wag: the mag for dog lovers summer 2016 summer 201… · education certificate in companion animal...

WAG: THE MAG FOR DOG LOVERS SUMMER 2016

GET YOUR TEETH INTO SUMMER!

NEWS

03 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk

W H Y W O O D Y A N Y O N E D O S U C H A T H I N G ?

Woody the Lurcher was found tied to a tree with his lead in the woods in Harrogate in May by a man who was going for a stroll. He called the local dog warden, who brought unlucky Woody straight to Abbey House Veterinary Practice, as he was clearly suffering from a broken front leg. Following his emergency surgery, Woody was brought to Dogs Trust Leeds for a good rest and plenty of TLC from our rehoming staff.Amanda Sands, Manager at Dogs Trust Leeds, says:

‘It’s hard to imagine how anyone could abandon a dog in this way but it’s even more upsetting that he had a broken leg and so was in a great deal of pain. He hadn’t been left with anything to lie on and he hadn’t been left in a busy area, so what would have happened if he hadn’t been spotted doesn’t bear thinking about.

We don’t know how long he had been there but we think it may have been quite a while as he’d tried to chew through his lead. Although I’ve worked here almost 30 years it always shocks me that people can treat a dog in this way.’

Woody, who Amanda believes is around 18 months old, recovered well under the close eye of the centre’s veterinary team. Happily, once Woody was well on the road to recovery, he was rehomed by Louise. Louise met and fell in love with Woody while he was still at the vet surgery where she works, and used to prepare his medication for the vet nurse to administer following his operation. Louise tells Wag that Woody is recovering very well, and has kindly shared some photos of him enjoying his new home, see them here

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Name: Heather Wren

Job title: Training and Behaviour Advisor, Dogs Trust Loughborough

How long have you worked at Dogs Trust? Three years

What do you like most about it?

I like the variety of my role; no two days at work are ever the same!

One day might be full of appointments where I prepare rehomers to take their new dog home by demonstrating the training their dog has received while he was here; or supporting families who have already rehomed and need help with behaviour their dog shows once in their new home. The next day may be assessing dogs and designing their bespoke behaviour modification programmes.

What do you find most challenging?

I suppose what I like about the role is also the biggest challenge! The wide

variety of tasks each day means I have to manage my time carefully to ensure everything gets done. You have to be good at prioritising.

What is your personal highlight?

I love seeing long term dogs find their perfect family. There is one very special dog who stands out; Dougal, was with us for 18 months while we helped him overcome a fear of new people, and the guarding of food. Seeing the delighted reaction his new ‘mum’ and ‘dad’ got after they had dedicated so much time coming to hang out with him at the centre was incredible. He would nearly take off from wagging his tail like a helicopter as soon as he saw them or heard their voices!

Visit Dogs Trust Loughborough, Hill Farm, Wide Lane, Wymeswold, Loughborough LE12 6SE. Open every day 12 – 4pm, closed on Thursday, late night opening on Wed until 7.30pm

A dog is for life,not just for Christmas®

Editor: Deana SelbyReaders’ Dogs: [email protected] High-res Jpegs only please!

Front cover: Penny the Golden Retriever, rehomed from Dogs Trust Manchester. To see tons more fun photos from our watermelon photoshoot go to:

Designed by: Anthony Oram anthonyoram.com Print by: Eclipse Colour Print, managed by Red Mist

Editorial address:Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House,17 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ

Reg charity nos. 227523 (England and Wales) SC037843

(Scotland) 20057978 (Ireland)

I N T E R A C T

Wag extra meaty chunks Dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine

Send us your Dogs Trust dog pics to #DTDogOfTheWeek

Instagram: @dogstrust

dogstrust.org.uk

MEET THE TEAM

YouTube: youtube.com/dogstrust

Twitter: @dogstrust

Facebook: facebook.com/dogstrust

Phone: 0303 003 0000

Email: [email protected]

Photo: Martin Phelps

M O R E W A G SP E R H O U RWagulous news! Your Wag will now be available online and updated regularly with even more news, videos and lots of photos – so for some extra juicy bits visit dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine and wherever you see this sign

H E AT H E R W R E N

We love this sleek grey leather collar with matte silver buckle and stud detailing, created as part of Mint Velvet’s ‘charitable giving’ initiative, in aid of Dogs Trust. Size S/M measures 43cm and M/L measures 60.5cm and costs £22. Available online at www.mintvelvet.co.uk

Keep your warpaint neat and tidy in this cute make up bag from Fenella Smith, designed exclusively for Dogs Trust - we can’t resist the pups rummaging in the gift box! £18 with a 25% donation coming directly to us. www.fenellasmith.com

FOR WHERE TO BUY ANY OF THESE ITEMS, GO HERE:

Zhuzh up your sofa with our Scottie cushion, 40cm x 40cm, £9.99 from dogstrustgifts.comNB Available while stocks last!

Peanut parks her posterior on our new stripy dog bed, available from our gift catalogue. This sleek grey and white delight is machine washable and costs £16.99 from dogstrustgifts.com

Biccy time! Containing 12 beautiful hand-iced biscuits for delivery, the Dogs Trust ‘Best in Show’ tin from Biscuiteers is a beautiful box of canine cookie delights - they taste divine too. NB the biscuits are for people, not dogs! They cost £32.50 with a £2.50 donation coming to Dogs Trust.

Practical. Stylish. Foldy. Yellow. The Dogs Trust collapsible travel water bowl ticks all our boxes. £6.50 from dogstrustgifts.com

Zorbing! The rehoming team at our Ballymena rehoming centre went zorbing across Lake Lagan in a boys v girls competition, raising over £440 for Dogs Trust - go Team Ballymena! (The girls won, in case you were wondering.) Find out how you too can take part in a fun challenge in aid of the dogs by emailing [email protected]

Foster carers. We’re on the lookout for kind-hearted dog lovers who are at home for most of the day to volunteer as part of our Freedom Project, which provides foster care for dogs belonging to people who need to escape from domestic violence. We now urgently need dog lovers in Essex, London, Hertfordshire, Yorkshire and Derbyshire to come forward and help us. Foster placements usually last for up to six months, during which time we will pay for all of the dog’s food, toys and bedding plus any veterinary bills. Email [email protected] or call 0800 298 9199 (London and Herts) or 0800 083 4322 (Yorks and Derbys).

04 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk 05 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk

07 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk06 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk

NEWSNEWS

R E E T P E T I T E

REET PETITE

Weighing 1.4kg - less than a bag of flour - petite Papillon Trudy holds the record for smallest dog to be cared for by Dogs Trust Manchester, (since it opened in October 2014.) The 12 year old tiddler came in together with her friend, Cleo, a regular sized Pap, when their owner had to move in to a residential care home. They have both since been rehomed together.

While the illegal import of young puppies into the UK from eastern and central Europe continues, Dogs Trust is stepping in to save those pups seized by officials at the UK’s ports of entry. Around 180 puppies have now been cared for, and rehomed, by Dogs Trust since we began working together with Kent’s quarantine kennels and the Animal Plant and Health Agency in December 2015. We continue to put pressure on the government to improve the enforcement of the laws concerning international pet travel and border control. In the meantime, we’re doing all we can to rescue smuggled pups from an uncertain fate.

To see our latest film about puppy smuggling go here

180 SMUGGLED PUPS:

SAVED

Hold me closer tiny barker

CANINE LOOKALIKES!If you squint a bit you may be able to make out...

‘Sylvester Stallone’ - aka Sizzles at Dogs Trust Canterbury Here’s Rocky Bow Wow-a! Six year old Sizzles first arrived at Dogs Trust last summer, and with his brooding stare and furrowed brow reminded staff of everyone’s favourite action movie star. Tenacious staff are refusing to throw in the towel until they find Sizzles a knockout new home (huge flight of stairs upon which to train optional.) If you think you could be Adrienne to Sizzles’s Rocky then call Dogs Trust Canterbury.

‘Del Boy’ aka Cassie at Dogs Trust ManchesterSay ‘Mange Tout’ to Cassie, a cheeky faced 18 month old Lurcher whom our Manchester team reckon has the look of Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses about her. Just like Del, Cassie is a real character and is always smiling, although staff are keen to stress they have never seen any evidence of her selling stolen goods in the market. While Del always dreamed of being a millionaire, staff feel certain that Cassie yearns to have a lovely jubbly home of her own, with a garden so she can run around.

‘Christopher Walken’ - aka Toby at Dogs Trust CanterburyWee Toby the Chihuahua – aka Christopher Walkies - is a dead ringer for the veteran Hollywood actor, who has starred in hundreds of films over a long and interesting career. Unlike his film star doppelganger, Toby has no discernible talent for dancing, acting or looking evil, but does boast a magnificent mane. Call Dogs Trust Canterbury.

Please call 0303 003 0000 if you are interested in rehoming Sizzles, Cassie or Toby.

STUDY FOR YOUR DOGTORATEIf you’ve ever wanted to study canine behaviour in an academic setting then Bristol University’s two year Higher Education Certificate in Companion Animal Welfare and Behavioural Rehabilitation could be the one for you! The course is taught by Dr Emily Blackwell, whose role is funded by Dogs Trust. She is now appealing for anyone who is seriously interested in expanding their behavioural knowledge, and is perhaps already working within the animal welfare world, to apply online at [email protected] This year’s course starts in October 2016, so get your skates on!

FUN TIMES!HUGE thanks to everyone who has already been to a Dog Trust Fun Day. They’re great fun for all the family, including your dog, and help us raise much need pounds to help our hounds. See the back page for all the hot dates!

Alfie, nicknamed Ronaldog by owner Peter Simpkins, can dribble at speed, balance a football on his head while sprinting, bounce the ball off his body onto his head and even side step a ball to fox his opponent.

The two year old crossbreed, who was rehomed from Dogs Trust Evesham two years ago, demonstrates silky ball skills that the likes of Rooney, Ronaldo and even Messi could only dream of.

‘We first noticed his precocious talent when he took a shine to my daughter’s footballs in the garden, which at the time were the same size as him. The fact that he plays football is a big bonus, but we do not love him because he knows how to play, we love him because he is part of the family.’

He really has to be seen to be believed - watch all the Ronaldog action here:


Suzi, a seven month old Pug, was 7kg when she was handed in to Dogs Trust West London earlier this year. She has already lost 0.5kg through more exercise and a healthier diet. The average weight for a female Pug of her height is under 6kg.

George and Bailey sure are! If you’re looking to take the whole family away for a much deserved break this summer, cottages.com has lots of great pet friendly properties that are tailored for everyone, including your four-legged friends!

But what about the journey to your holiday home? We’ve got some top tips that to keep in mind when planning your car journey with Rover.

• Make sure your dog is secure and comfortable, with a correctly sized harness or within a travelling crate, that

they are able to stand up and turn around in, so they can’t distract you as you drive

• Allow your dog to become familiar with car journeys by ensuring they have positive experiences over a number of short trips before embarking on a long journey

• Plan your journey considering cooler times of day, how busy the roads will be and

where you can stop to take regular breaks

• Keep a supply of fresh water with you and stop along the way for water breaks. The Dogs Trust collapsible bowl is ideal

• NEVER leave your dog alone in the car as dogs can overheat very quickly.

For a huge choice of holidays visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/cottages and for every booking made Dogs Trust will receive 10%.

Staff at our West London rehoming centre are grappling with a weighty problem; nearly a quarter of the dogs currently being brought into the centre for rehoming with new owners are overweight or obese.

The team suspects the main reason behind these overweight dogs is that some owners may feel bad about not being able to give their dog enough exercise and so may give their dog a treat to counteract their guilt. When they see how much it is enjoyed they give their dogs yet more treats, which becomes an unhealthy cycle. Another contributing factor is that some owners feed their dogs food intended for human consumption.

Richard Moore, manager of Dogs Trust West London, explains,

‘I have certainly seen an increase over time of overweight dogs – we take in around 20 dogs a week and one in four of these is overweight. I suspect people do not have the time to give their dogs the exercise they need. Everyone has a fast paced lifestyle and a quick walk around the block is easier than the longer walk a dog really needs. Many owners are unaware that standard chewy bone can have around 600 calories and it is important to consider this in a dog’s total calorific intake for the day.’

NEWS

You may have heard recently that Welcome Cottages has become cottages.com No need to fret, you can still find the same great deals, service and places to stay with cottages.com and the best bit is Dogs Trust still receives 10% of every booking!

Get you running shoes on and get active for the dogs this autumn! Dogs Trust have places in plenty of runs over the UK! For more information on the runs below, enquire at [email protected]

• Morrisons Great North Run (Half Marathon, Newcastle) - 11 Sept • Bournemouth Marathon Festival (5K/10K, Half/Marathon) - 1/2 Oct• Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon (London) - 9 Oct• Morrisons Great South Run (10miles, Portsmouth) - 23 Oct • Santa Run London (Victoria Park, London) – Dec• Tough Mudder – Various locations and dates - New for 2016!

Yes, that is Status Quo you can see hanging out in reception of Dogs Trust West London (Harefield) having a quick beer with Buster Boo and Orlando, you are not going mad.

While drinking alcohol is NOT tolerated at any of our rehoming centres, staff were willing to make an exception for the Quo, as their new beer, ‘Dog of Two Head’, is being sold in support of our dogs. The traditional chestnut ale was created by Status Quo and Hobsons Brewery, who will kindly donate 5% of the profits to Dogs Trust.

As serious dog lovers, owning eight dogs between them, Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi chose to support Dogs Trust because of our commitment to care for stray, abandoned and unwanted dogs for as long as it takes to find them a home. Says Francis,

“Dogs Trust is a cracking charity doing brilliant work to help all kinds of dogs. We like that they won’t put a healthy dog to sleep so we wanted to give something back. I have three dogs of my own who enjoy the good life and without being able to adopt any more, for now anyway, so this is the next best thing we could do to help.”

‘Dog of Two Head’ is available, bottled, through selected SPAR stores and through Hobsons Brewery www.statusquobeer.co.uk

PORTLY POOCH PROBLEM


BARKING ALL ROVER THE WORLD

SUMMER HOLIDAY?ARE YOU ALL GOING ON A

NEWS

RUNNING JUST AS FAST WE CAN…

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Photo: Scarlett Page


FEATURE

ogs Trust is on a mission. We won’t rest until no stray or abandoned dog is put down just for the want of a loving home.

One day, that’ll mean saving EVERY abandoned dog in the UK. We know you share our vision.

To deliver this we run a dog ambulance service and we need your help to get two more ambulances on the road. Drivers like Brian travel over 45,000 miles a year, visiting local authority pounds at all hours rescuing dogs before staff there have to make that difficult decision.

“I’m so proud of what we do at Dogs Trust. They don’t know it but as soon as a dog steps

foot on my ambulance they’re safe for the rest of their days.

They’ll want for nothing.”

Many people aren’t aware that we take in stray and abandoned dogs from local

authority pounds who simply can’t cope with the number of dogs that are brought to them every day. Sadly most dogs only have seven days to be reclaimed by their owners before they risk being put to sleep.

That’s why pounds turn to Dogs Trust, as we never put down a healthy dog. Every day, our dog ambulances travel the length and breadth of the British Isles to some of the busiest pounds. We rescue the dogs with the most urgent need and bring them to safety at one of our Dogs Trust rehoming centres. There we can find them loving new homes.

Our ambulances are designed to make the dogs’ journeys as stress-free as possible. Every dog, receives their own kennel, blanket and regular stops for water.

Brian has saved around 30,000 dogs in his 22 years on the road. We have four more dog ambulance drivers just like Brian at Dogs Trust who give thousands of dogs a second chance in life.

Will you help us get more dogs to safety?

All this lifesaving work depends on kind, generous people like you. We can’t thank you enough, nor can the dogs you help to rescue. Please make a donation today so that we can put another two dog ambulances on the road and save 2,000 extra lives a year. Lives that would otherwise be cut short. Every donation, no matter what size, will make a real difference.

Thank you so much for your help.

To donate, please complete the coupon on the back page flap.

Please help us put two more dog ambulances on the road and save 2,000 extra lives a year.

Photos: Alex Grace

Help Us Go The Extra Mile!

Please see form on the back page flap

for how to help

Do you or your friends own a puppy? If so, why not take part in Generation Pup, the UK’s first ever puppy life study, conducted by our Head of Behaviour, Dr Rachel Casey? This pioneering clinical research project will follow a group of up to 5,000 dogs over their full life span, examining their health, behaviour and welfare, and is recruiting for pups to take part right now. The participants can be crossbreeds or pedigrees, rescues or non-rescues, but must be under 16 weeks old. To be an essential part of the project please visit www.generationpup.ac.uk

GENERATION PUP

THE CHANCE OF A LIFETIME

Somnolent sighthound, Jasper, almost snoozed himself out of the running while he was in the care of Dogs Trust Snetterton.

Staff believe that the former racing Greyhound missed out on literally hundreds of potential new homes because he spent almost every waking hour fast asleep.

Jasper arrived at the centre in October, and although a charming dog when awake, his unfortunate habit of catching 40 winks at all times meant that an estimated 2,000 visitors walked straight past his kennel.

Concerned that Jasper was snoozing his way through some nice new owners, rehoming staff made an appeal on the ITV Anglia news programme - and thankfully the Reeves family came forward to meet the dozy hound. Now happily ensconced with his new family, Jasper is often to be found taking a little nap on the sofa.

Jasper is just one of around 200 ex racing Greyhounds we rehome each year. We believe that approximately 3,500 ex-racing Greyhounds are unaccounted for every year in the UK, but as statistics are not published by the Greyhound industry the true scale of the problem is difficult to assess. Many people assume that ex-racers are not suitable pets because they need so much exercise, but though Jasper may be exceptionally laid back, as a rule, ex-racers require less exercise than many other breeds.


NEWSBrian Underhill, Dog Ambulance Driver

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As well as rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned dogs, did you know that we also fund research into improving dog health and welfare, through our grant-giving body, the Canine Welfare Grants Committee? All Dogs Trust funded research is conducted to high ethical standards and does not involve any procedures that may cause pain, distress or discomfort to dogs.

We are currently funding a PhD researching glaucoma in dogs which is being undertaken by veterinary ophthalmologist, James Oliver. Although it’s still early days, James has already discovered that Basset hounds are affected by a painful eye disease, primary angle open glaucoma (POAG), and has developed a DNA test which can detect the mutation responsible for causing it; all of which means a brighter future for Bassets.

We are also currently funding a new research project from The University of Lincoln exploring the dog-child relationship. They are now appealing for parents of children (4-10 years) who own a pet dog (owned for a minimum of two years) to take part in a short phone interview and complete three short questionnaires. Dr Sophie Hall would like to hear from parents who have a child with - and without - Autistic Spectrum Disorder and / or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Please email Dr Sophie Hall on [email protected] for more information.

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FEATURE

TIGGER’S SCHOOL DAYS


Tigger, a seven year old Staffy cross, has a very special job – she’s a key member of our education team. She’s never far from the side of her owner, Kelly, education and community officer for north London, and she accompanies her on workshops in schools.

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1 Kelly and Tigger, ready for their afternoon with the pupils of Deansbrook Junior School, Mill Hill. Today’s workshops are all about helping children to Be Dog Smart and giving them the confidence and techniques to manage their fears, and be safe around dogs. High five!

2 Kelly introduces Tigger to the children. Most of them are delighted to see a dog in their classroom, but a few of them are quite unsure, so Kelly sets a few ground rules to help the children understand how to behave while Tigger is with them: be calm, quiet, kind, respectful.

3 Tigger relaxes while Kelly asks the children what they would do if a dog ran up to them. Answers range from ‘run away’ to ‘scream for help’. Kelly says that they should stand very still, feet apart, fingers tucked in and arms folded across their body – we call it the X Factor. She explains how doing this will make them very boring for the dog and he should go away to find something more interesting.

4 Now they’ve mastered the X Factor, Kelly shows them how to approach a dog; tuck your fingers in, hold out your fist and let the dog sniff you – and then it’s time to practice with Tigger!

5 Kelly explains that before you stroke a dog you must always ask the owner’s permission, and if they say yes, ask where their dog likes to be stroked. Tigger is only too happy to have the children come up and stroke her on the back, just as Kelly has shown.

6 Sadly, some of the children are very worried about dogs, choosing to sit at the back of the classroom so they can avoid being near Tigger. Kelly gently encourages Poppy*, with the help of her teacher, to come and stroke a very relaxed, calm Tigger. Poppy is still nervous so she says she’ll try again at the end of the workshop.

7 Playtime for Tigger! Kelly says that dogs love to play, and it’s very important for a dog’s health to get enough physical and mental exercise, just like people. She asks the children to give Tig a toy where she uses her great sense of smell to find treats hidden under the cups.

8 Tigger is very chilled out while the children take turns to stroke her back. Some of the kids can’t wait to have a go, but others hang back. Kelly chats with them when the classroom is emptier, and a few of them eventually feel brave enough to stroke Tigger.

9 Tigger is now so laid back she is horizontal - it sure looks like ‘Hometime’!

We have 24 education officers and six youth trainers around the UK, visiting primary and secondary schools, so if you’d like a Dogs Trust workshop on staying safe around dogs, and also managing fears, please email us on [email protected] or to download our free Be Dog Smart materials visit www.bedogsmart.org.uk Please note, this is an abridged version of events!

To watch Kelly and Tigger in action go to:

*Names have been changed.

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WE SHALL BARK AT THEM ON

THE BEACHES

GET A BEACH-READY BONZO

British seaside checklist: human

Suncream, sunhat Cozzie, towel Jumper, coat (because: British summer weather) Parasol and / or umbrella (see above) Sandwiches and drinks

British seaside checklist: dog

Toy to play fetch with Water bowl, big bottle of water Tasty snacks or packed lunch Poop bags Towel

BY-LAWS FOR BARKERS

Before you even load your car or head to the train station always remember to check whether your beach destination allows dogs; there are plenty of beaches which do not allow dogs at any time of the year, and many which welcome dogs only in winter and autumn. The good news is there are plenty of beautiful dog beaches all around Britain – too many to list here, but please check here www.thebeachguide.co.uk for the latest information, or check the website of your beach’s local authority. Just because you’re beside the seaside it doesn’t mean you can forget the poo bags, so grab your bag stash as soon as you pack your day bag, and that way you’ll never forget to scoop the poop.

HOT DOGS? NO THANKS

Dogs can very quickly overheat and even die in cars on a hot day. To avoid tragedy, on a hot day always travel with the air conditioning on, or open the windows to allow air to circulate. If you don’t have aircon and you are relying on the breeze from open windows be very careful in traffic jams. Make sure your dog drinks cold water at regular intervals, and above all, never ever leave your dog alone in a parked car on a warm day. It can take as little as 20 minutes for a dog to die in a hot car. Your dog should also be wearing a car harness (like a safety belt, available from www.dogstrustgifts.com) or sit behind a grille while he travels in the boot.

If you spot a dog suffering in a hot car, you should call the police, or find your nearest police officer – do ask other passers-by to help find one. Be aware that breaking a car window is legally classed as criminal damage.

JELLY AND ICE CREAM

The beach is full of fascinating new sights, smells and tastes for your dog, most of which will be a joy to sniff, but do keep an eye out for jellyfish washed up on the shore, as they can still sting even when dead. A sting on the snooter will be very painful. Ice cream, on the other hand, is very bad for dogs as they can’t properly digest dairy – so eat your cone yourself and don’t be tempted to share.

There really is nothing better than a day on the beach, so if you’re planning a trip this summer then don’t forget to include your dog – they’re bound to love it too! Whether you plan to chill out in a deckchair, paddle in the sea or fill your face with 99 Flakes, taking Rover on your next seaside rendezvous could be the best fun you’ll have all summer.

FEATURE


SURF’S MUTT

The beach is a great place for you and Rover to try out new games as well as the old faithfuls.

Rockpool fetch. Toss your toy into shallow rock pools and watch Rover splash his way through the water. Watch out for crabs, as they could give a nasty nip on the nose.

Digging for victory. You know how you get cross when Rover excavates an enormous hole in the garden? Well, on the beach there are no roses to ruin - let him dig until he reaches Australia! See also ‘sandcastle moat engineering’ - a great scheme for dogs to helps kids, as long as your kids are relaxed about the precise shape of the moat.

Doggy paddle. If you love to swim in the sea then ask your dog to join you! It’s a great way to build up your bond. Some dogs love to swim but rarely get the chance to experience waves, so be very patient and if he looks like he is unsure or uncomfortable then let him walk on the shore. Some dogs may run straight into the waves without a moment’s thought, so make the most of it and try some doggy paddle beside your doggy.

Sea kayaking. This one is a little unusual and takes some practice, but is tons of fun. Louise Round, our head of supporter relations, based at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, and keen kayaker, says, ‘My Jack Russell, Hebe, comes sea kayaking with us and loves it – she wears her own life jacket!’

Sand dune hide and seek. ‘My children run off and hide in the sand dunes and the dogs have to go and find them! Brilliant fun for all of them!’ says Louise.

Bucket and spade games. Heather Wren, training and behaviour advisor at Dogs Trust Loughborough, recommends some fun training games, including, ‘getting your dog to pick his toys and drop them in the bucket, or even using your spade for a bit of target practice.’ See dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine for a video on how to teach your dog targeting.

BEACH SHACK SNACKS

Watermelon slices make a great occasional treat, they are cooling and great fun for most dogs to eat; messy, slurpy, bitey and sweet! One slice is plenty, as too much of any fruit could give him a bad stomach. Why not try making these naturally sweet iced treats for your dog: go here to see how.

more people

Photography by Martin Phelps. Thanks to Louise, Claire and Sue and their beautiful dogs from Dogs Trust Ilfracombe. Shot at Saunton Sands, North Devon; a dog-friendly beach all year round.


This stunner is Lenny the Lurcher. Normally found running around the Yorkshire Dales he’s photographed here chilling out on his summer holidays in France with Matthew and Georgia.

This handsome pair are Duke and Alfie. Rehomed together in 2012 from Shrewsbury they have carved a very special place in Alison and Steve’s heart. Unfortunately they have both been ill recently and have undergone operations but as Alison says, “My wonderful, brave boys have been through so much, but just take it in their stride!”

LENNY - DARLINGTON

READERS’ DOGS

Jill and Paul were looking to rehome a “medium sized dog, not a terrier” when the team at Darlington paired them up with Ellie. She’s proved to be a great fit. Ellie loves her walks (unless it’s raining!), her bouncy ball, her cuddles and especially her weekends away in Welcome Cottages.

ELLIE - DARLINGTON

This adorable face belongs to Cleo who was rehomed after her owner lost her previous Dogs Trust dog Clyde at the grand old age of 17. Cleo was rescued from puppy farming and brought to Newbury where Margaret Alcock first set eyes on her. Says her daughter Fiona, “Mum took one look and laughed at that funny little sweet face. It was the first time I’d heard mum so happy since losing Clyde. They were both what the other needed and it has been a perfect match”.

CLEO - NEWBURY

Can’t make it to Rio? No problem! Feel the sunshine and the love for free with…

ALFIE - DUKE OF SHREWSBURY

RTJA-SRXG-AZUL, Dogs Trust, Legacy Information, Clarissa Baldwin House, 17 Wakley Street, London, EC1V 7RQ Source: 113327

We spoke to one of our supporters, Dr Thomas Preston, after he got in touch with Dogs Trust regarding the passing of his dear wife, Pat. We soon discovered the remarkable story of their lifelong dedication to caring for stray and abandoned dogs, simply because of their love of animals.

Pat always had dogs from a young age, and couldn’t bear to see them injured or ill-treated. She never refused to take a dog in, which meant that Tom and Pat spent 40 years of their married life rescuing and rehoming hundreds of dogs, often taking in those in the worst condition and unwanted by anyone else.

Sadly Pat passed away in 2014, leaving behind her beloved Tom and her darling dogs.

Pat always put her dogs’ welfare first, believing passionately that no healthy dog should ever be put to sleep. It was this shared belief that led her to make the incredibly generous decision to leave a gift to Dogs Trust in her will.

Speaking about his beloved wife, Tom says “She would have been happy knowing that Dogs Trust care for dogs until they can either find a home for them, or if not look after them for the rest of their lives”.

”Pat always wanted to leave her money to animals and she decided Dogs Trust was the charity she preferred.”

Following in his wife’s footsteps, Tom has also pledged to leave a gift in his will to Dogs Trust.

“I first visited Dogs Trust when it was just wooden sheds. I went again this year to see it now and you couldn’t believe the difference. But that difference has got to be upheld by more money.”

You can watch Tom talk about his story, and other wonderful supporters who’ve decided to leave a gift in their will at www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine

If you’d like more information about leaving a gift in your will to Dogs Trust, please complete and return the coupon below.

‘I would look after the dogs come what may. I promised her that, and I don’t go back on my promises’

‘I love dogs because of their companionship, and I can never

see my life without one.’Dr Thomas Preston

Dog lover and Dogs Trust supporter

Please send me a free Legacy Information pack which provides full information about how to leave a gift in my Will to Dogs Trust.

I have already remembered Dogs Trust in my Will

All information will be treated as strictly confidential

Please return this coupon to:

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms (Please circle)

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To see Tom talking about his love of dogs go here:

This gentle giant is Rufus, photographed here with his best friend Ed. ‘We had a clue he might grow quite big by the size of his paws, however even we didn’t expect him to grow so large! He weighs eight stone now and is a soft, loveable giant who turns heads wherever he goes with his stunning looks.’

RUFUS - RODEN

Photos:Martin Phelps

For some dogs, kennel life is so different to what they’ve known before that they find it difficult to cope. For others, they are simply so young that they would hugely benefit from being exposed to the sights, sounds and smells of a person’s home, to help prepare them for their life yet to come.

This is where the Home From Home programme comes in; we place those dogs we feel would benefit the most with a foster carer for a period of time lasting anything from one week to nine months. Although the dog is not physically at our rehoming centre they are still very much available for rehoming, and will be promoted to potential new owners via our website; through the photo noticeboard within the centre’s reception area; and of course through the expert knowledge of our canine carers. Anyone who is interested in meeting one of our Home From Home dogs with a view to rehoming them is then invited to meet them at the rehoming centre on an arranged date.

One of the best things about the programme is that not only does it benefit our dogs, but it also benefits the volunteer carers too. We caught up with Brittany Lane, who fostered Roo the puppy for six weeks, on behalf of our Evesham rehoming centre. Brittany lives in Pershore and is mum to three year old Ted.

Brittany tells us, ‘To see Roo grow and turn into this cheeky little terrier, from the tiny scared 12 week old stray he used to be has been amazing. I love fostering puppies because they’re so young and absorb so much, from learning to walk nicely on a lead, to getting used to being around a busy toddler. I find fostering the young ones so rewarding , because when they first come to me they’re cheeky monkeys and don’t know anything. When I get a photo from their new owner showing them walking nicely and having fun with their new owner, I feel great joy! You do need a lot of patience but it’s so rewarding.’

Sarah Fortey is the Home From Home co-ordinator at Dogs Trust Evesham, and it was she who helped Brittany with plenty of advice on how to care properly for Roo. She is also something of an expert when it comes to knowing what makes a good foster carer:

‘Our regular volunteer foster carers include dog lovers who often work away from home, or who travel abroad and can’t keep a dog permanently. Then there are people such as teachers who have summer breaks, plus those who work from home and enjoy the companionship of a dog. We have several volunteers who live alone and love the doggy company!’

One of Sarah’s other Home From Home regulars is Rachel McTighe, who recently fostered a Greyhound called May, following surgery for cataracts. She explains why volunteering for Dogs Trust holds a special place in her heart:

‘I decided to foster a dog because I couldn’t take one on full time due to various commitments. It’s such a great thing to do and you really feel like you’re part of a team. They give you all the information you need and plenty of tips about caring for a dog. May needed some time to recuperate in a home environment following her operation, and it was so much fun looking after her. From a personal perspective it was a really social experience. I met so many people when I was out walking May who were interested finding out about her and Dogs Trust. It’s been a wonderful thing to do and a real adventure. Fostering also helps the rehoming staff by painting a picture of the dog’s character, so it gives a guide for potential new owners to show how the dog might manage in a home. It really doesn’t take long to turn a dog’s life around.’

Fostering is a win-win situation for dog and human alike, as Sarah explains,

‘We have lots of foster carers who live alone and who find they love having a dog for company. They also get to meet and chat with so many more people when they’re out walking their foster pet in parks and cafes.’

So if you think you could provide a Home From Home for a worried dog, a young pup or maybe even a dog who needs some peace and quiet following an operation, please call 0303 003 0000 or visit dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine. Most of our rehoming centres are recruiting carers right now.

21 Summer 2016 20 Summer 2016 www.dogstrust.org.uk

feature

IT DOESN’T TAKE LONG TO TURN A

DOG’S LIFE AROUNDVolunteer foster carers urgently needed!

If you love dogs but don’t feel ready or able to take the plunge into full time dog ownership, then our Home From Home programme might just be the answer!

Dogs Trust we are always looking for ways to help the dogs in our care feel happy and safe until we find them their forever home. Spending time in a foster home can help our dogs feel more secure, while allowing us to

focus our efforts on finding them a permanent new owner. Experience has shown us that the more dogs we can foster, the more we can rehome.

FEATURE

Photos: Neil Pugh Brittany Potts with Ted and Roo

Rachel with Rocky Walkies for Roo

“ To see Roo grow and develop and turn into this cheeky little terrier, from the tiny, scared 12 week old stray he used to be has been amazing.”

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO TRY DOGS TRUST – AND TO TAKE THE PLUNGE AND GET A RESCUE DOG?Eamonn: Word of mouth. Two friends I worked with at Sky News pestered me into going along and cutting a ribbon to celebrate the 5th birthday of the Harefield Rehoming Centre. I wasn’t overly interested and I certainly didn’t want a dog – but I did it as a favour. Best favour I’ve ever done myself as it turned out.

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT MAGGIE THAT MADE YOU SAY ‘RIGHT, THIS IS THE DOG FOR US’? Ruth: We didn’t choose Maggie – Maggie chose us, or our son Jack to be precise. She honed in on him and the two of them had a bond straight away. We were just bystanders to a love affair.

BEFORE YOU GOT MAGGIE HAD YOU OWNED DOGS – OR IS MAGGIE YOUR FIRST?Ruth: Maggie is our first dog. Of the three of us, I was the most resistant. Both Eamonn and I believed we were too busy and we also didn’t want dog smells or hair in the house. Our son Jack, who was eight at the time, simply pestered us until we realised he was right.

HOW HAS MAGGIE MADE A DIFFERENCE TO YOUR LIVES?Eamonn: She has totally transformed us and our lives. I have never experienced love and attention so unconditional. I now see Maggie in the eyes of other animals, horses, lions, cattle – I’m a much better person for her being in my life.Ruth: She calms me, she enthuses me, she brings out the best in me. She also gives me a reason to exercise. I talk to her like a friend. I love her and I know that she loves me.

IS SHE A MEDIA DIVA, OR HAPPY NOT TO SHARE THE LIMELIGHT?Eamonn: We only put her in the limelight because we are so proud of the work that Dogs Trust does and we both have this awful concern that there are other Maggies out there and what if no-one was to know about them or give them a loving home. We also think she’s a bit of a natural in front of the camera, we’ve taken her into the studio lots of times.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT MAGGIE’S FAVOURITE PAST TIMES?Ruth: Well, she much prefers watching TV with me than with Eamonn – I think that partly arises from him shouting during football matches!

WHAT ARE MAGGIE’S BEST QUIRKS AND ODDITIES?Eamonn: She has this little sneezing noise that she does when she gets excited, especially when she realises she’s going out.

HOW DO MAGGIE AND JACK GET ALONG?Ruth: Inseparable – except when it comes to walking her! However I have left him in no doubt of his responsibilities recently. They eat together, sleep together, play together. He always wanted a dog and the love between them is so strong.

WHO DOES THE MA JORITY OF DOG WALKS – BE HONEST!Ruth: No doubt, no question, no argument – Me!

I HEAR YOU’VE COMMISSIONED A STATUE OF MAGGIE, WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO DO THIS?Eamonn: I have such a fear of losing her I had to do this. She is unique – there will never be another like her. Surely that is worth preserving? So I got an artist to make a life size replica.

Way back in April 2011, TV presenters Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford together with their son Jack, suddenly fell in love with a small, black rescue dog – Maggie.

“M A G G I E H A S T R A N S F O R M E D O U R L I V E S ”


INTERVIEW feature

‘This watermelon toy is great for taking outdoors. It floats on water and on hotter days, the cavity can be filled with water and placed in the freezer which is great for cooling down hot dogs too!

Fynn loves this toy, as chewing is great fun for him but also massages his gums and reduces plaque build-up. All of the toys from this range are protected with BioCote, which prevents the growth of mould and bacteria, making this a more hygienic option, even after being outside.’ Watermelon toy £7.99

CAROLINE’SCHOICE

FOR FOUR-LEGG

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‘I’d certainly recommend this treat-dispensing wobble toy for dogs with separation anxiety or lots of energy, like Fynn. Its unique shape means unpredictable movement and much laughter from me while Fynn happily chases it around for ages! I tend to vary what I put inside, from a small portion of his normal kibble to healthier treats like chopped carrots.’Wobble toy £14.99

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FOR LOVERS OF THE GREAT OUTDO

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‘The Dog Maze food bowl is a great choice for overweight dogs, super fast eaters or dogs with digestive problems because it helps them eat at a slower pace by turning meals into a challenging game.

Fynn loves his grub and this bowl actually makes his meals last longer! It takes Fynn a while to guide the treats out, which is a great

distraction for him and encourages mental stimulation.’Dog Maze Food Bowl, from £16.99

Caroline is a member of Dogs Trust’s veterinary team, as well as ‘Head of All Things Fun’ to her own lovely dog, Fynn. Here they share their top picks from our new catalogue, which will keep your canine cool and content this summer. All the toys are available at dogstrustgifts.com To watch Fynn testing his toys go here:

Photos: Clive Tagg

July

31 Dogs Trust Loughborough’s Fun Day, 11am - 4pm at Turnpost Farm, East Road, Wymeswold, Loughborough, LE12 6ST. Entry: £2 per person.

August

3 Dogmobile at North Devon Show, Umberleigh EX37 9DX

7 Dogs Trust Leeds’s Fun Day, 11am - 4pm. Entry: £3 per family

8 Dogmobile at Tesco, Newtonbreda, Belfast BT8 6PZ

9 - 10 Dogmobile at The Diamond Coleraine town centre

13 - 14 Dogmobile at VW Festival, Harewood House, Leeds LS17 9LG

16 - 17 Dogmobile at Market Place, Abingdon town centre OX14 3JE

14 Seminar, Nick Thompson, the Holistic Vet, Dogs Trust West Calder, £53

21 Dogs Trust West Calder’s Fun Day, 12 - 3pm, West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston, EH54 7EP. Entry: free with a donation of a dog toy or treat!

24 - 25 Dogmobile at Maidenhead High Street, Kent

28 - 29 Dogmobile at All About Dogs Show, Royal Norfolk Showground, Norwich NR5 0TT

September

3 Dogs Trust Ballymena’s Fun Day, 12 - 4pm. Entry is £1 for adults, children go free!

4 Dogs Trust Leeds sponsored walk, 10am start. Please call 0113 281 4937 or email [email protected] to take part

10 Dogmobile at Romsey Show, Broadlands SO51 9LQ

11 Dogs Trust Manchester, afternoon tea & Beetle drive including tour of the centre, 12-3pm, £10. Please book on 0161 337 3605

15 - 16 Dogmobile at Peascod Street, Windsor Town Centre

16 Seminar, Education is Key to Better Welfare with Robert Falconer-Taylor, Dogs Trust Manchester, £11.50

17 Seminar, the Science of Canine Emotionality with Robert Falconer-Taylor, Dogs Trust Manchester, £53

17 - 18 Dogmobile at Paws In The Park, Kent Showground, Detling ME14 3JF

17 Dogs Trust Evesham’s 125th anniversary Barn Dance, tickets cost £20, call 01386 83584

21 - 22 Dogmobile at Victoria Square, Bolton

24 - 25 Dogmobile at Malvern Autumn Show, Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW

29 Dogmobile at High Street, Dundee city centre

30 Dogmobile at Grassmarket, Edinburgh city centre

October

1 Dogmobile at Edinburgh Farmer’s Market, Castle Terrace

5 - 6 Dogmobile at Morrisons Supermarket, Stratford Upon Avon CV37 9DA

6 - 7 Dogmobile at Parliament Street, York

9 Dogs Trust Bridgend sponsored Waggy Walk, Parc Slip Nature reserve, Bridgend CF32 0EH

15 - 16 Seminar, Teaching Life Skills with Kay Laurence, Dogs Trust Merseyside, check Eventbrite.co.uk for prices

15 Charity Ball in celebration of Dogs Trust Glasgow’s 10th Birthday, Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow. Tickets cost £45, email: [email protected]

EVENTSKEY Behavioural seminar, book through www.eventbrite.co.uk Meet us at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre Meet our dogs on the Dogmobile

We would love to meet you and your dogs! Come and see us at all of these places this summer…

Summer’s here and the time is right for rehoming centre fun days, Dogmobile meet and greets and behavioural talks! Our FUN DAYS are tremendous fun for all the family, including your dog, so please pop along for a fun day out - whatever the weather! If learning more about canine behaviour is your thing then you’ll enjoy our new series of behavioural talks by experts taking place at our centres throughout the year. Please visit www.eventbrite.co.uk then create an account for yourself and enter ‘Dogs Trust’ into the search box to book your tickets in advance.

Boost your donation by 25p of Gift Aid for every £1 you donate.

Gift Aid is reclaimed by Dogs Trust from the tax you pay for the current tax year.

Please ensure you

Tick the box Check your details Sign and date the form And return in free post envelope

In order for us to Gift Aid your donations please ensure you tick the box below:

I wish to gift aid any donations I make in the future or have made in the past 4 years to Dogs Trust. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that it is my responsibility to pay any difference, if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year.

Signature:

Date: / /

Please note your address is required to identify you as a current tax payer.

Source: 900004

Please return this coupon in the Freepost envelope provided, or alternatively address an envelope to:

Freepost RTJE-SXGL-BEEJ, Wag Response, Dogs Trust, Moulton House, 10 Pond Wood Close, Moulton Park Industrial Estate, Northampton NN3 6DF.

GIFT AID NOTES

Please notify Dogs Trust if you:

• Wish to cancel this declaration• Change your name and address• No longer pay sufficient tax on your income and/ or capital gains

If you pay Income Tax at the higher or additional rate and want to receive the additional tax relief due to you, you must include all your Gift Aid donations on your Self-Assessment tax return or ask HM Revenue and Customs to adjust your tax code.

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