WAG Welcome WAG News From the editor... All the news that’s fit to bark!

elcome to your spring Wag. Spring is all about new beginnings, so here at Trust FESTIVAL we’re celebrating some major milestones: Last year we found great new homes for over S’COOL FOR THE SUMMER W 13,000 dogs; we completed the major rebuild of our rehoming centre; just a few OF THE FIDOS weeks ago we also completed the refurbishment of our Newbury centre; and we’ve - at Dogs Trust Schools will be running workshops welcome owners of all ages. last! - received planning permission to create a brand new dog rehoming centre in ! FREE family-friendly puppy and adult dog Our Dog Schools also welcome children into training workshops over the spring and their regular five week training courses, With the number of stray and abandoned dogs in Wales totalling 4,900 last year, we’re The editor summer months - so get involved! Focussed which run all year long, and cost £50 per delighted to be bringing our expertise and experience to help alleviate dog welfare with assistant firmly on helping Fido and all the people dog. To find your nearest family friendly problems in the area. Our nearby Bridgend centre is always filled to capacity with editor Daniel in his family feel happy and confident, at workshop, and/or dog training course, visit: gorgeous dogs seeking ‘special someones’, so the new Cardiff centre – sited on a plot in the Spaniel home and on the move, our 90 minute family www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk Splott - will certainly help matters. Crucially, it will go a long way in improving the lives of dogs in Wales for decades to come. Dogs Trust Cardiff is scheduled to open in 2020.

We are the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, but we couldn’t do a thing without YOU! My thanks to all of you for reading Wag, supporting Dogs Trust – and above all, loving dogs just as much as we do! The best days out are those shared with your best friends (furry and non-furry) - so bring them along, do, to one of our splendid Dogs Deana Selby Trust fun days. A Dogs Editor Trust fun day is like the best village fete, foodie festival, PS Thank you to everyone - all 2,500 of you - who entered country fair and fun sports their dog snaps for our photography competition. We loved day rolled into one - but a seeing so many beauties, cuties, jokers and barkers! million times better because Check out the winners on page 18. they’re all designed with dogs in mind. There’s usually ‘have- a-go’ agility courses, food stalls galore, dogstrust.org.uk Photo: Clive Tagg doggy paddling pools and LARGE PRINT AND AUDIO AVAILABLE! plenty of games for you and For more photos, news, videos your dog to try together, Dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine Large print and audio versions of Wag are now available, please email FREE family dog training classes are such as ‘best biscuit catcher’ [email protected] or call 020 7837 0006 to request your copy. Instagram: taking place at the following Dogs Trust and the ‘doggy dash.’ @dogstrust rehoming centres: You’ll find all the Send us your Dogs Trust dog Editor: Deana Selby using #DTDogOfTheWeek March details you Readers’ Dogs: [email protected] High-res Jpegs only please! 27 tel 01132 814941 need on the Designed by: Anthony Oram anthonyoram.com Twitter: @dogstrust back page Print by: Eclipse Colour Print, managed by Red Mist 28 Loughborough tel 01509 882316 April of your Thanks to contributors this issue: Lee Paris, Tamsin Durston, Linda Mazza, YouTube: Wag! Catherine Davies, Sarah Morgan-Davies, Cat Charles, Kayla Maryon, youtube.com/dogstrust 3 Leeds tel 01132 814941 Emma Meaden, Hannah Baker, Lucy Jackson, Gemma Sorrell, Tamsin Durston. Facebook: 4 Bridgend tel 07920 658644 facebook.com/dogstrust 4 Oval Community Centre, Stevenage SG1 Reg charity nos. 227523 ( and Wales), Pinterest: tel 01582 807524 SCO37843 () 20057978 (Ireland) pinterest.co.uk/dogstrust 10 Evesham tel 01926 485777 Editorial address: Phone: 10 Shoreham tel 01273 466977 Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House, 0303 003 0000 17 Wakley Street, EC1V 7RQ COVER STAR Smokey the 11 Bridgend tel 07920 658644 Lurcher at Dogs Trust , Email: 11 Kinsbourne Common Hall, Luton Rd AL5 Tel: 0303 003 0000 by James Lincoln. Smokey [email protected] tel 01582 807524 Email: [email protected] arrived as stray shortly before Christmas, and has since found 12 Leeds tel 01132 814941 his forever home. Do you look For information on how we use 13 Loughborough tel 01509 882316 like your dog? Share your photos personal information please visit July with us – [email protected] Photo: Rachel Taunton A dog is for life, Many thanks to Catherine Davies www.dogstrust.org.uk/privacy 31 Shoreham tel 01273 466977 not just for Christmas® 31 Leeds tel 01132 814941

02 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 03 WAG News WAG News Bloomin’ marvellous Rosie STOP DOG BE A PUPPER SIGNER-UPPER! THEFT - and share your family pawtrait! Would you like to play a vital part in protecting the future health and Jules, Jamie and Daniel adore their girl Willow. Still a vibrant beauty at 20 welfare of dog-kind? Do you own a puppy who is under 16 weeks of With reports of dog theft on the rise, we are urging owners years old, sprightly Rosie age? Then we would LOVE to hear from you! to be vigilant through the launch of our new campaign video is the light of the lives of ‘Family Pawtraits’. Mr and Mrs Slessor, who Generation Pup is a pioneering study into the health and rehomed her from our West behaviour of dogs from birth until death, and we need even To watch our video and download With our dogs playing such a huge part in our lives, it is Calder centre an incredible more pups to take part so that we can ensure the results will important for us to offer them the same care and protection our Safe, Spottable and Searchable 14 years ago. be beneficial to dogs for years to come. We will ask owners factsheet, visit our website to answer questions about their dog’s health and behaviour at given to all family members. Whether two legs or four, we all want to be kept safe. By following our three simple steps, you Says Mrs Slessor, various stages of their lives, and, if they wish, owners can also www.dogstrust.org.uk/dogtheft can reduce the risk of theft and offer the best possible chance ‘Thank you for giving send in hair, faecal and saliva samples from their dogs. of being reunited with your dog should they go missing; us the opportunity of We need 10,000 puppies to join us - so if you own a pup – of Tell us (@Dogstrust) what your dog giving Rosie the home any breed or crossbreed – and they are less than 16 weeks · SAFE: ensure your property and garden is kept secure means to you and your family and share she so deserved and for old, then visit our website at www.generationpup.ac.uk your own ‘Pawtraits’,remembering to brightening our lives. to find out more and sign up. · SPOTTABLE: keep your dog in sight and trained She is a smashing wee to reliably respond to a recall command include #dogstrustfamilypawtrait girl who loves snuggling · SEARCHABLE: know what to do and who to contact up and gets lots of ALL types of puppies welcome! should your dog go missing hugs. Rosie used to love Photo credit: with thanks to Venture Studios Top 5 dogs signed up so far: swimming but not so much now as the water is 1 Labrador too cold for her. That said, 2 Cocker Spaniel she was paddling at North 3 Border Collie Berwick last week. Only 4 Cockerpoo Woofers Very Welcome! up to her ankles though.’ 5 Golden Retrievers Is your favourite dog not on the list? Then you know We at Wag reckon it’s not a real holiday what to do! (NB pups must be under 16 weeks of age.) unless Rover comes too - so head over to www.dogstrustholidays.co.uk where you can take your pick from over 5,000 pretty and pet-friendly LIFE SKILLS BY ‘TUBE holiday cottages all over the UK, Ireland and France. By booking a Dog Trust holiday cottage, you’ll not only be ensuring Rover feels part of the family, but We’ve now got Dogs Trust Dog School’s fun dog training classes for puppies and you’ll be helping dogs in need too - as 10% of your adults running in 26 locations around the UK, but if you can’t make it to a class the booking fee comes straight to Dogs Trust. next best thing is Dog School on our Dogs Trust Youtube channel. Check out our easy to follow videos for top tips on essential life skills, including housetraining your Photo: Jen, Ben and Daniel are loving the fresh air puppy, teaching your dog to settle and walking nicely on the lead. – and their Dogs Trust holiday cottage! Visit www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk/training

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PRAISE BE! For scruffular I’m forever terrier cross, Lucky, is barking Bubbles enjoying his great new home with not just one ‘special Stop. someone’, but ten. We LOVE hearing all about how our dogs are getting on once they’ve left our care. Rehomed by our Dogs Trust Way back in 2006, Michelle visited the Manchester team to Sister newly opened Dogs Trust West London Sheila and her fellow nuns at Think. rehoming centre where they met and fell the Convent of Saint Emilie, in love with Bubbles. Bubbles, a sparkling Lucky is having a heavenly four year old Border Collie, was one of the time being doted on by centre’s first residents to find their forever the sisters. Explains Carol Pup! home; fast forward 12 years and Bubbles Margieson, deputy manager Photos: Francesca Gent is still popping smiles on her doting at Dogs Trust Manchester, With so many dogs in the UK really needing to owners’ faces. Owner Michelle says, find a ‘special someone’ to call their own - we cared for over 15,000 dogs in 2017, and we are ‘She is such a loving, kind, sweet girl. We ‘When Sister Sheila visited us just one of many canine rescue charities - we live in Oxfordshire with fields and rivers she explained that her eyesight nearby to walk along, although Bubbles always urge people to adopt a puppy from a had started to fail, and she rescue centre. is getting on a bit now, so prefers to stroll could no longer enjoy many around the garden and relax with the cats. Get Thee To of the things she once did, but 24/7 TLC However, if you’re certain you’d like to purchase A huge thank you for all the hard work at she wanted to stay active. A A litter of seven pups which had The puppies recently became old a pup then please follow our top tips to ensure Dogs Trust, we are so lucky to have a very dog seemed to be the answer. been abandoned at the roadside have enough to be rehomed and the you don’t inadvertently end up lining the pockets special dog who we adore.’ A Nunnery When they first met, Lucky been hand-reared by devoted staff at Darlington team are delighted that all of unscrupulous puppy smugglers – nor bring immediately jumped onto Dogs Trust Darlington. of them are thriving and have found home a traumatised, sickly pup which has Lucky loves his new Sister Sheila’s knee and made loving new owners. endured appalling conditions and travelled himself very comfortable!’ Wedged in a cardboard box beside hundreds of miles across Europe. habits of a lifetime a busy road when they were just one Explains Sharon, He now enjoys lots of walks week old, Daisy, Diva, Kong, Dakota, ‘You do get attached to the dogs in Photos: Wendy Lovatt and playtimes every day, Georgia, Texas and Nevada had to your care, especially when spending Do… taking afternoon naps on be bottle fed every two hours. This so much time with them, as Jo and 1. Ask to see mum and pup together his own chair alongside the mammoth task was shared by centre I did. Whilst it’s sad to say goodbye 2. Visit your new pup more than once sisters, and settles down in staff Sharon Boult and Joanne we’re so happy all the pups have found 3. Get all your pup’s paperwork before going Sister Sheila’s bedroom at Alford, who each took the pups into new homes and everyone at the centre home night. Says Sister Sheila, their own homes in order to give wishes them well as they head off with 4. Walk away if you are at all unsure them the 24/7 attention they needed their new families.’ 5. Report suspicious sellers or breeders ‘As soon as I met him I knew he to simply survive. 6. Take your puppy to your own vet for a health was the dog for me. He enjoys check asap all the love and attention he gets from the sisters, and loves Don’t… heading out every day with different people. He brings us 1. Meet anywhere that isn’t the pup’s home Buy a pup from anyone who can supply so much joy.’ 2. various breeds on demand 3. Buy a pup that looks too young/small or underweight 4. Feel pressure to buy a puppy ROCKY KNOCKS OUT THE COMPETITION 5. Buy a pup that you suspect has been illegally imported

A Labourite Labrador has made his pawmark on the nation’s political landscape by Photo: winning the coveted title of Westminster Dog of the Year. Chocolate Lab, Rocky, who is Kevin Johnson owned and adored by Tracey Brabin MP (Lab, Batley and Spen), impressed the judges with his fantastic obedience and clear devotion to his owner. This is the 25th year of the uniquely apolitical canine competition, run by Dogs Trust with , and winning owner Tracey says, ‘Rocky is friendly, smiley and desperate to please. He is really responsive and sympathetic to the people around him. He’s also exceptionally well trained, and is a wonderful pet to my daughters as well as being a masterful retriever.’ Daisy, Diva and Kong: needed feeding every 2 hours

06 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 07 WAG Feature WAG Feature The Rules: So now you know

Kids running and shouting around the rules on being a dog Dogs may growl, chase, hide or even safe around dogs at bite if they feel overexcited, trapped or threatened. Children who are shouting, home, here’s what to running around and playing noisily can easily frighten a dog. Chasing a dog look out for: Safe can also get him overexcited and the dog might then find it hard to control himself. Give your dog something nice to do, like a food-releasing toy, in a completely different area of the house Dog body language while children play. – warning signs: Invading a dog’s space Dogs can be scared by us getting too close to their faces. They need space, and they may feel threatened by If a dog’s ears are back, As someone smothering them with hugs his tail is between his legs and kisses. Even though some dogs do and he’s cowering, he’s tolerate this, it’s far safer for the child probably scared. not to do it all.

Ear pulling / eye poking If a dog is licking his lips Small children in particular may pull and yawning when he is and poke which could hurt or irritate the not tired or hungry then dog. They are too young to know better, he could be stressed. This so teach your child never to do this, and is a less obvious one so be HousesHome is where the heart is, and for many people To help spread the word about keeping every always supervise, as a hurt or worried aware of these small signs. having a family pet is what completes their home. member of the family safe and sound, our youth dog might bite. Unfortunately, the majority of dog bites to children education officers are offeringFREE Be Dog Teasing a dog If a dog is moving or happen in the family home. This is due to a number Smart workshops in schools all over the country. Teasing a dog can make him angry or turning away, this might of reasons, but there are plenty of ways to avoid Each workshop is tailored to fit the age group and frustrated enough to bite. For instance, mean that he doesn’t want bites. With around 25% of us owning a dog, learning educational abilities of the pupils. if a dog has food or a toy, you should your attention, so if it is about how they tick can only benefit everybody. never try to take it away. Dogs need safe to do so just leave To book a free workshop in your school please clear and consistent messages about him be. how we expect them to behave – so People often think their dog wouldn’t hurt a fly, and email us at [email protected] You can also have a family discussion about whether in most cases they are right, but all dogs are animals download our FREE factsheet on staying Dog Smart or not your dog will be allowed on If a dog’s teeth are bared with natural instincts for responding to anything from here www.learnwithdogstrust.org.uk/be- furniture, or upstairs, for example, and and he is growling this is they perceive as dangerous. If a dog feels scared, dog-smart/ make sure everyone sticks to these rules likely to mean he is feeling nervous or threatened this is the time they are most so he doesn’t become confused and extremely uncomfortable frustrated. about whatever is likely to bite or growl at whatever is making them happening around him. feel that way as a means of protecting themselves. Let sleeping dogs lie and don’t He could bite as a way of interrupt feeding time trying to keep himself safe. Dogs can feel particularly vulnerable The best thing you can when they are sleeping, eating or do is to immediately stop So the number one rule for safety in the home is to actively supervise at all times: drinking. Kids should be encouraged whatever is happening to to completely leave him alone at these or around the dog and then Never leave children unattended with a dog! times. Just like us, dogs need their own quietly calmly and slowly space or they could react unhappily – move everybody away and However small, cute and fluffy, young or old, they still have teeth and you wouldn’t like it much if you were seek help. being poked awake or interrupted while there are many ways children can provoke dogs without meaning to. eating your dinner. Illustrations: Mike Jefferies

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WHAT MY DOG MEANS TO ME… Yes I’d like to apply for my free Canine Care Card Last autumn around 100 Dogs Trust rehoming centre staff from across the country shared their feelings on ‘my special someone - what my pet means to me’ at the bi-annual staff In order to communicate So go ahead, roll in fox mess, raid the bin conference, the session kindly run by Petplan® who co- with you more effectively, sponsored the conference with Marmax Products. and make sure I never have a clean car; I am still going to want as many of you better understand your Nico Joiner, Dogs Trust Loughborough’s training and as possible on the sofa with me when we preferences and ability to behaviour advisor, shared his thoughts on his dog squad, ‘Dog ‘ownership’ is a responsibility, every now and then it’s a cause snuggle up in front of a good film! support our work, we may of frustration and sadness, but being a true dog lover there analyse your data. We will is nothing more rewarding than having the friendship of the only share your information four dogs I currently own.’ ‘Aside from giving me purpose, happiness, entertainment and company even when I with Dogs Trust Worldwide, want to be away from the world, they add Dogs Trust Ireland and Dogs an extra dimension of care and pride Amy and her new Nico (right) and Craig Trust Promotions. To read to mine and Craig’s newlywed owner, Graham Joiner with Bagel, Vinnie, lives together. It’s my overt our full privacy policy visit Fudge and Chimp love and respect for my dogstrust.org.uk/privacy dogs that made Craig want to message me on the dating sites, so AMY’S STORY Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other without me and my Amy, a 14-year-old Collie cross, had lived with her owner since she was a family being who we Name are, we wouldn’t puppy. Suddenly, she found herself alone when her owner passed away and have the their next of kin couldn’t care for her. Address incredible life we have ahead Thankfully, Amy’s owner had registered for a Canine Care Card. It’s a free of us!’ service run by Dogs Trust, where we promise to care for your dog should you pass away first. It meant a family member simply had to call Dogs Trust to take Amy into our care at the nearest rehoming centre. Postcode

Amy was understandably missing her home comforts, so our staff decided it Source: 333565 would be better to place her into temporary foster care until we found her a new owner. It wasn’t too long before Amy met her perfect companion, 85 From time to time we would like to year old Graham Buckingham, who told Wag: send you exciting updates about our work, products, services and how you ‘I have always had dogs in my life, and, as I now live alone, can support us, including fundraising I was looking for a dog to keep me company. Amy loves her activities and research by post. You can opt out of communications or change walks so she gets me out of the house and keeps me active; your preferences at any time by calling we help each other. I’m so lucky to have her in my life and 020 7837 0006. I’m glad that I’ve given her a second chance.’ Please send this coupon to: If you’re worried about what would happen to your dog if you were to pass Freepost RTJA-SRXG-AZUL, Dogs away before them, then request a Canine Care Card registration form today. Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House, 17 We will send you a wallet-sized card which acts in a similar way to an organ Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ donor card, and notifies people of your wishes for your dog. No stamp required. Once your dog arrives at one of our rehoming centres, they will be examined by vets and cared for by our dedicated staff. We aim to find your dog a new Registered Charity Numbers: owner, whose lifestyle and experience match their needs. If, for any reason, 227523 & SC037843 HUGE thanks to everyone who has donated their unwanted stamps, postcards and foreign currencies; you helped our they cannot be rehomed, rest assured Dogs Trust never puts down a healthy dedicated volunteer Jenny Thomas raise over £30,000 in 2017, enough to sponsor five kennels for the year! Please keep dog, so we will look after them for the rest of their lives. Please fill out the them coming to: Jenny Thomas, 15 Wentworth Avenue, London N3 1YA. Don’t forget to use a LARGE stamp on your envelope! coupon, or alternatively call 020 7837 0006 or email [email protected] and quote code 333565.

10 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 11 WAG Fundraising WAG Fundraising IT WAS ALL YELLOW The owner of a café in Abersoch is so proud to proclaim her VIRTUALLY PERFECT GIFTS support for the UK’s largest dog welfare charity that she coated her caff in Dogs Trust bright yellow! Heidi McKinnell also managed to raise over £10,400 for Dogs Trust by running FOR ANIMAL LOVERS a host of fundraising events throughout the summer, including turning her café yellow, holding a charity auction, throwing a BBQ, painting portraits and selling home-made dog treats.

Looking for a more meaningful gift? Dogs Trust Virtual Gifts help us transform the lives of stray and If you feel inspired by Heidi’s pawsome fundraising efforts abandoned dogs, while giving dog-lovers peace of mind, knowing that they have helped dogs in need. and would like to organise your own event, please drop us a line: [email protected].

With every Virtual Gift purchase you’ll be sent a Dogs Trust Bed and Biscuits £35.80 gift card, which you can personalise and send on to your loved If you’re stuck for gift ideas for a luxury loving friend or one, letting them know how your donation has helped the family member, why not buy one of our dogs a night of dogs in our care. rest and rehabilitation at one of our rehoming centres and give them all of the creature comforts your loved one would Squeaks and Snacks £10 appreciate. From every day essentials like food, treats, bedding Pawfect for your fun-loving friend or family member, you and toys, to routine vet check-ups, training classes, exercise can now send the gift of a treat and toy to one of our playful and extra TLC from their dedicated carers, this gift will help to pooches who just needs to be taught the meaning of fun while pay for a dog’s day at a rehoming centre. they wait for their forever home. As well as bringing joy to dogs, toys and treats help them bond with their dedicated Buying a virtual gift is really easy; just complete the donation Mate, you missed a bit canine carers and are also great for stimulation, training and form on the back page of your Wag and send it in a stamped rewarding good behaviour. envelope to; DOGS TRUST VIRTUAL GIFTS, Woodview Road, Paignton TQ4 7SR. Thank you for your kind support! Healthy Hounds £20 Taekwondogs We love it when our supporters RUN FOR IT! You can now give the gift of a five put their thinking caps on, and If you’d like to raise money to help our dogs star check-up by our vet experts so we were delighted when we by running in these events, please email and help one of our dogs get heard that Newry Taekwondo [email protected] School held the world’s first back on four paws again. From 8 Apr Greater Manchester Marathon giving routine check-ups ‘Bake and Break’ marathon - and and emergency treatment, to raised £1,305 for our Ballymena 20 May Great Manchester Run (10k/Half) performing major operations and rehoming centre. Over five 26/27 May Edinburgh Marathon Festival ongoing medical care, this gift could hours, pupils and teachers sold (10k/Half/Full) help make all the difference to one of dozens of homemade cakes and our dogs. 3 Jun Great North Dog Walk broke over 200 wooden boards (South Shields) and kerb stones - although not 10 Jun Great Women’s Run (10K) at the same time! Many thanks to Mr Kidd, the school’s head 9 Sep Great North Run teacher, and all of his pupils and (Newcastle Upon Tyne) their families. 23 Sep Scottish Half + 10K (Edinburgh)

LOLLIE’S COLLIE-CROSS WORD Here is the solution to last issue’s puzzle, brought to you by our friends at Postcode Scratch and Postcode Bingo. The winner is Jane Irvin of , who wins a £50 Tesco e-Voucher. Postcodescratch.co.uk/Dogs-Trust

For me? You shouldn’t Across: 7 Holiday, 8 Spaniel, 10 & 18 A Blue terrier, 11 Scent, 12 Mary, 13 Rawhide, 15 Elton, 19 Vaccine, 22 Cross, have! Sarah and Laurel 24 Bulldog, 27 Jean, 28 Ankle, 30 Claw, 31 Beardie, 32 Samoyed. are delighted with their Down: 1 Lolly, 2 Wire hair, 3 Pads, 4 Spitz, 5 Animal, 6 Deerhound, 9 Leeds, 14 Heel, 16 Retriever, 17 Tail, 20 Chow-chow, Dogs Trust Virtual Gift 21 Husky, 23 Sentry, 25 Paris, 26 Water, 29 Exam. The special clue was Dogs Trust Scratch

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The dilemma ‘Luckily my support worker at the refuge knew about the Freedom The project’s success relies on a pool of big-hearted dog lovers Project and helped me to refer him. If it wasn’t for the Freedom who take in and care for dogs belonging to the victims of Project, I think Riley would have been passed around from home to domestic violence, often at short notice. Crucially, this allows home amongst my friends, which would have been distressing for the victim time to reach a place of safety, often a refuge, and him. But there is no way we could have given up our dog. have a chance to begin rebuilding their lives. ‘I was so relieved. When I received the Freedom Project paperwork Sadly, the majority of refuges are unable to accept dogs, I saw that they had thought of everything, which was so which leads to many people choosing to stay in an abusive comforting to me. Explaining to my children what was happening relationship, rather than risk their partner harming or with Riley was much harder; they kept asking if they would ever even killing their dog should they leave. The Freedom see him again. Project provides the answer to this ghastly dilemma. Wag caught up with some of the volunteer foster carers making ‘The Freedom Project sent us pictures and updates on Riley every all the difference to some families - and their beloved pets. step of the way, which made me feel closer to him. They also gave me such peace of mind knowing that he was being well cared for Chrissie, foster carer, London in his foster home. When he came back to me, having spent five ‘I have nothing but admiration for the women who, rather than just months in his foster home, I felt like my heart was complete again. getting out with their kids, take the time and effort to ensure that I just want to say to the Freedom Project, thank you from the their beloved pets are taken into care too. I can’t begin to imagine bottom of my heart. You are a godsend.’ what it’s like to have to run from your home leaving most of your belongings behind.’

Chrissie has been providing love and affection for dogs on the Freedom Project for over three years, and enjoys every moment. Her first foster dog was Monty, a small but lively Throwing a lifeline to dogs and their people, the Staffie, and her second was Albert, a staffie cross. She’d known all about the Freedom Project through her work at Freedom Project is Dogs Trust’s foster care service the British Veterinary Association, and took the plunge of becoming a foster carer following the passing of her beloved for dogs whose owners are escaping from abuse. dog, Sunny. Albert’s owner was able to take him back after an eight month stay with Chrissie, who adored him.

A few weeks after Albert had left her care, Chrissie was delighted to receive, via Dogs Trust staff, a letter from his owner, including a photo of a very happy Albert sitting on her lap. Says Chrissie,

‘Her letter was wonderful, she said how much it meant to her to know that while she was going through an awful time, her beloved pet was being loved. It was so nice for me to hear this.

‘If you’ve never thought about fostering a dog but have the time and space in your life to take one on I would assure you it’s a fantastically fulfilling experience. Also of course if anyone out there is considering fleeing, please be assured that your baby will be really well cared for until you’re able.’

Pippa and Riley’s story ‘My ex-partner couldn’t accept that I had moved on after we split up, and his abuse towards me was emotional and mental rather than physical. He was stalking me, but when the police arrested him and said he could be freed again within 24 hours, I didn’t feel they were able to protect me and my children. So we fled to a refuge.

‘I later found out that when my ex-partner came to visit his son, he would shout at and hit my dog, Riley. I hadn’t realised this at the time, as Riley was so happy when he was with us. But whenever my ex-partner walked through the door his tail would go between Photos: Richard Murgatroyd his legs, and he would run and hide.

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‘Dogs Trust staff would come by each month to see how Jack was getting on and take a few photos, which they’d then send on to his owner together with an update letter. Saving ‘We were both so fond of Jack, as he was such a sweet-natured friendly dog. We cared for him for around four months, and while we were sad to see him go, we both felt proud to be a part of his Dogs’ life. You do build up a bond with your foster dog, but we went into this knowing that the dog will always go back, so we don’t feel too bad. Once, mum and I received a thank you note from our foster dog’s owner, after he’d returned to his family, saying our help has Lives… made such a big difference to their family’s life - that was brilliant to hear.’ Awaiting his turn at the Neuter-thon

CAN YOU HELP US? e’ve been busy kick-starting a wide variety of life-changing Down projects to help dogs overseas, through our sister charity, Dogs Rebecca and Ranjeet, volunteer foster carers, Yorkshire We urgently need more foster carers in the central Trust Worldwide. We award grants and provide practical guidance Becki and her mother, Ranjeet, had always been huge dog belt of Scotland, Yorkshire, the north east of England, W to local groups so their project can get off the , and London. Dogs Trust covers lovers, and saw the Freedom Project as something incredibly ground; we then ensure the groups can support themselves and run their Mexico the cost of all dog food and any veterinary care or worthwhile to be involved with. This, together with the dog- programmes smoothly without our help for years to come. shaped hole left in their lives by the passing of Alfie, their medication needed, plus our staff will visit each month to check all is well. In return, we ask that the foster beloved German Shepherd dog; and the fact that Becki knew Recently we’ve been active in Mexico, where we’ve advised and funded carer has experience of caring for dogs, is at home for she’d be studying at home for the next few years, led them three local welfare groups to humanely manage their stray dog populations. In Way most of the day, and if they have a dog of their own, it to volunteer their services with the Freedom Project. Becki Mexico, most owned dogs are free to wander, hence the large number of stray must get along well with other dogs and be neutered. was already aware of the project through her studies; she is dogs, and the importance of establishing a well-supported We would love to hear from you: currently writing her doctorate examining honour-based and neutering programme. domestic violence. Central belt of Scotland Tel 0808 169 4315 Comforting her Says Becki, Mass Neuter-thon dog in the Greater London, Hertfordshire, Tel 0800 298 9199 The aim was to neuter 1,000 dogs in just six days - and post-operative ‘For mum and me, the Freedom Project Essex, , Sussex, in the end we enabled our partner charity, VIDAS, to recovery area made complete sense. We get all the Yorkshire/the North East Tel 0800 083 4322 sterilise 987 dogs in Playa Del Carmen, last summer. To know about the Freedom Project watch our benefits of having a dog in our lives, Using the sports arena as a vast operating theatre and recovery short film here with the added bonus that we know suite, dozens of veterinary professionals from Mexico and the States sterilised we are not just helping the dog, but we Visit: freedomproject.org.uk or email almost 1,000 ‘owned’ dogs, thus helping prevent countless unwanted pups [email protected] being born. Veterinary professionals from Coco’s Animal Welfare and Planned are potentially saving someone’s life. Pethood International (see below) joined the VIDAS team in order to neuter It’s amazing to feel a part of this.’ and give post-operative care for as many dogs as possible - proving that great things are possible when we work together. Becki and Ranjeet have been foster carers for three years, One in four women experience physical or mental during which time have provided a loving a home from home abuse at the hands of a partner (source: Office for New veterinary clinics and adoption programme for eight dogs in need - thus helping seven people flee an National Statistics 2014/15) We also co-funded (with IFAW) the construction of a new veterinary clinic ‘Muchas abusive partner. for Coco’s Animal Welfare. They provide veterinary care and sterilisation Since the Freedom Project began in 2004, we have services to dogs in Playa Del Carmen, one of the fastest growing cities in Latin gracias’ enabled 1,185 people to escape from an abusive Two happy Their most recent foster dog was Jack, a two year old Staffie, America. The Coco’s team now run a permanent veterinary clinic, a mobile partner, by fostering 1,153 dogs. owners and who joined them when his owner and her three young unit outreach programme and an adoption programme. After one full year of their pooch children fled from a violent husband. Poor Jack was very being open, the team had neutered around 2,500 dogs, given veterinary care to Chuchin overweight with severe tooth decay when he first arrived with over 1,000 dogs and even found new homes for 700 street dogs. show their Becki and her mother. Sadly, all too often, owners aren’t able gratitude to access veterinary care for their dogs because an abusive Additionally, we funded a further veterinary clinic in Puerto Morelos, between partner controls the finances, and in some cases also restricts Cancun and Playa del Carmen, which provides free and low-cost veterinary them from leaving the home. Consequently, some dogs aren’t services for dogs and cats belonging to people on low incomes. For this project able to get their usual exercise, and so become overweight. we partnered with Planned Pethood International (PPI), a US-based charity Dogs Trust paid for dental work to remove the rotten teeth, which works in Mexico and Slovakia. and provided a special diet, while Becki and Ranjeet provided love and affection, and made sure he lost his extra kilos. For more information about all of our work overseas, visit www.dogstrustworldwide.com

16 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 17

Photos: Kevin Johnson WAG Feature WAG Feature

PHOTO COMPETITION BON VOYAGE! Wow, what a lot of gorgeous dogs and adoring owners you are! Last ‘HOLLY IS A VERY summer, we asked you to send in IMPORTANT MEMBER WINNER your best shots, and you did not OF THE FAMILY AND disappoint; with over 2,500 entries, HAS BEEN BY DAD’S HONEY choosing just a few winners was SIDE SINCE WE LOST & TESS no mean feat. This photo of Bob MUM FIVE YEARS AGO.’ by Janet Snowden and his dog Holly, taken Curson by his daughters, was entered for the Best of Friends category, and is our overall winner. They win a £500 voucher towards a cottage holiday in the UK or Ireland, courtesy of our friends at www.dogstrustholidays.co.uk Each category winner will receive an Instax Mini 8 camera. Huge thanks to everyone who entered – and enjoy the pics!

BEST FRIENDS

RUPERT WINNER & by Kate Fisher OVERALL WINNER

Bob Snowden with Holly, by Julia Oaten and Anne Snowden

EVA by Amy Robson SCOTT by Dave & Elaine Hewitt

BRIAN BILLY & STANLEY by Jenny by Amber Jeans Silcox

PADDINGTON BEAR NELLIE BADGER by Emma Yates by Sharon Evans by Sammy Jackson

18 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 19 WAG Feature WAG Feature THAT’S THE GREAT ENTERTAINMENT! OUTDOORS

WINNER WINNER MAGGIE by Patricia Morris BUSTER by Anne Whyte

PHOEBE by Ruth Pulley

HIGHWAY & SCOUT by Christopher Gerry

LEXI, ARCHIE PHOEBE & JASPER by Carrie Braithwaite by Natalie Bradley-Day EDDIE by Kerry Ross NOODLES by Phil Wade

BELLA by Amey Upfold & Paul Chappell

REBA by Jon Kirkham

20 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 21 WAG Feature WAG News THE SIMPLE THINGS At Dogs Trust, we know it’s not just our four- WIN BIG! legged friends who love to play games and win treats! Playing our spring raffle is the best way to sniff out a top prize up to £7,500! Whether you’re in it to win it yourself, or selling tickets to WINNER friends and family, every £1 ticket sold will help our playful pups get the second chance they BENTLEY deserve. To order raffle tickets, call our raffle by Claire Rank hotline on 020 7833 7672 today – we’re keeping our paws crossed for you! Please note that in accordance with Gambling Commission Rules; - You must be aged 16 years or over to buy or sell raffle tickets. - This raffle is only open for residents of Great Britain. Residents of Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are unfortunately not eligible to take part. Book Reviews

BILLIE ROSE by Danielle Bouch

‘Things my dog has taught me The goodness of dogs’ ‘Unleashed’ – about being a better human’ – the human’s guide to caring for your dog’ – Amanda Jones, pub. Chronicle Books, LUNA – Jonathan Wittenberg, pub. Hodder, – India Knight, pub. Penguin, £13.99 by Jessica Barton £16.55 hardback £12.99 hardback

This is a book full of warmth and wisdom, Funny, informative and beautifully illustrated, Page upon page of dogs simply having a ball written by someone who clearly adores not India Knight’s book provides a jolly good in the great outdoors, there’s nothing not only their dog, but the human race too. If giggle alongside some top tips for dog to love about this glossy coffee table tome. you’ve ever looked at a dog and marvelled owners. Written by a ‘normal’ person who Photographer Amanda Jones captures dogs at his capacity for empathy, forgiveness has done their research, rather than an frolicking, rollicking, leaping and howling ARCHIE and pure zest for life, you’ll enjoy this book. expert, this a super easy read. India writes amid some stunning American landscapes by Chris Mabey On multitasking, Jonathan writes, ‘There’s frankly on all matters ‘dog’, so expect to hear – you can almost smell the surf as Lulu the a special art to doing just one thing, at strong views on everything ranging from Labradoodle leaps over a log on the beach one time, with the whole of one’s self. To ‘Should you really get a dog?’ to ‘We are all in San Francisco. Every page will make you appreciate what that looks like, all one has responsible for teaching our dogs manners smile and/or make you consider booking to do is watch a dog staring at a biscuit.’ It’s and I am of the opinion that owners who your next holiday in the USA; definitely one BRONTE an uplifting, almost spiritual, read, making it don’t bother to do this shouldn’t be allowed for the coffee table. by Jennifer Woodford perfect for the more contemplative canine to have dogs in the first place.’ While most enthusiast. of India’s advice is sound, please note that on the subject of ‘what to feed your dog’ we recommend you discuss this with your vet.

22 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2018 Spring 2018 www.dogstrust.org.uk 23 Virtual Gifts FOR THE ULTIMUTT DAY OUT WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND Virtual gifts make amazing presents, whatever the occasion, and help the stray and abandoned Find your nearest rehoming centre here www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming Our Dogmobile teams – dogs in our care. Please see overleaf for a Cathy, Laura and Mal – will be delighted to make your acquaintance! Follow them on @DT_Dogmobile reminder of these meaningful gifts. For Dog School events and seminars, please book tickets through Eventbrite.co.uk/dogstrust Your details: In order to communicate with you more effectively, better understand your preferences and ability to support our work, we may analyse your data. We KEY Meet us at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre Meet our dogs on the Dogmobile Behavioural seminar, book through www.eventbrite.co.uk promise to only ever share your information with Dogs Trust Worldwide, Dogs Trust Ireland and Dogs Trust Promotions. For more information on this visit our privacy section, dogstrust.org.uk/privacy. MARCH Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other (please circle) 10 Dogs Trust ’s easter fair, 12 - 4pm, FREE entry First Name: 10 Understanding your dog seminar at Dogs Trust Loughborough, £10 Q & A 12 New baby and your dog seminar at Dogs Trust Shoreham, £10 Surname: Q – What exactly is a Dogmobile? 14 Understanding your dog seminar at Farrenshane House, Antrim, £10 Address: APRIL A – It’s officially called a ‘Mobile Dog Rehoming Unit’, and we 4 Understanding your dog seminar at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, £10 have two. Postcode: 9 Puppy mindfulness (CPD event for vets) at Dogs Trust Leeds, £5 Q – What do they do? Supporter No. (if known) 20 Dogmobile at Swansea city centre, outside Barclays bank, Oxford Street SA1 3BR 21 Happy vet visits (CPD event for vets) at Dogs Trust Shoreham, £5 – Dogmobiles are our way of A From time to time we would like to send you exciting 26 Separation anxiety in dogs seminar at Dogs Trust Merseyside, £10 casting the ‘meet my special updates about our work, products, services and how someone’ net even wider! We Squeaks and Snacks £10 MAY you can support us, including fundraising activities have two Dogmobiles that and research by post. 3-4 Dogmobile at Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1DY 10 - 4pm travel the length and breadth of 12 New baby and your dog seminar at Dogs Trust Loughborough, £10 Britain, giving day trips to our If you’re also happy to hear from us by email and/or 13 Dogs Trust Basildon’s fun day, 11 - 4pm, Barleylands Farm Showground, canine residents so that they can phone, please fill in your details Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UD showcase their charms to even 16 Happy vet visits (CPD event for vets) at Farrenshane House, Antrim, £5 more potential new owners. Email: 27 Dogs Trust Shoreham’s fun day, 11.30am - 4pm Q – So can I adopt a Dogs Trust Phone: JUNE dog straight from the unit? You can opt out of communications or change your 3 Dogs Trust Merseyside’s fun day, 11am - 4pm, Inglenook Farm, Inglenook Farm, A – No, sorry. At the end of preferences at any time by phoning 020 7837 0006. Moss Nook Lane, Rainford, Saint Helens WA11 8AE. £5 per car. each day meeting their public, 3 Dogs Trust Snetterton’s fun day, 11.30am - 4pm the day-tripping dog is taken Payment details: 9 Dogs Trust Ballymena’s fun day, 12 - 4pm, Michelin Athletic Club, Woodside Road, back to his centre in time for Yes, I would like to buy a virtual gift: Healthy Hounds £20 Ballymena BT42 4HX dinner and bedtime in his usual £10 Squeaks and Snacks 10 Dogs Trust ’s fun day, 11am - 4pm kennel. Hopefully, by the end of £20 Healthy Hounds 10 Dogs Trust Glasgow’s fun day, 12 - 4pm, Chatelherault Country Park, Ferniegair, a busy day hanging out on the Hamilton ML3 7UE £35.80 Bed and Biscuits Dogmobile, our dog will have Or make a general donation of £ 10 Dogs Trust Kenilworth’s fun day, 11am - 4pm, Hatton Country World, Dark Lane, met someone who would love to Hatton Nr Warwick CV35 8XA offer them a permanent, loving I enclose a cheque (payable to Dogs Trust 11 Happy vet visits (CPD event for vets) at Dogs Trust Leeds, £5 home. You can always call the Promotions) for the sum of £ 18 Your new puppy seminar at Dogs Trust Shoreham, FREE centre or drop in to meet him. OR 19-20 Dogmobile at Cheshire County Show, Tabley WA16 0HJ 9 - 5pm Please debit the sum of £ from my card 24 Dogs Trust Bridgend’s fun day, 10.30am - 4pm, Pencoed College, Pencoed CF35 5LG 24 Dogs Trust Evesham’s fun day, 11am - 4pm, Ragley Hall, Alcester B49 5NJ Card no: 28 Understanding your dog seminar at Dogs Trust Merseyside, £10 Valid from: / JULY Expiry date: / Bed and Biscuits £35.80 1 Dogs Trust Manchester’s fun day, 11am - 4pm, Heaton Park, nr Heaton Hall M25 2GT Issue no: 1 Dogs Trust Shrewsbury’s fun day, 12 - 4pm Cardholder’s name (as printed on the card): 6-8 Dogmobile at Kent County Show, Detling ME14 3JF 9-5pm 7 Understanding separation anxiety seminar at Dogs Trust Loughborough, £10 15 Dogs Trust Darlington’s fun day, 12 - 4pm 15 Dogs Trust Ilfracombe’s fun day, 11am - 4pm, Mullacott Equestrian Centre, Signature: Mullacott Cross EX34 8NA 29 Dogs Trust Loughborough’s fun day, 10.30am - 4pm, Turnpost Farm, Wymeswold, Leics LE12 6ST Date: Source: 900060 AUGUST Please send your completed form in a stamped envelope to; DOGS TRUST VIRTUAL GIFTS, Woodview Road, Paignton TQ4 7SR. 5 Dogs Trust Leeds’s fun day, 11am - 4pm