Category: Magazine

Well-known documentary maker Louis Theroux and actress Emily Raymond have teamed up to help London based animal charity, Mayhew, launch a campaign to illustrate the ‘importance and intimacy of animal companionship, and the harsh realities faced by people hit by a sudden or unforeseen change in circumstance, which threatens their relationship with their pet’ – such as homelessness.

The duo provided their voices for a video the animal charity will be sharing alongside a series of poems which will appear around London. The celebrities hope they will start a conversation about the importance of the relationship we have with our dogs, in good times and bad.

Speaking about the campaign, Theroux said, “I was delighted to be asked be the voice of the dog for Mayhew’s campaign. It was a challenge for me as I’ve only ever done voiceover for myself. So this was a leap, taking on the role of someone else, who also happened to be a non-human! But we call relate to the emotions felt by the animals in this beautiful video: the need for comfort, companionship, and quality of life. And the animation and writing in the film capture this perfectly.

“My fervent hope is that the campaign starts a much needed conversation about the importance of protecting the bond between pets and pet-owners from all walks of life. We all deserve to live a life, shared.”

Raymond added, “I think that the ground-breaking work Mayhew do in the local community is truly inspiring.

“Helping homeless and vulnerable people to care for their dogs, and even look after them during periods of absence, is literally a lifeline for people in a crisis situation. They make sure that the human animal bond is nurtured and not broken – without judgement and with deep empathy. Mayhew fully understand the vital relationship between a vulnerable person and their pet, and know that an animal is often the only trusted companion that a person has.

“It was therefore a privilege to give a voice to the beautiful and moving animation for this latest campaign – highlighting the shared lives that are made possible by the vital help and support that Mayhew provides to those in need.”

Last September a programme aired on BBC Wales exposing the extent of the puppy farming problem in Wales. It shocked many people, but has anything actually happened since then?

Well, apparently or certainly publicly, not a lot according to undercover investigators Puppy Love Campaigns, whose evidence and footage initiated the BBC Wales exposé on Welsh licensed puppy farms.

According to the organisation, they expected an immediate official inquiry into how such “obscene, licensed cruelty had been allowed to go unchecked for such a long period of time”.

Puppy Love Campaigns say, “We hoped a full report would be published on how and why the dogs were failed on such a mammoth scale; who was responsible and what actions would be taken. None of this has happened.

“All we are told is those with responsibility are holding meetings – meetings away from public scrutiny. To date, no one has explained how the unseen (until we exposed it with the BBC) tragedy for dogs has been allowed to continue, year after year and under the supposedly watchful eyes of council inspectors and vets.”

So, Can Anything Be Done to Push This Forward?

Yes. It’s important to remember that those in government are public officials and you (the public) can make your voices heard.

Puppy Love Campaigns say, “The public are crying out for answers and so are we. If, like us, you feel this silence is yet another failing on the part of those responsible, we call on you to join us in our request for such an inquiry. This is well overdue.

“It’s plain that the local authorities must share much of the blame. After all, they are the very people that issue the licences. Licences which are given to grossly unfit-for-purpose premises. But, sadly the blame does not stop there. It goes much higher. Following a series of our investigations with the media which demonstrated severe failings in the system, in 2014 the Welsh Government made all the right noises to quell the resulting public outcry.”

Why Wales New Legislation Will Fail, According to Experts

While no inquiry has been initiated and publicly nothing has been made known to concerned individuals, Puppy Love Campaigns say Wales still plans to introduce new legislation but in its current form, it will fail. They explain why.

“They gave little, or no thought, as to how that legislation would be enforced. For a while, the strategy worked, the public were reassured, but during this time the dogs continued to suffer abuse on a daily basis. Meanwhile the Government proudly publicised the new regulations, claiming they were bringing this cruelty to an end. Sound familiar?

“Roll on to 2019 and we were forced to expose them yet again. And we will continue to expose everyone who is responsible for this outrage. Our voice will not go unheard until the government shows us they can control the situation which clearly at this moment in time they can’t, or won’t. By dragging their feet and taking very little action even in the face of irrefutable evidence, they are condoning the suffering of animals on their watch. The shame of Wales needs addressing and the time is now, enough is enough! Demand a full inquiry. Do not let them ignore you.”

If you agree with Puppy Love Campaigns, please contact the first minister Mark Drakeford and Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths and demand immediate action. 

Winter is upon us and with it comes potential new dangers for dogs, both inside and outside of the home.

New research from Direct Line Pet Insurance reveals only two-fifths of dog owners are aware of the seasonal issues their dogs may face in winter, although more than half of dog owners admit they are fearful of the hidden dangers lurking underfoot when walking their dog.

With fewer hours of daylight, dog owners need to be more careful as hidden dangers such as nettles, broken glass, pieces of metal and even fallen fruits, that can be harmful to your dog if eaten, can be discreetly hidden in their path.

Amongst hidden dangers, the research revealed fireworks and seasonal canine illness cause the most anxiety for dog owners during winter, followed by sniffing pesticides, eating poisonous foods and the risk of frostbite as a result of freezing temperatures were also amongst other worries for dog owners.

The most common poison dogs will encounter during winter

Antifreeze poisoning is a common type of poisoning dogs may face this season. It typically happens when liquid drips from a car’s radiator and is licked off the ground and ingested by a pet.

Direct Line found nearly a quarter of dogs harmed in winter months had been harmed due to antifreeze.

Throughout winter, dog owners may naturally reduce the time they spend outdoors with their pet because of lighting and colder temperatures, with a third of dog owners admitting they change their habitual walks during winter by the length of time, route and even the time of day they walk their dog.

Commenting on the survey’s findings, Madeleine Pike, Veterinary Nurse at Direct Line, said: “With shorter days and fewer hours of sunlight in winter, the hazards outside of the home for dogs can be less obvious. Hidden dangers on walks, licking spilt antifreeze and eating fallen fruits can cause severe injury to dogs and can make them very unwell. We encourage owners to be extra cautious of the outdoor risks that can occur this season.

“Similar threats can be found inside the home. It’s common for visitors to have the tendency to sneakily feed ’treats’ to your pet. Chocolates, nuts and raisins are just some of the foods which are poisonous to dogs and can lead to severe indigestion and distress. With smaller dogs like Chihuahuas, Terriers and Pugs, it could be catastrophic. We urge all dog owners to be aware of what their pet is eating this winter and stick to dog friendly treats.”

Watch out for these festive dangers inside the home

Over 1000 claims made throughout last year were made because of pets being poisoned from plants and foods, so it’s important that owners are aware of the potential dangers.

A fifth of dog owners worry about the harm festive plants can have on their pet indoors. Festive foliage such as mistletoe, poinsettia and holly begin to make an appearance and can irritate dogs’ fur, and if swallowed, can lead to poisoning.

Direct Line’s tips for protecting pets this winter

1. After a walk, take a few seconds to look for any wounds, cuts or injuries on your dog

2. Salt and grit used on roads in winter can irritate a pet’s paws. If you use salt around your home, choose a pet-safe product

3. If you can, try to walk your dog when it is light or in well-lit areas and parks so that hazards can be more visible

4. Only treat your pets to dog friendly foods. Be cautious of what friends and family may give your dog as a “treat”

5. Keep your dog warm with protective blankets. Overnight temperatures can massively drop, and dogs can run the risk of getting hypothermia.

If owners feel that their dog has eaten something that they shouldn’t or if they have any concerns, Direct Line Pet customers can connect with a vet 24/7 through PawSquad which is provided for free with their pet policy. If in doubt customers should get their pet to the vet immediately.

Last December more than 4000 animals were abandoned and according to the animal welfare charity, they received more reports about abandoned dogs than any other animal.

The RSPCA has revealed that the worst affected areas were Greater London and the West Midlands with 428 animals, and 227 animals reported as abandoned respectively.

Sadly, the charity is already caring for many animals abandoned around the country this festive season.

The RSPCA is urging people to help them care for the animals spending Christmas in its centres and hospitals, asking for help providing anything from food, medicine, to a warm blanket, treats and toys.

Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer at the RSPCA, said: “Christmas is a busy time for us, as sadly cruelty and abandonments do not stop over the festive season and our staff work tirelessly to rescue and care for animals in need.

“Last year, there were 1,684 dogs reported as abandoned in December and 1,678 abandoned in January, and there were more dogs than any other animal being abandoned over the festive period. We understand that people’s circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer cope with their pet but there is never an excuse to abandon any animal like this, as there are other options available to people who are struggling to care for their pets. Dumping a pet leaves the animal extremely scared and vulnerable, especially in the cold winter months.

“We would urge anyone considering getting a pet to think carefully about whether they have the time, care, patience, and resources to care for that animal for the rest of their life and if you feel you really do, then please consider giving a rescue pet a second chance this new year.”

Six dogs saved from the dog meat trade in South Korea have arrived safely in the United Kingdom to start their search for new homes and Spaniel mix Maisie, Boston terrier Winston, and Jindo mixes Pumpkin, Oscar, Bella and Molly have already received lots of enquiries from potential adopters.

Here are some of their first experiences as shared by their foster families.

Meet Bella

Meet Maisie

Meet Molly

Meet Oscar

Meet Pumpkin

Photo Credit: Rachel Riley Photography

Meet Winston

Winston and his five friends were languishing on a dog meat farm in Gyeonggi-do province when Humane Society International (HSI) closed the facility saving more than 90 dogs in total.

The closure was HSI’s 15th dog farm shut down, part of the charity’s pioneering program helping dog farmers who want to leave the increasingly controversial industry.

There are thousands of dog farms across South Korea supplying live dogs to slaughterhouses, markets and restaurants for human consumption, but the trade has been in decline over the past several years as attitudes and appetites are changing.

As a result, many dog meat farmers are increasingly eager to exit the trade and approach HSI for help.

They each sign a legal contract with the charity to relinquish the dogs, destroy all the cages, and never farm dogs or any animal again. The charity provides a small start-up grant to transition farmers to an alternative livelihood such as mushroom growing, water delivery, water parsley farming and other more humane trades.
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Jenn Gilbert, the founder of Chimney Farm Rescue, who are caring for the six dogs says: “As the founder of Chimney Farm we try to help all dogs in need, and the dog meat trade has always played heavily on my heart. So to be asked to help Humane Society International/UK was an honour.

“The six dogs who arrived – Bella, Winston, Molly, Maisie, Pumpkin and Oscar – are just amazing dogs, and after all they have endured they are settling into UK life amazingly. Out for walks, cuddling up to humans, lying in comfortable beds, just how all dogs should live. All the dogs have a thorough medical and then we can start to look for the best homes possible.”

A police dog named Axle has received an award for devotion to duty and bravery after he sustained life-threatening injuries tackling an armed criminal whilst on duty with Derbyshire Police in 2018.

Discussing PD Axel’s award, the PDSA Commendation, his handler PC Dean Allen said, “I couldn’t be prouder of Axle. He is an exceptional Police Dog who has displayed great courage and skill throughout his six years’ of service with Derbyshire Police. I was worried he wouldn’t make it after that night, so to see him not only make a full recovery but return to duty as well shows how special he is. It is a real honour to see him receive this award.”

The Incident

Axle was attending the scene of a domestic disturbance in the village of Riddings, Derbyshire last July. On arrival at the scene, two officers were confronted by 28-year-old Matthew Stretch, who attacked their police car. Stretch smashed the driver’s window and threatened the officers with a knife and hammer.

Back-up officers were summoned and Stretch ran from the scene. Police began a search of the area, conscious that their suspect was armed and dangerous. Resources deployed included a firearms unit, a helicopter and PC Dean Allen with his dog, Axle.

Stretch was eventually located by PC Allen and Axle in nearby woodland next to a disused canal. PC Allen instructed Stretch to stand still or Axle would be deployed. This warning was ignored and Stretch was pursued into the canal. There, PC Allen attempted to detain the suspect but he managed to climb out of the shallow water.

During the struggle, Axle was stabbed three times in his neck and body by Stretch, and he was instrumental in protecting the life PC Allen. Officers armed with baton rounds and a taser subsequently detained Stretch, who was arrested.

Axle was then rushed to a local veterinary surgery where he received emergency treatment for his wounds.

PC Allen said: “It was only we had detained the suspect that we were actually able to see Axel’s stab wounds. The biggest concern was the position of the stab wounds, you don’t know how deep they are, and they were very close to the spine. With the blood vessels running down the spine in German Shepherds it can be life threatening.”

Thanks to what officers describe as his ‘remarkable commitment’, he resumed his police duties with his handler following some rest and recuperation.

No officers were injured during the attack but the incident has had a lasting effect on those involved.

On 8 October 2018, Matthew Stretch was sentenced to six years and seven months in jail for threatening with a blade, two threats to kill and two counts of criminal damage. The trial was told he has 13 previous convictions for 28 offences including robbery and burglary.

Axle, PC Allen and other officers attending the incident have since been commended, in November 2018, for outstanding bravery by The Chief Constable of Derby Constabulary.

A New Law to Help Protect Police Dogs

In June 2019, new legislation was passed giving protection to service dogs such as PD Axle.

“Finn’s Law” is named after a retired police dog named Finn. After he was stabbed whilst pursuing a suspect with his handler PC David Wardell, a campaign began to fight for better rights for police animals injured in the line of duty, effectively giving police and prosecutors the ability to charge criminals injuring police animals in the same way they could/would if a police officer was injured on duty.

A Search and Rescue Dog from Dorset who found a missing 90-year-old dementia patient and helped to convict a murderer has been posthumously awarded the PDSA Order of Merit – known as the animals’ OBE – for his outstanding devotion to duty and service to society.

The Border Collie named Charlie, who passed away in 2017, worked with his owner and volunteer handler Matt Cooke.

Speaking about Charlie’s award Matt said: “Charlie was my boy. My dog of a lifetime. He was a pleasure to train and work alongside, and I am immensely proud of everything he has achieved in his career. For him to receive the PDSA Order of Merit, even after he has left us, is such an incredible honour. I am thrilled to have Zak (pictured below) – his Hampshire Search and Rescue colleague – accept the medal on Charlie’s behalf.”

Charlie’s story

Charlie started training as a Search and Rescue Dog with his owner, volunteer handler Matt Cooke, when he was 14-weeks-old, qualifying in November 2005.

He soon attained the highest level of qualification and subsequently spent ten years in service with Dorset Search Dogs and Lowlands Search and Rescue. In this time he completed hundreds of searches and amassed thousands of search hours.

Charlie was deployed to both domestic and international incidents, helping find missing people in boggy woodland, dense undergrowth, burnt-out buildings and landslide zones.

Renowned for his phenomenal scent detection, Charlie could cover large areas of ground quickly, freeing up valuable Emergency Service resources to deploy elsewhere. As well as locating missing people, Charlie’s work enabled areas to be eliminated from a search, thus narrowing the focus of the Emergency Services. His methodical and reliable approach to searching earned him an enviable reputation within the Search and Rescue community.

In addition to his search duties, Charlie helped recruit and train other dogs to work in specialist taskforces. He also represented Search and Rescue Dogs in the House of Lords, raising awareness around quarantine and pet passports for specialist dogs travelling abroad.

Charlie’s most notable work includes:

Charlie located an elderly and vulnerable lady who had been missing for 14 hours in freezing temperatures. Police and ambulance services reported that had Charlie not found her when he did, she wouldn’t have survived.

In May 2008, Charlie located a murder victim buried in a large field, leading to a conviction.

Also in May 2008, Charlie located a missing 90-year-old dementia patient who had become disorientated and bogged down in mud.

In February 2009, Charlie and Matt were sent to Ascension Island in the Southern Atlantic, to help search for a missing woman. Charlie, along with two Thames Valley Blood Detection dogs, searched the entire island in brutal conditions and terrain. Such was Charlie’s reputation, the fact that no one was located gave closure to the search. Clearing a search space in this way is often as important as making a positive find.

Charlie was called to search a fire-damaged squat for fatalities. One homeless man was known to have lost his life in the blaze, which took 50 firefighters and 13 engines to put out. Charlie’s skills were called upon to ensure that there were no other fatalities in the building, which became structurally unsound. His subsequent search enabled the building to be cleared for demolition.

Charlie retired at the end of 2015, enjoying a full and happy retirement until he passed away in December 2017. He is 32nd recipient of the award since its institution in 2014.