Animal breeders and pet blog - Dog breeders and cat breeders

Animal breeders and pet site Blog

The pet site Blog is a collection of diary entries, news, gossip and other pet related information.

Practical Pampering for Pooches
For dogs with distinction, it’s all about Max and Milly - gorgeous grooming products and stylish accessories for owners who want something that little bit special for their much loved pets.

Founder of Max and Milly, Sarah Turnbull, knows what dogs need - and in this case it's certainly not a diamante collar with matching ear warmers.

Combining luxury and practicality, the Max & Milly range offers superior quality grooming products and country chic accessories that don’t just look good on the shelf, but are designed especially for the needs of practical dog owners - without shirking on quality or style.

We all know that mud, dirt and things we'd rather not mention are part and parcel of owning a dog, and keeping their coat in good condition, as well as smelling sweet, is not always easy. As owner of 4 boisterous dogs herself, Sarah found that she struggled to find really good quality products which not only looked great, but did the job properly. No-one seemed to be offering what she wanted –so she decided to do it herself.

The result is Max & Milly - top quality, natural grooming products and beautifully stylish accessories. Designed for dogs of all breeds and perfect for show or everyday use, the superior grooming range cleans and freshens even the dirtiest coats, leaving them soft, shiny and lustrous.
And with beautiful yet durable hand-crafted collars, leads and made-to-order beds and feeding bowls, you need never be embarrassed about your pet's tatty accessories again.

Providing service with a truly personal touch, not only will your dog be delighted with his new products, but so will you when a prettily hand-packaged parcel pops through your letterbox, complete with a delicious, luxury chocolate thank you token
Posted : 31/05/2007 23:05:06

Allergies to Pets - What's the Alternative?
Is your pet making you suffer? Many people put up with an allergy, because they wouldn’t be without their much loved pets. Others desperately want a pet but their allergy is preventing them from homing one. Fortunately, there's help at hand with an effective range of anti-allergy products for cat and dog owners which are now available on line at www.petclubuk.com.
According to the Royal College of Physicians, there are 18 million allergy sufferers in the UK and it is estimated that 26% of the population in approximately 6 million households in the UK are allergic to pets.

Careful preventive measures can help to minimise the symptoms that affect many people. The only way for an individual to be certain that they are not allergic to a particular breed of animal is to spend some time with them and see how they react. For virtually every breed, there is a person allergic to it. Proteins from the hair and dead skin flakes (also known as dander oil secretions), saliva or urine of household pets are the culprits.

These cause an allergic reaction that attacks the eyes and the airways, like hay fever and can result in asthmatic symptoms. Allergens may also cause atopic dermatitis or a 'nettle rash' effect. When these allergens become airborne, they land on the lining of the eyes or nose or are inhaled directly into the lungs, causing irritation.

The most important steps to follow are to try and minimise your pet's access to soft furnishings and to certain rooms in the house, such as the bedroom.

Regular vacuuming is essential to remove as much of the allergen as possible, as well as good ventilation, grooming and hygiene. If you have carpets throughout your house, lay vinyl or wooden floors instead, this dramatically reduces the amount of pet allergen present.

Perhaps the answer for some is to consider a different animal? Cats are the number one pet allergy complaint in the UK and for those who can afford it there are now expensive hypo-allergenic cat breeds. One of these, the Allerca GD, is the world’s first cat which has been scientifically proven not to produce the protein that causes the allergic symptoms. Ultimately if you are not prepared to suffer with an allergy from pets such as dogs and cats, then fish and reptiles are a popular alternative.

Last, but not least are products which can help sufferers. A highly effective allergy reducing solution from petclubuk.com is Petal Cleanse.

This product is available as a lotion for cats, small animals and dogs. There is also a spray for birds as well as products that cleanse your clothes, carpets and help keep your living environment fresh and clean.

Pet lovers website www.petclubuk.com offers advice and tips on how to choose the right pet for you and has useful articles on allergies to pets.

Publisher of the site Chris Jones says "People with allergies should be cautious when deciding what type of pet they can safely bring into the home. Some people don't even realise they have an allergy to their pet until it's too late and then end up giving them away, yet there are many preventative steps which could have been taken to reduce the level of allergens throughout the household."
Posted : 28/03/2007 23:02:33

Keeping a pet can help us live longer
No wonder we are a nation of animal lovers. According to research, owning a pet can help keep down stress levels, helping to prevent heart disease and depression. Even watching a tank full of tropical fish may lower blood pressure, at least for a while. Studies have also shown that heart attack victims who keep pets live longer.

According to Chris Jones, publisher of the pet information web site www.petclubuk.com, looking after a pet brings out our nurturing instinct and makes us feel safe and unconditionally accepted. "Pets make wonderful, loving companions and everyone should consider having one as part of their household. The chances are you’ll live longer and feel better by owning a pet," he adds.

"It doesn't matter what pet you get - it could be a dog, cat, parrot, a goldfish or snake - the only thing that matters is that the animal really interests you. It is important that the pet you choose fits your temperament, lifestyle and living space - and that the chemistry is compatible before you take a pet into your home. Otherwise it could be the source of additional stress."

Among the many medical studies that claim owning a pet is good for your heart, one suggests that stroking a pet prompts your brain to release endorphins or 'feel good' hormones. This helps you feel calm and therefore lowers your heart rate and blood pressure.

Families who own a dog or cat are not as stressed and visit their doctors less often than those who don't, say scientists from Cambridge University.
Pets make you feel optimistic and relaxed, which lowers your blood pressure. Dogs give the best results as you get exercise when you take them for walks. Studies show that older people who own pets are more healthy and active than those who don't.

Pet owners are less likely to suffer anxiety, loneliness and have more confidence than people without pets. They have a positive effect on your emotional health, and people who live alone are less likely to be depressed than those without a pet.

Some animals can warn their owners about oncoming illness and there are many reports about dogs detecting cancer and some can identify other types of illness, such as hypoglycaemia (dangerously-low blood sugar levels) in diabetics and oncoming epileptic fits.

These proven health benefits of owning a pet are strong reasons to get one but consider all the options first and do your homework. www.petclubuk.com offers a wealth of advice and tips on how to choose the right pet for you and on keeping it happy and healthy too.
Posted : 28/03/2007 02:37:46

How to choose the right pet for you
National Pet Month is approaching (from 7th April - 7th May) and the event is putting the spotlight on responsible pet ownership. Owning a pet can provide hours of fun, interest and companionship. There's a pet that suits everyone, no matter what your lifestyle, space limitations or desires.

Getting to know a pet can be immensely rewarding but it's a long-term responsibility that needs careful consideration. One in two households in Britain owns a pet; however, many people find they cannot cope and end up giving their animals away for a variety of reasons. So, whether you want a cat or a cockatoo, make sure you adopt the animal for the right reasons, not just on impulse.

Pet lover's website www.petclubuk.com offers a wealth of advice on how to choose the right pet for you and keeping it happy and healthy. Publisher of the site Chris Jones says "Taking on a pet means providing a loving, safe home for life. Unfortunately, some owners tire of their pet as expenses mount up or they become too large to cope with. Others don't realise how much time it takes to care for them. It's essential to do some research into what will be involved in keeping your chosen pet, before you make the decision to bring an animal into your life."

So what are the key considerations in choosing the animal to best suit your personal circumstances?

• Why do you want a pet?
Does anyone in the household have allergies?Can you afford to add a pet to your family?
Do you have the time for a pet?
Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a pet can cause?
Can you have a pet where you live?
Who will care for your pet when you go on holiday?
Do you have children or babies?
Giving in to pester power or coveting the latest celebrity 'must have' dog re not good reasons to get a pet. Once you buy your pet the costs don't stop at daily feeding. Insurance, training, routine and emergency veterinary care, grooming, toys and other overheads for animals like cats and dogs add up quickly and continue for their lifetime.

So which pet will suit your lifestyle?

Cats
Cats are very independent animals and can be left alone all day, as long as you give them a lot of love when you get home. With proper care, cats can generally be expected to live for sixteen years or more, so commitment from yourself is therefore a necessity, before you fall for that cute face.

Dogs
Dogs should never be left for long periods of time and require exercise.
As pack animals they crave companionship and will enjoy being with their human family whenever possible.

Small Animals
Hamsters, gerbils, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits and other small animals make ideal pets for children as well as more mature owners, and are suitable for most households. These small animals are often short lived, which is ideal for children or families that don't wish to commit to a long term pet.

Birds
Pet birds can be endearing companions and are available in a huge variety of types, from the tiny finch to the giant hyacinth macaw. They are intelligent, sociable and often amusing. Small birds are good pets if you live in a flat. Large parrots can also be fine if you can spend plenty of quality time with them.

Fish
Fish can fit into any lifestyle, they are quiet, need no vaccinations, and are beautiful and calming to watch. Your budget for equipment and time for maintenance will influence whether you want to keep cold-water fish like goldfish, tropical fish that live in fresh warm water or marine fish that live in salt water. Fish may not be cuddly but they are excellent stress reducers.

Reptiles
Reptiles make fascinating pets but people wrongly imagine they require minimal care. In fact, they need very specialised care, including specific dietary requirements, lighting, heat, humidity and enclosures.

Once you have decided which pet to adopt, visit www.petclubuk.com for some help to choose the particular breed which will suit your lifestyle best.

PetClubUK is a one-stop shop for pet lovers, packed with useful tools and resources in a vibrant and interactive environment.

Visitors can easily access fact-laden profiles for each type of animal and breed, information on health care, food and nutrition and tons of tips to help make that very important decision. There are also specialist foods and equipment for each type of pet, with an innovative and convenient recurring order feature for regularly used items such as fresh, frozen, live or dried foods.
Posted : 19/03/2007 01:47:35

Doggy Eating Disorders Cost Owners Dearly
There are 6.8m dogs in the UK* and half of them are overweight. We now have anti-obesity drugs for dogs and 'fat clinics' where porky pooches can check into their own version of The Priory. Whilst dogs are unlikely to reflect the size zero 00 fixations of some of their celebrity owners, they can turn up some strange eating disorders of their own.

Retrievers and Labradors are most likely to swallow foreign objects, while German Shepherds are most susceptible to developing pica - an eating disorder where potentially dangerous non-food items are compulsively consumed. This unpalatable behaviour is costing their UK owners over £1bn a year in vets’ fees, according to price comparison site BeatThatQuote.com (www.beatthatquote.com).

It's a Dog’s Dinner
Research into the most unusual things that have turned up in dogs' stomachs revealed a taste for common household objects including light bulbs, batteries, staples and even kitchen knives. One canine reportedly had eight assorted batteries, a plastic racoon, seven rocks, a marble, two broken light bulbs, machine parts and a variety of staples in his stomach, whilst another ate 14 golf balls. Dog experts say that, by nature, Labradors and Retrievers remain orally fixated beyond their teething stages unlike other breeds, and will attempt to drag, pull or carry anything they can fit into their mouths.

But such wacky appetites are set to burn a whole in uninsured pet owners' pockets, as emergency surgery to remove these foreign objects can cost anything between £300 and £1,500 - and possibly more if their pet is a serial swallower.

Yet despite the UK being a nation of dog lovers, last year it was reported that only one in five dogs was insured. Many owners were more willing to gamble on the well being of their four-legged friend than pay premiums on pet cover which amounted to a national total of £1.1bn last year.

Premiums for Pedigrees
Pet owners in the North are better off than their Southern counterparts who get hit with higher vet bills and insurance premiums. The £530 cost to treat a dog with a broken leg in Sheffield would double in Bristol, and total nearly four times that amount in London. Highly bred pedigree pooches also incur higher insurance premiums, but are more susceptible to developing hereditary illnesses, and are thus more likely to require more medical attention than the hardier crossbreeds.

Commenting on the findings, BeatThatQuote.com Director Sophie Neary said, "It's not just medical bills that are covered by a typical insurance policy. If your dog damages other peoples' property or worse still, causes an accident, you are covered for damages and legal fees too."

10 strange things dogs have reportedly swallowed
1. 2-carat diamond engagement ring
2. 11-inch steak knife
3. A live pet turtle
4. Mobile phone
5. Car immobiliser chip
6. Mistress's knickers
7. Light bulb
8. Batteries
9. Rolex watch
10. Stage props

* estimated by Pet Food Manufacturers Association.
Britain's first animal 'fat clinic' opened in Liverpool in 2005.
Posted : 08/03/2007 13:24:01

Weasel - The Dogs Trust pup with no ears!
Charity goes the extra mile to help earless dog to hear for the first time.

The staff at Dogs Trust Bridgend have an extra special canine guest in their rehoming centre at the moment: 10 week old Weasel who, very unusually, was born with no ears. The beautiful Terrier arrived at Dogs Trust having been handed in to a local police station when he was a tiny pup.

Weasel has undergone a series of veterinary checks since his arrival and after several tests it is believed that despite having no ear openings or outer ears, he may not be completely deaf. Weasel is able to hear some sounds - although they are quite muffled. He will be sent to a specialist veterinary practice in Southampton on Valentines Day to determine whether or not he can have ears created to change his life forever.

This brave little pup is a really happy and playful little fellow as he is but Dogs Trust is determined to give him the quality of life that he deserves.

Beverley Price, Rehoming Centre Manager commented: "Despite his obvious disability, Weasel is a fantastic dog. He is happy, friendly and really healthy in every other way. We're going to do all we can to find a way for Weasel to hear properly for the first time in his young life."

Dogs Trust is the UK's largest dog welfare charity, and cares for over 15,000 dogs every year through a network of 17 rehoming centres. Dogs Trust never destroys a healthy dog in its care.

If you would like to find out more about Weasel or rehoming a rescue dog, please call Bridgend Rehoming Centre on 01656 725 219. To find out more about the work of Dogs Trust please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk
Posted : 06/02/2007 06:23:46

Dogs Trust Statement on dangerous dogs
Regarding the recent dog attack in Merseyside we do not know the full circumstances of this tragic event, but of course our deepest sympathies are with the family as they come to terms with this terrible loss. While dog attacks of this kind are thankfully extremely rare, Dogs Trust advises all parents and dog owners, whatever the breed of dog, to take sensible precautions with dogs and children, even if the dog is a known family pet.

There is nothing inherent in the breed of a dog that makes him more likely to attack. A dog's behaviour is much more likely to be influenced by his training, upbringing and environment, whatever the breed of dog. Whether the dog was indeed a Pit Bull Terrier, or another Terrier-type dog, Dogs Trust has long been urging a change in the law to allow for more stringent warnings to be given to owners whose dogs have shown symptoms of aggression. An ASBO type warning system would help prevent attacks such as these, as it would help ensure that dogs are kept responsibly and safely for all concerned.

Dogs Trust also asks for calm amongst dog owners and urges owners not to abandon their dog in panic. There is no reason to suspect that your own dog, whether a Bull Terrier type dog (eg Staffordshire Bull Terrier) will suddenly become aggressive. If owners are seriously concerned about the behaviour of their dog, please contact a behavioural expert, veterinary surgeon, or a Dogs Trust behaviour advisor.
Dogs Trust Veterinary Director and Spokesperson Chris Laurence
Posted : 03/01/2007 15:52:59

Torchwood star does his bit for K9's
John Barrowman with MaggieJohn Barrowman ('Torchwood', 'Doctor Who', 'How do you solve a problem like Maria?') recently visited Dogs Trust West London Rehoming Centre and the 120 stray or abandoned dogs being cared for by Dogs Trust staff there at any one time.

John is supporting Dogs Trusts 'A Dog is for Life, Not Just for Christmas®' campaign; the charity is urging people not to buy puppies or dogs as gifts for people. The run-up to Christmas and the period afterwards is one of the busiest times for the charity; with the number of dogs handed in, or found as strays massively increasing. It's not just puppies who are the casualty of Christmas as in some cases, the number of old dogs handed in to the charity doubled over the festive season, and between 2002-2005 over 1,000 old dogs were abandoned over Christmas.

The charity urges people to please consider the following:

* Owning a dog is a lifetime commitment. The average dog lives for 13 years.
* Dogs aren't cheap to care for. You should expect to spend around £8,000 over his lifetime.
* Puppies can be extremely hard work for an owner, particularly if there are young children in the house - do you have enough time to spend with your pup?
* Dogs don't come fully trained. They can cause a lot of damage to your possessions through chewing and accidents. How committed are you to training your dog?
* Christmas can be a very hectic time of year. This isn't the best time to introduce your new dog to the house.

In an effort to prevent even more impulse purchases during the festive season, all 17 Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres temporarily stop rehoming dogs from 17th December 2006 to 2nd January 2007.

If you would like to support the "A Dog is For life, Not Just for Christmas®" campaign, then please call 020 7837 0006 for your free car sticker and to find out more.
Posted : 06/12/2006 16:32:11

Charity urges public not to overlook old dogs
Dogs Trust says A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Christmas® means old dogs as well as puppies.

Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity and owner of the famous slogan A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Christmas®, has launched an appeal to the public to remember vulnerable older dogs this Christmas.

Research has shown that it is not just puppies who are abandoned during what staff have dubbed the "silly season". While the charity continues its campaign to discourage people from buying puppies as gifts, figures collated from the charity's 17 Rehoming Centres show that older dogs, those aged eight and above, are at risk of being dumped to make way for new puppies, often themselves bought as presents and subsequently abandoned.

The run-up to Christmas and the period afterwards is one of the busiest times for the charity as the number of dogs handed in, or found as strays massively increases. In some cases, the number of old dogs handed in to the charity doubled over the festive season, and between 2002-2005 over 1,000 old dogs were abandoned over Christmas.

Dogs Trust Chief Executive, Clarissa Baldwin, says: "In our society, it is often the very old who are the most vulnerable over the festive season. It is the same with dogs. Sadly, in the run up to Christmas and in the New Year, the proportion of old dogs we take in to our care significantly rises compared to other times of year.

While we cannot forget the message of not buying puppies as presents, which sadly still goes on, it is also important not to neglect our old aged dogs too, who are at greater risk of being abandoned at this time of year. We beg people to consider the commitment needed to care for your pet for its whole life."

The charity urges people to please consider the following:

* Owning a dog is a lifetime commitment. The average dog lives for 13 years.
* Dogs aren't cheap to care for. You should expect to spend around £8,000 over his lifetime.
* Puppies can be extremely hard work for an owner, particularly if there are young children in the house - do you have enough time to spend with your pup?
* Dogs don't come fully trained. They can cause a lot of damage to your possessions through chewing and accidents. How committed are you to training your dog?
* Christmas can be a very hectic time of year. This isn't the best time to introduce your new dog to the house.

In an effort to prevent even more impulse purchases during the festive season, all 17 Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres temporarily stop rehoming dogs from 17th December 2006 to 2nd January 2007.

If you would like to support the "A Dog is For life, Not Just for Christmas®" campaign, then please call 020 7837 0006 for your free car sticker and to find out more.

CASE STUDY
Buttons, a 10-year-old Springer Spaniel was found wandering the streets by Mr and Mrs Thrush in South Molton, Devon, just a few days before Christmas last year. She spent several days waiting in a local council kennel, but her owners did not come forward, so she was taken to Dogs Trust Ilfracombe Rehoming Centre, where she had to have an operation to remove a mammary tumour, an operation which gave her a new lease of life.

Happily, she was then rehomed to the Thrush family who had originally found her as a stray. She is a loving, gentle dog, who loves her new life, especially as she now has daily trips to the beach where she enjoys splashing about in the sea.

Pam Stow, Dogs Trust Ilfracombe Manager, said: "It is so sad that lovely elderly dogs like Buttons can find themselves homeless at Christmas. She is such a gentle girl, and it was especially callous that she was abandoned as she was also found to have a tumour. Thankfully we rescued Buttons in time and found her a loving new home, but not all dogs are so lucky. We really urge people to think through the responsibility involved in getting a dog, and please don't abandon them at Christmas."
Posted : 04/12/2006 23:54:56

Bargains and baubles at Blue Cross Tewkesbury
This month, The Blue Cross charity shop in Tewkesbury will be celebrating both the festive season and its second birthday.

As part of the celebrations staff have stocked up on lots of great gifts, many of them brand new. Those wishing to help needy animals while hunting for Christmas bargains can visit the shop at 150 High Street, where all proceeds go towards looking after the animals in the pet charity's care.

Animal lovers can also give the gift of their time by volunteering for a few hours a week as a shop assistant. Volunteers receive a generous discount on purchases and it's an opportunity to gain retail experience, as full training will be given.

Léonie Spencer, manager of the shop in Tewkesbury, said: "We have received a tremendous amount of support from local people over the last two years and we hope that people will pop in to take a look at our great Christmas gifts over the next few weeks."

The shop would welcome donations of men's, women's and children's clothes, household bric-a-brac, books and soft furnishings from anyone having a pre-Christmas clear out.

Anyone who would like to volunteer or that has goods to donate should visit the shop at 150 High Street, Tewkesbury or call 01684 850549.
Posted : 04/12/2006 13:57:51

Cheap microchipping helps reunite cats
The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Southampton is appealing for owners who think their cats are lost or have strayed to get in touch, as they believe many cats in the rehoming centre have owners.

Many cats are bought into the centre by people who have found them wandering the streets, and even without the cats having ID, staff can tell if they have been owned by the condition they are in and how they react to people. These cats are then advertised by the charity in local papers in the 'lost and found' column; however, very few people ever come forward to claim their pets. Therefore, the centre is holding a subsidised microchipping day on 8 December 2006 to help owners who want their animal to be easily identifiable in case it gets lost or stolen.

Deputy Centre manager Lara Alford said: "We get a lot of cats in who might well love to go back home, but no one ever comes looking for them. We have some owners who are so happy when they find their cat has been with us, and these are the ones that usually have microchips where the address on the chip has been kept up to date. We would ask anyone who has lost a cat recently to get in touch, as we think that some cats here are not really homeless."

The charity is also concerned that the number of cats on the centre's waiting list is growing and they would be able to help more if those that could be reunited were claimed. The Blue Cross relies entirely on public donations and received no government funding. All animals leave the charity having been checked by a vet, vaccinated, microchipped, and come with six weeks' free pet insurance.

Anyone who would like to ask about a lost cat, or the subsidised microchipping day should visit The Blue Cross animal adoption centre at Bubb Lane, West End, Southampton, Hants, SO30 2HL, call 023 8069 2894 or email southampton@bluecross.org.uk.
Posted : 04/12/2006 13:55:56

Buffy Star to help Blue Cross Celebrations
Television star Anthony Head will be supporting pet charity, The Blue Cross by welcoming people to a carol concert to celebrate the centenary of the charity's flagship animal hospital in Victoria, London.

The festivities, at St Peter's Church in Eaton Square on Thursday 14 December, will kick off at 6.15pm with complimentary mince pies and wine. The concert will start at 7pm. Anthony, star of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Little Britain will open proceedings, with fellow actors Jenny Seagrove, Ian Hogg, and broadcaster Angela Rippon OBE reading a selection of festive poems, amusing passages and short Christmas stories.

The congregation will be entertained by the prestigious English Chamber Choir who will be accompanied by trumpeters from the Household Cavalry and the impressive St Peter's Church organ.

Proceeds from the concert will go towards helping the animals in the pet charity's care. The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria first opened its doors to the sick and injured 100 years ago. It is the oldest continually running charity animal hospital in the country and provides a valuable service for the pets of owners who cannot afford private vets' fees.

For more information or to obtain tickets for this special event, please call Craig Burchell on 020 7932 4071 or email craig.burchell@bluecross.org.uk. Tickets cost £15.
Posted : 04/12/2006 13:54:36

Blue Cross joins with Lackham College
The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Burford, Oxfordshire, is supporting a new cat rehoming initiative from Wiltshire College's Lackham campus.

The college has started a cattery for homeless animals as part of its ongoing training and commitment to animal welfare, and The Blue Cross is offering support and guidance to ensure the highest standards of animal care and rehoming procedures are followed.

Steve Goody, the director of companion animal welfare at The Blue Cross said: "We are happy to support Wiltshire College in this project and feel that by working together we can produce the best results for the homeless cats and the students studying at the college."

Hayley Monaghan, Lackham’s senior animal technician, said: "This venture will provide an exciting new platform to deliver courses to students at high industry standards".

Anyone who would like more information should visit The Blue Cross animal adoption centre Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon, OX18 4PF, or Wiltshire College Lackham, Lacock, Wiltshire SN15 2NY or contact 01249 466 800.
Posted : 04/12/2006 13:52:57

Come and meet Sarah Jane Honeywell at Fayre
Children's television star to add some Christmas sparkle to Dogs Trust Fayre.

WHO: CBeebies star Sarah Jane Honeywell is to appear at Dogs Trust West London Christmas Fayre.

WHAT: Sarah Jane will be signing autographs, taking part in the fun of the fayre and presenting raffle prizes.

WHERE: Dogs Trust West London Rehoming Centre, Harvil Road, Harefield, Uxbridge, UB9 6JW.

WHEN: 2.30pm, Sunday 26th November 2006.

CBeebies television presenter Sarah Jane Honeywell will be adding Christmas sparkle to Dogs Trust West London Rehoming Centre's very first Christmas Fayre. The charity is planning a truly fun event for two and four legged friends alike at the Rehoming Centre on Sunday, 26th November from 11am – 4pm.

A wide variety of stalls are planned to suit all tastes, including: Santa Paws; a doggy deli selling doggy Xmas cookies and cakes; craft stalls; face painting; a children's creative area and body healing for dogs and owners. A Dogs Trust information stand will also be providing plenty of advice to dog owners and will even help clip dogs' nails if required. A raffle and tombola, with many prizes generously donated by Dogs Trust supporters, is also likely to be a popular attraction.

Sarah Jane Honeywell will be visiting the fair between 2-4pm, while taking a well earned break from her Peter Pan pantomime rehearsals. Sarah is a great supporter of Dogs Trust, and has recently recorded a DVD for our Educational Workshops. The star of CBeebies will be signing autographs, joining in the fun of the fayre and will be presenting the lucky raffle winners with their prizes.

Sarah comments: "I absolutely love Dogs Trust and everything it does, and I'm really looking forward to going to their Christmas Fayre.

The Fayre should be fantastic fun and with Christmas not too far away now, it's a great place to find some perfect gifts for all your friends and family whether they’ve got two legs or four! And most importantly, remember all money goes to a very good cause."

All money raised from the Christmas Fayre will go towards helping Dogs Trust continue their vital work, caring for hundreds of stray and abandoned dogs that come into the charity's Rehoming Centre at Harefield, near Uxbridge.

Sasha Johnston, Dogs Trust Supporter Relations Co-ordinator comments: "We are all really looking forward to the Christmas Fayre and have been working really hard over the last few months to ensure that this will really be a very special day. I'd like to really thank all our volunteers and supporters who have been a great support and are offering so much help on the day."

Dogs Trust is the UK's largest dog welfare charity and has 17 Rehoming Centres throughout the UK. The charity cares for over 14,000 dogs annually. The Christmas Fayre will be taking place on Sunday 26th November at the Dogs Trust West London Rehoming Centre, Harvill Road, Harefield, Uxbridge from 11am - 4pm. For further information please contact Sasha Johnston on 01895 453950. For further information on Dogs Trust, please visit the website www.dogstrust.org.uk
Posted : 22/11/2006 20:57:03

Christmas gifts for all the family, including dogs
We all know the phrase, 'A Dog is For Life Not Just For Christmas®'. But make sure you still have a dog-tastic Christmas this year, by buying from Dogs Trust's Christmas Catalogue and at the same time, helping the charity save more stray and abandoned dogs.

The catalogue includes everything for the discerning and dog-loving Christmas shopper. It contains all sorts of gifts and gadgets; practical and fun, for dogs and people, plus a great selection of cute cards and stylish gift wrap. And to make life easier, the selection is also available to view and purchase from online, by visiting www.dogstrustshop.co.uk

Anyone that appreciates an efficiently-run and beautiful home will love our selection of house and garden gifts. The useful carrier bag tidy and clothes peg bag (left) with pretty dog design are made from simple unbleached cotton and cost £4.99 and £6.99 respectively. A pair of silky lavender-filled Scotty dogs (£7.99) will keep drawers smelling fresh whilst the soft, padded sewing case and craft bag, made from pretty dog breed fabric will be hugely popular with dog-loving seamstresses.

For the man in your life, our armchair organiser (£14.99) will faithfully hold his drink, newspaper and remote control, ensuring he never looses it again (right). The organiser can even be personalised with his name, so he won't loose that either! How about a 'Dogfather' T shirt for £15.99 that tells everybody - including the dog – that he's the boss?

The catalogue also contains a nice selection of stocking fillers for kids, or indeed gifts suitable for children to buy for their friends. A 2007 'Funny Side of Dogs' cartoon calendar will have them chuckling for a whole year (£4.99), the Dalmatian dominos (£8.49) should keep them occupied whist Mum gets on with cooking the turkey, and the amazing 'Chuck It' (left) will help them - and the dog - burn off the Christmas dinner later in the day!

And for the kid in you, our incredibly popular Paws slipper boots (£12.99) are a must for keeping toes toasty on cold winter nights.

Think your dog is cleverer than the rest? Well now you can prove it with the dog IQ test game (left), 'How Smart is Your Dog' (£5.99). We certainly enjoyed trying the exercises out Poppy, the Dogs Trust office dog, but then we always knew she was a sharp one!

Some dogs seem to enjoy making the house as mucky as they are, but with the Dogs Trust Christmas catalogue, it is possible to be a house-proud dog-owner! The worst time is after winter walks, so simply place your muddy mutt inside one of our highly absorbent, towelling Dry Bags, and all the dirt stays inside – perfect for keeping the car clean too. Then, once they've dried off, our Ionic Pet Brush is the king of all dog brushes because the ion technology will leave your dog odourless, as well as beautifully groomed.

But these are no real fun for the dog! Treat your four-legged friend to their very own edible Christmas card for just £4.99 for a pack of two. Yum! And for playing outdoors, a Chuck It (£12.99) means you won't have to pick up a slimy ball and will help you throw it further than ever before, with incredible ease. Always a bonus after the customary festive over-eating! There is also a number of tried and tested, durable dog-toys including the floppable, thwackable Crazy Cloth squeaky toys (£10.99) that come in a range of pooch-pleasing shapes and sizes.

Why not splash out on your dog this Christmas, and buy them a brand new bed? The Dogs Trust catalogue has high-quality dog beds in all shapes and sizes. Our orthopaedic and waterproof bed is perfect for elderly dogs; a stylish reversible sheepskin bed will please interior style-conscious dog owners whilst the furry, Pink Spot (left) and fun car-shaped, Car Cosi beds will really liven up Christmas day present-opening.

Finally, what better Christmas gift than Dogs Trust's Sponsor-A-Dog scheme, where for just £1 per week you can sponsor a dog at any one of our 17 Rehoming Centres. You will receive a certificate and personal updates from your dog and the knowledge that you are really helping Dogs Trust to make a difference in a dog's life.
Posted : 19/11/2006 11:51:59

Shed some Christmas pounds for hounds
Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity is inviting dog-loving members of the public to take part in a Boxing Day sponsored dog walk, to help raise vital funds for its Snetterton Rehoming Centre.

The four and a half mile walk will begin at 10.30am at the Rehoming Centre on North End Road in Snetterton, Norfolk. The fundraising event is open to dog owners and dog lovers alike, and those that don’t have a dog of their own will be able to pair up with one of the Rehoming Centre’s canine residents.

The route will take walkers through the picturesque surroundings of the Norfolk countryside. When they return to the centre, tea and mince pies will be waiting to warm them up.

All participants will receive a certificate as thanks for their fundraising efforts and doggie guests will have the chance to bag a treat from the dog tombola. Another prize will be up for grabs for walkers that take part in a Silliest Festive Hat competition.

Manager of Dogs Trust Snetterton, Diane McLelland-Taylor, said: "The sponsored walk is always really good fun and well-attended. People seem grateful for a good excuse to burn off all those excess Christmas calories! More importantly, the event is invaluable as it raises money to help us find homes for many more stray and abandoned dogs.

"It would be great if we could beat last year's record turn-out of 400 walkers and 185 dogs!"

Anyone that would like to take part should contact Dogs Trust Snetterton as soon as possible, on 01953 498377.
Posted : 19/11/2006 11:48:11

Dogs Trust brings unruly teenagers to heel
A three-part series will be broadcast on Channel 4 next week showing six unruly teenagers getting a slice of discipline through dog training at Dogs Trust Kenilworth.

The series was filmed at the charity's Kenilworth Rehoming Centre, where six unmotivated, underachieving, disaffected teenagers underwent a gruelling dog training programme under the professional guidance of Dogs Trust's training and behaviour expert Lynn Barber.

Based on the theory that training a dog is not only rewarding and beneficial for dogs, but can develop a sense of responsibility in people too, the series follows the kids through their journey as they grow in confidence and motivation. Each teenager was given a rescue dog to work with, and the final test of their progress took place at Crufts where they entered their dogs in the Good Citizen Award scheme, as well as taking on the mighty challenge of an agility and heelwork to music display.

The teenagers didn't just get to do the fun parts though - they also had to muck in at the Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre at Honiley, where they worked as Canine Carers every morning for five weeks. Duties included dog walking, feeding, and much to the horror of some of the teenagers, cleaning kennels.

Lynn Barber, Dogs Trust training and behaviour expert, says: "Taking on these teenagers was perhaps one of the hardest things I've had to do. Training the most unruly dog in the world sometimes seemed like a piece of cake compared to trying to get these kids to be motivated! My priority was the dogs, so the teenagers had to understand that they were not necessarily the centre of the universe, but that they each had a real, live dog depending on them. The outcome was far from what I expected."

The Underdogs will be broadcast on Channel 4 on 20, 21, and 22nd November 2006, at 9.30am.

Dogs Trust is the UK's largest dog welfare charity and cares for 14,000 stray and abandoned dogs every year through its network of 17 Rehoming Centres across the UK.
Posted : 19/11/2006 11:45:47

Animals in war commemorated
Laura Poole, a veterinary nurse from the country's oldest charitable animal hospital, marks the sacrifice made by animals in wars at the Animals in War memorial on Park Lane.

With Laura is Chris Samsa and his dog Ripley. The shih tzu is one of the nominees for The Blue Cross Medal, reinstated for one year only to mark the centenary of The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria. Ripley works as a therapy dog with ill children at Great Ormond Street Hospital and has contributed greatly to the recovery of very sick children.

The Blue Cross is part of a coalition of animal charities that have supported the Animals in War memorial in recognition of the veterinary care the charity provided for the thousands of horses and dogs that worked on the front line who were on the front line during the two World Wars.

The charity will be accepting animal nominations for the Medal until 17 November. Nominees must have come to the aid of a human or animal life, shown outstanding bravery, or been part of a life changing partnership. Nominations can be made through the website www.bluecross.org.uk.
Posted : 11/11/2006 22:11:43

Equine winter tips
The Blue Cross equine charity is reminding horse owners to prepare thoroughly for the winter months when their horse or pony will require extra care and attention.

Historically the charity has seen an increase in the numbers of equines being admitted to its equine centres during the winter and is now offering practical support for anxious owners to help them get safely through the cold, wet weather.

Kath Urwin, centre manager at the new Blue Cross equine centre at Rolleston in Staffordshire explains: "Winter is an extremely tough time for many horses and ponies and also for their owners. Most horse owners have to fit caring for their horse around their working day and this means mucking out, feeding and riding in the mornings and evenings when it is dark. It's also more time consuming to care for horses and ponies during the winter. Extra feed, hay and rugs, plus maintaining muddy fields and mucking out stables take extra time and cost more money. It's a hard time of year and many people struggle."

The Blue Cross has put together the following top tips to help horse owners this winter:

* Arrange a morning and evening rota with other members of your yard to reduce day-to-day pressure on yourself but not the quality of care for your horse.
* Lag outside water pipes and cover taps with bubble wrap to stop them freezing.
* Fill extra buckets the night before when the pipes are thawed to save a job in the morning.
* Mix up several feeds in one go and label and cover them to save time.
* Prepare a week's worth of hay nets at the weekend when you have more time.
* Lay hard core or specialist matting round gateways to prevent poaching.
* Comb baby oil through manes and tails to stop the mud sticking.
* Float a tennis ball in water troughs to help stop ice forming.
* Skip out stables during the week and save the big muck out for the weekend.

Kath continues: "If you are struggling this winter please remember that The Blue Cross is here to help. We will provide advice and support and if owners find themselves in the heartbreaking situation of being unable to care for their animal any longer the charity will endeavour to help, where possible, to take your horse or pony into its care to ensure it has a safe and secure future."

Working from three dedicated equine centres in Oxfordshire, Sussex and Staffordshire, The Blue Cross aims to rehome all horses and ponies in its care once they are physically and mentally fit enough. Every rehomed horse or pony is routinely visited twice a year and friendly centre staff and experienced field officers are on call to offer advice.

The Blue Cross is funded solely by public donations and relies on the support of equine lovers. Facilities and resources are not infinite, which means that needy horses can only be admitted to the centres once rehabilitated horses have been rehomed. If you feel you can provide an experienced, long term home to a horse or pony in the charity’s care, contact one of our three equine centres direct: Burford: 01993 822454, Northiam: 01797253908 or Rolleston: 08452605505 or, email equine@bluecross.org.uk or visit the website at www.bluecross.org.uk For further information on the exciting new Sponsor-A Pony Scheme visit the website or telephone Callie Rose 01993 825564, e-mail callie.rose@bluecross.org.uk
Posted : 03/11/2006 22:29:49

Proposed amendments to the Animal Welfare Bill
Press release from the Dog's Trust Dogs Trust is disappointed at the Government's failure to accept amendments to the Animal Welfare Bill on greyhound racing. We strongly believe that self-regulation in an independent industry has not, and will not work in practice and will continue to campaign for statutory regulation of the whole industry based on codes of practice to make sure that breeders/owners/trainers are responsible for their progeny from the cradle to the grave.

The sport's national bodies (British Greyhound Racing Board and National Greyhound Racing Club) are members of The Greyhound Forum which is chaired by Dogs Trust Chief Executive Clarissa Baldwin. This Forum drew up the Charter and Code of Best Practice for the Racing Greyhound that was launched at Westminster in 2002. The Forum – whose members also include representatives from Dogs Trust, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Blue Cross and the RSPCA – meet on a regular basis. They are currently updating the Charter to make sure it will sit easily with the forthcoming Animal Welfare Act – when it is passed – and be accepted as the Code of Practice that underpins this section of the Animal Welfare Act.

The Charter for the Racing Greyhound

- The registered owner and or keeper of a greyhound should take full responsibility for the physical and mental well being of the greyhound and should do so with full regard to the dog's future welfare.
- All greyhounds should be permanently identified, properly registered and relevant records kept by the owner and or keeper.
- All greyhounds should be fully vaccinated by a Veterinary Surgeon and provided with a current Certificate of Vaccination.
- All greyhounds must be provided with suitable food and accommodation and have unrestricted access to clean fresh water.
- Adequate arrangements must be made to allow for exercise and socialisation.
- Breeding and Rearing - over-production of greyhounds through indiscriminate breeding must be avoided. Where a racing greyhound is bred from, the long term welfare of the bitch and puppies must be paramount.
- Training must be conducted so as to safeguard the long term welfare of the dog.
- Where destruction is inevitable, greyhounds should be euthanased humanely by the intravenous injection of a suitable drug administered under the supervision of a Veterinary Surgeon.
- When transported all greyhounds should do so in safety and comfort.
- All tracks should appoint a member of staff responsible for animal welfare.
- A supervising Veterinary Surgeon must be present whenever greyhounds are raced at tracks.
- Tracks and kennels must be designed and maintained to ensure the highest welfare standards for the racing greyhound.
- Greyhounds must only race if passed fit by a Veterinary Surgeon immediately prior to racing.
- Greyhounds must be entitled to receive emergency veterinary care if injured.
- Drugs which may affect the performance of a greyhound when racing should not be permitted.
- The Industry must endeavour to ensure that all racecourses have a properly funded home-finding scheme for retired greyhounds in operation. Such schemes should work closely with other welfare and charitable bodies seeking to find good homes for ex-racing greyhounds.
Posted : 25/10/2006 13:51:40

Shhhhhhhhh-pecial home needed for noise-phobic dog
The staff at Dogs Trust West Calder are hoping to find a very special home for one of their current canine residents; Trudy, a beautiful 10-year old Border Collie.

Trudy has a noise phobia which means that she panics at loud unexpected noises, like fireworks, thunder and loud bangs. She will try to dig her way out and will hide if she is truly terrified, which can be distressing to see. She needs a home where her new owners will have a real commitment to helping her overcome her fears and to be aware of the noise environment around her.

Trudy loves children and adores cuddles and affection. She is house-trained, obedient and able to be left home alone. She loves to play ball and is good with other dogs.

Susan Tonner, Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager, said: "Trudy is a wonderful canine companion but she has really suffered with her fear of loud noises. We are especially hopeful that we can find her that very special home with Hallowe-en and Bonfire Night fast approaching and all the unsettling noises they can bring. If you think you’ve got what it takes then please call us on 01506 873459."

Dogs Trust also offers a selection of top tips on how you can help your faithful firework-phobic four-legged friend get through firework nights: for further information please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/information/poppysopinions/fireworks/
Dogs Trust is the UK's largest dog welfare charity, caring for over 14,000 dogs every year through our network of 17 Rehoming Centres across the UK.
Posted : 23/10/2006 11:33:00

RSPCA disappointed over dog tragedy sentence
News from the RSPCA website
The RSPCA is disappointed at the sentence handed out to a couple whose dog died in July 2006 after being left in a hot car in Swindon.

Paul and Aisling Wadsworth pleaded guilty to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering by unreasonably confining dogs in a in a motor vehicle when they appeared before Swindon Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 18 October.

This caused the Newfoundland dogs to suffer from heat stroke and as a result caused one, Homer, to die and the other, called Harry, to collapse. Veterinary evidence described how heat stroke would have affected Homer's central nervous system, causing shallow breathing, seizures and eventually death. It suggested that both dogs had suffered for several hours.

The couple pleaded guilty to both offences. In mitigation they said they had lost track of the time and were usually model owners but this was just an unfortunate accident.

RSPCA Inspector Steph Daly, who took the case to court, said: "I am extremely disappointed that the court did not ban the Wadsworths from keeping dogs or order that Harry be taken away from them.

"The couple argue that this was an unfortunate accident but any responsible owner should have realised it was totally inappropriate to leave dogs in a confined space for four and a half hours, on the hottest day in July since 1911."

Inspector Daly continued: "Cases like this highlight the danger of leaving a dog in a hot car for any length of time and I hope it will serve as a warning to other dog owners."

The Wadsworths were each fined £750 for each offence and ordered to pay costs of £1030 each.
Posted : 20/10/2006 13:19:22

Concerns over Processionary Moths
Following reports in the press of non-British species of moth and their caterpillars being found in the UK, Dogs Trust advises dog owners to keep their dogs away from any species of caterpillar or moth that they are unsure of as a safety precaution. The Processionary Moth that has been reportedly found in West London can cause allergic reactions as well as irritation to the lungs, eyes and skin in humans and could have a similar effect in dogs; they have also reportedly caused tongue necrosis in dogs if they are ingested.
Posted : 19/10/2006 00:00:16

Celebrity cat owners clamber to get paws on latest
Celebrity cat owners such as Sharon Osbourne and Mischa Barton are known to treat their feline friends to aromatherapists, behaviourists and stylists but a recent survey commissioned by new super-premium cat food brand, Perfect Fit, has revealed the next celebrity cat owner must-have – the Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist™!

Perfect Fit has unveiled the new trendy cat-care service in response to the revelation that over 53% of Brits don’t know that cats prefer eating a high protein diet and are probably returning home to miserable moggies!

Celebrity cat owners such as TV cleaning extraordinaire, Kim Woodburn are clambering to be the first to get in-line to treat their pampered puss to an exclusive private consultation with the Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist –the Gillian McKeith of cat nutrition.

Kim Woodburn comments, "We put so much focus on human nutrition ensuring we eat a balanced diet to reflect our body needs but we've never really considered that our feline friends would have individual requirements depending on their daily activity.

Daisy is such a character, she loves racing around in the garden and rolling in the flower beds, but I never realised that she should be eating a diet that reflects her active way of life. Until I met the Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist I knew absolutely nothing about the importance of Macronutrient Profile for cats, but I can now rest assured that Daisy is in tip-top condition."

Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist, Abigail Stevenson is an expert in feline nutrition, who understands the importance of tailored, balanced nutrition for cats. Abigail is trained to find the correct diet to suit every cat's individual lifestyle and lifestage, providing the ideal macronutrient profile (MNP™) to ensure optimum health.

Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist, Abigail Stevenson, comments, "Every cat is unique and their diet should reflect that. Cats require perfectly balanced nutrition, which is tailored to their individual age and lifestyle to ensure that they are happy and healthy. It's important for owners to find the appropriate diet for their cat and one that is high in protein and low in carbohydrate is what they instinctively prefer."

The study by Perfect Fit reveals that nine out of ten Brits think that a Feline Foodologist service would be much more help than other feline experts. Over 64% of Brits agree that they wouldn't think twice before whisking their furry-friend off to a Feline Foodologist to find the right diet to keep them happy and healthy.

The Perfect Fit Feline Foodologist recognises that all cats are unique and their diet should reflect that. Perfect Fit has been developed as a result of over 20 years of research at the WALTHAM © Centre for Pet Nutrition - the Worlds Leading Authority on Pet Care and Nutrition, which has shown that cats instinctively prefer diets that are high in protein and low in starch / carbohydrate.

Perfect Fit is the first brand of dry cat food that offers cats a diet closest to the ideal Macronutrient Profile (MNP™) – i.e. the amount of energy derived from protein (40%) / fats (35%) / carbohydrates (25%).
Posted : 18/10/2006 16:36:07

Dogs Needn't Be Dangerous
On behalf of The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), the Chairman, Donna Brander, would like to issue the following statement regarding the recent tragic events involving children and Rottweilers.

‘This is a tragedy for all concerned and the APBC extends its deepest sympathy to the families involved. All dog owner's have the responsibility of understanding and addressing the potential dangers of keeping any dog. Dogs should be well socialised, particularly to children and infants, in order to be well adjusted to the special behaviour children and infants sometimes display. Even when habituated and socialised to the distinctive behaviour of children and infants, the interaction of dogs and children or infants should always be supervised by an adult.

The early weeks of a puppy's life are crucial for it to develop into a well balanced adult dog. Lack of adequate socialisation is the biggest cause of aggression in dogs. Whilst there are many responsible breeders who are aware of the importance of early socialisation and who are breeding good puppies, there are also many inadequately socialised puppies being sold as family pets. The APBC believes that much could be done for both human and dog welfare if legislation was introduced to prevent the 'mass production' of unsocialised puppies in puppy farms.

However, problems can sometimes occur when children and dogs are left unsupervised. Children may frighten the dog, without realising it, and, as they do not pick up the dog's warning signals, the dog may resort to biting if it feels trapped and unable to escape. The typical example is of a toddler being allowed to follow a dog under a table, where the dog is trying to seek refuge. Allowing children to 'hug' dogs can be dangerous as this can be very intimidating for the dog. Always stroke a dog on the side and do not reach over its head.

Parents should never allow their children to go up to an unknown dog in the street to pat it, without first checking with the dog's owner that it is alright to do so. Equally, do not allow children to tease neighbour's dogs through the fence as this may aggravate the dog and potentially lead to the dog nipping at fingers under the fence or even jumping over the fence.

Supervision and common sense are of paramount importance and part of responsible dog ownership and parenthood to ensure the safety of both children and dogs.

The APBC Book of Companion Animal Behaviour contains a chapter on 'Pets and Children', which gives practical tips and advice on how to handle a variety of situations from both the human and dogs' point of view. Dog owners who have behaviour problems with their dog should seek advice from a professional behaviour counsellor. Many insurance companies will cover the cost of a behaviour consultation with an APBC Member.
Posted : 03/10/2006 16:59:08

Dogs Trust statement - Rottweiler attack
Dogs Trust statement - Rottweiler attack in Leicester

Dogs Trust is deeply saddened by the news of the Rottweiler attack on a 5 month old baby in Leicester at the end of September. We would like to offer our deepest sympathies to all those involved in this extremely tragic event.

It is not specifically in the nature of Rottweilers nor any breed of dog to attack in this way; any dog could attack if provoked. If a dog does attack it is highly unlikely to have anything to do with the breed itself, but is much more likely to be associated with the way in which the dog has been trained. Every dog owner must respect their dogs' nature but it is not inherent within the Rottweiler breed to attack; and many Rottweilers make fantastic family pets.

Dogs Trust is urging people not to suddenly abandon their dogs in fear of attack following this incident. Please don't punish the breed based upon the actions of two dogs in very specific circumstances.
Posted : 02/10/2006 18:17:36

People would rather hang pet art on their walls!
Portraits of pets have become more popular than commissioning art featuring close members of the family, it is revealed today.

Commissions for artwork of favourite dogs and cats are more popular than portraits of all family members - except children.

It is the poor old mother in law who is bottom of this list when choosing who should be hanging from the walls of modern households.

Even portraits of teenage children and partners are less popular than hanging up a picture of a favourite pet, particularly cats or dogs.

The trend is revealed by You Are Art which specialises in creating modern personalised portraits.

You Are Art research of 300 customers showed the most popular commission was of babies under three. Next came children aged 3 to 13, followed by pets. Mother in laws came below uncles, aunts and even family friends.

You Are Art commissions for pet portraits have doubled in the last year - helping to make them the third most popular choice.

Pet owners especially are not just choosing traditional oil paintings, but also embracing pop art ideas such as graphic and Andy Warhol styles of portraits.

Customers are also happier about commissioning art because modern methods offered by You Are Art have taken away the intimidation and high costs of dealing with an artist directly.

The artists work from photographs getting rid of the need for sittings, there are not expensive galleries, ordering can be done online at www.youareart.co.uk and drafts are emailed to the client throughout the process making them the art director. What they don't like can be changed at any time.

Mark Berry, founder of You Are Art, said he was stunned by the demand for pet portraits.

"More and more of the commissions are of animals of all shapes and sizes. It is very rare that someone wants a portrait of their mother in law in a modern home, even if they do get on with them."

“The general trend is that portrait art is on the increase. Taking away the intimidation of commission personal artwork and offering a range of styles for all tastes has really helped to make it popular as a modern interior design idea."
Posted : 08/08/2006 18:01:36

Whiskas creates purrfect purretry
When it's time to snooze you're sprawled on my bed
When I wake in the morning you're curled around my head
When I walk down to breakfast your under my feet
When I sit down for coffee your perched on my seat
When I'm typing on my laptop you walk on the keys
When I go to get up you jump on my knees
When I clean my teeth you sit on top of the loo
When I put on my socks you sit on my shoe
When I paint my face you nudge my lipstick
When I put on my watch you follow the hands tick
When I go to work you watch me leave
What you do when I'm out I'd love to know!!!
Fearne Cotton, TV presenter

Whiskas®, the UK's leading cat food brand, knows just how cat owners love to talk about their pets and what better way to express their love for their feline friend than through a 'Purrem' - poems that express the infectious happiness of owning a cat! Whiskas is giving UK cat lovers the chance to join cat-loving celebrities, such as Tv presenter, Fearne Cotton, author, Jilly Cooper, horse-racing pundit, John McCririck and This Morning's Scott Miller by featuring in the Whiskas Book of Purrems, a celebration of the finest cat Purrems and photography to be launched later this year in aid of veterinary charity, PDSA.

To get cat lovers across the UK perfecting their Purrems, the experts at Whiskas have created the first ever 'Purrem Generator' on www.whiskas.co.uk, which helps create the purrfect Purrem.

Justine Hare, spokesperson for Whiskas who created the online Purrem Generator, comments, "At Whiskas, we know that cat owners love to talk about their cat's quirks and behavioural traits and what better way than through poetry. The Whiskas Purrem Generator gives cat lovers the chance to express the happiness they feel as a result of their relationship with their cat. The Whiskas Book of Purrems celebrates the unique cat-owner relationship and gives cat lovers the opportunity to share the enjoyment of owning a cat, whilst raising vital funds for pets in need of vets."

Whiskas is searching for the finest cat Purrems to feature in the Whiskas Book of Purrems. To enter the "Whiskas Purrfect Purrems competition" and be in with a chance of being one of the 11 Purrems to be included in the book alongside the celebrities and their purrfect tales, simply send your Purrem to Whiskas Purrect Purrems, c/o Ketchum, PO Box 4064, 206 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 6AU.
Posted : 21/03/2006 16:24:14

Australian Shepherd wins Crufts
An Australian Shepherd dog has been named Best in Show at the 115th Crufts dog show.

The dog, named Caitland Isle Take a Chance (or Chance for short) beat six other group winners at the show's final held at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre on 12th March. A Fox Terrier was the reserve winner.

More than 22,000 dogs from 32 countries took part in this year's Crufts, the world's largest dog show.
Posted : 12/03/2006 23:36:32

Recent survey says dogs cost thousands!
A recent survey by Churchill, providers of Churchill Pet Insurance, found that the average dogs costs around £22,000 over its lifetime. This sounds a lot of money, but think of the vets bills, pet insurance, food bills, boarding kennel bills while you are on holiday and all those treats that you buy over their lifetime and it's easy to see how the costs mount up.

Larger breeds such as a Great Dane can cost around £32,000!
Posted : 06/03/2006 10:49:29

Pet neutering/microchip fitting scheme in Oxford
A pet neutering and microchip fitting scheme performed on an Oxford estate has been hailed as a success.
RSPCA officers neutered 14 dogs and 23 cats as well as fitting 142 cats and dogs with microchips. The microchips can be read using a hand-held device which makes it easier to contact the owners of the cats and dogs if they are found after they go missing or are stolen.

A thousand homes on the Barton Estate in Oxford were visited by RSPCA officers in the pilot scheme aimed at reducing ignorance and cruelty among pet owners. The treatments were offered free of charge and owners were asked to make a small donation to the RSPCA
Posted : 19/11/2005 12:21:51

Pet owners would end holidays if pet fell ill
Recent research by RSPCA pet insurance found that 51% of pet owners would be prepared to cancel their holiday or cut it short to care for a sick pet and 35% said they would return home even if their pet's health problem was not life-threathening.
Despite spending hundreds of pounds on our well earned holidays, it would appear that the health of our pet is of more importance to most of us that our two weeks in the sun!
For more information on pet insurance, see the Pet Insurance Web Site
Posted : 12/11/2005 17:30:17

Advice for beating dog thieves
The Dogs Trust recently contacted a leading trade magazine with some advice for dog owners on how to beat dog thieves.
Their suggestions included having your dog microchipped or its ear tattooed. And, of course, ensuring your dog has a collar with the owner's name and address on it (including a phone number could also be a good idea).
Other advice that may seem obvious, but is worth reiterating, would be never leave your dog tied up outside a shop as this is one of the easiest places for a thief to take a dog
Posted : 12/11/2005 17:14:27

Dog training book published as TV spin-off
There is now a book based on the popular BBC1 dog training series, It's Me or the Dog, which was presented by Victoria Stilwell. The book aims to be a practical manual for pet owners to help training and behaviour correction. The book retails at £16.99
Posted : 31/10/2005 19:55:55

Masterfoods launch Xmas 2005 range
Pedigree and Whiskas have launched their Christmas 2005 treats range. Apparently, 95% of dog owners and 82% of cat owners purchase a Christmas treat gift for their pets.
A £1m point-of-sale and TV advertising campaign will promote the Christmas range
Posted : 31/10/2005 19:49:44

New Animal Welfare Bill
The new Animal Welfare Bill was introduced in the House of Commons by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) on October 14th. The Bill will be debated in the Commons and Lords before it is passed into law.
The new bill aims to reduce animal suffering by enabling action to be taken before any suffering occurs and by introducing a duty of care for those responsible for animals.
However, RSPCA prosecutions will only be brought after the owner has been given a written warning and appropriate time to correct any problems.
The Kennel Club are reported to be concerned that there is still no provision for the banning of electric shock collars which are used by some as a training aid, and that the sale of puppies in pet shops will not be abolished
Posted : 31/10/2005 19:44:36

New brand image for popular dog food
A new look Butcher's dog food will be hitting the shelves in November reports trade magazine Pet Product Marketing.
Both single and multi-pack cans will get the makeover. Choice, the range for smaller dogs, will get a brand re-design in 2006
Posted : 31/10/2005 19:30:31

Mandatory dog walks
Politicians in Rome have made regular dog walks mandatory after a national law was passed allowing jail sentences for people who abandon cats or dogs
Posted : 27/10/2005 20:19:16

Teenagers held over dog hanging
Two teenagers have been arrested over the hanging of a Dalmation dog from a tree.
The dog, named Spot, was found in woods hanging, but alive, near Chudworth, South Yorkshire
Posted : 18/10/2005 00:34:08

News items wanted
Are you daft about dogs or crazy about cats?
If you have a news item that would be of interest to other dog and cat lovers please email us and we can add it to the blog
Posted : 12/10/2005 16:26:33

RSPCA appeal for information
The RSPCA is asking the public for help in catching those responsible for hanging a young Dalmatian dog from a tree in Cudworth, Barnsley.
A member of the public alerted the RSPCA to the incident late on Wednesday, 5 October.
Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA on 0870 55 55 999. All calls will be treated in confidence.
Posted : 12/10/2005 14:57:36

Do you know what your dog is trying to tell you?
A online survey carried out by Bonio showed that nearly half of the British public does not know what dogs are trying to tell them.
The survey showed a series of pictures replicating the most common emotions displayed by dogs. Pet owners guessed incorrectly in 7 out of 15 scenarios
Posted : 12/10/2005 14:07:40