Oh yes its that time of year again. You know the one, where your inlaws buy you that "delightful" jumper that you think will make a great lining to your dogs bed. Everyone starts yelling at you for ideas on what to buy you this year and all your thinking is "please dont get me such and such" and wishing for a holiday somewhere away from the madness.
Well this year I am actually going to plug something as a must have for ALL dog owners out there. Its inexpensive, great value for money and alongside potentially saving you thousands of pounds it will bring you great peace of mind. This magical thing I refer to is Dog's Trust Membership .
Now this isnt a straightforward plug to back your local rescue or anything like this. Dog's Trust membership comes at a mere £20 for a year or £500 lifetime membership. If aged over 60 the membership is only £10 yearly. The gem with becoming a DT member is each person who joins up is covered by third party liability insurance for up to ten dogs in their household to a value of £1,000,000 per claim. This covers you against any damage to any person, their property or their pets by your dog.
Many people will find their health insurance includes third party liability cover but some health insurance doesnt cover it and those of you who for whatever reason do not have any cover, this is a must have this year. You can have the most well behaved dog in the world but accidents happen and having to speak to owners who have found that accident happen to them we are very aware the stress and worry of not having cover is huge.
The insurance covers all dogs, pure or cross provided the dogs are pet dogs and not working animals. At present the insurance is not avaliable for dogs registered on the Index of Exempted dogs. I also contacted DT directly to check that certain breeds such as American Bulldogs are covered and they are.
Alongside the Insurance cover DT membership also gives you 24 hour, 365 days of the year access to VetfoneTM, which provides 24 hour emergency advice from qualified veterinary nurses.
Peace of mind with their Canine Care Card. The guarantee that Dogs Trust will take care of your dog should anything happen to you.
FREE copies of Wag! magazine three times a year – containing full details of all our activities and the latest doggy news.
Voting rights on all the important issues that affect Dogs Trust.
So when the rellies start asking if you like pink send them the following link and get covered this Xmas http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/howtohelp/membership/memfaq/#269968
Tuesday, 24 November 2009
Thursday, 12 November 2009
Minister asked to rethink position on BSL by BVA President
Minister asked to rethink position on BSL by BVA President:
Bruce, a family pet kept on ‘canine death row’ has been held since seized from his family in September 2007 for looking the wrong shape and size as outlawed under breed specific legislation in Northern Ireland. Now top vet Professor Bill Reilly has spoken out against the legislation and urged a rethink on the Government’s position.
For Bruce a staggering two years has passed whilst his legal case is ongoing even though he has never put a paw wrong in his life and he’s not alone in this legal nightmare where life hangs in the balance and Bruce and others are confined to a concrete cell and cruelly denied the family homes they once knew.
This surely cannot be the actions of a civilized society when in fact it is irresponsible and uneducated breeders and owners who are the problem, not breeds or ‘types’ of dogs?
The annual BVA North of Ireland Dinner held at the Parliament Buildings in Stomont, Northern Ireland took place on the 29th October 2009, addressing the Dinner was the recently newly appointed President of the BVA; Professor Bill Reilly.
Speaking before guests including the Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, Jim Nicholson MEP and several other politicians as well as veterinary professionals, Bill Reilly covered several “core topics” including that of breed specific legislation (BSL).
A copy of the full speech can be found on the BVA web site, in relation to BSL, Professor Reilly said:
“Dogs are also hitting the headlines through the recent announcement of new control measures. I was shocked to read that one third of all dogs destroyed in the UK are in Northern Ireland – clearly the dual problems of dangerous and stray dogs are an enormous drain on your resources.
We welcome your commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership, but we are disappointed with the proposal to retain breed-specific legislation.
The manner in which a dog behaves is both a result of its inherited characteristics and, more importantly, the rearing and training provided by its owner.
We know that aggression is a normal behaviour and can be shown by any dog of any breed, type or mixed breeding. Breed-specific legislation therefore engenders a false and dangerous perception that breeds not banned will not show aggression.
I would urge the Minister to rethink her position on this issue and shift the focus of control to ‘deed not breed’, alongside a concerted campaign to promote responsible pet ownership.“
Minister Michelle Gildernew has given a written response to the BVA President’s speech at the BVA Dinner and in relation to the comments on BSL has stated:
“I note your comments on my proposals for dog control legislation and in particular on the issue of breed specific legislation.
Subject to Executive approval, I plan to begin consultation in November on my proposals.
I will ensure that the BVA receives a copy of the consultation document and I would clearly value the Association's input on my full proposals at that stage.”
It is heartening to hear that the leader of the BVA has spoken out against breed specific legislation and has urged the Minister to rethink her position on this issue.
Breed bans do simply not work and are costing millions of pounds to implement whilst failing dismally to protect the public whilst innocent adult dogs and puppies are being held in kennels at huge public expense awaiting court hearings to determine their fate with a tape measure or being automatically put to death and all based solely on their appearance.
Please support the President of the BVA and write to Minister Gildernew and urge her to repeal breed specific legislation in Northern Ireland and to spare the life of Bruce and other family pets currently caught up in this unjust and unworkable legal nightmare:
Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD):
Email: dardhelpline@dardni.gov.ie & private.office@dardni.gov.uk
Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development - Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA:
Email: Michelle.Gildernew@sinn-fein.ie
British Veterinary Association - Presidents Office:
presidentsoffice@bva.co.uk
Written by Endangered Dogs.
Bruce, a family pet kept on ‘canine death row’ has been held since seized from his family in September 2007 for looking the wrong shape and size as outlawed under breed specific legislation in Northern Ireland. Now top vet Professor Bill Reilly has spoken out against the legislation and urged a rethink on the Government’s position.
For Bruce a staggering two years has passed whilst his legal case is ongoing even though he has never put a paw wrong in his life and he’s not alone in this legal nightmare where life hangs in the balance and Bruce and others are confined to a concrete cell and cruelly denied the family homes they once knew.
This surely cannot be the actions of a civilized society when in fact it is irresponsible and uneducated breeders and owners who are the problem, not breeds or ‘types’ of dogs?
The annual BVA North of Ireland Dinner held at the Parliament Buildings in Stomont, Northern Ireland took place on the 29th October 2009, addressing the Dinner was the recently newly appointed President of the BVA; Professor Bill Reilly.
Speaking before guests including the Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, Jim Nicholson MEP and several other politicians as well as veterinary professionals, Bill Reilly covered several “core topics” including that of breed specific legislation (BSL).
A copy of the full speech can be found on the BVA web site, in relation to BSL, Professor Reilly said:
“Dogs are also hitting the headlines through the recent announcement of new control measures. I was shocked to read that one third of all dogs destroyed in the UK are in Northern Ireland – clearly the dual problems of dangerous and stray dogs are an enormous drain on your resources.
We welcome your commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership, but we are disappointed with the proposal to retain breed-specific legislation.
The manner in which a dog behaves is both a result of its inherited characteristics and, more importantly, the rearing and training provided by its owner.
We know that aggression is a normal behaviour and can be shown by any dog of any breed, type or mixed breeding. Breed-specific legislation therefore engenders a false and dangerous perception that breeds not banned will not show aggression.
I would urge the Minister to rethink her position on this issue and shift the focus of control to ‘deed not breed’, alongside a concerted campaign to promote responsible pet ownership.“
Minister Michelle Gildernew has given a written response to the BVA President’s speech at the BVA Dinner and in relation to the comments on BSL has stated:
“I note your comments on my proposals for dog control legislation and in particular on the issue of breed specific legislation.
Subject to Executive approval, I plan to begin consultation in November on my proposals.
I will ensure that the BVA receives a copy of the consultation document and I would clearly value the Association's input on my full proposals at that stage.”
It is heartening to hear that the leader of the BVA has spoken out against breed specific legislation and has urged the Minister to rethink her position on this issue.
Breed bans do simply not work and are costing millions of pounds to implement whilst failing dismally to protect the public whilst innocent adult dogs and puppies are being held in kennels at huge public expense awaiting court hearings to determine their fate with a tape measure or being automatically put to death and all based solely on their appearance.
Please support the President of the BVA and write to Minister Gildernew and urge her to repeal breed specific legislation in Northern Ireland and to spare the life of Bruce and other family pets currently caught up in this unjust and unworkable legal nightmare:
Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD):
Email: dardhelpline@dardni.gov.ie & private.office@dardni.gov.uk
Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development - Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA:
Email: Michelle.Gildernew@sinn-fein.ie
British Veterinary Association - Presidents Office:
presidentsoffice@bva.co.uk
Written by Endangered Dogs.
Monday, 9 November 2009
Kit Malthouse, Bananas and Appendicitis.
Question: What do Kit Malthouse, Bananas and Appendicitis have in common?
Answer: All are pointless,slightly annoying little things. None of them actually do much although bananas are quite a favorite food for chimps.Chimps being the creatures we are said to be related to only us humans are suposed to be more evolved. Hey don't start emailing me.... I did say supposed to be more evolved, I guess theres always an exception to a rule as I feel has been proven in recent days.
So anyway, Mr Malthouse has been running around like that chap from Dad's Army...you know the one that scream's "don't panic" over and over only hes been screaming "ban the bullbreeds!". People have been expressing their disgust at the crazed idea but it wont be until Mr Malthouse has to stop for a quick glass of champers that he notices he's the only one screaming it. I cant see the Kennel Club about to agree to ban one of the most popular breeds they register. I dont actually think for a minute the Met want to go around seizing every single bullbreed off the streets either. Even the RSPCA would find it hard to actually say "oh yes Kit, what a fantastic idea!"
Everyone is just staring at him like a bug under a microscope wondering if hes actually looked at the past 18 years of failed Breed Specific Legislation.
I emailed Mr Malthouse a week ago asking how his ban will work. His website does say "feel free to send me your views. I wont be shy in telling you mine" but I have had no reply. I wanted to know about rotties, would they be banned too? They arent bull breeds but have been involved in a number of high profile incidents. If we are gunning for the rotties too do we cover all molloser breeds? What about the crosses? Are we going to do another type thing cos wouldnt that just be a whole new can of worms to dive right into and make a bigger mess of. Lets face it, us brits do like to make a mess of quite a lot don't we?
Some of the classics Mr Malthouse has used in his "reasoning" include Ontario and his claims that BSL has reduced incidents, he didnt mention the Netherlands though. They only went and repealed their ban after statistics showed it did nothing whatsoever to protect anyone. He also goes on to say how the Met are on course to seize over 1000 dogs this year. Yup, 12-1300 is closer to it at a likely cost of around 2 million pounds of taxpayers money (during a recession I might add) . However a tiny percentage of those dogs are actually alledged to be dangerous. Between 28/2/09 and 31/7/09 332 dogs were seized for offences under section one (thats the banned breeds). Only 17 of those dogs were also subject to a section 3 charge. During the same time period 65 dogs, regardless of breed, were seized under section 3. So 65 dogs were allowed to act in such a way that caused fear of injury to a person and were seized while a further 315 were seized cos they
looked a bit like a breed of dog this country doesnt recognise.
Yay for Chimps...I mean Brits!
So Mr Malthouse keeps yelling, the papers keep printing and suddenly I remember being 11 years old. I had my appendix taken out then and I learnt your appendix has no use at all, it literally does nothing. Sometimes though it can start niggling you, making its presence felt. Maybe its got a bit fed up being ignored and wants
you to remember its existence. It can, if left to get on with it, cause a whole heap of problems including death.
Fear not tho, the answer is simple. If it gets too annoying you simply have it removed and thrown away.
Here endeth the lesson.
Answer: All are pointless,slightly annoying little things. None of them actually do much although bananas are quite a favorite food for chimps.Chimps being the creatures we are said to be related to only us humans are suposed to be more evolved. Hey don't start emailing me.... I did say supposed to be more evolved, I guess theres always an exception to a rule as I feel has been proven in recent days.
So anyway, Mr Malthouse has been running around like that chap from Dad's Army...you know the one that scream's "don't panic" over and over only hes been screaming "ban the bullbreeds!". People have been expressing their disgust at the crazed idea but it wont be until Mr Malthouse has to stop for a quick glass of champers that he notices he's the only one screaming it. I cant see the Kennel Club about to agree to ban one of the most popular breeds they register. I dont actually think for a minute the Met want to go around seizing every single bullbreed off the streets either. Even the RSPCA would find it hard to actually say "oh yes Kit, what a fantastic idea!"
Everyone is just staring at him like a bug under a microscope wondering if hes actually looked at the past 18 years of failed Breed Specific Legislation.
I emailed Mr Malthouse a week ago asking how his ban will work. His website does say "feel free to send me your views. I wont be shy in telling you mine" but I have had no reply. I wanted to know about rotties, would they be banned too? They arent bull breeds but have been involved in a number of high profile incidents. If we are gunning for the rotties too do we cover all molloser breeds? What about the crosses? Are we going to do another type thing cos wouldnt that just be a whole new can of worms to dive right into and make a bigger mess of. Lets face it, us brits do like to make a mess of quite a lot don't we?
Some of the classics Mr Malthouse has used in his "reasoning" include Ontario and his claims that BSL has reduced incidents, he didnt mention the Netherlands though. They only went and repealed their ban after statistics showed it did nothing whatsoever to protect anyone. He also goes on to say how the Met are on course to seize over 1000 dogs this year. Yup, 12-1300 is closer to it at a likely cost of around 2 million pounds of taxpayers money (during a recession I might add) . However a tiny percentage of those dogs are actually alledged to be dangerous. Between 28/2/09 and 31/7/09 332 dogs were seized for offences under section one (thats the banned breeds). Only 17 of those dogs were also subject to a section 3 charge. During the same time period 65 dogs, regardless of breed, were seized under section 3. So 65 dogs were allowed to act in such a way that caused fear of injury to a person and were seized while a further 315 were seized cos they
looked a bit like a breed of dog this country doesnt recognise.
Yay for Chimps...I mean Brits!
So Mr Malthouse keeps yelling, the papers keep printing and suddenly I remember being 11 years old. I had my appendix taken out then and I learnt your appendix has no use at all, it literally does nothing. Sometimes though it can start niggling you, making its presence felt. Maybe its got a bit fed up being ignored and wants
you to remember its existence. It can, if left to get on with it, cause a whole heap of problems including death.
Fear not tho, the answer is simple. If it gets too annoying you simply have it removed and thrown away.
Here endeth the lesson.
Tuesday, 27 October 2009
DDAWatch speak at National Dog Warden Seminar 2009
DDAWatch were fortunate to be asked to give a presentation to the National Dog Wardens Association's Annual General Meeting on the subject of Breed Specific Legislation in 2009. We were very grateful for the opportunity to speak about some of the effects of BSL in 2009. The talk, which was given to delegates including Dog wardens, Rescue workers, RSPCA officials and police officers, lead to a lively debate that highlighted some of the difficulties with BSL in 2009. To read our presentation in full please click Here
Friday, 16 October 2009
Fireworks and Dogs
Thanks to our friends at EDDR for the following helpful info re dogs and fireworks.
Fireworks & Dogs :
Safety Tips I Identification I Dogs & Fireworks Survival I Fireworks & the Law
Every year many dogs (and other animals) will be affected as a direct result of fireworks, new fireworks legislation came into force in 2004 but for many the fireworks mayhem seems to start earlier and earlier each year, depending on where you live, with Nov. 5th as the 'main event' there are also other celebrations involving fireworks such as Diwali, Chinese New Year and increased popularity in some areas around Christmas and New Year.
For many of us, there isn’t just one one evening of Fireworks, sounding like World War III, to cope with, but a whole run up of weeks leading to it which doesn’t end with the loudest blitz on Bonfire Night.
Here we have collated some information regarding the safety of your dog, coping suggestions and current legislation.
Safety tips for your and your dog(s):
Around this time there will be a steep increase in the number of stray dogs picked up and handed in, dogs which have become scared and bolted when out and off leash or having escaped from the home, here follows a few tips to help you and your dog:
Please make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar with an ID disc firmly attached, a disc which has your current details on it, look at the tag now – can you actually read what it says?
If your dog is ID Chipped – are your contact recorded details up to date?
If your dog isn’t ID chipped – please just get it done, it doesn’t take 5 minutes and is relatively cheap-it will make all the difference should the worst happen and you lose your dog.
Keep your dog inside the house with you during the worst times, check your garden fencing – is it secure? Does the gate(s) lock? A dog under stress can sometimes panic, so double check how safe the inside of your home is, e.g., ornaments, glass doors, open fires.
Don’t leave your dog out in the garden unattended.
Dogs who are known to have a problem with fireworks and are affected are best not left alone at home, as dogs are pack animals, stay with your pet and keep inside when the fireworks are being let off.
Don’t leave your dog tied up outside the shop or alone anywhere, e.g., in a vehicle, yobs throw fireworks at animals and find it amusing to wind them up, keep your dog safe.
Never take your dog or any animal to a Firework display, it may be fun for you to watch but keep your dog away and safe.
Keep your dog leashed when out. If you use a flexi leash be extra careful, as your dog suddenly running full throttle to the end of it will cause a jolt which can pull the lead right out of your grasp-you end up with a dog running in a panic with the equipment bouncing along behind, the sudden bang of a rocket etc can cause the most laid back of dogs to bolt; before they know it they are lost.
Please check the following today:
Collar & ID Tag: Your dog needs to be wearing an ID tag or a collar with Identification clearly enscribed on it (this is a legal requirement) -check it can be read, that the information on it is up to date and is securely attached to your dogs collar.
Make sure your dogs collar is in good condition and fits properly.
Microchip: Is you dog microchipped?
If not now would be a good time to get that done. It’s a simple painless procedure that your vet can do.
If your dog is already chipped make sure you have the number to call should the worst happen Also make sure your contact details are up to date.
Bonfire night is coming and for many dogs it’s terrifying. You may think your dog is bombproof but maybe, this time something will surprise him and he may bolt. If the details on his tag are wrong, or if in the panic he loses his collar, your chances of being reunited with your pet are greatly reduced.
Getting through it – some survival tips:
• Exercise your dog earlier; try to have him tired out ready for the evenings.
• Is the house secure-windows closed, cat flap locked (keep the cat safely inside as well), doors secured etc and both escape proof and safe should your dog panic?
• Draw the curtains/blinds to keep out visual reminders-flashing lights etc.
• Have some familiar calming music on or turn up the TV (not too loud) to help block out some of the noise
• Make sure your dog has access to an area where he feels safe - a 'den' which is away from windows with his bedding and toys, put some of your clothing in here so there is a familiar comforting scent, don’t move his bed suddenly, if you are going to set up a safe area in a specific part of the house, do it a few weeks in advance to give him time to adjust and familiarise himself.
• Let your dog out to relieve himself in the garden, under your supervision, so that he will be more comfortable and not desperate for a pee when the noise intensifies during the evenings.
• Offer a stuffed Kong, toys and/or favourite chew toy to distract; giving him something to do can help relive stress.
• Make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available and feed your pet a couple of hours before the fireworks in the evening to help relax him.
• You could also try using a DAP Diffuser-leave it plugged in all day a couple of weeks in advance.
• Natural Remedies can also be useful for behavioural problems in dogs, try Dr Bach Rescue Remedy, for more info go to www.bachcentre.com/centre/remedies.htm. Another homeopathic remedy which can also help is called 'Anxiety' it is designed to promote a sense of calm. Scullcap and Valerian tablets are a herbal combination which some dog owners use to bring relief to their dogs when anxious and nervous. Further details at www.healthypetsupplies.co.uk
• If your dog is affected by the noise – do NOT ever punish him. If you go out and find your dog has been destructive whilst you were gone – don’t punish him, stay calm, tidy up any mess and have a cup of tea! It is a completely pointless to punish him, damaging & extremely unkind to your dog, the bond between you both is affected and likely to make him even more stressed out
• Our first reaction to a nervous anxious dog is often to stoke, cuddle and soothe, but hold back as your dog will interpret this as praise – a reward. You and your family members need to remain confident, relaxed and cheery try distracting him and when calmed give a cuddle then so you are not reinforcing any unwanted behaviour.
• Try to yourself remain relaxed and upbeat – conveying the message that there is nothing to worry about
• If you are worried at all – get help and further advice now, the more in advance of the fireworks season the better. Think ahead and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and seek out the assistance of a behavioural councillor who will be able to help your dog, we can put you in touch with someone.
The Fireworks Act:
The Fireworks Act was introduced in August 2004, it makes it an offence to:
• To be under the age of 18 and in possession of Fireworks in a public place.
• To let off Fireworks louder than 120 decibels.
• To let off Fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
The 11pm to 7am curfew is extended on the 5th of November, New year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
It is against the law to throw or set off fireworks in the street.
Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18 years of age.
For a full copy of the legislation (The Fireworks Act 2003) visit - http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2003/20030022.htm
Animal Welfare Act: Under section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captive animals. The penalty on conviction is either imprisonment up to 51 weeks or a fine of up to £20,000 or both. Enforcement of this section of the Act rests with Trading Standards, the Police or the RSPCA as appropriate.
Written by Amanda Dunckley
Fireworks & Dogs :
Safety Tips I Identification I Dogs & Fireworks Survival I Fireworks & the Law
Every year many dogs (and other animals) will be affected as a direct result of fireworks, new fireworks legislation came into force in 2004 but for many the fireworks mayhem seems to start earlier and earlier each year, depending on where you live, with Nov. 5th as the 'main event' there are also other celebrations involving fireworks such as Diwali, Chinese New Year and increased popularity in some areas around Christmas and New Year.
For many of us, there isn’t just one one evening of Fireworks, sounding like World War III, to cope with, but a whole run up of weeks leading to it which doesn’t end with the loudest blitz on Bonfire Night.
Here we have collated some information regarding the safety of your dog, coping suggestions and current legislation.
Safety tips for your and your dog(s):
Around this time there will be a steep increase in the number of stray dogs picked up and handed in, dogs which have become scared and bolted when out and off leash or having escaped from the home, here follows a few tips to help you and your dog:
Please make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar with an ID disc firmly attached, a disc which has your current details on it, look at the tag now – can you actually read what it says?
If your dog is ID Chipped – are your contact recorded details up to date?
If your dog isn’t ID chipped – please just get it done, it doesn’t take 5 minutes and is relatively cheap-it will make all the difference should the worst happen and you lose your dog.
Keep your dog inside the house with you during the worst times, check your garden fencing – is it secure? Does the gate(s) lock? A dog under stress can sometimes panic, so double check how safe the inside of your home is, e.g., ornaments, glass doors, open fires.
Don’t leave your dog out in the garden unattended.
Dogs who are known to have a problem with fireworks and are affected are best not left alone at home, as dogs are pack animals, stay with your pet and keep inside when the fireworks are being let off.
Don’t leave your dog tied up outside the shop or alone anywhere, e.g., in a vehicle, yobs throw fireworks at animals and find it amusing to wind them up, keep your dog safe.
Never take your dog or any animal to a Firework display, it may be fun for you to watch but keep your dog away and safe.
Keep your dog leashed when out. If you use a flexi leash be extra careful, as your dog suddenly running full throttle to the end of it will cause a jolt which can pull the lead right out of your grasp-you end up with a dog running in a panic with the equipment bouncing along behind, the sudden bang of a rocket etc can cause the most laid back of dogs to bolt; before they know it they are lost.
Please check the following today:
Collar & ID Tag: Your dog needs to be wearing an ID tag or a collar with Identification clearly enscribed on it (this is a legal requirement) -check it can be read, that the information on it is up to date and is securely attached to your dogs collar.
Make sure your dogs collar is in good condition and fits properly.
Microchip: Is you dog microchipped?
If not now would be a good time to get that done. It’s a simple painless procedure that your vet can do.
If your dog is already chipped make sure you have the number to call should the worst happen Also make sure your contact details are up to date.
Bonfire night is coming and for many dogs it’s terrifying. You may think your dog is bombproof but maybe, this time something will surprise him and he may bolt. If the details on his tag are wrong, or if in the panic he loses his collar, your chances of being reunited with your pet are greatly reduced.
Getting through it – some survival tips:
• Exercise your dog earlier; try to have him tired out ready for the evenings.
• Is the house secure-windows closed, cat flap locked (keep the cat safely inside as well), doors secured etc and both escape proof and safe should your dog panic?
• Draw the curtains/blinds to keep out visual reminders-flashing lights etc.
• Have some familiar calming music on or turn up the TV (not too loud) to help block out some of the noise
• Make sure your dog has access to an area where he feels safe - a 'den' which is away from windows with his bedding and toys, put some of your clothing in here so there is a familiar comforting scent, don’t move his bed suddenly, if you are going to set up a safe area in a specific part of the house, do it a few weeks in advance to give him time to adjust and familiarise himself.
• Let your dog out to relieve himself in the garden, under your supervision, so that he will be more comfortable and not desperate for a pee when the noise intensifies during the evenings.
• Offer a stuffed Kong, toys and/or favourite chew toy to distract; giving him something to do can help relive stress.
• Make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available and feed your pet a couple of hours before the fireworks in the evening to help relax him.
• You could also try using a DAP Diffuser-leave it plugged in all day a couple of weeks in advance.
• Natural Remedies can also be useful for behavioural problems in dogs, try Dr Bach Rescue Remedy, for more info go to www.bachcentre.com/centre/remedies.htm. Another homeopathic remedy which can also help is called 'Anxiety' it is designed to promote a sense of calm. Scullcap and Valerian tablets are a herbal combination which some dog owners use to bring relief to their dogs when anxious and nervous. Further details at www.healthypetsupplies.co.uk
• If your dog is affected by the noise – do NOT ever punish him. If you go out and find your dog has been destructive whilst you were gone – don’t punish him, stay calm, tidy up any mess and have a cup of tea! It is a completely pointless to punish him, damaging & extremely unkind to your dog, the bond between you both is affected and likely to make him even more stressed out
• Our first reaction to a nervous anxious dog is often to stoke, cuddle and soothe, but hold back as your dog will interpret this as praise – a reward. You and your family members need to remain confident, relaxed and cheery try distracting him and when calmed give a cuddle then so you are not reinforcing any unwanted behaviour.
• Try to yourself remain relaxed and upbeat – conveying the message that there is nothing to worry about
• If you are worried at all – get help and further advice now, the more in advance of the fireworks season the better. Think ahead and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and seek out the assistance of a behavioural councillor who will be able to help your dog, we can put you in touch with someone.
The Fireworks Act:
The Fireworks Act was introduced in August 2004, it makes it an offence to:
• To be under the age of 18 and in possession of Fireworks in a public place.
• To let off Fireworks louder than 120 decibels.
• To let off Fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
The 11pm to 7am curfew is extended on the 5th of November, New year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
It is against the law to throw or set off fireworks in the street.
Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18 years of age.
For a full copy of the legislation (The Fireworks Act 2003) visit - http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2003/20030022.htm
Animal Welfare Act: Under section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captive animals. The penalty on conviction is either imprisonment up to 51 weeks or a fine of up to £20,000 or both. Enforcement of this section of the Act rests with Trading Standards, the Police or the RSPCA as appropriate.
Written by Amanda Dunckley
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
Saving Majlo - the fight continues.
Thanks to Nicole for this update on Majlo.
Majlo is a sweet and gentle dog who has never harmed anyone. Still he is confiscated and ordered killed by the police of Norway where he has been held in a secret location since February 2009. His family haven't seen him since he was taken away. They are charged 500 dollars to see their own dog, in addition to the 250 dollars they pay each week for his imprisonment. Their crime: Not knowing that the breed was banned in Norway when they came over from Sweden, where the breed is legal.
Although the law offers banned breeds to leave the country with their owners, the police insist on Majlo being killed instead. A behaviour test on Majlo proves that his temper is very good, but it has become a question of prestige to the police to take his life. Now it is up to the court to decide Majlo's fate.
The police has, yet again, refused to follow the court's order to allow Majlo to return to Sweden with his family (where there is no breed ban). The police are still insisting that he be killed.
A NEW petition has been started, please sign:
Save Majlo
Please act now! Majlo needs your help!
Please also write to:
The Police Department: politidirektoratet@politiet.no Att.: Christian Budsberg Pettersen
The Minister of Justice: knut.storberget@jd.dep.no
Tell them it is time the police listened to the courts and allowed this innocent dog to return to Sweden with his family. The law allows for banned breeds to leave the country, so why are the police not following their own law???
Please take a few minutes to do this ... his life depends on all of us taking action. Thanks!
Please CROSSPOST far and wide. Bruce in Northern Ireland got over 15,000 signatures, Majlo needs the same.
Majlo is a sweet and gentle dog who has never harmed anyone. Still he is confiscated and ordered killed by the police of Norway where he has been held in a secret location since February 2009. His family haven't seen him since he was taken away. They are charged 500 dollars to see their own dog, in addition to the 250 dollars they pay each week for his imprisonment. Their crime: Not knowing that the breed was banned in Norway when they came over from Sweden, where the breed is legal.
Although the law offers banned breeds to leave the country with their owners, the police insist on Majlo being killed instead. A behaviour test on Majlo proves that his temper is very good, but it has become a question of prestige to the police to take his life. Now it is up to the court to decide Majlo's fate.
The police has, yet again, refused to follow the court's order to allow Majlo to return to Sweden with his family (where there is no breed ban). The police are still insisting that he be killed.
A NEW petition has been started, please sign:
Save Majlo
Please act now! Majlo needs your help!
Please also write to:
The Police Department: politidirektoratet@politiet.no Att.: Christian Budsberg Pettersen
The Minister of Justice: knut.storberget@jd.dep.no
Tell them it is time the police listened to the courts and allowed this innocent dog to return to Sweden with his family. The law allows for banned breeds to leave the country, so why are the police not following their own law???
Please take a few minutes to do this ... his life depends on all of us taking action. Thanks!
Please CROSSPOST far and wide. Bruce in Northern Ireland got over 15,000 signatures, Majlo needs the same.
Sunday, 11 October 2009
More help available for those affected by the Dangerous Dogs Act
DDAWatch, a voluntary organisation offering free help and advice to those affected by or concerned with canine legislation, have expanded their services due to a massive increase in demand.
In the last 18 months the group have been inundated with requests for help via their telephone helplines. Along with the launch of their new website DDAWatch are are pleased to announce that with imediate effect two more helplines are open for concerned members of the public.
Alison Green of DDAWatch said
" Its a pleasure to welcome on board Maria and Julia who will help run the two new lines however it is sad that in this day and age we are having to increase help offered to people who are affected by nothing short of discrimination. Those who contact us may have had their dogs seized or simply wish to know more about canine legislation. While we are not legal experts we have a sound knowledge on most canine legislation, a great team and contacts with solicitors should anyone need legal representation. Just as importantly we offer an ear and support for owners who often need someone to talk to through what is often a heartbreaking time."
All helplines cost the same as a local call and are avaliable 365 days of the year between 9.30 and 9.30. A mobile number is also avalaible for calls outside of those hours.
For more information on DDAWatch or for help and advice please contact Mail@dangerousdogsact.co.uk or call:
0844 844 0802
0844 844 2990
0844 844 2900
or Mobile 07899 724 800
Alternativly DDAWatch website has useful help and information online http://www.ddawatch.co.uk/
In the last 18 months the group have been inundated with requests for help via their telephone helplines. Along with the launch of their new website DDAWatch are are pleased to announce that with imediate effect two more helplines are open for concerned members of the public.
Alison Green of DDAWatch said
" Its a pleasure to welcome on board Maria and Julia who will help run the two new lines however it is sad that in this day and age we are having to increase help offered to people who are affected by nothing short of discrimination. Those who contact us may have had their dogs seized or simply wish to know more about canine legislation. While we are not legal experts we have a sound knowledge on most canine legislation, a great team and contacts with solicitors should anyone need legal representation. Just as importantly we offer an ear and support for owners who often need someone to talk to through what is often a heartbreaking time."
All helplines cost the same as a local call and are avaliable 365 days of the year between 9.30 and 9.30. A mobile number is also avalaible for calls outside of those hours.
For more information on DDAWatch or for help and advice please contact Mail@dangerousdogsact.co.uk or call:
0844 844 0802
0844 844 2990
0844 844 2900
or Mobile 07899 724 800
Alternativly DDAWatch website has useful help and information online http://www.ddawatch.co.uk/
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