Tag: pets

Pudgy Pug Peaches enters PDSA Pet Fit CLub

Peaches the Pug, whose love of cheese and crisps has left her struggling on walks, is hoping to shed the pounds by signing up for the UK’s largest pet slimming competition – PDSA Pet Fit Club.

The four-year-old roly-poly pooch weighs in at a whopping 10.6kg (1st 6lbs), having eaten her way to becoming 51% overweight. She needs to lose a colossal 3.6kg to reach her ideal weight of 7kg (approx.).

Percy’s owner, student nurse Danielle Porter from Livingston, says Peaches will eat anything she can get her paws on, including her favourites: cheese, ham and crisps.

“When we’re eating we dare not leave our plates unsupervised as Peaches will go for it!” says Danielle. “I find it really hard to say no to Peaches, especially when she looks at me with her puppy-dog eyes.

“My mum looks after her when I’m at uni and tends to feed Peaches big portions, which is definitely adding to her weight-gain.”

Despite daily walks, Peaches struggles to run and play like other dogs due to her weight, which is one of the main reasons her owner wants to help slim her down. Another vital reason is that, as a Pug, Peaches is at higher risk of breathing issues due to her flat face shape – issues which will be worsened by carrying extra weight.

Danielle added: “Peaches enjoys her walks, but she has slowed down quite a bit due to her size. She also has regular sessions at a local hydrotherapy pool to help her lose weight, but she finds it hard work and can only last a few minutes.”

“Peaches is a lovable dog but I want her to be happier, healthier and more energetic.”

Now in its 15th year, the competition aims to help tackle the UK’s pet obesity crisis – as the charity’s stats reveal up to half of UK pets (46% of dogs, 34% of cats and 30% of rabbits*) are believed to be overweight or obese.

The most common reasons given by UK vets and vet nurses for excess weight in pets are: owner’s lack of recognition that their pet is overweight, feeding ‘treats’ or human food, and inappropriate portion sizes* .  All of which could be leaving our four-legged friend’s health, happiness and life-expectancy at serious risk.

Since 2005 Pet Fit Club has helped 143 pets (89 dogs, 44 cats, eight rabbits and two rats) lose 513kg (80st 12lb) – equivalent to a polar bear! The 2015 Pet Fit Club Champ, Kayla the Mastiff from Glasgow, lost an impressive 17kg (2st 9lb) – 29% of her bodyweight!

The charity, which provides free and reduced cost veterinary care to pets in need, is urging owners to enter their pets for the slimming competition to help them battle the bulge at: pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Pet obesity has been a huge problem in the UK for many years and sadly there is no sign of improvement, with nearly one in every two pets seen by vets and vet nurses overweight or obese. This is a serious health issue, one of the biggest currently threatening pet wellbeing across the UK.

“Pets who are overweight or obese are much more likely to develop health problems such as arthritis and diabetes. Being overweight can also seriously aggravate other health problems, such as heart disease. For example, Pugs and French Bulldogs already struggle to breathe because of their flat faces, but carrying excess inches can make this much worse.

“Research has also shown that carrying too much weight can reduce a dog’s life expectancy by up to 2 years and 6 months**.”

About PDSA Pet Fit Club

Since its launch, the 15 pets crowned ‘Pet Fit Club Champ’ have lost a total of 130.35kg (20st 8lb).

Up to 20 overweight pets (dogs, cats, rabbits and rats) from across the UK will be chosen to participate in PDSA Pet Fit Club.

Selected pets are placed on a six-month diet and exercise programme, individually tailored to their needs and overseen by vets and vet nurses at their local PDSA Pet Hospital.

Participants receive free diet pet food for the duration of the competition, and the overall Pet Fit Club Champ, crowned at the end of 2020, will win a year’s free pet food and a pet friendly holiday.

Owners can find out more and apply online at pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub or by calling the Pet Fit Club team on 01952 797246. The closing date is Sunday 8 March 2020.

  • Pet Fit Club has helped 143 pets lose 513kg (80st 12lb) – equivalent to a polar bear
  • 89 dogs, 44 cats, 8 rabbits and 2 rats have taken part in the diet
  • The 15 Pet Fit Club Champs have lost over 130.35kg (20st 8lb).
  • The biggest ever ‘loser’ Oscar lost 39% of his bodyweight. 

“We know that we are a nation of animal lovers,” continues Nina, “But unfortunately a lot of pet owners show their love and affection using food.  And as the waistlines of the pet population have expanded, our understanding of a ‘healthy shape’ has become distorted – seeing overweight pets becomes normal. Recognising a healthy body shape – and if there is a problem – is the first step to making a positive change for your pet’s health.

“Most pets would be just as happy with extra attention – an extra walk or playtime – than food. And ‘treats’ of human food or too-large portions can be very bad for them.

“They should be fed a complete pet food suitable for their age and weight, with only occasional healthy treats, such as a few slices of carrot for dogs and a small piece of white fish or meat for cats. Our pets also need regular, varied exercise, suitable for their age and health, to keep their bodies and minds stimulated.

Nina concludes: “Pet Fit Club helps transform the UK’s fattest pets into fit and healthy animals. Pets that could barely walk, climb stairs or fit through cat flaps will be given a new lease of life.

“Prevention is always better than cure, but it is never too late to make a change. With the right advice, a good diet, suitable exercise and a bit of willpower, owners have the ability to make a real difference to their pet’s lives.  So we’re urging owners who have overweight pets to enter today.”

Enter Pet Fit Club at: pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub

Treat your dog to a ‘pawsome’ Christmas!

The festive season is a time for family, so when you’re getting ready for party season this year don’t forget to make it a ‘yappy Christmas’ for your dog too!

Pets are very much part of the family, but at a busy time of year they can be faced with many new situations and people. Here, Company of Animals, leading dog training and behaviour experts, share some tips on how to treat your dog this December to some TLC to get them looking – and feeling – their best.

Paws to admire

‘Tis the season to be joyful, but it’s also the season of cold, wet and icy weather. During the colder months dogs can get dirty and sore paws.

To combat this issue here are a few easy solutions:

  • Regularly clean your dog’s paws to ensure grit doesn’t get stuck and cause irritation.
  • Keep an eye on your dog and their paws. If they have been on a long walk on a cold day, be mindful they may have sore feet just like you.
  • Treat them with Pet Head Oatmeal Paw Butter, which soothes and nourishes dry and cracked paws. By massaging into your dog’s paws, you are not only supporting their comfort, but also giving them a lovely massage to boot. Paw Butter also works really well for a dog’s nose in the winter if they are getting a bit dry or sore.

Wonderful winter coat

While your dog is reliant on having a coat to keep warm in the winter months, being out in the cold and exposed to the elements everyday can leave their skin feeling sensitive and their fur in need of a bit of care.

To keep your dog feeling comfortable and looking great this festive season be sure to groom them regularly. By brushing your dog, you will give them some much loved attention, and also get rid of any irritating hair or bits that may have got caught in their coat.

Dog owners can also shampoo their dog to keep their skin clean and their fur smelling great. Use Pet Head Life’s an Itch shampoo, which is packed with natural ingredients to soothe sensitive skin.

Looking good

Your dog is always out and about, but over the December months they may be exposed to new people and new places. To make sure they look – and smell – their best, even when you don’t have much time, we have a quick fix for you.

Try giving your dog a quick spritz of Pet Head Dry Clean Shampoo, followed by a quick brush to catch any fly away fur. The spray on non-rinsing shampoo cleanses the coat without water and is perfect when your pet needs a quick fix.

If you would like more information on Pet Head, visit: www.companyofanimals.co.uk

Protect your pooch this fireworks season

With fireworks season upon us and Bonfire Night displays about to take place all over the country, most of us will be getting ready to enjoy the festivities. For dogs, however, Bonfire Night and firework celebrations can be some of the most stressful and terrifying times.

And with Sainsbury’s becoming the first major supermarket to stop selling fireworks across all its stores in the UK, the discussion on whether fireworks should be further regulated has never been more topical.

Lintbells, the pet supplement manufacturers, have thought of a few ways dog owners can help look after their four-legged friends this fireworks seasons, with the help of a 2018 survey they conducted with 2,000 dog owners, that revealed, more than 70% of those surveyed claim the firework season has a negative impact on their families – including their dogs.

House prep

There are some simple things you can do in your house that will help make your dog feel more comfortable while there are fireworks going off. Creating a safe place inside your home can be an ideal place for your dog to hide from fireworks. Almost 50% of dog owners build a safe haven for their dog to escape to during fireworks – using blankets and pillows can be a great way to create a den. Over 75% even choose to close the curtains, windows and doors to further shelter their pet from the loud noises and bright flashes of lights.

Sound

The sudden bang of fireworks can be extremely terrifying for your dog, so playing other sounds can be a great way to mask the noise of the bangs. Nearly 80% of dog owners turn on the TV or radio to help drown out the sounds of the fireworks, which will help distract your dog from the noise outside.

Walking

When walking your dog during fireworks season, perhaps consider walking them earlier in the day. Walking before dusk is ideal to make sure your dog is comfortable when going outside. Try to tire your dog out earlier on in the day, so they’ll be more likely to fall asleep before fireworks are set off. Regardless of the time you’re out walking, make sure you walk your dog on a load and they are microchipped.

Consider an alternative

If you have tried everything you can to help your cope with fireworks and they are still stressed, then it may be time to reach out to your vet for advice in the first instance, as they will be able to provide the best course of action.

Lintbells range of natural calming supplements, YuCALM, are a great way to help combat your dogs stress and anxiety. By supporting natural calming pathways in the brain, YuCALM is an effective way to help reduce stress and support your dog to become happier and more playful once again.

Giving your dog YuCALM in the build up to Bonfire Night and fireworks season, will help to support calm behaviour and ease any anxiety in time for the fireworks going off. Nearly 25% of those surveyed even tried giving their dog a natural supplement to help soothe their pets stress and anxiety.

Gemma Cunningham, Campaign and Communications Manager at Lintbells, said: “Many dog owners are calling for a change around firework laws, with over 60% calling for an outright ban on unlicensed fireworks, according to the study we conducted, with 96% believing that the laws around fireworks should be changed.

“In addition to the recent announcement from supermarket Sainsbury’s and its plans to stop selling fireworks in all of its stores, the results of the study have raised further questions on whether fireworks should be further legislated, to protect not only dogs, but other animals too.”

Dogs Trust celebrates National Pet Month

National Pet Month

Dogs Trust West Calder has been celebrating National Pet Month this year by highlighting the benefits of pet ownership.

Canine Carers at the West Calder centre have been raising awareness of some of the amazing benefits associated with owning a dog, including companionship, mental wellbeing and physical health.

Throughout April they have been creating videos and using social media to promote how their residents have been bringing these benefits to the team.

Two current canine residents looking to bring joy to new families are:

  • Mindy – This Papillon cross Terrier is a very loving and loyal friend; and a real bundle of joy to be around. Mindy is seven years old and she loves to be outside running around the garden, playing with her squeaky toys. As well as providing companionship and plenty of joy and exercise to her future family, Mindy requires a little extra TLC as she has an ongoing medical condition which will maintaining her treatment in the home.
  • Rory –  A one-year-old Crossbreed who loves to be active and will most certainly help his potential new owner stay physically fit. Rory is a happy and enthusiastic boy with a real zest for life; and he would benefit from new owners who are patient and understanding. He would also benefit from a family who are willing to continue his training. Having a pet like Rory is a wonderful way to ensure you get plenty of daily exercise and fresh air.

Advice and support is available to anyone thinking of adopting a dog by calling the West Calder centre on 01506 873549 or visiting www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/west-calder/

You can also follow Dogs Trust West Calder on Twitter @DT_WestCalder for regular updates on the dogs available for rehoming.

 

Vet charity wants to find and fix Edinburgh’s fattest pets

Veterinary charity PDSA is appealing for Edinburgh’s fattest pets to enrol in a nationwide pet slimming competition. The call comes as stats reveal up to half of UK pets (46% of dogs, 34% of cats and 30% of rabbits)* are believed to be overweight or obese. Continue reading Vet charity wants to find and fix Edinburgh’s fattest pets