WAG: THE MAG FOR DOG LOVERS AUTUMN 2015

Remember to have Fun with Fido!

Note To Self:

dogstrust.org.uk

A dog is for life,not just for Christmas®

Editor: Deana Selby

Contributors this issue: Jennifer Blaber, Dawn Roy, Mary Hickey, Carlie Horsley, Julia Youd, Sarah Graham, Kathrina Bentley, Hannah Macey, Lucy Jackson, Leila Farndell, Paige Langton and special thanks to Emma Meaden.

Directors of Condé Gnash: Daniel, Deedee, Florrie, Fynn, Gracie, Maisie, Mavis, Molly, Myrtle, Peter, Peanut, Safid.

Veterinary Director: Paula Boyden BVetMed MRCVS

Send your entries for Readers’ Dogs to: wag@dogstrust.org.uk Please note we only publish photos of Dogs Trust rehomed dogs.

Front cover: Puppy Rob from Dogs Trust Basildon, with Charlene.

Designed by: Anthony Oram anthonyoram.com

Print by: Eclipse Colour Print, managed by Red Mist

Font: Baskerville Oldface Abandonero

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

Email: wag@dogstrust.org.ukRegistered charity number:227523 and SC037843

YouTube: youtube.com/dogstrust

Twitter: @dogstrust

Facebook: facebook.com/dogstrust

Phone: 0303 003 0000

Wag extra meaty chunks Dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine

Instagram: @dogstrust

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newsWelcome‘What will you be buying Daniel the Spaniel for Christmas?’

I was asked recently by a fellow dog walker. Usually the kids pool their resources to buy him a new toy - although nothing can surpass his cuddly pheasant (‘Phesmond’). However, this year I might be tempted to rustle up a Tailwagging Turkey Crunchmelt for the Span, as sent in by Dogs Trust Darlington volunteers Eileen and Nyla, on page 14.

Gifts aside, I reckon that what Daniel really wants is simply to spend more time with me and his ‘pa’. He’s never happier than when out and about with us, or simply flumping about at home - as long as his people are with him. On page 8, you can read about how Alasdair Bunyan, our assistant head of canine behaviour, believes that we all need to have conversations with our dogs. Having read Alasdair’s manifesto for more canine chitchats I feel like far less of an oddball – and I hope you will too!

Have yourselves a very merry Christmas,

Deana Selby, Editor

*Survey conducted on www.onepoll.com in July 2014. Total number of respondents – 2,000 parents with children aged 0-18** 28% of parents say that the family dog distracts their children from using technology

Photo: Clive Tagg

How do you get a tech-loving child to step away from the game consoles and tablets and start making memories this winter? Get a dog!

As part of our new Making Memories campaign, our latest survey* shows that parents cite** the family dog as a distraction for kids who are ordinarily glued to screens, with 42% saying the family take more exercise thanks to the pet dog, and nearly half (44%) believing their dog is their child’s best friend.

We’re hoping to inspire families to start making technology-free memories this winter. Check out our chuckleworthy video (www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine) which demonstrates the inadequacy of an iPad or Wii when compared to the fun that can be had with a pet instead.

Our survey also asked current parents about their own childhoods, and found that, overwhelmingly, growing up with a dog is seen as a positive part of their childhood:

· 69% grew up with a dog and 93% believe their family pet enriched their own childhood.

· 39% of those parents surveyed said it taught them responsibility.

· The dog owning tradition is a strong one; now that they are parents themselves, over half (54%) of Brits who had a pet dog when they were younger now have one for their own children

Owning a dog as a family can be extremely rewarding, as dogs can act as companions for children. They can also give children a sense of responsibility, as they can get involved with their daily care and understand the commitment involved in owning a dog.

Dogs Trust Chief Executive - and dog owner - Adrian Burder, adds:

“No one remembers a day spent gaming, but a family day out making memories with your dog will stay with you for a lifetime. It’s time to put down the iPad and walk away from the Wii and… get a dog.”

Share your photos and thoughts with us on Instagram: @Dogstrust and remember to use the hashtag #makingmemories.

Ditch The Tech – Get A Dog!

Behind The ScenesPuppies + ballpond = chaos! Deana and the Dogs Trust Basildon team having too much fun at a photoshoot. To see how we made this cover go to www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine

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In

Westie slippers. Go on, you know you want to. £14.99 from www.dogstrustgifts.com

GOING POSTAL: With Christmas almost upon us, please remember to send us all stamps from your festive post, to help our dogs. Last year you raised over £20,000 through stamp sales. Please send to Jenny Thomas, 15 Wentworth Ave, London N3 1YA or visit dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine for info. NB please use a LARGE stamp when mailing, thanks!

Out

Tatty old food bowls. Treat your best beastie to a new ceramic bowl, like this one from Fenella Smith, costing £28 with a £7 donation coming to Dogs Trust. www.fenellasmith.com

Shake it all about

Woah, look at those flews fly! Stanley, a five year old Bulldog cross, is a big yet sensitive fella, who needs a quiet home (adults only please) and really enjoys his food, squeaky toys, but is not crazy about long walks. If you would like to offer strapping Stanley a calm home call Dogs Trust Salisbury on 0303 003 0000.

Dogs Trust Leeds is celebrating finding its 10,000th homeless hound their forever home. One-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross Roxy, who came to the centre as a stray, takes the accolade, having stolen the heart of the Allan family.

Since opening at its York Road site in 2006, the centre has rehomed homeless hounds of all shapes, sizes and breed type.

• The most popular breeds to have been rehomed include Labradors, Border Collies, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, Lurchers and Jack Russell Terriers

• Max and Molly top the poll of favourite names.

• Almost 400 puppies have been born at the centre.

Roxy’s new owners are the Allan family from Leeds, who had previously rehomed Bazil from the centre. Sadly, after sharing their lives with him for nine years, he died last October, and Rachel and Dave Allan along with their children Sophie (5) and James (4) felt their home wasn’t the same without a four-legged friend.

“When the time was right off we headed to Dogs Trust Leeds again,” says Rachel. “We always feel a dog chooses you rather than the other way around and that was certainly the case with Roxy! She is absolutely gorgeous and definitely part of the family. We would encourage anyone who wants to get a dog to adopt. Nothing beats giving a dog a second chance.”

…And Roxy Makes 10,000!

Photos: KJ Photography, Leeds

Many congratulations to our former chief executive, and current council member, Clarissa Baldwin, on being awarded the CBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list. Clarissa was awarded the honour in recognition of her outstanding contribution to animal welfare over the past 40 years.

CBE for CB

Shockingly, the practice of smuggling puppies bred in Eastern Europe for sale in the UK, under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), is still widespread. This illegal trade has serious implications for not only animal but human welfare, including the risk of potentially zoonotic disease coming into the country.

We decided to show how easy it is to smuggle puppies by taking a cuddly toy, Mitzi - she was microchipped, had all her fake vaccination papers and a fake passport, but no pulse - into France and back in to England to see what would happen.

We ‘illegally imported’ Mitzi into Britain four times, and three out of the four attempts were successful. We found:

• At no point did any member of the operating staff notice that Mitzi was a fake dog.

• Staff did not look inside her carry cage to check and she was waved through both country entry points.

• Owners scan their own pet’s microchip. Carrier staff then check that the microchip number matches with the passport and that vaccinations and treatments are certified accordingly, hence no requirement for a visual check.

• The only reason the fourth attempt was stopped was because the microchip scanner malfunctioned, and therefore someone had to come to the car and scan Mitzi.

We are calling for better visual checks of all pets travelling at the ports; ‘smuggling’ Mitzi prompted us to ask the question, what else could have been in that crate? Please watch and share our undercover investigation footage www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine and help us to spread the word.

Still Rife, Still WrongPuppy Smuggling:

Cuddly toy Mitzi and her fake passport travelled in out and out of GB with no problems. Watch her journey here www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine’

We’re delighted to tell you about all of the amazing holidays now available through Hoseasons! Our partnership with Welcome Cottages has now extended so you now have the choice of fantastic lodges, family friendly resorts and even lazy weekends on narrowboats, and the best part is Dogs Trust still receives 10% of every booking made!

Take Paula Boyden, our very own veterinary director. There’s nothing Paula and her husband like more than taking their two Golden Retrievers, Phoebe and Charlie, on canal boat holidays across the UK. Paula says, ‘For us, the boat is a perfect combination; being outdoors, spending time together with the dogs and stopping where and when we want.’

If a boating holiday sounds right up your stream, or a lodge retreat with a hot tub sounds like a dream – go to http://partners.hoseasons.co.uk/dgp. They have so many new breaks to choose from, many of which welcome our canine friends too!

• Before we go on holiday I always make sure Phoebe and Charlie are wormed and their vaccinations are up to date. Water can be a source of leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) so it is important that they are protected.

• They need plenty of poop bags packed in the suitcase for when we moor up the boat and go on fun walks to explore the new area. My responsibility as an owner doesn’t change just because we’re on holiday!

• Phoebe and Charlie always wear their special dog life jackets while on the boat, just in case they fall in. The life jackets have a handle on them so it’s super easy to help them out of the water if needed (it’s not so easy without the jacket!)

Photos: Martin Phelps

HolidayBreak-ing News!

Paula’s Doggy Dos

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Tails were wagging at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe in the summer as staff at the rehoming centre decorated a brand new doggy play area - with the help of a group of talented schoolchildren. The nine Paw-cassos, from Ilfracombe Infants and Nursery School, North Molton Primary School and South Molton Infant School, were recently announced as the winners of a competition to design some eye-catching artwork for the centre’s new fence around the exercise area.

With more than 180 incidents of near misses between dog walkers and trains and five fatalities in the past five years, we are urging all dog owners and walkers to keep their dogs on a lead near level crossings.

The near-misses in the main involve people who regularly walk their dogs near level crossings but who have become complacent.

A hard-hitting film, produced by Network Rail with advice from us, shows just how quickly an off-lead dog can get onto train tracks, and how a distracted owner (eg speaking on their mobile) can put themselves at risk of a fatal accident by trying to retrieve their pet. As well as the film (see it here www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine) - we are now including level crossing safety materials in our rehoming packs, given to everyone rehoming a dog from any of our rehoming centres.

Lynn Barber, our head of canine training and behaviour, adds:

“We advise all dog owners who walk near railway lines or level crossings to have your dog under control at all times. There are around 6,100 level crossings still in use across Britain, and although you may be able to read the warning signs, remember – dogs can’t read – so keep them on a lead.”

Dogs Can’t Read – So Keep Rover On A Lead!

Budding BanksysBrighten Up Ilfracombe

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Topsy Turvy‘I think so many people are missing the basic foundations for dog training and start instead with what I consider to be the intermediate to advanced stuff. We all start out on our dog training journey with ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘down’ - but are they really that useful to us as pet owners at the beginning of the training journey?

Many training exercises have their background in the training of dogs for military and police work, as is so much of what is taught at traditional classes, for example, walking a dog on your left hand side, so as not to get in the way of the soldier’s pistol arm. Useful to the average pet owner? Not so much!

To put it another way, I think that the majority of what continues to be taught to pet owners at traditional classes is topsy-turvy - just like sending a child to secondary school before they’ve completed nursery!

FUNdamentalsSo if we are running before we are walking with our training efforts, what can we do to get out of this counter-productive rut? Alasdair believes that communication and creativity are the building blocks to a successful relationship.

‘Creativity and the willingness for the dog to actively enjoy working with their owner are essential, as after all, a strong relationship is built on trust, empathy and communication.

Before any ‘serious’ training can be taught we need to teach the dog to have fun with their guardian, seeing their family as the very best fun they can have.

Crucially, the games we play with our dogs should be tons of fun for both parties, and above all, involve give and take. I love to play tug-of-war with my dogs, as it’s all about two individuals having fun together, and also promotes the dog’s ability to share.’

ParklifeSo how does being the most fun thing in your dog’s life translate into a tangible benefit to you the owner, rather than simply being a cute concept? Well, have you ever wondered how to get your dog back by your side when he seems to have suddenly gone deaf? Wonder no more…

‘I see a lot of problems in parks where the dog’s owner has huge difficulty getting him to come back by their side. In many cases it’s because the dog sees other dogs as so much more fun to hang out with than their owner, which is a shame.

We often expect other dogs in the park to do our playing for us, yet we also expect our dogs to be highly sociable. However, there are some dogs that do not enjoy boisterous play, and become anxious if the other dog’s play is not done in a style they enjoy. For example, Collies tend to play on the fringes, popping in an out, where Labradors enjoy full-on physical contact, which can make the two breeds incompatible as play partners.

Personally, I like to see a dog checking in with his owner if it’s OK for him to go off and play with other dogs, as this ensures the dog does not charge up to another dog inappropriately, which may cause a negative reaction and trigger some reactivity. Whenever I see a dog looking up at his owner as if to say, “May I?”, I am very happy!’

We all adore our dogs, and we want them to be well behaved, of course, but is there a-certain something missing in our relationship with Fido? Our assistant head of canine behaviour, Alasdair Bunyan, believes that too many owners have forgotten how to have fun – and are missing out on the essential ingredient of the dog/human relationship!

Are WeHaving Fun Yet?

Alasdair with Rune; a strong relationship is built on trust, empathy and communication.

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A Little More Conversation…In fact, according to Alasdair, what the dog /human relationship really boils down to is a long, lively conversation.

‘When I’m out walking I really like to see a conversation taking place between dog and owner. In an ideal world I’d really like to see a dog which spends around 20% of the time dog playing with dogs and 80% of the walk focussed on their owner, enjoying that one-to-one companionship.

I find it sad to see an owner ignoring their dog when the dog is trying to gain eye contact or at times the person is constantly talking on their phone; I just think that’s a really empty relationship. That empathy between dog and owner is just so important – and I feel saddened when I see that spark has fizzled out.

I think we have forgotten to have fun with our dogs. Play is the most important thing for a dog and human’s relationship. It’s the actual play that’s important, not the toy, as this strengthens the bond.’

Rover Take A BowTalking of strengthening the bond, Alasdair has a whole host of training ideas to do just that.

‘When starting the training journey I like to teach a dog a range of behaviours that I can use in the future, I call them ‘fluencies’ - essentially baseline behaviours that we need a dog to understand and can then be applied in all sorts of situations.

For instance, one very common problem is that dogs often jump up to greet people. Many owners would train their dog to sit instead, but I think that ’sit’ is a static, very boring behaviour for a dog to learn.

I prefer to train a physically engaging behaviour instead, like ‘take bow’. Teaching a dog that is overly excited to sit can be very difficult because the dog is usually jumping due to excitement. Teaching an active behaviour can be much easier for a dog to learn.

Plus, imagine how great it would be walking into a home where the dog is actually bowing to greet you?! Jumping up also has its roots in the dog seeking attention, so if I walked into a house and the dog was bowing on cue I would really want to interact with that dog - which is ultimately rewarding for the dog!’

Target Practice‘The exercises I like to teach are targeting, to a hand, a mat, a specific spot, a platform, the possibilities are endless. The dog may target with his paw, his nose, or any part of the body, it should be your choice. Targeting can help dogs with training to walk on a loose lead, recall and even stepping on the scales when at the vet.

Training a dog to target onto a platform until the point when the dog sees the platform and starts to become excited can help enormously when taking the dog to the vet.

As the dog walks into the consulting room, his levels of anxious arousal increase and then suddenly the platform is placed down, and now the dog’s emotion changes, it makes him feel more positive, because the platform has a huge history of reinforcement associated with it.’

Settle Down Dear‘It’s so important to get your dog to remain calm in certain situations, which is why I like to teach a ‘settle’ command. So for example, when meeting a friend when out walking on the pavement, you chat and the dog simply settles, either in a sit, a down or stand, it should be the dog’s choice, and different positions could be used in different locations, but you should allow the dog to make that choice.’

I Herd You the First Time ‘I also like specific exercises that are geared towards breeds. Herding breeds, such as Collies for example, can be chase-oriented which is an innate behaviour. This drive cannot be stopped, and it certainly should not be suppressed, as suppression may cause other problems.

It is far better to channel this natural chase drive onto something of the owner’s choice. There is no way that training a ‘sit’ in a Collie will stop him chasing cars; the drive is too strong.

I would suggest channelling the natural instinct into something more productive such as fun agility or working trials. There is a great new sport which is very good for any dogs bred for herding, called treibball, which involves training the dog to herd large inflatable gym balls using their noses, and it’s very much based on targeting.’

So there you have it – the very essence of a great relationship between you and your dog is FUN! If you have any questions on Dogs Trust training and behaviour methods please email fieldinformation@dogstrust.org.uk

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Jack

Wilber and Tommy

Charlie

Pip

Florence

Leo and Foley

Lady

Oscar

Readers’ DogsSTOP what you are doing, PUT the kettle on,

GRAB the bourbons, it’s time for… Evesham

Jessica originally fostered, and then rehomed, Jack in 2013, and although he was a little overweight and had a few health issues, he is now an energetic and affectionate 14 year old chap. Jess has always felt lucky to have Jack in her life, but especially so recently. Jack started lying on the right side of her chest and squashing her every time she sat down, prompting Jess to check her breast – whereupon she found a lump. Jess was diagnosed with and is now being treated for breast cancer, and thanks Jack for alerting her to the problem. We wish Jess a speedy recovery.

SnettertonHaving both had difficult starts in life, the luck certainly changed for this handsome duo the day Steve and Sue Vyse first set eyes on them. They can be seen here enjoying their bespoke play equipment, although it looks as if a spot of sunbathing is enough for now!

NewburyA star in our midst! Charlie, a collie cross was rehomed a couple of years ago by Pete Welsh. “He had a lot of issues due to his hard start in life but his true character is now shining through.” Channelling his energy into agility training, Charlie has competed in shows and has got the rosettes to prove it.

SnettertonIn a definite case of mistaken identity Pip was thought to be a terrier cross until quite by chance someone recognised her as a Lancashire Heeler. This makes her a pretty rare breed, although her owners Mike and Carolyn Strike are completely smitten whatever she is!

BridgendSadly Florence passed away recently but her story touched all of our hearts. Florence was used for breeding in a puppy farm and as a result it took her a while to learn to trust people. She found her forever home with Ruth and her dog Harry and didn’t look back. “I miss her so much but adopting her was one of the best things I’ve ever done,’ Ruth tells us.”

BallymenaBorn at Dogs Trust and reunited after a short separation, these two brothers are the best of friends. Their family couldn’t bear to see them split up again so for the last seven years they have been keeping Fiona and Stephen well exercised and fit. According to Fiona they “bring us lots love and laughter – we wouldn’t be without them.”

West LondonThe late Lady was loved by Ian M and Ian D, who delighted in her company for a very happy nine years. Lady had an exceptionally gentle character, as Ian M explains, “I am a psychotherapist and Lady worked alongside me over the years, always in the room with clients, never intruding, always calm. She helped several people overcome their fear of dogs and she made many people smile, even when they were in despairing places.In her time with us, she visited every corner of the UK, and she loved nothing more than a ten mile walk with us when on holiday - happiest when her ‘pack’ was all together, adventuring outdoors. Getting Lady from you was one of the best things we have ever done.”

EveshamThis little cuddle monster (the one on the right!) is Oscar, rehomed six years ago by Hannah and Phil. Found on the streets as a puppy and with a little help from Dogs Trust, he’s managed to completely turn his life around and now lives life to the full. Of course after an active day, every dog needs a little rest and it’s nice to have a favourite teddy to snuggle up to!

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Chaka and Ulla

GlasgowThis lovely couple came as a pair and it’s a case of opposites attract! Chaka (right) is a big daft overgrown puppy who loves nothing more than being bossed around by his sister Ulla. Pictured here on their third holiday so far this year, we can safely say they landed on their paws!

Method:1. Boil the brown rice, drain and leave to cool 2. Fry the turkey mince for a few minutes until cooked 3. Finely grate a small parsnip 4. Chop carrots 5. Blend all of the ingredients together in a food processor 6. Using wet hands roll the mixture into balls about the size of a fifty pence piece 7. Line a baking tray with baking foil that has been very slightly oiled 8. Place treats on the tray but not touching each other. 9. Bake for about 45 minutes in centre of oven at 180C /350F/gas 4. 10. Your treats are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and soft inside.

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Staff at Dogs Trust Dublin cared for 11 puppies, following their seizure by Dublin Port Officials and Gardaí. They were discovered in a car driven by a woman who was attempting to board a ferry destined for the UK, without the essential veterinary and transport documentation.

Security at Dublin Port and An Garda Siochána made contact with our Dublin rehoming team following the discovery of the pups, which were hidden in the car’s boot, at Port Security one May morning.

Mark Beazley, Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland, adds:

‘Sadly, this is not the first time that we have encountered a seizure like this. EU regulations say that all pets travelling between member states must be compliant with certain conditions, including a full pet passport, microchip and proof of a rabies vaccination. Following the opening of our special puppy wing last year we are thankfully in a position where we can step in and assist in emergency matters.’

The pups - named Plaice, Cod, Ray, Salmon, Roach, Carp, Anchovy, Candiru, Koi, Bream and Hoki - have all since been rehomed.

11 Smuggled Pups Saved

The players of the People’s Postcode Lottery are making sure that Dogs Trust dogs will have a pawsome Christmas, because for the first time ever, we have two draws, on the 21st and 28th November, which will be solely in aid of Dog Trust. Tickets are on sale NOW!

The money raised will go towards fulfilling our dogs’ Christmas wishes – from festive dinners and stockings full of treats; to refurbishing kennels or constructing sensory gardens for them to enjoy, before we find them their forever homes. And with prizes of £10 to £400,000 available, you could be in for a cracker of a Christmas too!

55p from every £2 ticket comes directly to Dogs Trust, so the more tickets sold the more money raised to help our dogs. The players of the People’s Postcode Lottery have already generously given £300,000 to help our dogs.

Buy your tickets now at www.postcodelottery.co.uk or Freephone 0808 1098765 before 4th November 2015.

When six month old Spike was in the care of our Shrewsbury rehoming centre, staff noted that this lovely Labrador cross had an uncontainable lust for life! So when he developed recurring sickness and diarrhoea our vet team decided to take a closer look.

Initially the vets thought it could be a viral infection, which can be normal for an excited pup. Some changes were made to Spike’s diet, but this didn’t seem to help. Even though he was suffering with sickness, Spike was still a very bright and excitable puppy, as he continued to put on weight and loved to play.

When undertaking investigative surgery, it was found that Spike had a condition known as intussusception, where part of his small intestine was ‘telescoping’ into the next section of bowel. This condition can cause a lot of pain and could eventually lead to a much more serious condition. The vet team quickly took action to relieve Spike from his pain and operated to remove the affected part of the bowel.

Spike was advised to take it easy for a few weeks – a tough task for such an excitable pup! He recovered well with plenty of rest, love and cuddles, as well as careful monitoring of his diet and exercise. Three months on, and Spike still has his regular check-ups, and we are delighted to report that he is a very happy and healthy boy!

The care Spike received wouldn’t have been possible without our expert vet team, as well as the support from Petplan Insurance, who have given over £4 million to Dogs Trust over the past decade, which greatly helps us cover the costs of operations and conditions for dogs just like Spike.

If you would like to find out more about how Petplan help the dogs in our care, and how they could help you and your doggy friends too, please visit petplan.co.uk/dogstrust.

Photo: Spike, now happily rehomed and recovered with his new owners, Donna Davies and Sam Stefan.

Spike’s Lust For Life

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Christ

mas Comes

Early For Our Dogs!

Great British Bark OffChristmas Special

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o: G

avin

Dic

kson

Tailwagging Turkey Crunchmelt

Ingredients:(makes around 75 treats)

8oz turkey mince4oz brown rice1 small parsnip3 carrotsSmall amount of cooking

oil for baking tray

Paul Hollywoof and Furry Berry – our master barkers!

Paul Hollywoof and Furry Berry are back with their latest recipe for dog treats you can bake at home. Huge thanks to Eileen Skidmore and Nyla Osborne, who volunteer at Dogs Trust Darlington, for creating this Tailwagging Turkey Melt. Bark appetit!

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Here at Wag, we love dogs and we love biscuits, sometimes a little too much, which is why we wholeheartedly welcome the new Dogs Trust and Biscuiteers partnership. If you can think of a) a nicer thing to receive in the post b) a better way to raise money to help our dogs, we’d like to hear it!

Digby Biscuit Card, £9.00 with £1.00 donation to Dogs Trust. Created in the image of our very own sponsor dog, Digby the scruffy terrier from Dogs Trust Kenilworth, this biscuit card is accompanied by an iced biscuit bone. Biscuiteers are offering FREE postage and packaging - worth £2.95 - on all Digby orders for Wag readers until 31st December 2015 - simply enter this code DOGSTRUSTFREE.

Dogs Trust Giant Biscuit Card, £20 with £1.50 donation to Dogs Trust. This handmade biscuit card features designs based on real-life rehomed Dogs Trust dogs: Harley the Great Dane (ex Snetterton), Molly the Spaniel (ex West London) and Jed the Lurcher (ex Darlington.)

We can’t forget that canines love cookies too, so our Doggie Treat Tin makes a great pressie for Rover - £6.95 with £1 coming to Dogs Trust. To order your biscuits go to Biscuiteers.com or call (0) 8704 588 358.

Oh Crumbs!

We are lucky to have thousands of supporters who undertake active challenges every day to raise money for all of the dogs in our care, and it’s thanks to these heroes that we can continue to make as much difference to dogs’ lives as we do!

John-Paul Hopkinson, aka “JP”, from Haworth, West Yorkshire told us about his very personal challenge to fundraise for Dogs Trust in memory of his mother, Catherine Windeatt, who passed away in June 2014. He had been contemplating a fitting tribute to honour her, and so chose to revisit a happy time they spent together walking the Dales Way in 1991.

JP, Thank you so much for fundraising for Dogs Trust, can you tell us a little about what you did?

My challenge was to run the Dales Way in under 24 hours. The Dales Way is a walk covering 80 miles, which is normally completed in 5-6 days, starting from Ilkley and finishing at Bowness, Windermere. I managed to complete the route in 18 hours and 25 minutes.

That’s fantastic! Why did you choose to support Dogs Trust?

I chose Dogs Trust as a tribute to my mother, who passed away in June 2014, as it was her favourite charity. Plus, I got Nelson, my late Border Collie from Dogs Trust Leeds in 2002, and so I wanted to give something in return for all the happy years we shared together.

It was an emotional trip from start to finish. The photo of me on the stile was symbolic of my mum, who sat on that same stile back in 1991 when we walked the Dales Way together.

You can read more about JP’s story on www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine. If JP’s story has inspired you to be a fundraising hero please call us on 020 7837 0006 or email fundraiseforus@dogstrust.org.uk

We Could Be Heroes - Just In One Day!

Dogs Trust Ballymena played host to one of the happiest family reunions ever when the Ross family came by to reclaim their dog, April - who had been missing for exactly a year.

Over the Easter weekend, April had been left in a cardboard box outside the Ballymena centre, dangerously dehydrated, with terribly matted hair and advanced infections in her eyes, ears and mouth. Ballymena’s manager, Oonagh Phillips, described April as one of the worst cases of neglect she’d ever seen:

“All of us were devastated when we found April, she was so weak she could hardly put one foot in front of the other. You could barely see she was an actual dog, as her hair was so filthy and matted you couldn’t see her face. We rushed her straight to the vet for urgent attention.”

After nursing April back to health, our Ballymena team launched a media appeal to find her loving home, but they couldn’t have predicted what happened next.

April’s previous owners came forward, having been separated from her for over a year, and having lost hope of ever seeing their pet again. Ken Ross, April’s owner for 15 years before she disappeared from their family home by simply walking out of the garage door, was amazed to see his dog - real name Amber - alive and featuring on the Ulster TV news.

It was an emotional day for all when the Ross family arrived at the rehoming centre. They brought old photos with them

to confirm ‘April’ was in fact their ‘Amber’. But it was clear when the family met with April that she once belonged to the Rosses and was in fact their Amber. Oonagh explains:

“April was still recovering when the Rosses visited, but as soon as they walked through the door she suddenly perked up. She is partially deaf and blind, but she must have recognised their scent because she immediately remembered them and snuggled up to Ken. It was a magical moment for everyone.”

April Showers Family With Love

April when she first arrived, too weak to move.

JP in 2015Catherine in 1991

Here’s April following her veterinary treatment, recovering at the centre.

And reunited, one year later, with her delighted family.

www.dogstrust.org.uk 18 Autumn 2015 Autumn 2015 19www.dogstrust.org.uk

news Wag!

Distressed that there are merely two ‘dog’ emojis readily available? Concerned that you will never be able to adequately convey ‘Pug’ in your tweets? We have rectified this sad oversight with our 23 all new Dogs Trust emojis, the designs of which represent the most common types of dog in our care – and show the huge variety of delectable dogs available from rescue centres. To download your FREE Dogs Trust emoji keyboard, search ‘Dogs Trust’ in your device’s App Store, and click ‘Get’ to install. Enter password and wait for the app download, then follow the instructions. Then share the Dogs Trust love. You can watch our easy to follow guide here: dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine. You are welcome.

PS Let us introduce you to the real life canine doubles behind our emojis, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine and click on their names to find out all about them and their stories.

Coming Over All Emoji - Nal!

Excited by the prospect of the new Star Wars film premiering this winter, our rehoming centre staff picked out their favourite canine lookalikes.

In a galaxy far, far away, they encountered…

Loulou, or is it Jabba the Hutt?

Sweet natured Staffy, Loulou, was rehomed via Dogs Trust Kenilworth by the Cooper family, who, thankfully, were able to overlook her striking resemblance to a certain intergalactic crime-lord.

Roxy, or is it Chewbacca?

With her luxuriant, chestnut fur and loyal disposition, our Dogs Trust West London staff reckoned Roxy, aka Chewbarker, was clearly a Labrador/ Poodle/ Wookie cross. Roxy is now enjoying her role as faithful sidekick to the Wheeler family of Daventry.

Max, or is it an Ewok?

Diminutive Max first came to Dogs Trust Bridgend on 1st May 2009, and after six years of searching, he finally found a loving new home on May the fourth. Alas, his new home was not on the arboreal planet of Endor, but Maesteg, which we understand has quite a few trees.

Missy, or is it a stormtrooper?

Canine carers from our Glasgow centre were convinced that four year old Missy was the spitting image of an imperial stormtrooper. Thankfully this clever, affectionate Boxer does not serve the Dark Side, eventually finding her forever home in a galaxy not too far away - in Drygate, to be precise.

Chico, or is it Yoda?

Hmm so cute you are. Using the wisdom of an ancient Jedi knight, (or a four year old Chihuahua cross,) Chico is currently employing Jedi mind control on all visitors to his kennel, trying to influence them to rehome him from his secret base at Dogs Trust Glasgow. Please call 0303 003 0000 if you feel the force is strong with this one.

May The Paws Be With You...

We Woof You A Merry Christmas!

Wag! news

Selfie Crackers – Perfect for your

yuletide “selfies”, these props will be cracking up your

family and friends even more than the

classic cracker jokes. £9.99

Wobble Ball Dog Toy – This treat dispensing toy is sure to make

your pooch giddy with delight! £14.99

Show your support all year round with this special edition

Dogs Trust calendar. £5.99

What better way to say “Happy Holly-

Days” than with one of our Christmas

cards. £4.99 for 10 cards

All of these delights are available from www.dogstrustgifts.com. If you did not receive a catalogue with this copy of Wag! please call 0844 324 8520 or email dogstrust@cbfulfilment.co.uk and we’ll be happy to send you one in the post.

As the nights draw in and the days get colder, nothing beats snuggling down under a warm blanket in front of the fire. But for elderly people, winter can be a hard time of year. Our own oldies are no exception! Like us humans, the cold can play havoc with their arthritic joints, and keeping our OADs (Old Aged Dogs) warm with a waterproof jacket and fleecy blanket is not just a nicety, it’s a necessity.

That’s why at Dogs Trust we go the extra mile to give our old dogs the extra TLC they need.

In 1999, the Oakfield Old Dogs’ Home was created solely to care for old and terminally sick dogs. After 12 years it was redeveloped as part of the building work that took place at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, but it still includes individual bedrooms where the senior canine citizens can get uninterrupted sleep, and during the day they can mooch about in the open plan kitchen and lounge.

At this stage in their lives Dogs Trust may be the last home these dogs will have; Oakfield can give them the warmth, care and comfort they deserve to see out their remaining days.

If you would like to help Dogs Trust care for our older residents this winter, why not sponsor the Oakfield Oldies, or set up a Christmas gift sponsorship for a friend?

**UPDATE** We’re pleased to announce that Max has now found a new home!

Sponsor today by simply calling 020 7837 0006 or go to www.sponsoradog.org.uk

We’ll be walking in a winter woofer wonderland at these events, come join us!

October23 - 24 Dogmobile at National Trust, Formby Point, L37 1L J

29 Dogs Trust Darlington’s Spook Night, 6.30-8.30pm, call 01325 333114 to book your tickets

29 - 30 Dogmobile at Joseph Pease Place, Darlington

31 Dogs Trust Ballymena’s Howl-o-ween party, 1-3 pm, open for all children and their dogs

31 Dogs Trust Manchester’s Howl-o-ween party, 12-3pm

November5 - 6 Dogmobile at Chester Town Hall, Chester

7 Dogs Trust Ilfracombe’s Christmas Fair, Braunton Parish Hall, 9am-12.30pm

18 - 19 Dogmobile at Market Place, Abingdon Town Centre OX14 3JD

26 - 27 Dogmobile at Princesshay, Exeter City centre

29 Dogs Trust Shrewsbury’s Christmas Fair, 12.00-4pm

29 Dogs Trust Shoreham’s Christmas Fair, 11am-1pm

29 Dogs Trust Canterbury’s Christmas Fair, Swalecliffe Community Centre, St John’s Road CT5 2QU 12-3pm

25-26 Dogmobile at Morrisons Supermarket, St Albans AL1 4SU

28 Dogs Trust Basildon Christmas Fair, Basildon Sports and Leisure Club. Gardiners Way, Gardiners Lane South, Basildon SS14 3AP

28 - 29 Dogs Trust Loughborough’s Cracking Christmas Fair and Santa Paws, 11am-4pm

29 Dogs Trust Bridgend’s Christmas Fair, Action Petz, Brynmenyn Industrial Estate, 11am-3pm

29 Dogs Trust Salisbury’s Christmas Fair, 11am-3pm

December2 Dogs Trust Ballymena’s Christmas Fair, 6-9pm.

2 - 3 Dogmobile at TESCO Supermarket, Barnstaple EX32 8PG

5 Dogs Trust Merseyside’s Christmas Fair, 12-4pm, FREE entry!

5 - 6 Dogs Trust Kenilworth’s Christmas Fair, 12-4pm

5 - 6 Dogs Trust Darlington’s Christmas Fair, 12-4pm

6 Dogs Trust Glasgow’s Christmas Fair, 12-3.30pm

6 Dogs Trust Manchester’s Christmas Fair, 11am-4pm

14 - 15 Dogmobile at ASDA Supermarket, Ferring, Littlehampton BN12 6PN

events

Photos: Gavin Dickson

Max is an adorable Maltese cross who loves snuggling on the sofa and curling up on his carers’ laps. When not enjoying lots of cuddles, Max can be quite an independent fellow and likes doing things his own way. He’s about seven years old and gets on well with the other oldies in the home.

Arnie the Bichon Frise and Brogan the Doberman may look a strange combo, but they utterly adore each other, and curl up together every night. They arrived at Dogs Trust when their owner’s circumstances changed, and will need to be rehomed together. Arnie’s very much a ‘lap dog’ who loves being fussed over and, not to be outdone, Brogan regularly climbs onto her carers’ laps demanding tummy tickles!

Max

Arnie Brogan

Welcome an oldie into your home this Christmas

Yes, I’d love to sponsor with Dogs Trust

Your detailsMr/Mrs/Miss/Ms (please circle)

First Name: Surname:

Address:

Postcode:

Supporter Number (if known):I’d like to sponsor: Oakfield Oldies OR Please send me a brochure of available dogs

To: The Manager Bank/Building Society

Address:

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Name(s) of account holders(s):

Branch sort code:

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Instruction to your bank or building societyPlease pay Dogs Trust Debits from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I under-stand that this instruction may remain with Dogs Trust, and, if so, details will be passed electronically to my bank/building society.

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Date:

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IF YOU ARE A UK TAXPAYER YOU CAN MAKE YOUR DONATION WORTH A QUARTER MORE AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.The Government’s Gift Aid scheme allows us to reclaim the income tax (or capital gains tax) you have already paid on your donations. This means an extra 25p for every £1 you donate to us.

Yes I agree that Dogs Trust can treat all the donations I have made in the last 4 years (prior to this year) and all future donations as Gift Aid donations

I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities or Community Amateur sports Club (CASCs) that I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for that tax year. I understand that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand the charity will reclaim 25p of tax on every £1 that I give.

Source: 869894

The Direct Debit Guarantee

This guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay Direct Debits. If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct Debit, Dogs Trust will notify you (normally 10 working days) in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request the Dogs Trust to collect a payment, confirmation of the date and amount will be given to you at the time of the request. If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit by Dogs Trust or your bank or building society you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society. If you receive a refund you are not entitled to you must pay it back when Dogs Trust asks you to. You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by contacting your bank or building society. Written conformation may be required. Please also notify Dogs Trust.

I would like to pay by monthly Direct Debit

INSTRUCTION TO YOUR BANK OR BUILDING SOCIETY TO PAY BY DIRECT DEBIT

It costs a minimum for £1 a week (£4.34 monthly) to sponsorI’d like to give:

£1 a week (£4.34 a month) £2 a week (£8.67 a month)

Other £_____ monthly (minimum £4.34)

//

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PLEASE RETURN TO: FREEPOST RTJE-SXGL-BEEJ, WAG RESPONSE, DOGS TRUST, MOULTON HOUSE, 10 POND WOOD CLOSE,

MOULTON PARK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, NORTHAMPTON, NN3 6DF

Please debit my account, starting on: //