep your cat at home. Bring any outdoor-living pets, for example rabbits and guinea pigs, inside for the night and enjoy a cosy evening in with your furry family members.

Secure your home – keep doors, windows, cat and dog flaps locked to ensure your pet doesn’t escape if scared.

Create a comfortable cosy space for hideouts – ensure your pet has somewhere they feel safe and secure where they can hide if they want to. It’s important that your pet knows this is a safe place that they can escape to ahead of fireworks season. For cats and dogs, you can make the space extra cosy with blankets and their favourite toys and treats while adding pillows or cushions can help to absorb the noise. You can also lessen the sound for smaller pets by adding extra bedding into their hutches and cages so that they can hide if they want to. If your pet chooses to hide, let them do so.

Be on hand to provide reassurance – if your pet takes comfort in attention and/or affection from you, continue to treat them as you normally would – never ignore them if they’re coming to you for support. Reassurance can only go so far though, so it is important to ensure other steps are taken to make the night as relaxing as possible.

Keep calm with relaxing sounds – playing a soundtrack to disguise the whizzes and bangs of fireworks can help to keep your pet calm. It’s also vital that you remain as stress-free as possible to avoid worrying your pet.

Use a pheromone plug-in – pheromones are scents that help to relax and calm pets, but we can’t smell them. They are available on the PDSA pet store.

Make note of what your pet prefers – as fireworks occur each year, it’s important to understand how your pet copes best during the festivities. Note down what their preferred action was, for example if they hid, so that next time you can ensure they have plenty of safe spots to escape to. Likewise, if they seek reassurance, always be on hand to comfort them.

Prepare for next year – once the celebrations are over for 2022, prepare for 2023! You can help your pet to be less anxious around fireworks season (this is called ‘desensitisation’) over a period of several months, ahead of expected celebrations.

The PAW Report also found that the vast majority of owners (82 per cent) agreed that fireworks should only be allowed on certain dates and times to enable them to prepare their pets in advance.

PDSA has created a FREE Firework Guide – packed with useful advice and tips – to assist owners with planning ahead of celebrations.

Dalmatian dodges death after scoffing pack of Christmas After Eights

A six-year-old Dalmatian from Derby has narrowly avoided a Christmas catastrophe after eating an almost full pack of After Eights chocolate – including the wrappers.

But thanks to life-saving veterinary care funded by the UK’s largest vet charity, PDSA, the much-loved family pet Reggie will still get to enjoy the festive season with his family.

Reggie got his paws on the chocolate when his owner, Natalie Wood (31), popped out with her son, Brooklyn (10), to football practice.

“When I got home I noticed straightaway what had happened. I’d had three myself and left the box on the side in the kitchen, which I thought was out of his reach, but when I got home the rest of the chocolates had gone with just the box left, so I knew he had eaten almost the whole pack, including the wrappers,” Natalie explained. “I panicked because I know how dangerous chocolate can be to dogs so I called my local PDSA straightaway.”

PDSA confirmed they could help Reggie and advised Natalie to take him to their out of hours provider Vets Now in Derby. Once there, the vets gave Reggie an injection to make him sick.

Luckily, thanks to Natalie’s quick thinking and the treatment, which cost more than £300 and was funded by PDSA, Reggie made a full recovery and was able to return home the same day with medication to prevent his body from absorbing any remaining toxins.

“Usually Reggie is such a happy and playful dog, but he was really feeling sorry for himself that day, you could tell he wasn’t himself,” Natalie explained.

“But when we got home, I gave him a plain dinner of chicken and rice and the medication the vets gave us, and then he slept all night. He woke up the next morning and was back to normal!”

Ahead of the Christmas period, Natalie and PDSA are warning other pet owners of the dangers festive treats can pose to furry friends.

“Everyone knows chocolate is poisonous to dogs so I dread to think what would have happened to Reggie without PDSA,” Natalie added.

“With the cost of living crisis at the moment, I’m noticing everything is going up, from milk to petrol, and with Christmas around the corner, money is really tight. I have no idea what I would have done without PDSA as I would have struggled to afford the care Reggie needed to save his life.”

Natalie, who lives in Swadlincote, adopted Reggie when he was just a year old. “He’s been my best friend ever since,” she said. “He is one of the family; life wouldn’t be the same without him.”

PDSA Veterinary Nurse Shauna Spooner said: “Many of us have treats, sweets and chocolates in the house, and while the festive period can be a time for indulgence, it’s important to remember that some of these foods are very harmful to our pets.

“Foods including chocolate, mince pies, onions, raisins, grapes, some nuts, sage-and-onion stuffing and Christmas cake can all be harmful and should be kept safely out of paws’ reach over Christmas.

“If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount of chocolate, call your vet straight away for advice, don’t wait for symptoms to appear, but there are some key signs to be aware of:

“Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs, cats, and rabbits. In severe cases, chocolate poisoning in dogs can cause fits and even death. There are some signs you can look out for if you think your pet may have accidentally eaten chocolate:

Excessive thirst
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
A tender tummy and restlessness
Tremors
A racing heart or abnormal heart rhythm
Raised body temperature and rapid breathing

“The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, so dark chocolate poses the biggest risk to pets.”

In times of hardship pets like Reggie will still fall ill or become injured and need emergency care.

PDSA is appealing for donations so that the charity can continue to support owners who have nowhere else to turn by providing life-saving care to vulnerable pets. To donate, visit pdsa.org.uk/donate.

To download the PDSA’s free Christmas survival guide visit pdsa.org.uk/xmas-survival-guide

Festive feast for four-legged friends!

How to create a ‘dog-safe’ Christmas dinner

Everyone wants their pets to feel included on Christmas Day and one way you might be thinking of doing this is to give them a share of your festive feast.

However, it is important to remember what is and, more importantly, is not safe for your dogs to eat. Luckily, PDSA vets are on hand with some top tips on how to safely share your delicious Christmas dinner with your dogs this festive season.

PDSA Vet, Lynne James, said: “There are parts of a ‘typical’ Christmas dinner that we can share with our furry friends, and I’m sure they would very much enjoy, but there are also parts that we should keep away from our pets at all costs.”

Brown and white dog sat on chair near Christmas tree

Lynne explained the ‘dog-safe’ parts of a roast include:

Boneless white turkey meat
Carrot and swede mash (make sure it doesn’t have onion in)
Vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, green beans, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, peas and cauliflower.

“But remember, it is important to make sure the food is plain and not covered in glaze, sauce, gravy, or seasoning as this could upset your dog’s stomach,” Lynne added.

“Other foods, such as cheese sauce, roast potatoes, bacon, and pigs in blankets aren’t dangerous but are high in fat and could easily upset your dog’s stomach, and they will likely pile on the pounds with all those extra calories.”

Lynne also shared a list of forbidden foods, which are highly dangerous to our four-legged friends and can have fatal consequences:

Onions
Garlic
Leeks
Shallots
Mincemeat
Currants, raisins and sultanas
Bones
Alcohol
Chocolate

PDSA Vet Lynne’s top Christmas dinner tips

Don’t overshare with your dog in the weeks and days surrounding Christmas because you may find that they start to expect something every time you have a meal, which encourages begging behaviour and is unhealthy in the long-term.
Remember portion control and don’t go crazy – our dogs are much smaller than us, and what seems like a tiny amount of food to us will be a huge treat in their eyes! For a small dog breed, such as a Border Terrier, eating just four pigs in blankets is the equivalent of a human eating an entire Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.
Have your vet’s out-of-hours number stored in your phone so, should an emergency occur and your dog eats something they shouldn’t, you can contact them immediately!
If you do feed your dog a little treat, make sure it’s no more than 10 per cent of their daily food intake, and remember to reduce the amount of food in their next meal to avoid over feeding them.

PDSA relies on donations to deliver life-saving treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK.

To keep families together this winter, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support more than ever to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heart-breaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost-of-living crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis.