Dogs Today_July_2024 : simplebooklet.com

Inside this month...News & features 6 Operation Ghoul: breaking up an international dog-fighting ring12 Deliverance from evil: the brutal reality of flat-faced dogs16 Bully XL blood-loss mystery: why have there been so many serious problems with neutering them?38 Katy Perry tells us about her two best friends, Daisy and Nugget Training & behaviour28 Role models: the canine functional characters that can be found in groups32 Face time: the second part of our muzzle-training series40 Cognitive bias: is your dog an optimist or a pessimist?Over to you!46 Great debate: should rescues be rehoming brachycephalic dogs?56 Postbag: your letters and emails Opinion 66 Confessions of a dogaholic: lost and foundInvestigation 20 Q&A: heatstroke: do your homework now; cycle training; do QR dog tags comply with the law? 48 Dog crush: meet the Finnish Lapphund Competitions & shopping 54 Subscribe and win!60 Pop the kettle on and tackle our puzzles and competitionsFinnish Lapphunds. Photo by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)DogsTodayEditorialEditor: Beverley CuddyArt Director: Rosie PeaceChief Sub Editor/Contributing Editor: Claire Horton-BusseyDeputy Editor: Alessandra PacelliIllustrator: Kevin BrockbankAdvertising & sponsorship Sales & Marketing Director: Mike McGlynn 01276 402591Office dogsBetty (Old English-Golden Retriever-ish); Honey (Cocker Spaniel); Lennie (Staffie cross); Loki (Border Collie-Kelpie cross); Sophie (Jack Russell); Triss (Jack Russell)Betty’s Personal Trainer: Kirsten Dillon IMDT A.Dip CBMPublishers Chief Operations Officer: Graham Smith01276 402598 (graham@wearebrandshare.com)Managing Director: Beverley Cuddy 01276 402597 (beverley@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk)Dogs Today is published by Brandshare Ltd, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. 01276 402599enquiries@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk www.dogstodaymagazine.co.ukSubscriptionsFor subscription queries call Brandshare on 01276 402599 or email subs@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk. Initial subscription rates:UK & BFPO: 12 issues £46.99, 24 issues £85; Non UK: 12 issues £79.99, 24 issues £145.Direct Debit (UK only): £12.50 for 3 monthsThe editor is always pleased to consider articles and photos from freelancers. However, there is often a considerable delay before material can be assessed. Please include an SAE if you want your work returned. While every care will be taken, no responsibility for loss or damage can be accepted. Competition sponsors and their families are not eligible for any competition.Dogs Today incor porating Perfect Pup is published by Brandshare Ltd, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. Tel 01276 402599. Brandshare Ltd reg. office: The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA.Distributed by Marketforce (UK) Ltd, 2nd Floor, 5 Churchill Pl, Canary Wharf, London E14 5HU.Tel: 020 3148 3333. www.marketforce.co.ukPrinted by The Manson Group.© 2024 Dogs Today. The world copyright of the editorial matter, both illustrations and text, is strictly reserved. Registered as a newspaper for transmission in the UK.The ethical pet magazine for people who really care about dogsFacebook: Dogs Today@beverleycuddy@Dogs_TodayLIMITEDNext issue on sale: 9 August 2024To download Dogs Today for iPad - go to the App store. Android and PC versions are available from Pocket Mags & the Kindle edition from www.amazon.co.ukJuly 2024 Dogs Today3

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4 Dogs Today July 2024 This month, we moved house, which is stressful enough, but Betty’s health put all that into perspective.Thankfully, before the move, I’d already scoped out the best vet in our new location. I was pleased to discover a large independent practice that did their own night cover. Facebook friends in the area conﬁrmed how good they were.Abbey Green vets is in Broadway, a Cotswold village that also includes my favourite dog-friendly hotel, the Lygon Arms. It seemed like fate. I pre-registered Honey and Betty before the move, never imagining for a moment how quickly we’d be needing their help! The day before the move, I took both dogs to our lovely old vet’s, The Guildford Vet, to say goodbye and to get their boosters done. All very routine – or so I thought. I got there early, happy to get the dogs out of the way of the removal people boxing us up. Practice partner Rob Pattinson called us in. He had a vet student with him. Honey’s vaccine was ﬁne, but when he did the health check on Betty, his hands alerted him to something wrong. He tried to show the student what to look for, but she couldn’t feel it. Rob felt that Betty’s spleen was enlarged and if we hadn’t been about to move house, he’d have suggested we scan her immediately, as spleens can be a ticking time bomb and rupture. Betty is half Golden Retriever and apparently the breed has a lot of spleen issues. Rob urged me to get her scanned by the new vet as soon as possible and to not let my pet insurance lapse.So, the next morning, instead of the two-and-a-half-hour drive to the new house, I went straight to our new veterinary practice. Our new vet had a feel of Betty’s belly, but it wasn’t as obvious to her that the spleen was enlarged and, as Betty’s gums looked good, we were told it could wait until after we’d unboxed. They’d scan her under anaesthetic after the weekend.NERVOUS WAITI signed a consent form for them to operate if they found anything during the scan and I got the call at lunchtime. They’d found a huge tumour in her spleen, but it hadn’t spread or ruptured. Betty’s heart and lungs were clear, and her bloods looked good. They’d operate and remove her spleen immediately. I already knew, from talking to Rob, that it would be 50/50 whether any tumour was cancerous. There was another nervous wait for the next phone call, but the operation was very successful. There had been minimal blood loss and they’d got the spleen out intact. It had been sent off to be analysed. Betty was even well enough to come home that evening, which was amazing, as I’d read that most splenectomies involve two days in hospital. We’d caught it early, before it had made her ill. Our new vets were full of praise for Rob’s magic touch; it had been a life-saving observation.On the day before Betty’s stitches came out, we got some more brilliant news. The growth wasn’t cancer –it was a very rare tumour called a myelolipoma. Only six other cases in the spleen had ever been reported globally. And those dogs lived long lives after their spleens were removed.Not all our boxes are yet unpacked, but the ‘great vet’ box is ticked! PBeverley CuddyIllustration by Beverley CuddyDear readersBeverley Cuddy is Dogs Today’s Editor and publisher. She shares her life with Betty, an Old English-Golden Retriever-ish dog from Many Tears, and Honey, a Cocker Spaniel.As Pet Remembrance Day approaches, on 5th July, take a moment to remember the special pets who are no longer with us, but brought endless joy and happiness to our lives.At Battersea we know how unique every animal is and understand just how hard the loss of a beloved pet can be.Today we’re asking you to remember your pets by donating in their memory, to help other dogs and cats at Battersea still waiting to ﬁnd a home where they’ll raise smiles every day.DONATE IN MEMORYTelephone (Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm):0300 3231 216Visit:www.battersea.org.uk/inmemoryBattersea Dogs & Cats Home is a charityregistered in England and Wales 206394EebeR themtoday, and every day,WITH A SMILE

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Photo posed by modelsIt started, as many such investigations do, with a call from a member of the public. They were concerned for the welfare of some dogs they had seen at a property in Chigwell, Essex, and the RSPCA set out to investigate in August 2021.Ian Briggs, chief inspector with the RSPCA Special Operations Unit (SOU), says, “The caller made no mention of dog ﬁghting at all. It was a routine welfare complaint, but this doesn’t mean it was not taken seriously. Tips like this are extremely important; we rely on members of the public to be vigilant and let us know if they feel something is not right. You never know what can become the starting point of a major investigation.”As it turned out, this was indeed the start of a massive operation that, by June 2024, saw four people jailed for their involvement in a dog-ﬁghting ring that organised ﬁghts spanning England, the Republic of Ireland and France.“When one of the RSPCA ofﬁcers attended the property to address the welfare complaint, he noticed some signs that dog ﬁghting may be going on, such as treadmills,” Ian says. “People involved in dog ﬁghting won’t take the dog out for walks on the streets, but as the training regime is crucial, they have to keep them active indoors – hence the treadmills.”In his witness statement in court, the attending ofﬁcer, Nick Jonas, would later recall, “I observed a light-coloured female bull breed type, two years old, named Bonnie, with scars and scratches on her face and legs. When I questioned Ali about this, he advised the dog has very thin skin and runs through bushes, which cut her face. I also observed a cream female bull breed, seven years old, named Dotti, and a black male bull breed type, ﬁve years old, named Oscar.“He advised that these dogs do not belong to him and that they belong to his friend in Ireland. He advised they get sent back and forth to be bred and that he cares for them here sometimes.INSIDE THE SHED“At the end of the garden, there was a shed. When asked if I was able to look in there, he advised that the shed did not have anything in it. Inside there was a portable kennel and two dog-running machines. When questioned about them, he advised he uses them to exercise the dogs.”Having spotted some of the telltale signs of a dog-ﬁghting operation, Nick Jones immediately reported it to the SOU – and the investigation dubbed ‘Operation Ghoul’ began, led by Inspector Kirsty Withnall. Once the SOU gathered enough evidence and intelligence, the Metropolitan Police executed a warrant at the Chigwell address on 14 March 2022. A total of 19 dogs were seized across three properties, including several bully-type dogs who were kept in poor conditions in a garage. >July 2024 Dogs Today 7 Operation GhoulWords ALESSANDRA PACELLIIn 1835, England was a very different place. Children were put to work; women could not vote; two men became the last to be hanged for sodomy in the country – the list goes on. It is safe to say those were not enlightened times. But even then, the Humane Act’s ban on dog ﬁghting made clear that making dogs ﬁght for entertainment was unacceptable. Yet, just shy of 190 years later, some haven’t quite caught up...Deleted videos on a seized mobile showed graphic dog ﬁghts and injuries

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8 Dogs Today July 2024< Inspector Withnall, who was present, said, “At the very end of the garden after the kennels was a garden room, which housed two treadmills, which were plugged in and in working order. There was also a slat mill. These were clearly for dogs: each of them had a chain on them where you would attach a dog. One of the treadmills had a homemade wooden structure built on top of it, which would have kept a dog secure.”DAMNING EVIDENCE“I have seen the weighing unit, break sticks and ﬂirt poles in dog-ﬁghting investigations before. The dogs will be weighed before a ﬁght, the break sticks are to break the dogs apart when they are ﬁghting and ‘locked on’, and the ﬂirt poles are a training aid to get the dogs to jump up and strengthen their back legs.”A vet kit was also seized, which Withnall described as “substantial”.“It contained items such as two skin staplers, an IV kit for ﬂuids, bandages, needles, steroids, antibiotics, painkillers and medication,” she said. “I have seen homemade vet kits used by people that ﬁght dogs before. This is because they will treat the dogs themselves rather than take them to the vet and raise suspicion.”While all of the four people who were eventually jailed lived in Essex, their crimes crossed borders. The RSPCA found a mobile phone with details of planned ﬁghts in France, Ireland and an unknown location in England.Chief Inspector Ian Muttitt said, “The mobile phone was a goldmine of information and evidence. It contained graphic videos and images of brutal dog ﬁghts, match reports following organised ﬁghts, information relating to some KIRSTY WITHNALLRSPCA Inspector Kirsty Withnall, the SOU case ofﬁcer who led the investigation, passed away on Sunday 21 April following a two-year battle with cancer. She was 47 years old, and she’d joined the RSPCA at 22.RSPCA SOU Chief Inspector Will Mitchell said, “Kirsty was an exceptional investigator and rescuer, a ﬁerce advocate for animal welfare, and a wonderful colleague and friend. She never failed to dazzle people with her unwavering commitment to improving animal welfare and her relentless tenacity to bring justice to animal abusers.“They broke the mould when they made Kirsty and she was a trailblazer and a huge inﬂuencer for the way we investigate cruelty. She was a fearless and formidable investigator while also ensuring she showed every single animal and human who crossed her path complete empathy, kindness and compassion. She loved her job, she loved all of the animals she worked with, and she loved the RSPCA. She unapologetically, wholeheartedly believed in our goal and did everything she could to help create a kinder world for animals.“We’re devastated that our time with Kirsty was cut so short and that her family and friends have had to say goodbye in the cruellest of circumstances, but her legacy lives on every day through the wags, purrs and frolics of the thousands of animals’ lives she saved.”Speaking of Operation Ghoul earlier this year, Inspector Withnall said, “Dog ﬁghting is the most upsetting crime to investigate because the people involved are so ruthless. Dogs are so forgiving and trusting, and knowing they can go into a ﬁghting ring, petriﬁed, stressed and forced to ﬁght, because their ‘owners’ have asked it of them, is absolutely heartbreaking. It’s a big business in the criminal underworld and we’ve had some very successful cases in this area, but there’s always more work to do.”She added, “When I look back over my career, I am reminded that I am doing the exact job that was always meant for me.”2024-03-05_ADSPDCONPSuperDog takes our 50 years of award-winning nutritional expertise even further– all the innovation and careful, effective formulation you’d expect from Vitabiotics, now available for your special companion.From vitality to healthy joints and bones, SuperDog formulations provide optimum levels of micro-nutrientsto safeguard the diet of your furriest family member.Proud supporter of Battersea, caring fordogs and cats since 1860From , Amazon, Ocado, and Vitabiotics.com– all the innovation Joints & Bones60 Chewable TabletsHealth & Vitality60 Chewable Tablets*Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Value & Unit Retail Sales 52 w/e 27/1/24.To verify contact Vitabiotics Ltd, 1 Apsley Way, London, NW2 7HF. Vitabiotics Ltd will donate 35p + VAT from the sale of each SuperDog product to Battersea Dogs’ Home Limited which donates its profits to Battersea Dogs’ & Cats’ Home (registered charity number: 206394). Stockists may vary.

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Pet Protection Reimagined.IMPACT TESTED PET CAR SEATSExpertly EngineeredFROM THE MAKERS OF NUNA®We’ve combined decades of innovative product development, premium craftsmanship, and advanced impact testing to bring you industry-changing pet protection systems that are evaluated against United Nations ECE child restraint safety criteria.TAVOPETS.COM | Available Online And In Halfords Stores10 Dogs Today July 2024of the men’s travel plans and accommodation for speciﬁc ﬁghts, as well as messages between a number of the defendants planning ﬁghts, talking about training regimes, and discussing the injuries dogs had suffered.”While this investigation did not start with someone reporting dog ﬁghting speciﬁcally, the RSPCA has seen an increase in such reports over the past few years. However, Ian Briggs says, it’s not necessarily bad news. PUBLIC SUPPORT“It’s not that we have a sudden explosion of people getting involved, especially as becoming part of a dog-ﬁghting ring is not easy. The dog-ﬁghting community is very close-knit. It’s not like badger digging, for example; it’s much more organised and structured, so it happens on a small scale and they don’t let just anyone in. “I believe that the reason for the increase in reports is, quite simply, more awareness from members of the public. They’re more likely to spot the signs, and more likely to report them to us. And that’s good, it’s what we rely on. So if someone sees something that’s bothering them, if they have concerns about an animal’s welfare – we want them to call us. Without that one call in 2021, this entire operation would have never happened.” PCONVICTION AND SENTENCES■Phillip Harris Ali, also known as Dr Death, was convicted of 10 offences, including keeping and training dogs for ﬁghting and causing dog ﬁghts. Ali, aged 66, from Chigwell, Essex, received a ﬁve-year prison sentence and was banned from keeping dogs for 10 years.■Billy Leadley, known as GSK or Green Street Kennels, pleaded guilty to one offence of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog and was found guilty of nine further offences. These included keeping a premises for dog ﬁghting and refereeing ﬁghts. Leadley, from Takeley, Essex, was sentenced to four years in prison and was also disqualiﬁed from keeping dogs for 10 years.■Amy Louise Leadley, Billy Leadley’s wife, was found guilty of three offences, including keeping a premises for dog ﬁghting. She pleaded guilty to an additional charge of failing to meet the needs of seven dogs. Amy Leadley received an 18-month community order, 200 hours of unpaid work, and a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement. She was also banned from keeping dogs for 10 years.■Stephen Albert Brown, from Chigwell, Essex, was found guilty of ﬁve offences, including keeping and training dogs for ﬁghting. He received a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence and was disqualiﬁed from keeping dogs for 10 years.A NEW LIFEEight-year old Beau, a Cane Corso, was one of several dogs who were rescued over the course of an RSPCA investigation into dog ﬁghting in 2017. In 2020, Beau was adopted by Caroline Moore and Mark Dorett, from Walthamstow. “Beau is so loving and gentle; he’s a really beautiful soul. He is our baby, our pride and joy. We’re so proud of him and the dog he has become,” Caroline said. “We love walking and decided we’d like to have a dog to join us on our walks, and we wanted to give an unwanted dog a home. We started to search and Mark stumbled across Beau in the Southridge kennels while he was looking around.“When Beau brought his toy doughnut to the bars of the kennels for Mark, he was absolutely smitten! I was worried about his size, but we took him for a few walks and I fell in love with him as well. We met him several times and introduced him to Mark’s sons and my parents. He was so lovely with all of us that we were shocked when the team told us his back story.“When we ﬁrst brought Beau home, we didn’t tell people that he’d been rescued from dog ﬁghters; we didn’t want people to judge him or be frightened, and I was worried how he’d be, but he has such a lovely nature. He is so good with children and he loves everyone we meet. Our neighbour was terriﬁed of dogs, but she’s completely fallen in love with Beau and now we always have to stop by her house so she can say hello to him when we go out for walks.“My dad suffers from multiple sclerosis, but he comes out of himself and is so much happier when Beau is around; we take Beau to visit him all the time. Beau makes such a difference to our family. When I think what would have happened to him if he hadn’t been rescued by the RSPCA, it breaks my heart. He is such a gentle giant and we love him to pieces.”

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Words DR SCARLET AFLALO-MEYRICKilma came to me late at night at 11 months old, in labour with six puppies. Her owners had knowingly bred her and had turned up once they realised she was not going to give birth naturally. The owners had already been in three months prior with Wilma’s mother, who was in labour with her second litter within six months with the father of Wilma’s pups (who had gone off his back legs due to his deformed spine). They’d come in with another dog the month before and managed to get a C-section done for free at a charity. Her owners did not care that breeding Wilma at this age was to her detriment, that the calcium she needed to grow her own bones was having to be put into growing puppies and making milk. They did not care that she had not been vaccinated, microchipped or even received basic worming. They did not care that she had been bred with a male French Bulldog that was likely also her father, and had severe BOAS (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome) and spinal disease that the puppies could inherit. They frankly just did not care. Wilma’s owners did not have the ﬁnances for a C-section, which is surprising given the number of puppies they must have had in the past six months are selling for between £600-£3,000 each on average. Wilma was signed over to the practice and we performed the C-section. There were complications and Wilma lost a signiﬁcant amount of blood. Due to her age, her calcium levels dropped, causing her to get neurological signs, so she was not allowed to feed the puppies and they had to be separated. EMERGENCY TEAMSix puppies were in her uterus. The one that had been stuck in the birth canal for hours had to be put to sleep, as she had aspirated (breathed in) meconium, but the other ﬁve were nursed by the veterinary team until they were transported two days later to Niki Roe at Jack’s Giant Journey, who carried on the exhausting two-hourly feeds with some help from volunteers. Sadly, two more puppies faded, despite their absolute best efforts, but the remaining three – Rye, Pumpernickle and Ciabatta – are doing very well and will be up for adoption when they reach 12 weeks old. Wilma was fostered by me and my husband. She had absolutely no idea what her name was, so we settled on Wilma – fresh name, fresh start. She also had no idea about housetraining, even on puppy pads, 12 Dogs Today July 2024Deliverance from evil Flat-ﬂaced dogs can be sweet, loving companions, but that doesn’t justify WJuly 2024 Dogs Today 13 It’s 1.33am. My phone pings. It’s Scarlet, our vet. There’s an 11-month-old Frenchie mum with ﬁve pups – one with a cleft palate. One has died. Do we have a foster, please? Of course, we do! This turned out to be the ﬁrst time I shared a handrear. Over the many years of volunteering with different rescues, you would take them for the whole time until the forever homes are found. After 10 days of feeding every two hours, including through the night, I was shattered. Some of our fosters stepped in: Kate, Claire, Hanna and Heather. This soon made me realise that sharing handrearing could be so beneﬁcial in so many ways – not just for the humans, who were exhausted. The puppies were safely moving into different environments with different people, different families, different sounds, different energies, different animals and so on, giving them lots of new encounters. I shared the rest of the handrearing with Hanna and Heather, and it was a dream. I can safely say it might take a village to raise the child; it deﬁnitely takes a team to raise some handreared puppies. They may not have had their mum, but they deﬁnitely had a lot of nanny dogs around them. And we made sure that their beginning was the best they could have. All three that are ﬁghting ﬁt are now in their new homes with their forever families. It’s a pleasure and an honour to be able to do this, but it’s bittersweet when they go. And so for now the handrearing box is packed up and put on the shelf, for when we need it the next time. Go live your best life, Alﬁe, Frank and Luna! Not forgetting mum Wilma, who really has found the best home too!vil tify the suffering they experience at the hands of their so-called supporters EMERGENCY HANDREARING by Niki Roe Niki handrearing in a hairdressing chair (top left); it was important that Niki’s was the ﬁrst face the pups saw when they opened their eyes (top right); just delivered (above left); the three survivors (above right) are now in new homes.

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14Dogs Today July 2024and clearly was not used to eating regular dog food either. With time and TLC, she really started to settle into home life and bond with our dogs, and despite being absolutely adamant she was just a foster, after only one application to adopt her, and seeing her relationship ﬂ ourish with our pack, we decided to make her a failed foster, and adopt her after all. Wilma is not alone. I wish her story was rare. As someone who grew up with brachycephalics (Brussels Griffon) and whose profession sees them regularly, I am oh-so-familiar with both their good and bad sides. BABY LOVEBrachycephalic means that the muzzle has been shortened, causing a ‘ﬂ at face’. To humans, this appeals, as it means their features resemble that of a baby’s. They appear to smile when they pant, have these big staring eyes due to their shallow eye sockets, and often have funny barks or habits. The reality is, we haven’t lost anatomy, just squashed it into a smaller space. These features are what the term ‘BOAS’ refers to, where the anatomical conformation of being brachycephalic results in obstruction of the pet’s airway, and this is graded on a scale of severity. Their big eyes are prone to ulcers and drying out, as they sit in sockets that are too shallow. The nostrils (also known as nares) of brachy dogs are often slit like and stenotic (non-moving), making it feel as if they are breathing through a straw. Their short nose length means the ability to cool air is lost, making them incredibly vulnerable to heat stroke. The soft palate at the back of the throat is long and obstructs the trachea (windpipe), further obstructing air from moving, and, on top of this, the trachea itself is often narrowed and small, making breathing challenging and uncomfortable. The ‘cute’ gremlin sounds or heavy snoring reﬂ ect the soft palate obstructing their airway, and in order to sleep, some require their head to be elevated in an attempt to keep their airways open (severe BOAS). Their large domed head and slim pelvis often mean natural birth cannot be achieved, resulting in the breeding bitch having to have a Caesarean to deliver. A fact rarely considered is that no analgesia is licensed for pregnant or lactating bitches. Most vets, including myself, will insist that some is used off licence, as there is evidence from humans that certain drugs have little to no impact on the offspring, but not every vet advocates for the bitch, and some breeders will not consent to the use of this. That means not only are these dogs being bred without consent, but are having major abdominal surgery with next to no pain relief. How is this moral? Recent studies have shown that brachycephalic dogs actually have a persistent level of hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) to vital organs, which means just day-to-day breathing with no exertion is still depriving them of the oxygen they need to fuel their body at a cellular level. The increased force required to breathe through their narrow nostrils and trachea often causes complications with their stomach, sometimes resulting in the stomach moving into the chest cavity (hiatal herniation). This results in a lot of these dogs suffering with concurrent regurgitation, vomiting and gastric motility disorders – all because of how their face was designed. When we couple this with a huge over-representation of chronic gastrointestinal disease, skin allergies, brain, limb and spinal deformities, you can’t help but stop and wonder what humans are doing. Clients will tell me that they just love their character, or that no other THE FORGOTTEN MUMSadly, popping up all over the UK are unethical ‘fertility clinics’ run by non-veterinary professionals who will scan dogs and artiﬁ cially inseminate them because they can’t breed naturally due to physical deformities. They are also used by owners wanting to bring in new bloodlines to get rarer colours or features (I’d like to say better health traits, but typically in these settings that is not the goal). I remember one of my most depressing C-sections was on a Bulldog that had been bred via artiﬁ cial insemination. She had horriﬁ c BOAS, and, despite weighing the same as a Labrador, we could only ﬁ t an endotracheal tube in her airway that would typically ﬁ t a small terrier. I strongly suggested to this dog’s owners that we neuter her, as she would pass on less-than-desirable traits to her pups and could not birth naturally, but the owners refused. On completing the C-section, only one out of two puppies made it. When I rang the owners to let them know we were out of surgery, they didn’t even ask how mum was doing; they just wanted to know what colour and sex the puppy had been that had died, as the girls were worth more if they had a rarer colour. A fact rarely considered is that no analgesia is licensed for pregnant or lactating bitches. That means these dogs are having major abdominal surgery with next to no pain relief. How is this moral?ability to cool air is lost, making Photo posed by a modelJuly 2024 Dogs Today 15 dog is quite like this breed, but this is often said without understanding the implications of what they are choosing. If a woman said to her doctor that she wanted her baby to have a disability so they were cuter, they’d be sent to a psychiatric hospital. There is a huge fanbase out there with online forums advocating for the breed and suggesting that crossbreeding or breeding out traits is to their detriment; they promote dangerous and unfounded medical practices to help their many ailments. Of course, some breed traits are breed speciﬁc, but for me, I don’t think any amount of personality makes selecting for life-altering deformities justiﬁable, especially when we are talking about traits that serve no purpose other than to make us go ‘ahhhh’. FASHION VICTIMSWilfred was the absolute love of my life. A rescue Griffon, he had mitral valve disease and developed a complicating disease called pulmonary hypertension, another breed-associated condition. We had 18 months of time, showing him what living outside a cage meant, until his little heart could take no more. Wilfred collapsed in my living room. I performed CPR and managed to get him to a cardiologist, which gave us six more months together. We loved him with all our hearts and miss him every day, but do I think that means we should breed more Wilfreds? No. Barry, my Boston Terrier, now six years old, came to me as a rescue at the age of three months. He was born deaf and the breeder wanted to euthanase him because she didn’t want to advertise a deaf dog in her litter. She was selling puppies for £2k each, but didn’t want to pay for Barry’s rectal prolapse surgery, which had been caused because she didn’t worm him. Barry has had BOAS surgery, and a mast cell tumour removed at six months old; he has severe food allergies and has to take probiotics daily and be on a specialist diet. His poor breeding has resulted in luxating patellas (knee caps) due to no knee groove developing, so he has had one knee replacement and will have the next in October. He is the sweetest, friendliest, happiest dog, but do I think we should breed more Barrys? No. I rescued Penny, my Pug puppy, after she was dumped in a pub because she had gone blind and was running in circles. Penny had hydrocephalus, a congenital disorder causing ﬂuid to accumulate in the brain, which is associated with brachycephalics and their domed skulls. Despite our best efforts, her symptoms worsened. Surgery often can help, but these dogs usually go on to live with chronic pain and seizures. After speaking to neurology specialists, we had to make the devastating decision to put her to sleep. Should we breed more Pennys? No. I could list examples of patients and rescue cases all day. Owners will regularly tell me when they get a bracycephalic that the breeder said it doesn’t have BOAS. The truth is, if you buy or rescue a ﬂat-faced dog, the chances are the vast majority will have BOAS – it is just the severity that varies. I know there are some breeders out there selecting for longer muzzles and bigger nares, which is wonderful, but the reality is we need to breed out brachycephalics all together, and must stop trying to ﬁnd loopholes to make ourselves feel better for choosing a breed for its looks and not its health. The cost of caring for these dogs can be astronomical, with good-quality insurance often starting upwards of £140 a month for a puppy. It may seem harsh, but I think it is justiﬁably so, as the insurers know they will be paying out a lot, and that owners have selected a breed to have features that encourage disease and come at a premium. If your heart is set on a breed, especially a brachycephalic, then contact rescue centres, as they often have them given in, the rate of rehoming linked to their health and ﬁnancial demands. My advice, however, remains: never underestimate the ﬁnancial and lifestyle implications that come with any dog, but especially a brachy! Wilma is a wonderful dog, and we are lucky enough to be in a position where, with my work, she can receive the medical care and surgeries she undoubtedly will require in the future. I will always be on edge about her developing disc disease and suddenly losing the use of her back legs, and, just like Barry, we will be keeping her out of the sun and inside on hot days to avoid her overheating. I feel an element of guilt walking her and Barry, and wonder if people will see them and be encouraged to get a brachy. When people approach to compliment them, I always point to my Scottish Terrier-Cairn Terrier cross, Norman, and say he is just as cute and friendly, has a nose, farts less, and is a much healthier dog! THINK TWICEThere will undoubtedly be more Wilmas and her puppies in the future, but I hope stories like hers will inspire people to think twice about funding the breeding of these dogs. I promise you, no matter what the breed or appearance, when you love a dog and it loves you back, that is all the character you need.Being a trustee for Jack’s Giant Journey, I cannot emphasise enough: adopt from the UK, don’t shop. As Niki Roe always says: our goal is to one day not need a rescue centre because every dog will have a home. And for myself, I would love to see the day when the pets I treat are not ill because of how a human designed them. PJack’s Giant Journey is a dog rescue based in Berkshire and Oxfordshire. Inspired by Jack, a dog who was left for dead but pulled through when all hope seemed lost, the group believes that rescue is far better for the universe than supporting puppy farms. Its mission is to give every dog a second chance at life and ﬁnd them a loving forever home. They are passionate about rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, and work tirelessly to ensure they receive the love and care they deserve. Find out more at www.jacksgiantjourney.com

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Words BEVERLEY CUDDYy Facebook newsfeed seemed to be ﬁ lled with distressing posts. “My girl was spayed yesterday – unfortunately, she died last night.”“This morning, at 2.30am, Xena passed away after being spayed. According to the vet, Xena died from internal bleeding.”Vet Times reported that some vets had come to “dread” Bully XL surgeries because of bleeding problems. But despite these fears, Defra was not allowing anyone to delay neutering on health grounds. BVA junior vice-president Elizabeth Mullineaux was concerned, but said there was no current scientiﬁ c evidence available to suggest XL Bullies were at a greater risk than any other type of dog.“All surgery comes with some degree of uncertainty; however, XL Bully owners should be reassured that neutering healthy animals is very routine and, in most cases, will be without complication.”Members of the Ofﬁ cial Bully Collective were not reassured. I spoke to Samantha Hibbit, who had collected many distressing case histories. She said, “Two of the females owned by Katie Peters, one of our own team, had catastrophic internal bleeding post neuter. We knew both dogs had full pre-op bloods, which showed no prior coagulation issues.“The ﬁ rst female had a lot of bleeding during the spay, but it was controlled; the second dog had a large bleed, which vets said ‘was coming from everywhere’. That dog ended up with multiple surgeries, as each time, the vets thought it was controlled only for her abdomen to reﬁ ll with blood. “Both were sent home very late in the evening. During the early hours of the next morning, the owner noticed blood all over her living-room ﬂ oor. ON A KNIFE EDGE“The ﬁ rst dog to be spayed had suffered a massive bleed. They had to carry the dog to the car and rush to an out-of-hours vet. The dog required round-the-clock care to save her life.” The vet bills for neutering these two dogs came to close to £5,000 because of all the complications.Samantha told me that a worryingly large number of Bullies had lost their lives; other owners had faced massive bills from treating unusual complications caused by bleeding problems. XL BLEEDERSShe said, “During my research, I’ve spoken to a very large number of Bully owners and vets, and I noticed a pattern. Pre-operation blood coagulation testing always seemed OK – however, prolonged blood testing seemed to show that the blood clotting was then breaking down.“It sounded very similar to ﬁ brinolytic syndrome, which affects up to 30 per cent of Greyhounds (known to vets as ‘Greyhound bleeders’). “Fibrin encases blood clots to hold them in place. But with this syndrome, the ﬁ brin then breaks down prematurely, enabling the clots to move, causing bleeding and extensive bruising. Vets routinely give Greyhounds something called tranexamic acid (TXA) before surgery to counter this. “The veterinary practice that had operated on our team member’s dogs offered to give us a signed document supporting the use of 16Dogs Today July 2024Bully XLblood-loss mysteryThe law forces all Bully XLs to be neutered, but when people started reporting horriﬁ c problems with the surgery, owners were understandably terriﬁ ed. Why were so many dogs dying or suffering serious complications?MJuly 2024 Dogs Today17

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18 Dogs Today July 2024tranexamic acid before all future Bully XL surgeries. Tranexamic acid is readily available and affordable. We have circulated this information as fast as we could within the Bully community, and we are delighted to report that numerous vets now say they won’t perform Bully XL neuters without a course of tranexamic acid. “We think this has already saved hundreds of Bullies. We’ve reached out to genetic testing companies, such as Embark and Wisdom Panel, in the hopes that they’ll provide some genetic testing soon.” Amazing work from the Ofﬁcial Bully Collective!Dr Ashleigh Howells was the vet who operated on Katie Peter’s dogs. She has created a statement (partially reproduced here) that could be shown to other vets. Ashleigh told us, “As a clinic, we have seen a huge number of XL Bully castrates and spays, and while many have been successful, there has been many unexplainable complications. We have found that during the surgery, they tend to bleed a lot more; this is visible at all points of the surgery, in the skin layer, the fat layer and just a general ‘ooze’. DEADLINE PRESSURES“After the surgery, we initially noticed excessive bruising even in our castrates, which tend to be far less complicated surgeries, although it seems that this has reduced with use of tranexamic acid. There have also been multiple spays that have returned to us with post-operative bleeds that we have had to go back into surgery to resolve. This has led to multiple owners having to spend huge amounts of money on overnight hospitalisations. “Unfortunately, not all the dogs have made it. This may be partially due to the spays being done at the incorrect time in the dog’s cycle – we usually recommend spaying three months after a season; however, due to the time pressure put on owners to get dogs neutered, many have been done outside of this time frame.“However, there is also speculation that XL Bullies have a clotting disorder. This hasn’t been proven yet, but is something that warrants some research. The pressure from the deadline alongside the high complication risk that we have experienced has put a huge amount of stress on the whole veterinary team, all of which could easily have been avoided.” Pby Dr Ashleigh Howells, The Vet NottinghamWhat is it?Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a human anti-thrombolytic drug used to help heavy bleeding during periods and nosebleeds. It comes in injectable and tablet formation.Why are The Vet Nottingham recommending it?There have been some reports online of XL Bullies having a clotting disorder, although this has not been proven in most cases, we have had many unexplained ‘oozing’ during surgery.TXA can help to prevent delayed post-operative bleeding (seen in Greyhounds) by promoting clotting.Neutering, especially spays, although a routine procedure, is still a major abdominal surgery where we ligate major blood vessels. If we can prevent these from bleeding post-operatively and during the operation, we can reduce anaesthetic time and decrease the risk to pets.Using TXA should also reduce the need to go back in for revision surgery – which if it is done at an emergency vet’s, can cost owners thousands and put the dog’s life at risk.It also reduces the inﬂammatory response following tissue injury or surgery, and therefore could reduce the amount of swelling and pain in the area.A review of randomised trials using tranexamic acid in humans undergoing elective surgery showed tranexamic acid treatment led to a reduction in transfusion requirements by a third over non-treated controls; and in trauma patients, all-cause mortality rate and bleeding-associated deaths were signiﬁcantly lower in tranexamic acid-treated patients.How do we use it?It may take up to 24 hours to work, therefore if we have the chance, we can use it prior to surgery.It’s useful for dogs with a breed disposition to delayed post-operative bleeding, such as sighthounds, and possibly XL Bullies.The dose range is from about 10mg/kg-30mg/kg from the literature. This is taken three times daily. The ﬁrst dose should be taken the day before major surgery, and then on the day of the surgery, and then (as long as no complications arise) for four days after.TRANEXAMIC ACID FOR XL BULLY SPAYSTwo different dogs castrated on the same date (above): with tranexamic acid 24 hours pre-op (left) and without tranexamic acid (right).July 2024 Dogs Today19

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20 Dogs Today July 2024 EXPERT ADVICEAnimal welfare charities and veterinary organisations are teaming up to call on pet owners to get clued up ahead of the warm weather, and make sure they’re armed with the very best knowledge to keep their pets safe with temperatures predicted to rise.Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Blue Cross, British Parking Association, British Veterinary Association (BVA), the Kennel Club, the Mayhew Animal Home, National Animal Welfare Trust, the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), PDSA, RSPCA, Scottish SPCA, #TeamOtisUK, Woodgreen Pets Charity and RVC VetCompass are working together to offer vital advice to pet owners…With many pet owners planning sunny dog walks and family days out, pet experts have revealed the most effective ways to cool down hot dogs after exercise, before they’re put back in a vehicle or house. Research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) showed that many dogs continue to get hotter after exercise has ﬁnished, highlighting an urgent need for owners to proactively cool their dogs after exercise, if there is a risk of overheating.Emily Hall, lecturer and lead researcher on canine heatstroke at the Royal Veterinary College, said, “Dogs die in hot cars and on hot walks, but heatstroke can be prevented, so if in doubt, don’t go out. If there is concern a dog has overheated, our advice is: cool ﬁrst, transport second.Quick questionHeatstroke: how can you mitigate the risks?Do you have a problem you’d like answered by an expert? Or do you personal experience of the issue? Email your question to enquiries@ July 2024 Dogs Today 21 “The longer we allow our dogs to remain hot, the more damage occurs, increasing the risk of heatstroke fatalities. If you observe early signs of your dog overheating, simply stopping exercise may not be enough, which is why we’re asking owners to think ahead and plan how they would cool their dogs in an emergency, especially before putting them into a vehicle or back in the home.”HOW TO COOL YOUR DOG AFTER EXERCISE■Move the dog into shade and encourage rest■Call your vet immediately if you become concerned■Cool your dog using water; use whatever water you have available (provided it is cooler than the dog), and pour the water over their body, avoiding the head. Ideally, combine with air movement, such as a handheld fan■For healthy dogs, so those younger and ﬁtter, without breathing problems, ﬂat faces (brachycephaly), or heart disease, paddling or lying in water is good. Options include a paddling pool, lake or stream (if the landowner allows), but always allow your dog to leave the water if they want to. Ensure both dog and owner safety by avoiding deep water and don’t let the dog drink sea water.■Before placing the dog inside, prepare the vehicle by lowering windows, putting on the air conditioning and allowing seats (if they’re leather) to cool down■Make sure your dog is suitably restrained within the vehicle■If possible, ensure a continuous air movement over the dog to allow ongoing cooling if they remain overheatedEsme Wheeler, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA said, “With a spell of warm weather approaching, many of us will be planning some great dog walks or trips to the park or beach – and we all want to enjoy quality time with our pets.“But it’s really important that we arm ourselves with the right knowledge and techniques to keep our pets cool and help them to cool down after exercise, to avoid the devastating consequences of heatstroke – which can develop really quickly.“We’re encouraging owners to do some ‘pet homework’ now to prepare as much as they can for the heat and keep their animals safe, and to always remember when it comes to pets in hot weather: if in doubt, don’t go out.”Shock polling from the RSPCA has also revealed that only 58% of people would not leave their dog inside a car on a warm day, meaning more than 40% may potentially put their pets at risk during bouts of hot weather.PLAN AHEAD■Ask your vet for a weight-check to see if your dog is a healthy weight■Consider how much time your dog may be spending inside a vehicle and how you would keep them cool if you were stuck in trafﬁc or broke down■If appropriate, research trusted local pet-sitting businesses in case you need to leave your dog at home in the cool instead of taking them along for a family day out in hot weather■Plan #DogsAtDawn and #DogsAtDusk walks to stay safe and encourage others to walk their dogs during the cooler times of day (don’t forget to post your selﬁes to social media and tag @RSPCA_Ofﬁcial)■Start checking out your home for the coolest areas, so you can put things in place to safely and comfortably leave your dog when you have to pop out – don’t leave pets in conservatories or rooms in direct sunlight■Check with your groomer when your dog’s next appointment is (they may be getting booked up!) and be sure to discuss the best grooming plan for your dog’s coat type during hot weather■Place extra water bowls in different rooms in the house and in the garden to encourage your dog to stay hydrated■Dig out any puzzle feeders or Kong toys that can be used for frozen treats; make ahead of time and keep them in the freezer■Get into the habit of checking the upcoming forecast every day and take particular notice of the ‘feels like’ temperature – don’t just look for the sun icon■During heat-alert periods, take extra care, as the risk of heatstroke signiﬁcantly increases for both people and dogsou want advice from someone with dogstodaymagazine.co.ukPhotos posed by models

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22 Dogs Today July 2024 Esme added, “Owners should never leave their pet in a car on a warm day, which is a huge risk to pets at this time of year. Pet owners can all do their bit to be prepared and spread the word. There’s plenty that people can be doing now, from getting into the habit of checking the temperature forecast every day to knowing how to best cool down a dog after a walk; or changing their daily routine during hot spells, and knowing how to act in the event of heatstroke.”The groups are also highlighting what factors may put individual animals at heightened risk of heatstroke, including their age, weight, coat type and dogs with features that impact their breathing, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and other ﬂat-faced breeds.Esme added, “We all want to keep our pets safe in the heat, but some owners may not realise that even at lower temperatures in the teens (celsius), animals are still very much at risk. Evidence from RVC research showed the average ‘feels like’ temperature for dogs to develop heatstroke was just 16.9°C.“All animals are at risk; but it’s important owners understand other factors that could increase that risk even further. Taking the time now to identify how to minimise your dog’s may be at risk, could just save their life.” PSIGNS OF MILD HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS■Excessive panting that doesn’t stop when the dog rests■Difﬁculty breathing, especially if there is unusual noise or any blue/grey tinge to gums or tongue■Unusual tiredness – becoming tired sooner than normal■Changes in behaviour – lying down more frequently and stumbling■Less keen to playPROGRESSING TO MORE SEVERE ILLNESS (HEATSTROKE) IF UNTREATED■Difﬁculty breathing, especially if there is unusual noise or any blue/grey tinge to the gums or tongue■Diarrhoea and/or vomiting■Seizures■Bleeding under the skin■Collapsed and unresponsiveWHAT TO DO IF YOU SPOT THESE SIGNS■Stop them from exercising immediately■Move them into the shade■Give them cold water to drink but don’t force them■Wet the dog thoroughly, avoiding the head, by pouring water over them and ensure air movement using a fan or air-conditioning; water just needs to be cooler than the dog to be effective■Call your vet for advice immediately, but ensure you cool the dog while waiting to take them for veterinary careQuick questionIllustration by Kevin BrockbankPhoto posed by a modelMade with highly digestible goats’ milk, used by breeders for years.The healthy way to serve a Puppuccino to your dog.How to use: Pour desired amount of milk from the carton into a suitable cup. Carefully whisk until frothy, serve to your pooch holding the cup for them to drink from. For best results froth with a battery powered mini whisk.A pawfect treat! Newdogs CAN drink Toplife Milk!Yes!est. 2004celebrating20yearsww.toplifeformula.comand al god pet storesAvailable fromDOG TRAINER OF THE MONTH

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24 Dogs Today July 2024 EXPERT ADVICEAnimal enthusiast and cycling expert Ben Mercer from Leisure Lakes Bikes offers insight into how to properly train your pet for cycling and discusses innovative solutions that make it easier and safer for pets to join their owners on two wheels.With a rising trend of pet ownership and a growing interest in active lifestyles, more cyclists are bringing their furry friends along for the ride. However, cycling with a pet requires careful planning, training and consideration for the safety and well-being of both you and your pet. CYCLE TRAININGBefore hitting the trail with your pet, it’s essential to ensure they are comfortable with the idea of running alongside a bicycle. For dogs, this often involves leash training and teaching basic commands such as ‘heel’ and ‘stay’. Start by walking your dog next to your bike, gradually increasing the distance and speed as they become more conﬁdent.Introduce your pet to the sights and sounds they’ll encounter while cycling, such as walkers, joggers and other cyclists. Reward positive behaviour with treats and praise to reinforce training. It’s crucial to gauge your pet’s ﬁtness level and choose routes that are suitable for their age, breed and physical condition.Investing in specialised equipment designed for cycling with pets, such as hands-free leashes or harnesses that attach securely to your bike, could make life much easier when in the saddle. These accessories provide added control and stability, allowing you to focus on the road ahead while keeping your pet safe.Photos posed by modelsQuick questionHow can I cycle with my dog?July 2024 Dogs Today 25 TRAVELLING DEVELOPMENTSAs the popularity of cycling with pets grows, so does the demand for solutions to make the experience more enjoyable for both owners and their animals. One such innovation is the development of bike attachments speciﬁcally designed for transporting pets.One example is the pet bike trailer, a lightweight and aerodynamic carrier that attaches to the rear of your bicycle. These trailers provide a comfortable and secure space for pets to ride, complete with mesh windows for ventilation and visibility. Some models even feature suspension systems to absorb bumps and shocks, ensuring a smooth ride for your furry friend. Another option is the classic pet basket, which mounts on to your bike’s handlebars or rear rack. These baskets are ideal for smaller pets or those who prefer to ride in an elevated position, allowing them to enjoy the scenery while staying close to their owner.For larger dogs, there are bike-mounted carriers that resemble sidecars, providing a stable platform for your pet to ride alongside you. These carriers typically feature safety harnesses and padded interiors to keep pets secure and comfortable during the journey. PDon’t forget about safety!While cycling with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, it’s essential to always put safety ﬁrst. Here are some tips to ensure a safe ride for you and your furry companion:■Always secure your pet with a leash or harness designed for cycling. Ensure that the attachments are sturdy and properly ﬁtted to prevent your pet from becoming tangled or falling.■Choose routes that are suitable for pets, with wide shoulders or designated bike paths. ■Ensure the cycle trail you use is suitable by riding it alone ﬁrst. Only take your dog along once you are sure it is safe. ■Bring plenty of water for both you and your pet. Stop frequently for water breaks and allow your pet to rest and cool down as needed.■Pay attention to your pet’s behaviour during the ride. If they show signs of fatigue, such as excessive panting or lagging, stop.■Never cycle in hot weather with your dog. Even in cooler weather, check the trail/pavement temperature before cycling. ■Paw wax or protective booties can prevent injuries.By following these tips and incorporating training and innovative equipment into your cycling routine, you can enjoy the great outdoors with your pet while keeping them safe and happy. Remember to start slowly, be patient, and always prioritise the well-being of your furry companion.

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26 Dogs Today July 2024 As QR code dog tags become more popular, Brits need to be aware of the potential legal risks that come with their use, an expert has warned. Marc Porcar, a QR code technology expert and CEO of QR Code Generator PRO SL, reveals the hidden legal issues and advises pet owners on how to stay compliant with UK law – or face penalties.EXPERT ADVICEAccording to the Control of Dogs Order 1992, every dog in a public place must wear a collar displaying the owner’s name and address. There are some exceptions for certain working dogs, such as police dogs, sheep dogs and guide dogs.Failing to meet this requirement can lead to serious consequences, as Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator warns. “Dog owners who break this law can face ﬁnes, and in extreme cases, even up to six months in prison. Local authorities can seize and dispose of dogs that aren’t properly ‘labelled’, and owners might have to pay for the costs of their dog’s detention.“QR code dog tags, which are popular on sites like Etsy and Amazon, usually feature a QR code that links to a webpage with the owner’s information. However, these tags by themselves don’t meet the legal requirements.“While these tags are very useful and can store a lot of information, such as the dog’s medical history, dietary needs and emergency contacts, they shouldn’t replace the traditional engraved tags. To comply with the law, QR code tags should be used as an additional feature, as it’s vital that your dog’s tag still displays your name and address alongside this.” Privacy is another important consideration for those using QR codes on their dog’s tag. Marc says, “You should be careful about sharing your personal information in QR codes, as there’s unfortunately always a risk that it’ll be misused by strangers. Think about how much info you want to include in the code and whether you’d be comfortable with anyone being able to access that information.“Practical issues can also come up if the QR code can’t be scanned due to poor phone connectivity, damage to the tag, or if the ﬁnder doesn’t have a smartphone. This is another reason why dog owners should make sure their dog tag has their name and address engraved as a backup.“However, QR codes do offer plenty of beneﬁts for pet owners, with some companies offering email or phone notiﬁcations when the tag is scanned. These tags can also be updated easily with new information, unlike traditional engraved tags, allowing pet owners to keep their details current without needing to repurchase. “While QR code dog tags are a fantastic tech advance, they must be used along with traditional tags to comply with UK law. Pet owners should make sure their dog tag is legally compliant to avoid having their dog conﬁscated or being handed a hefty ﬁne.” PPhoto posed by a modelDo QR dog tags comply with the law?Quick questionInsurance for your dogs, cats, wedding and more with our wide range of policies.YOUR EXTENDED FAMILY. INSURED.PROTECT THE SPECIAL THINGSVISIT THEINSURANCEEMPORIUM.CO.UK/DT99call 03300 243 980 today!Lifestyle Policy Limited is an appointed representative of The Equine and Livestock Insurance Company Limited. The Insurance Emporium ® is a trading name of The Equine and Livestock Insurance Company Limited (registered in England and Wales no: 294940) which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority no: 202748.PROMO CODE: WOOF99Offer ends 31/12/2024 and is not available in conjunction with any other promo code.SPECIAL 5% OFF PET INSURANCEBOVEYCASTLE.COM | 01647 445000 NORTH BOVEY, DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK, DEVON, TQ13 8REHOTEL | DINING | LUXURY LODGES | GOLF | SPA | ACTIVITIESYr dog-iyDaor adu awai...

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Words HEATHER STEVENSRole modelsCanine functional characters – the missing part of your dog’s behaviour puzzle!unctional characters were ﬁ rst observed by the renowned wolf biologist Dr Gordon Haber during the 40-plus years he studied wild wolves in Alaska, and these same characters can be seen in dogs too.An individual’s functional character explains their functional purpose within a social group, and the social interactions and dynamics of any group of canines. Having different roles within a group enables a large number of individuals to act and hunt in a coherent way that beneﬁ ts the well-being and safety of all. Change the group, or an individual, and you change the dynamics.Obviously, these days, our domesticated dogs don’t need to hunt as a group, but they are, nevertheless, still hard-wired to live in groups and interact with each other just as they would have done thousands of years ago. In the words of the brilliant Dr Isla Fishburn, “Dogs are an ancient canine living in a modern world”.It is my belief that dogs need to be understood at a deeper level and that understanding their functional character can help us do this more easily. Functional characters are not speciﬁ c to a breed or breed type – they are universal.To help with a brief understanding of functional characters, we’ll take a little look at the canine event team that help me at my workshops.F28Dogs Today July 2024■PEACEKEEPERThese are very appeasing individuals whose role is to break up conﬂ ict, or potential conﬂ ict, between other individuals in the group, thus maintaining stability in the energy of a group.Our event team has just one peacekeeper at present, which is Ellie the Ridgeback. At a workshop in 2023, Ellie was resting outside of the indoor working area, but when the energy of two individuals inside the work area increased, she jumped over the 3’ fencing and trotted in between them to break it up.■GUIDEWe have three guides in the event team: Sophie (Westie), KD (Stafﬁ e-collie) and Zak (Akita).Guides, also known as decision makers, are ‘priority individuals’ and excellent problem-solvers. They decide what to do, when to do it, where to go, and how long to be there for, and no other functional character has their leading or decision-making ability. Guides can get grumpy if you invade their personal space and can appear stubborn when training, as they like to do things their way!They are aloof, regal and self-preserving, and a great example of this self-preserving nature is from a workshop where a lady came with her three Border Collies - two males and one female. She mentioned that her female would not help pen the sheep once they had been driven down the hillside into the barn. After assessing their functional characters, I told her that the female was a guide and therefore she would not put herself in or near potential danger due to her self-preserving nature.■DEFENDERThere are also three defenders in the event team: Sam (Goldie), Ava (Stafﬁ e-Lab) and Raven (Newﬁ e).The job of defenders is to keep the group safe, laying down their life to protect them if necessary. Female defenders are not as common as males, but they are still often the biggest in a litter and clumsy with it! Like guides, they are good problem-solvers but, unlike guides, can be very tactile.Like overseers, defenders are tremendously tuned in to energy, but these two functional characters do not mix well. In the team, only one of our defenders lives with an overseer, but because of the eight-year age difference, there are mostly no issues with their relationship.July 2024 Dogs Today29■OVERSEER The dog world’s quality controllers, it is the job of overseers to check in with everyone else in the group each day to ensure they’re up to their role. For example, are all the defenders up to protecting the group? Their safety might be compromised if a defender is injured. Are the hunters up to helping ﬁ nd the next meal? An injured or sick hunter may mean no food today!Overseers can be obsessive individuals to live with and their checking-in often resembles bullying, which can elicit a range of responses from other individuals in the group, from a lip lick to growling to ﬂ ooring the overseer.At workshops, we have seen a range of overseers, from young and ﬁ dgety, to mature and extremely mouthy – to the point of trying to shred a jacket! However, these guys can make excellent medical detection dogs because, just like defenders, they are signiﬁ cantly tuned in to energy.Pictured here are overseers Chance and Gus (Newfoundland and German Wirehaired Pointer-Bracco Italiano cross).overseers Chance and Gus (Newfoundland and German Wirehaired Pointer-Bracco Italiano cross).■LONE INDIVIDUAL Sometimes known as a solitary individual, they have a large personal space bubble and an exceedingly small social network! My own lone individual, Wizzi (Patterdale-collie), died 18 months ago and, during his lifetime, I was never able to hug or kiss him, or take him to the vet without a muzzle on. He had just two doggie chums – one that he would play with in any environment, and one that was environment-speciﬁ c. Other than that, he would growl if anyone got near him or made eye contact.

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30Dogs Today July 2024■FOLLOWER These guys make up the majority of the dog world, but not necessarily the majority of every litter. They range from large to small and from conﬁ dent to unconﬁ dent, and are more prone to separation issues. Followers are very tactile and great foodies! However, they are not fast learners and so any training needs to be taken at a slower pace and with more patience than when teaching a guide, hunter or defender.We have a number of followers in the event team and currently these are Freya (Newﬁ e), Milo (JRT), Tali (Rottie), Wilfy (Whippet) and Willow (Lurcher).The role of the follower in a group is to help other functional characters, except the guide. For example, the more fast, agile followers would help the hunters, and the larger and more conﬁ dent individuals would assist the defenders, and so on. The rest of the time, you can ﬁ nd followers on ‘stand-by’ – they are quite happy just chilling with their paws up!■HUNTER There are two hunters in the event team: Margo (Whippet) and Immy (Braco). These guys are slim, conﬁ dent and very movement focused.Generally, hunters can be quite hard to keep weight on and may always look underfed – it’s not unusual for them to go several days without eating. They have a long jobs list, so don’t be surprised if you can’t keep their attention for too long when training!At workshops where we can safely work dogs outside and off-lead, we usually see the hunters on the edge of the ﬁ eld, doing what they do best… hunting!We have a number of followers in the event team and currently these are Freya (Newﬁ e), Milo (JRT), Tali (Rottie), Wilfy (Whippet) and Willow (Lurcher).■NANNY/GUARDIANThis is an ‘associate’ character of the other functional characters and is not seen in an individual until around the age of 18 months. If you have an adolescent or adult dog that gets super animated around puppies, it is likely that you have a nanny/guardian. July 2024 Dogs Today 31 Heather Stevens is the author of Beyond the Breed – the new way to know and understand your dog. She started her life with dogs back in 1962 and has been a dog trainer for over four decades. Heather has competed in various canine disciplines over the years, but now runs CentreBarks, a ﬁve-star dog daycare centre in Richmond, North Yorkshire, in addition to functional character workshops.Heather is an accredited member of the ABTC and CFBA, and a certiﬁed training partner with the Karen Pryor Academy. She is also a reiki master, and a volunteer assessor and trainer for both Dog AID and Wag and Company, and holds a diploma from the Academy of Canine Holistic Science in Canine Nutrition.After being introduced to canine functional characters by Dr Isla Fishburn in 2016, Heather started running workshops to assess them in 2018. Heather is now assisted by seven excellent professionals and a canine event team consisting of 17 dogs.The workshops help to bring the subject to life for so many dog guardians and have proved invaluable to many, helping them to see that they do not own an ‘aggressive’ dog, but one who is merely misunderstood.Workshops are now being booked up and down the country, which is really exciting for the dog world.www.BeyondtheBreed.co.ukwoof@beyondthebreed.co.uk07555 506456Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTokThe photo above shows a lovely example of an observer showing deference to a guide as they both search for hidden treats near to one another. Notice how the tail carriage of the observer (left) is tucked, whereas the guide’s tail is held high.■CHANGING ROLESAlthough dogs have a true functional character based on their functional purpose as a social group animal, the environment, situation and/or group structure can inﬂuence the actions of an individual to show elements of other functional characters. For example, at my dog daycare, we have seen followers, a guide and a defender take on a peacekeeper role when there has not been a peacekeeper in the group.■OBSERVERThe event team also comprises one observer: Bonnie an overseas rescue dog. She has become much more conﬁdent in the last couple of years, but still displays many of the observer traits.Observers are nervous individuals and can appear very scatty with it. They are fearful of new things, dogs and people, and may become really worried about something for no reason – a piece of furniture being moved, for example.In the dog world, these individuals would rarely breed. Puppies produced by a female observer would have underlying conﬁdence issues, irrespective of their own functional character.

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34Dogs Today July 2024If your dog shows signs of worry at any stage, take a little break, go back a step or two and work on those again until your dog’s conﬁ dence builds. Another important factor to consider is your dog’s previous history with muzzles. Some dogs may have never seen one before so you are starting afresh; other dogs may have had to wear a muzzle before in a stressful or unpleasant situation, such as the vet’s or groomer’s. Dogs who have had a negative experience in a muzzle previously may need some extra time rebuilding their conﬁ dence around a muzzle and changing the way they feel about it. Take your time and listen to your dog!POSITIVE INTRODUCTION The ﬁ rst thing we want to do is introduce the muzzle. It’s important to build a positive association straight away, so popping the muzzle on the ﬂ oor and scattering some yummy treats all around is a great way to start. You can also play with your dog’s favourite toys around the muzzle. If your dog is fearful of the muzzle at this stage, and doesn’t want to approach or take the food/play, you may need the support of an accredited force-free trainer to help you.Once your dog is happily snafﬂ ing the treats from around the muzzle, you can drop them a little bit closer. Wait a few seconds before dropping more, to see if your dog chooses to sniff the muzzle and if they do, praise and reward them! Give your dog lots of encouragement any time they choose to approach the muzzle or nudge it with their nose.Repeat this process, but this time with the muzzle held in your hand. Offer them treats whenever they approach the muzzle or put their nose towards it. Do short sessions and don’t move the muzzle towards them or put it on their face just yet – keep it nice and slow!If your dog is happy with the muzzle being held, you can begin to give them their treat in the opening of the muzzle. After feeding them there a couple of times, your dog is likely to put their nose back in, looking for more, and that is the perfect time to reward them in position again.Gradually, move the treat further into the muzzle – if your dog pops their head back out or shows signs of worry, go back a SOME SIGNS OF WORRY OR DISCOMFORT TO LOOK OUT FOR:■Whites of the eyes showing■Lip licking■Avoidance (turning away, moving away or reluctance to engage)■Pawing at the muzzle■Refusing treats■Ears pulled backIDEAS FOR MUZZLE-FRIENDLY TREATS!■Meaty sticks■Cold-pressed pellet food■Squeezy cheese■Dog-safe baby food pouches■No Fuss Fill (great for raw!)■Mashed banana■Liver/salmon paste■Peanut butter (make sure it contains no xylitol; a wooden spoon handle works well to deliver in the muzzle!)Offer them treats whenever they approach the muzzle or put their nose towards it. Do short sessions and don’t move the muzzle towards them or put it on their face just yet – keep it nice and slow!We are The Muzzle Movement. We have a beautiful range ofmuzzles designed by a behaviourist, with dog welfare, comfortand safety in mind. We are passionate about ethical, force-freetraining methods and aim to support dog professionals andguardians with all things muzzle, from appropriate muzzle fit topositive muzzle training.www.themuzzlemovement.com@the.muzzle.movementSecure muzzles which allowdogs to pant and regulatetheir own body temperaturesafely.Expertly designed treat holeto enable easy reward-delivery for training at alltimes.Designed with dogs comfortin mind to ensure they candrink and perform normalbehaviours whilst muzzled.We are The Muzzle Movement. We have a beautiful range ofmuzzles designed by a behaviourist, with dog welfare, comfortand safety in mind. We are passionate about ethical, force-freetraining methods and aim to support dog professionals andguardians with all things muzzle, from appropriate muzzle fit topositive muzzle training.www.themuzzlemovement.com@the.muzzle.movementSecure muzzles which allowdogs to pant and regulatetheir own body temperaturesafely.Expertly designed treat holeto enable easy reward-delivery for training at alltimes.Designed with dogs comfortin mind to ensure they candrink and perform normalbehaviours whilst muzzled.

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36 Dogs Today July 2024couple of steps and progress more slowly. Eventually, you will be able to feed your dog for putting their nose right into the muzzle! Now is a great time to switch to something like liver paste, squeezy cheese or peanut butter on a spoon, to feed through the end of the muzzle. This encourages your dog to keep their nose in there for even longer and builds up a really strong positive association with the muzzle!Keep practising the targeting by holding the muzzle in your hand behind your back and then presenting it in front of your dog. If they put their nose in, reward with a treat and praise them with lots of encouragement! Gradually increase how long your dog keeps their nose in for by waiting just half a second after your dog targets the muzzle before rewarding. Repeat a couple of times, then wait one second, two seconds, three seconds and so on. Your dog will learn that putting their nose in and patiently waiting a few seconds equals a tasty treat in the muzzle! This can continue to be built on until your dog is happy to put their nose in the muzzle for several seconds, and eventually a few minutes. Remember, go at your dog’s pace, and go back a few steps if your dog needs more practice before moving on a stage.MUZZLE GAME You can now start to add in a little movement and play a muzzle-training game. Stand in front of your dog and present the muzzle. Once they have put their nose in, take a couple of small steps backwards and encourage your dog to keep their nose in the muzzle. Reward them with a treat and repeat. Gradually, you will be able to speed up. Take more steps and even change directions, all while your dog keeps moving with you to keep their nose in it! Make sure you use some energy and lots of encouragement to make it fun and playful.By now, your dog should be really happy to see their muzzle, be comfortable to put their nose in and actively choose to keep their nose in it. The next step of muzzle training is to get it safely fastened up – which we will cover in next month’s issue. PIf you have any difﬁculty with muzzle training, seek the advice of an accredited trainer who uses positive reinforcement training methods. We have an in-depth muzzle training guide available on www.themuzzlemovement.com and we are currently developing a comprehensive online muzzle training course, which will be available soon.Annie Dowell-Caffrey MAPDT (01566), IMD and ABTC-ATI is community education and engagement ofﬁcer at the Muzzle Movement. www.themuzzlemovement.comYour dog will learn that putting their nose in and patiently waiting a few seconds equals a tasty treat in the muzzle! www.naturopetfoods.com@naturopetfoodCheck out our NEWcat food range!

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38 Dogs Today July 2024 s one of the best-selling artists of all time, with record sales in excess of 143 million, Katy is no stranger to the spotlight – and neither are her dogs.“Dogs have always been a huge part of my life,” she said. “They go where I go as much as possible, so when I am on TV, they are with me. When I am on a concert stage, they are at the very least in the dressing room and sometimes they join me on stage as well.”There is no doubting that Katy is a huge star, but when it comes to dogs, she is very down to earth – and so are her pets.“I think I have had a special love for dogs since I was a little girl,” she revealed. “We didn’t really have pets because my parents were very active as preachers and we travelled around a lot to take the work to wherever it was needed. They began many new churches. We got to know a lot of people, but we never really had a base during my growing-up years. We never had much money either, so it was an unusual childhood, although I couldn’t say that we were unhappy.“I still liked meeting other people’s pets – and especially dogs. I did not have any idea what I would be doing when I grew up, but I always hoped that one day I might have some dog pals around.”Katy’s success story began when, as a nine-year-old, she started singing lessons.“I really enjoyed that and found that I loved all kinds of music,” I kissed a dog… ...and she liked it! Katy Perry is making up for a dogless childhood by sharing her life with her two best friends, Daisy and NuggetAPhotos © Instagram @katyperryJuly 2024 Dogs Today 39 she said. “I was brought up with religious songs and I still like many of those, but I recognised that there were many other areas of music to explore. When I was 13, I was given a guitar and I learned how to play well enough to be able to play and sing in public.”That was just the beginning and what has happened since has made Katy one of the most famous singers on the entire planet with record-breaking sell-out concerts, huge sales of recordings, a mass following on social media and even her very own Barbie doll.“I started collecting them some time ago and I still have them, lots of them,” she revealed. “Then the makers of Barbie very kindly made one of me and presented it to me. It was a one-off and very, very special. That was such a thrill, totally unexpected. I was very ﬂattered and still have it, of course.”TEENAGE DREAMThe day also dawned when Katy could have dogs at last and has been a proud ‘mum’ since.“My dogs are not only my pals, but pals with each other, even though they are quite different,” said Katy. “They say that you should never work with animals, but lots of people have and very successfully. I once worked with a chimp for a special shoot and that was not a great experience, but dogs are different. Mine are not work mates or there just for photo shoots, they really are part of my family.“Daisy is a German Shepherd and a great character, very loyal and very well behaved. She always looks so lovely, she’s playful, but she has a certain way with her that shows that she is there to look after you instead of it being the other way round.“Then there is Nugget, who is a teacup Poodle. What is a teacup Poodle? Well, it is an informal version of a Toy Poodle, a smaller version, if you like. Nugget is so cute that she gets fan mail and social media followers. She comes on TV with me now and then, and she always gets a great reaction and a rise in fan mail afterwards. She loves every minute of being the centre of attention.”Nugget picked up even more fan mail when she appeared with Katy on an advert for Citi’s Double Cash Card.“I’m not sure if she was appearing with me, or I was appearing with her,” said Katy. “She certainly seemed to enjoy it, but then she enjoys most things. She enjoys being shampooed, having her fur trimmed and generally being fussed over. Like so many dogs, she loves all that attention and afterwards she likes to run around and stand before people to get the compliments.”Katy loves the fact that her dogs are paid compliments.“I think if you do your best for your dogs and love them, it is great when people say nice things about them,” she said. “You want people to love your dog friends just as much as you do and when they compliment how they look or how they behave, it makes you happy to know that you must be doing something right.”Having made up for her dogless childhood, is Katy likely to grow her canine family?“I’m not sure,” she answered. “I think if you have too many dogs, it is harder to let them all know that you love them. On the other hand, they are just so great to be around that it is hard to resist if you meet one that you would just love to take home.“Who knows? We are ﬁne at the moment, but maybe I will meet another who would be great to have in our family and then I will ﬁnd it very difﬁcult to walk away. I am sure that Daisy and Nugget would probably give their permission. So maybe we might add another dog to the family but that will be it – until the next time.” PWords BERNARD BALE“I think if you do your best for your dogs and love them, it is great when people say nice things about them. You want people to love your dog friends just as much as you do and when they compliment how they look or how they behave, it makes you happy to know that you must be doing something right”

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40 Dogs Today July 2024Cognitive bias Is your dog an optimist or a pessimist? Tests can reveal an animal’s emotional state, which has important implications for training and welfare Words TARRYN ROUX Understanding the emotional states of animals is crucial for improving their welfare. One innovative approach that has gained traction in recent years is the use of cognitive bias tests. These tests provide insights into how animals perceive their environment and make decisions based on their emotional states. Adapted from human psychology, cognitive bias tests assess how animals’ emotions inﬂuence their judgements and decision-making. The tests measure whether animals exhibit a positive or negative bias when interpreting novel stimuli, reﬂecting their underlying emotional state. In humans, cognitive biases often reﬂect underlying emotions, such as optimism or pessimism. Similarly, in animals, cognitive biases can indicate positive or negative emotional states.Cognitive bias tests measure systematic deviations in cognition, such as perception, memory or judgement, inﬂuenced by the emotional states of animals. These tests fall into various categories, including:■Judgement biasJudgement bias is based on the idea that emotional states inﬂuence decision-making processes. Originating from studies in human psychology, these tests have become an essential tool in animal behaviour research, offering insights into the underlying affective states of animals.A judgement bias test assesses how animals interpret novel stimuli, revealing their optimism or pessimism. This interpretation reﬂects their current emotional state: animals in positive states tend to make optimistic judgements, while those in negative states tend to make pessimistic judgements. ■Attention biasAn attention bias test measures the tendency of animals to focus more on certain types of stimuli (positive, negative or neutral) depending on their emotional state. Animals in negative states are more likely to pay attention to negative stimuli, whereas those in positive states might focus more on positive or neutral stimuli. Attention bias reﬂects how emotions inﬂuence where attention is directed. In humans, anxiety and fear can cause increased attention to threats, while positive emotions might lead to greater focus on rewards or neutral stimuli. This concept is applied to animals to infer their emotional states by observing their attentional patterns.■Memory biasMemory bias tests are used to understand how animals’ emotional states inﬂuence their memory recall of events or stimuli. They assess how animals recall past experiences based on their emotional state, and they offer insights into how positive or negative emotions affect the way animals remember and interpret past experiences.Animals in positive states may remember positive experiences more vividly, while those in negative states may have a stronger recall of negative events. Memory bias is rooted in the understanding that emotions signiﬁcantly inﬂuence memory processing. In humans, emotions can affect the encoding, storage and retrieval of memories, leading to biased recall of positive or negative experiences. This July 2024 Dogs Today 41 Illustration KEVIN BROCKBANKHere’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform a cognitive bias test on animals, including the necessary preparations, execution and considerations.1 Deﬁne the objectiveDetermine what you aim to assess with the cognitive bias test, such as the impact of environmental enrichment, stressors or welfare interventions on the animal’s emotional state.2 Prepare the environmentCreate a controlled environment where external variables are minimised. This helps ensure that the animal’s responses are due to the cognitive bias test and not other factors.3 Conduct the testIntroduce the novel item. It should be something unusual to the animal, such as a toy bird (if the dog doesn’t know birds).4 Record the responsesObserve and record the animal’s response to the novel item. Responses may include approach behaviour (moving towards the location or object) or avoidance behaviour.5 Analyse the data■Optimistic bias: if the animal approaches the novel item, it indicates a more positive emotional state, interpreting the item as more likely to be associated with a reward.■Pessimistic bias: if the animal avoids the novel item, it indicates a more negative emotional state, interpreting the item as more likely to be associated with a neutral or negative outcome.6 Interpret the results■Environmental factors: consider how the animal’s environment, recent experiences and overall welfare might have inﬂuenced the results.■Individual differences: account for individual variability in responses due to personality, past experiences and baseline emotional states.TEST PERFORMANCE

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42 Dogs Today July 2024concept is extended to animals to explore how their emotional states affect their memory.ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONSEthical considerations in cognitive bias tests are grounded in broader principles of animal welfare and research ethics. These principles include:■Respect for animal welfare: ensuring the physical and psychological well-being of animals used in research.■Minimising harm: reducing pain, stress and discomfort to the greatest extent possible.■Justiﬁcation of use: demonstrating that the use of animals is necessary and that the beneﬁts of the research outweigh potential harms.■Transparency and accountability: maintaining transparency in research methods and being accountable for the ethical treatment of animals.BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATIONCognitive bias tests have a number of applications in behaviour modiﬁcation programmes. They provide an objective measure of animals’ emotional baselines, essential for understanding their initial states before implementing behaviour modiﬁcation programmes. By establishing an TARRYN ROUXTarryn has a deep passion for animal welfare and love for rural Africa. While living in Mozambique for four years, she volunteered at the local animal shelter (MAPS) and worked with many abused and neglected animals that seemed to be unadoptable. Wanting to know more about the behaviour of the animals in her care, she qualiﬁed as a ThinkingPets Puppy School Instructor in 2010 and completed her Coape Diploma in Animal Behaviour in 2013. While living in Malawi, Tarryn ran the Blantyre SPCA where she used her knowledge to implement an enrichment and train-to-adopt programme where the dogs were properly socialised and given basic training to make them more adoptable. Tarryn was also the country manager for Mission Rabies.In 2017, Tarryn returned to South Africa, with her husband and children, three dogs and a cat.Since joining Coape International in April 2018, Tarryn has been an integral part of the team. She manages the company’s social media, is involved in various administrative roles, and serves as the Learning Management System administrator, ensuring that Coape’s online educational platforms run smoothly and effectively. Her extensive experience and passion for animal welfare continue to drive her efforts in enhancing the lives of animals and supporting the community.MEET THE PRACTITIONERS...■Dogs A study conducted on dogs assessed judgement bias by training them to associate one location with a food reward and another with no reward. Dogs in a positive emotional state approached ambiguous locations more readily, suggesting optimism.This method can be used to assess the emotional impact of different housing conditions or enrichment activities in kennels, guiding improvements in shelter management.■PrimatesCognitive bias tests on rhesus macaques revealed that those in more enriched and socially stable environments exhibited more positive biases. This ﬁnding highlights the importance of social stability and enrichment in primate care.These tests can help zoo and sanctuary managers identify and address stressors, improving the welfare of captive primates through targeted interventions.■BirdsA study on European starlings used cognitive bias tests to assess the impact of varying levels of environmental predictability. Birds in predictable environments exhibited more positive biases, indicating reduced stress.For pet bird owners and aviary managers, these insights underscore the importance of consistent routines and environments to enhance bird welfare.CASE STUDIESPhotos posed by modelsWorking from your own photos, Laura Blakely will use the knowledge and skills she has honed over the past 15 years working as a professional artist to create a stunning likeness of your cherished pet. She works with the highest quality oil paints on triple-primed aluminium panels to capture their unique personality in an original painting that you can treasure forever. aure he crce o your ove oe n  euiu o nnLaura Blakely ArtUSTOM PET PORTAITSwww.laurablakelyart.com 07821 544888 laura.blakely.art@gmail.com laurablakelyartTHE ONLY ONEOur Alpha Spirit 'The Only One' rangehas been made using only the bestnatural ingredients to keep your doghealthy and strong. 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44 Dogs Today July 2024animal’s emotional baseline, trainers and behaviourists can tailor interventions to address speciﬁc emotional needs, such as reducing anxiety or enhancing positive engagement, and they can help monitor progress. Regular cognitive bias testing can track changes in emotional states, helping to evaluate the effectiveness of behaviour modiﬁcation strategies and make necessary adjustments.Tests can also be used for designing tailored interventions by revealing individual differences in emotional processing and cognitive biases. Understanding an animal’s cognitive biases allows for individualised training protocols that consider the animal’s emotional responses and cognitive tendencies, and test results can guide interventions that address speciﬁc emotional issues, such as using positive reinforcement to counteract pessimistic biases or enrichment to enhance optimism. Cognitive bias tests assess how environmental and social factors inﬂuence animals’ emotional states, providing insights into necessary modiﬁcations for improved welfare. For example, tests can measure the impact of enrichment on cognitive biases, showing how changes in housing or environmental complexity affect emotional well-being. Cognitive biases can also reveal how social dynamics, such as group housing or isolation, affect emotional states, guiding modiﬁcations to social environments. WELFARE IMPLICATIONS There are many beneﬁts to using cognitive bias tests.■Assessment tool: cognitive bias tests serve as a non-invasive tool to assess the emotional well-being of animals, providing objective data on their welfare.■Environmental enrichment: the tests can identify the positive impact of enrichment activities, guiding the implementation of interventions that promote positive emotional states.■Housing conditions: by revealing the emotional impact of different housing conditions, cognitive bias tests inform best practices for animal care in shelters, farms and laboratories.■Handling and training: understanding how different handling and training methods inﬂuence animals’ emotional states helps develop more humane and effective approaches.Cognitive bias tests provide a valuable window into the emotional states of animals, offering actionable insights for improving animal welfare. By revealing how different conditions and practices affect animals’ perceptions and emotions, these tests help reﬁne care strategies across a variety of settings, from domestic environments to research facilities. Continued research and application of cognitive bias tests hold the promise of advancing our understanding of animal emotions and enhancing their quality of life. PWalks StyleHound●Human●Homewith with with ForBESPOKE CRATES, TAILGATE GUARDS & DOG GUARDSBarjo Dog Crates and Vehicle guards are hand-made here in the UK by our team of highly skilled engineers from the point of order to dispatch. All of the materials we use are the very best available on the market which helps make us stand out from the rest. We take the  me to ensure that every item we produce has the quality and ﬁ nish that makes our customers come back to us  me and  me again. With over 50 years experience we are rated excellent on Trustpilot.www.barjo.co.ukemail: info@barjo.co.uk phone: 01189 890240A unique dog-friendly Welsh castle, conveniently set within a glorious 40 acre country park, with idyllic shaded woodland paths, lakes and oﬀ -lead dog walksExperience dog-friendly Wales atCraig Y Nos Castle“There’s plenty of space to roam freely oﬀ the lead. I won’t get lost, but if I do, their dog-friendly parkland is all fenced in”“Dogs stay free so I can holiday with my owners, and they’ll save on kennel fees!”“In the evening I can keep my owners company in the dog-friendly Patti Bar“Craig y NosCastle has 25 dog friendly en-suites, so my owner has plenty of rooms to choose from”Join our Dog-Friendly Discount Club for free and receive regular discounted Dinner B&B oﬀ ers and our monthly newslettersCall: 01639 731167 or 01639 730205Email: info@craigynoscastle.comwww.dogfriendlywales.comBook now for summer!

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46 Dogs Today July 2024 Helen Currie✓I don’t believe that rescues should be made to take responsibility for the breeders. There is enough pressure on the staff of rehoming centres. The onus should be put on breeders who make a proﬁt out of these “adorable and cute” breeds, not the shelters who are trying to pick up the pieces.Sarah Thompson✗Rescues should stop rehoming dogs whose health is severely compromised by bad breeding practices. While it’s difﬁcult to make such a decision, we must consider the long-term welfare of these animals. Many of these dogs face a lifetime of suffering due to chronic health problems that are the direct result of irresponsible breeding.Photo posed by a modelGreat DebateIf you have an opinion on this subject that is not already covered here, putting ‘Great Debate’ in the subject line. Please limit your response to Emma Judson✓Blanket euthanasia for particular breed types might, on paper, look like a way to reduce suffering if you don’t understand how rescue works or, indeed, how people work. Euthanasia is a PR nightmare for rescues. Look at the number of people who believe handing a stray dog into the local pound or dog warden will absolutely result in that dog being euthanased after seven days, when in fact most dogs in the UK will end up in a rescue, if the pound isn’t also a rescue. Rescues that euthanase dogs, except for severe behavioural issues or incurable, life-threatening health issues, end up receiving abuse from members of the public who don’t understand the full complexity of the situation.A blanket policy for all dogs of a speciﬁc type will result in those dogs being sold on, given away, or dumped. It will not result in them not being bought or bred in the ﬁrst place. We need to push the message harder and louder that extreme brachycephalic breeds are suffering, that suffering is their normal, no matter how much an owner thinks their snorting, snufﬂing dog who can only sleep propped up against the sofa cushions is “just ﬁne”.We need rescues to do this too: don’t use them as advertising; do make it clear that they may well have issues and need special management; don’t rehome them until they’ve had relevant and necessary surgery. We also need to be mindful of the judgement, attitude and tone in discussing brachycephalic breeds that often put owners on the defensive and shut down their interest in listening and understanding, as ultimately it is the dog who suffers in the long run.Should rescues be rehoming brachycephalic dogs?July 2024 Dogs Today47Moira Doig✓I don’t know anyone in rescue who would advocate for euthanasing unless the dog is very unwell. Rescuers spend time and effort ﬁ nding the right homes for dogs with all sorts of issues.Linda Ward?If they need surgery, then no. If they don’t, then yes. There are a lot that live active lives, but some I see being walked really look like they don’t want to be out on a walk.Victoria Salter✓I understand that this is controversial, but it is my personal opinion that yes, rescues and shelters should still rehome brachycephalic dogs. Without rehoming, rescues and shelters would be unable to take and care for dogs in need and, therefore, unable to help them, or at least unable to help as many. Brachycephalic dogs are still dogs and, like any dog, can sometimes be in need. They still deserve as much love as any other dog as individuals. As breeds, I am not keen on brachycephalic breeds, both due to their health issues and personal preference. However, I still love all dogs individually.I fully agree, however, that those breeds should not be bred or bought from breeders, unless (maybe) the breeder is breeding purely out of love and to promote good health. Even then, I would still be an advocate of the “adopt, don’t shop” message. If someone is going to get a dog of a brachycephalic breed, such as a Frenchie, Bulldog or Pug, I would suggest that they consider getting a healthier mix of that breed (a Puggle – Pug-Beagle mix – for example). Whether they choose to get a mixed breed or a purebred, I would absolutely advocate for adopting rather than buying.Eileen Jones✓Absolutely rehome them once any surgical procedures needed to improve their quality of life have been carried out and they have been neutered. What about other breeds with health issues? Cavaliers and Dachshunds, to name just two breeds. I agree 100 per cent with careful advertising without promoting and celebrating the very characteristics that are indicative of their health issues, but never blanket euthanasia.Rik Moran✓Of course rescues should be able to rehome them. It’s not the dog’s fault. To me, it’s the same as rehoming a dog with cropped ears, for example. The dogs haven’t asked to be the way they are and deserve a chance for a decent home.Joel Mitchell✗While it’s a tough stance, I believe rescues should stop rehoming dogs whose health is too compromised by bad breeding. By continuing to rehome these dogs, we’re perpetuating the cycle of suffering and poor health. It’s heartbreaking to see these animals struggle with basic activities like breathing and walking. Instead, rescues should focus on promoting healthier breeds and mixed breeds that don’t face such severe health challenges. This would send a clear message to breeders and potential pet owners that we cannot continue to support the propagation of these issues.Jean Atkinson✓I don’t think blanket euthanasia is the right thing. Current dogs needing homes should be allowed to live their lives and be rehomed if necessary. However, a ban on breeding more of these dogs should be seriously considered.Jo Flanders?Once they have had all surgery required and the potential homes have been warned just how fragile and expensive their new pet might be, then rehome. But new owners must be warned. Those poor little beasts are walking health disasters, and it’s not just their breathing that’s wrong. Often, they have very big bodies on narrow misshapen legs, heart problems, eye problems and spinal issues. Heartbreaking.Caroline King✓Sadly, these dogs are already born into this world. It’s not their fault. Me, being a softy, would have to rehome them. Obviously, if the dog is terminal, then yes, that’s a different story. Pe, email enquiries@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk o 100 words.Next month’s topic: Are you optimistic for further welfare developments under the new Labour governement?Email editorial@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk with your thoughts, putting ‘Great Debate’ in the subject line or write to ‘Great Debate’, Dogs Today, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8AANo Yes MaybeThis month’s result17%66%17%

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48 Dogs Today July 2024 My Dog CrushMany of us have ‘dog crushes’ – soft spots for breeds or types that we love but know we’ll probably never own for lots of terribly sensible reasons. Maybe you don’t have enough hours in the day for the dog you dream of. Perhaps you have a wandering eye and there are just too many dogs to ﬁt into a lifetime. Or you already have a house squashed full of adored allsorts that chose you.In this feature we go through popular dog crushes and take a fresh look at what it would be like to actually live with them.Finnish LapphundJuly 2024 Dogs Today49Say ‘Hei!’ to the Finnish Lapphund – a reindeer herder extraordinaire with a happy spitz smile. CharacterGiven the breed’s long history as a herder and watchdog, their character traits come as no surprise. They are smart, courageous, calm and devoted to their loved ones. 62% of our survey agree that their dog is very in tune with their emotions. Watchful in the home, they are vocal when they deem it necessary to alert their loved ones to something of note – it’s just that their idea of what’s notable might differ from yours! 60% wished they came with “volume control and an off-switch for wooﬁ ng!”One owner told us, “Lapphunds do like the sound of their own voice, and our boy loves to howl. He’ll usually howl to greet you in the morning. But occasionally, he howls in his sleep – and I mean a proper ‘wolf howling at the full moon’ type of howl while he’s fully asleep. It’ll usually last 10 seconds or so and he wakes up afterwards, looking around for the noise that’s just disturbed him!”56% sleep on the ﬂ oor, despite having a bed, as they prefer to be cold. But the rest rather like their home comforts: 39% sleep on the bed and the rest sleep in the bed!Training & exercise40% of our respondents gave their dogs 30-60 minutes of exercise a day, 34% gave more than an hour, and the rest had varied responses. “It depends on the dog and the activity. An hour of nosework is plenty, but one combined hour of walking throughout the day is not enough,” said one person. Another, “Our old boy at 13 needs about half an hour; the young dog at 16 months needs a couple of hours a day.”On walks, pulling on the lead (62%) and (38%) recall came up as problems – and prey drive issues were also reported (65%), particularly squirrels and rabbits. But larger mammals were also mentioned in the survey. There were several reports of Finnish Lapphunds responding to their ancestral instincts. One owner said their dog “rounded up a herd of deer and brought them back to me!” A working breed at heart, the importance of mental stimulation cannot be underestimated. “Decent exercise is very important (deﬁ nitely an hour a day or more), but more important is mental exercise – they love a job,” one breed enthusiast said. In our survey, we had therapy dogs and those who take part in obedience, agility and scentwork. Health60% agreed with the statement that Finnish Lapphunds are the “healthiest dogs they’ve ever owned”. One said, “Breeders haven’t interfered with nature, so they are a natural, ﬁ t and healthy breed, able to do the job they were bred for.” The Kennel Club recommends the breed is DNA tested for prcd-PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), hip tested and eye screened. There is also a DNA test for GSDII (glycogen storage disease type II – also known as Pompe’s disease), which is caused by an enzyme deﬁ ciency that leads to abnormal glucose levels. This devastating condition becomes evident around seven months of age, with vomiting, progressive muscle weakness, exercise intolerance and heart problems. Affected dogs usually die before their second birthday. GSDII is an autosomal-recessive condition, meaning a dog must inherit the abnormal gene from both parents in order to be affected. If only one copy of the gene is inherited (from one parent, not both), the dog is a carrier. Although it will not be ill itself, the dog will pass the gene on to offspring. So testing is very important if this horrible condition is to be eliminated in the breed. Multi-drug resistance sensitivity (MDR1) has been reported in the breed. The Finnish Lapphund Club of Great Britain has information about this, and other issues, on its health page www.ﬁ nnishlapphund-club.co.uk/the-breed/breedhealthOur survey of Finnish Lapphund owners revealed:Lively Labrador?BUY COLLARS, LEADS & HARNESSES

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My Dog CrushOriginsSpitz-type dogs have lived and worked with the semi-nomadic Sami people for thousands of years, guarding and herding reindeer. In modern times, two types emerged as reindeer herders: the squarish, longhaired Finnish Lapphund, which gallops alongside the herd, and the longer-bodied, shorter-haired Lapponian Herder, which trots at a slower pace. As with many pedigree dogs, the Finnish Lapphund was devastated in the Second World War and the breed was almost lost. However, a number were saved, and, thanks to the efforts of Finnish clubs, the breed’s future was secured. The development of the snowmobile reduced the reliance on the dogs, but the Finnish Lapphund is still one of the most popular in its native country, where it is mostly a pet, rather than a working dog, but it has fans across the world. It ﬁ rst arrived in the UK in 1989 and the Finnish Lapphund Club of Great Britain was formed in 1994. Last year, there were 68 Kennel Club registrations, for the breed, so be prepared to go on a waiting list. 50Dogs Today July 2024 ●Loving ●Intelligent ●Stubborn●Friendly ●Playful●Gentle●Independent●Calm ●Strong ●EmpatheticTraitsJuly 2024 Dogs Today51Jane Treasure Ihave always adored dogs and in particular spitz types. When I was a child, my parents had a Norwegian Elkhound and then a Finnish Spitz. My husband, Mark, and I had four Samoyeds. In 2008, we were visiting Helsinki and spotted this beautiful dog sitting quietly with its owner. Mark started chatting with them and found out the dog was a Finnish Lapphund. That was it – love at ﬁ rst sight! As soon as we were back in the UK, we started investigating the breed, but it wasn’t until 2010 that we were ﬁ nally in a position to say yes to a puppy.Welcome to the Treasure family, Miika. Despite proclaiming we would only ever have one at a time, it wasn’t long before we welcomed Emmi and then Jaana. So now we had a pack! Sadly, we lost Miika to lymphoma in March 2021. We then welcomed Riku to the family in October 2022.We are often asked if Finnish Lapphunds are noisy. Well, they can be; however, we have found that all of ours only bark for a reason. For instance, Miika, Emmi and Riku are excellent guard dogs. They will announce when visitors have arrived – and by ‘announce’, I mean ‘bark like crazy’. But as soon as said visitors have been greeted, everyone settles down very quickly and quietly. You may have noticed that Jaana wasn’t on that list – that’s because she is particularly quiet. She rarely barks unless she needs to use the outdoor facilities.Of course, dogs, like people, are all different and the four Lappies we have shared our lives with are individuals albeit with some typical similarities. They are very friendly and will greet visitors with exuberance and strangers with a calm, welcoming attitude. Most Lappies are friendly with other dogs, although sometimes the males can be a little dominant. They are very loving, most enjoying a cuddle until they get too hot. They love to be with you, regardless of what you are doing; they make great supervisors, especially when you are gardening, and some have been known to ‘help’ with horticulture, particularly as puppies.Lappies do have a very strong prey drive – after all, they were originally reindeer herders – so recall training is an absolute must from an early age. We have had a 50/50 success rate with recall training! Emmi and Riku have excellent recall. We have had instances where they have been chasing a deer and have recalled on command. Miika and Jaana, on the other hand… well, let’s just say they come back eventually. We have found the breed to be relatively easy to train (ignoring the above comment). Emmi has her gold KC Good Citizen award, Miika and Jaana silver, and Riku has passed his bronze. Riku has also passed his Scent Work Foundation course and starts bronze in September. Many people with Lappies also have cats; for most, this has worked well, although training will play an important part.We have enjoyed showing our Lappies with varying degrees of success. To keep their wonderful coats looking great, they do need regular grooming. Ours love to be groomed; it’s all part of our weekly routine and involves lots of attention and togetherness.Lappies do enjoy their exercise. Hiking across ﬁ elds, running with the wind in their coat across the beach or simply walking beside us on a leisurely walk around town – all good, all happy. Having a ball to chase give walks an added bonus for Miika and Riku. Jaana is of the opinion that you threw it over there because you didn’t want it brought back!If you are looking to have a Lappy join your family, the best place to start is the two breed clubs, which can offer lots of advice and point you towards reputable breeders.POwner’s viewDirty Dachshund?Dachshund?BUY SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER & SPRAYSJane Treasure with (left to right) Riku, Emmi & Jaana

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My Dog Crush52Dogs Today July 2024 Best Facebook group●Finnish Lapphund Club of Great Britain●Finnish Lapphund Training/Advice/BehaviourTrendy Terrier?BUY BANDANAS & BOW-TIESGrooming advice●“Check the dog daily and groom at least once a week. An easy-to-care-for coat. Make sure you remove dead undercoat when the dog is shedding.”●“In summer, get right to the undercoat to help keep cool. Keep behind the ears knot-free!”●“Do not cut the fur – anywhere!” ●“The right equipment helps: a slicker brush, wide comb and a bristle brush are all you need.”●“Top tip: get down to the skin and get out any loose undercoat quickly when moulting.”●“Undercoat rake once a week – but when they shed it twice a year, it’ll be every day (or every hour!)”●“Don’t bother bathing them; they don’t need it.”●“Teach your puppy from day one to accept being groomed with a little grooming each day.”●“Get your dog used to a blowdryer from puppyhood – it makes grooming in shedding season so much easier!”●“Don’t ever use a Furminator or anything that cuts the fur, as it destroys the easy-care properties of the coat.”What would you change?●“Nothing, they are perfect”●“Recall!”●“Less prey drive, so they are more reliable off-lead”●“Remove their keenness for squirrels!”●“Better recall; less reactivity to cats”●“Bark a little less”●Lumiukko ●Elvis●Floki●Ragnar ●Sir Barkalot●Saaru ●Misteli ●Sisu ●Artu ●ZeldaBest namesJuly 2024 Dogs Today53Love the breed? Shop the breedPlayful PapillonBUY TOYS, TUGS & TREAT HIDERS^ A selection of cards, perfect for fellow Finn fans. £3.99 for a single card (personalisation extra), or £12 for ﬁ ve. From AmberMariesStudio on etsy.com^ A wooden hanging decoration, which can be personalised with a name. £7.75 from TheCraftyGiraffeEtsy on etsy.com^ Ceramic Finnish Lapphund mug. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe. £13.99 from LunaPawsCreatesShop on etsy.com< A set of four shale coasters with rubber feet, engraved with a portrait of a Finnish Lapphund. £35.60 from Printgravings on etsy.comThis Finnish Lapphund weathervane doesn’t always point north! It is crafted from a combination of robust steel and cast iron and is ﬁ nished in black. It can be mounted vertically or horizontally with the bracket supplied. £165.33 from BensCountryGarden on etsy.com^ Customisable crystal bottle-stopper that can be engraved with a name and a picture of your dog. £29.15 from ArtDogKitchen on etsy.com

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56Dogs Today July 2024 Your news & viewsGet in touchWe love to hear your news and views, and see photos of your dogs! Email editorial@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk Write to us at Dogs Today, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8AA SECRET SHAMEI have just received my copy of the June issue and read with horror the article about the police secret kennels. I wanted to sign the petition to get these kennels monitored by an independent welfare team and was upset to ﬁ nd that the petitions site has been closed due to the election. On further reading, it appears that all petitions put on the site before it was closed will not be reopened when the new parliament sits. It also says that you will have to start a new petition from scratch and cannot transfer over to the new petition the 622 signatures that were on the old petition when it was closed.I don’t know if you were aware of this, but I look forward to hearing in your magazine in due course if this will be restarted so that I can add my signature to it. If I had not read your article, I would not have known that this was going on or being allowed to happen. Thank you for a great magazine.Della J ChappellPhoto posed by modelsJoin the debateVoice your opinions on news stories and other topics on our Dogs Today Magazine Facebook page or through our website www.dogstodaymagazine.co.ukTHE DOGTOR IS INMy elderly mum has been suffering from dementia for a few years now. I won’t get into how horrible it was for our entire family, watching her go from a clever, wickedly funny woman to someone who couldn’t even recall our names, or what she was doing minutes earlier. It is a heartbreak that too many families are familiar with. However, a really remarkable thing happened. One of my nieces got a puppy, and on the day she was due to stay with my mum, her usual dog sitter had a small accident and could not make it on time. So, for the ﬁ rst time, she took the pup to mum’s house with her. Until then, she’d avoided bringing him in because he’s still a young pup and very active, and she was afraid he may knock mum over or generally make a mess. And he was a little bit naughty, though he didn’t knock mum over, but that’s not the remarkable thing. My mum loved dogs for her whole life, but as my dad was horribly allergic to pet fur, they could never have one for many years. She thought about getting a dog when he passed away, but soon the ﬁ rst symptoms of dementia appeared and that idea was shelved.The moment mum saw the puppy, my niece saw her entire face light up, and suddenly she was talking about all of her childhood dogs. She had a lot of them! And she remembered all of their names, what breeds or crossbreeds they were, and what they were like. She talked more than she had in months, and if you didn’t know she had dementia, you almost couldn’t tell. It was amazing to see her almost like her old self, even if for just a little bit. Now, my niece never visits without Bertie. It always makes my mum’s day – he does more for her than most of her medication!Eileen BrightPostbagPurr & Mutt can help transform your pet into a work of art with our online and easy to use pet portraits service. We create portraits of all pets including Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Birds, Reptiles, Horses, the list is endless...purrandmutt.comCapture the lovewithPurr & Mutt’sPet PortraitsThe perfect personalised gift! Celebrate your furry friends with unique art, a gift that can be cherished for years to come. Use DOGSTODAY20 for 20% offChoose a design. Upload your photo. It's that easy!Purr & Mutt can help transform your pet into a work of art with our online and easy to use pet portraits service. We create portraits of all pets including Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Birds, Reptiles, Horses, the list is endless...

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58 Dogs Today July 2024 Your news & viewsSophie CarterLuna, my Beagle, goes nuts for her rope tug toy. She can play with it for hours. We joke that we need to build a robot arm to grab the other end, because our arms get tired a lot earlier than she does.Jen WilliamsOur Cockapoo adores her stuffed bunny. She carries it around everywhere she goes. We thought she was going to rip it apart, as she did with most of her stufﬁes as a pup, but she only mouths this one very gently. Olive DaviesMy dog is old school and his one true love are tennis balls. We play fetch every evening. He cannot be left with them unsupervised because he’ll methodically skin them with his front teeth.Charlotte WilsonMum got my Frenchie a chew toy shaped like a donut. It’s her absolute favourite. The money I spent on really high-quality toys, and of course she prefers the squeaky doughnut out of Poundland!Thomas ClarkMy dog is obsessed with his Frisbee. But then again, she’s a Border Collie, so I knew she was going to get obsessed with something! The Frisbee is perfect for her energy level.Sandra ThompsonMy Lab absolutely loves his squeaky rubber bone. It’s the only toy he never gets bored of! He destroys about one a month, and I end up buying an identical one right afterwards. The staff at the pet shop near my home know they can expect me to come in, around the start of each month, to buy a new bone. Once they were so nice, they put one aside for me. Isabella HarrisMy Jack Russell cross has a soft spot for his plush squirrel. He’s had it since he came home with us from rescue.From FacebookSOME OF OUR READERS TALK ABOUT THEIR DOGS’ FAVOURITE TOY...HOT WEATHER WALKSSummer has just started, and already I am seeing people dragging their dogs out during the hottest hours of the day! Twice I’ve seen a dog lying in the shade and refusing to budge, panting while the owner became increasingly angry, as if their poor dogs were trying to spite them! How did they not understand that it was simply too hot to be walking a big, hairy dog in the sun? When I went to point it out, I got told off.I imagine most readers of Dogs Today are already aware of what a risk that is, and therefore I am probably preaching to the choir, but I was so frustrated, I had to say something. Please don’t walk your dog during the hottest hours of the day! It’s simple common sense!Gillian ScottPostbagPhoto posed by modelsPhoto posed by models Our Posh Wash portable shower is designed to be used anywhere, without the need for electricity, batteries, or plug-in adaptors. The unique neoprene jacket has been designed to keep water warm for up to ﬁ ve hoursFor orders over £45 use code dogstoday10 for 10% off.Free tracked delivery for orders over £35 to UK mainland addresses, normally within two business daysIf you are not entirely satisﬁ ed with your portable shower, we offer free returns within 30 daysAssembled by hand at a family-run UK business, bringing carefully selected products to like-minded people throughout the UKVisit our website for the full range of colours & products including shower brushes, towels & change mats/carry bags

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60Dogs Today July 2024 Tea breakName: _________________________________________________________Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Postcode: _________________________Telephone: _____________________________________________________Email address: ___________________________________________________Breed/type of dog: _______________________________________________591210201481715321131618122274196231 12524Gyles Brandreth’s Prize Crossword!Complete the crossword grid, then post your entry to arrive by 1 August 2024 to: July Crossword, Dogs Today, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. The ﬁ rst correct entry drawn after the closing date will win a Kong Shakers Honkers Flamingo dog toy worth £8.99. Available from PurrfectlyYappy.com The judge’s decision is ﬁ nal in all competitions. How to enterPut the kettle on and have a go at our competitions!Quick Clues Across7 (And 8 Across) Such a dog is not rough to the touch (6-6)8 See 7 Across 10 Miniature breed (7)11 Hunting dog follows this (5)12 Slang for ‘credit’ (4)13 Oliver ..., US movie director (5)17 Bunter, perhaps (5)18 A freshwater fish (4)22 French word for ‘dog’ (5)23 Describes a breed from northern US state (7)24 Swallow (6)25 AJ ..., writer (6)Down1 Set apart (7) 2 East Anglian type of terrier (7)3 Infested with fleas? (5)4 Churchmen – Jack Russells? (7)5 Raise dogs (5)6 Rene’s wife in ‘Allo! ‘Allo! (5)9 Variety of shepherd dog (9)14 Type of hound from Helsinki, perhaps (7)15 Making canine noise (7)16 Italian gundog (7)19 Chemicals which burn (5)20 Wild Aussie dog (5)21 Rough-haired terrier from Scotland (5)Cryptic Clues Across7 (And 8 Across) Like one kind of Dachshund: hated his room, possibly (6-6)8 See 7 Across10 Chow Len trained, a small type of dog (7)11 What the terrier goes after is put in the post, we hear (5)12 A short while in the sticks (4)13 Pebble, one on street (5)17 Goat, a liar on the stage? (5)18 Complain there’s something fishy here (4)20 What your favourite pet turns into after a journey through the Chunnel? (5)23 Type of Malamute Alan brings round to beg (7)24 Something eaten by readers? (6)25 Witch heard popular author (6)Down 1 Separate from the others one that’s so unpunctual (7)2 Won rich kind of terrier (7)3 Scratching a lot, like a female dog with head hidden (5)4 Such Jack Russells wear dog collars, presumably (7)5 Oliver the actor holds up black type of dog (5)6 Cavell, for example, is in credit hopefully (5)9 Kind of shepherd dog from Natal and Iona? (9)14 We’re told to put an end to this Spitz (7)15 Mad, like a dog, in Essex (7)16 Italian, turning on one (7)19 A police department’s corrosive substances (5)20 Down under, dog makes noise vanish (5)21 Scottish breed, right, kept by Abel’s brother (5)JUNE SOLUTION Across: 6 Tosa; 7 Cavalier; 9 Stream; 10 She-dog; 11 Snaps; 12 Mastiff; 14 Bergers; 16 Bathe; 19 Cronin; 20 Poodle; 21 Sealyham; 22 Shar. Down: 1 Boston Terrier; 2 Make up; 3 Scamp; 4 Albert; 5 Let off the lead; 8 Vassal; 13 French; 15 Gentle; 17 Arouse; 18 Spume.Crossword, House, 62 High Street, Chobham, House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. The ﬁ rst correct entry drawn after the closing date will win a Kong Shakers Honkers Flamingo dog toy worth £8.99. Available from PurrfectlyYappy.com The judge’s decision is ﬁ nal in all competitions. East Anglian type of terrier (7)Crossword, House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8AA. The ﬁ rst correct entry drawn after the closing date will win a Kong Shakers Honkers Flamingo dog toy worth £8.99. Available from PurrfectlyYappy.com The judge’s decision is ﬁ nal in all competitions. July 2024 Dogs Today61Don’t worry – it’s still dark. Don’t worry – it’s still dark. No need to go to work No need to go to work today. Just stay with me!today. Just stay with me!Winning captionPhoto submitted by Helen Burton via email Staffordshire Bull Terrier & Husky by Tim Rose (www.timrosephotography.co.uk)Isobel DeeleyMay Caption Runners-upCross QuestionCan you guess which breeds Tyler’s parents are? Dad… before you open your eyes, did I tell you how much I love you? It really was the cat’s fault…Jane ClarkeRelax, you’re in safe paws. When you open your eyes, you’ll ﬁ nd steak tastes disgusting and you’ll want to give it to your favourite hypnotherapist…Judy CoxDon’t look dad; naughty bits on BridgertonElspeth CameronThe winning caption will win a K9 Immortals Octopus dog toy worth £12.99 and the person who sends the ﬁ rst correct answer to the Cross Question will win a Kong Shakers Honkers Duck worth £10.99, both available from www. purrfectlyyappy.comEmail your Caption Competition & Cross Question entries together with your contact details to comps@dogstodaymagazine.co.uk or post to: July Competitions, Dogs Today, The Old Print House, 62 High Street, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8AA, to arrive by 1 August 2024Caption this!May Cross Question SolutionRiver’s parents are a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a Husky The ﬁ rst correct answer came from Senga Thorpe +Name that smell: paws or Wotsits?Donna RoxieWhen it’s 4pm on a Saturday, you’ve spent too much time on TikTok and your dog has to interveneDebs DebDo you have a funny pic you’d like us to feature? Please email it to us at comps@dogstodaymagazine.co.ukCan you come up with a witty and amusing caption for this photo? How to enterBaby Brogan & her mum Tinka (Flatcoated Retrievers). Photo submitted by Senga ThorpeWinners of the Cross Question and Caption Competition will win a prize from Purrfectly Yappy

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62Dogs Today July 2024 6644Julywww.foreverhoundstrust.orgPRIORY ROAD ASCOT BERKSHIRE SL5 8RJ01344 882689We are a non-destruction sanctuary for abandoned & unwanted dogsRegistered Charity No. 256728established 1958ecueCharity SpotlightWelcome to Charity Spotlight - a handy reference point for good folk doing great work. We’re helping to raise the proﬁ le of this diverse group and we encourage you to get involved with them, by offering a forever home, fundraising or volunteeringIf you’d like to see your organisation featured in these pages, please call us on 01276 402591 for more detailsNEUTER AND SPAY,NO MORE STRAYSWe neuter and spay thousands of dogs and cats in Romania every yearCharity No: 1172316www.animalsni.ukPayPal email: donations@animalsni.ukwww.animalsni.ukEden Animal Rescue is a registered charity which has been caring for animals since 1995. We started with a small number of people who fostered animals in their own homes. We help and care for neglected or unwanted animals and arrange for the provision of good homes for them. The scale of our work is huge; in an average year we home 400+ cats and kittens and 120 dogs – not to mention rabbits, ferrets and guinea pigs.Eden Animal Rescue is proud of the fact that we have a non-destruct policy and believe that NO healthy animal should ever be put to sleep. We always seek the opinion of our vets and behaviourist and it would be only on their advice that an animal would be euthanised.For many years our busy rescue centre was located near Shap, Cumbria, but in 2016 we moved to a purpose-built centre at Moorlands Head Farm, Newbiggin, Temple Sowerby, Penrith. Our new home has proved to be a wonderful place for our animals – the space, atmosphere and surroundings contribute massively to their wellbeing. As well as welfare needs and behavioural work, we also pay veterinary bills for vaccinations, neutering, any treatment required and microchipping. While an animal is with us, we provide care, companionship and understanding and do all we can to match them to a great new home and owner.Having only a small team of dedicated staff, we rely heavily on the work of our fantastic volunteers. To be able to do the valuable work we do at EAR, we are continuously fundraising and we rely on your support and donations. We really could not do it without your generosity.If you would like to donate to Eden Animal Rescue so we can continue our work, please contribute via BACS transfer using the reference ‘Donation’: Bank Barclays Bank plc Sort Code 20-66-97 Account Name Eden Animal Rescue Account Number 40558877 Follow us on our website & social media: www.edenanimalrescue.org.ukFacebook: Eden.Animal.Rescue Instagram: edenanimalrescueFor adoption enquiries: Email admin@edenanimalrescue.org.uk Phone 01931 716114THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.Registered Charity Number 1117113Charity of the monthEden Animal Rescue July 2024 Dogs Today636644JulyJuly6655As a rescue charity, Rushton helps abandoned, abused and unwanted dogs on a international scale. Rescuing dogs from all over the world. especially the meat trade in Asia and China.Registered Charity in England and Wales No. 1139999Call Now:+44 (0) 1823 49 10 52To rescue, rehabilitate and rehome vulnerable and at risk dogs from YorkshireSaving Yorkshire’s DogsRegistered Charity No 1167291Tel: 07562 986101Email: savingyorkshiresdogs@gmail.comWeb: www.sydrescue.org.ukFind us onWE RESCUE KILL SHELTER AND ABANDONED DOGS FROM ROMANIA AND REHOME THEM IN THE UK AND GERMANYwww.barkingmaddogrescue.co.uk@barkingmaddogrescue @bmdrdogs www.petsavers.org.ukFinding the cures for serious pet illnesses, helping them live longer, healthier livesBecome a Companion & Keep Tails WaggingWith a Regular GiftScottish Charity No. SC006914www.seniorsta yclub.co.ukseniorsta yclub@hotmail.co.ukSenior Staffy ClubOur aims are:www.leicesteranimalaid.org.ukTel 01455 888257Registered Charity No. 242560Rescue and rehoming centre for dogs and catsRegistered Charity No. 1077588We rescue and rehome 100s of dogs and cats in London every year Please help us to help more www.themayhew.org020 8962 8000 Sponsor a puppy from just £1 a week. Visit guidedogs.org.uk/DogsToday A charit y registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).Please contact us or visit our website for more information.Heathway, Colton, Rugeley, Staffs WS15 3LY Tel 0871 560 2282www.bordercollietrustgb.org.ukReg Charity No 1053585 Rescue centre open daily 9-11 am 2-4 pm We rescue and rehome collies and collie crosses throughout the UK. Why not subscribe to our ’Border Collie World’ quarterly magazine? Only £10.00 pa.BORDER COLLIE TRUST GBAS SEEN ON CHANNEL 4woodgreen.org.ukBringing pets and people closer togetherRegistered Charity No. 298348 00526nc0819Smokey Paws provides pet oxygen masks to the ﬁre service.But many more masks are needed. You can donate via www.smokeypaws.co.uk or email info@smokeypaws.co.ukThe next pet saved could be yoursRegistered Charity No. 1077588Help us to help moreWe rescue and rehome 100s of dogs and cats in London every year themayhew.org020 8962 8000We are a small dog and cat rescue that specialises in the rehabilitation of pets who need their second chance at happiness. No matter your age, location or family status PAWS gives everyone a chance to be a part of the rescue story. www.pennineanimalwelfaresociety.orgGreyhounds make great pets★ Lincolnshire Greyhound Trust has been rehoming Greyhounds since 1988★ We have rehomed over 2,300 retired Greyhounds★ Kennels in Lincolnshire, Oxfordshire & Epping Greyhounds since 1988 We have rehomed over 2,300 retired Greyhounds Kennels in Lincolnshire, Oxfordshire & Eppingwww.lincolnshiregreyhoundtrust.co.uk07941 313025kev@lincolnshiregreyhoundtrust.comRAYSTEDERegistered charity no 237696www.raystede.org01825 840252Rescuing and rehoming animals in Sussex

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64Dogs Today July 2024 We are a family-owned business with self-drive narrowboats for weekends and short breaks, and week-long holidays from both bases (Stockton or Warwick). We also have boats available for longer hire periods, when you want to escape and include your canine family member.This is not camping on water, the boats come equipped with everything you need for a relaxing holiday aﬂ oat: fully equipped galley (including fridge and 4 hob gas cooker), a bathroom with a ﬂ ushing toilet, and a shower, plenty of hot water, central heating and a TV for the days you need to catch up with the real world! Don’t forget with narrowboat hire the boat is the holiday – you don’t need to allow for those expensive days out during the week! Our quoted prices INCLUDE diesel and damage waiver (and linen and car parking) – if you are comparing prices with other narrowboat holiday ﬁ rms, make sure you compare like for like!Star ratings for each narrowboat are displayed on the relevant pages, and online availability and reservation is now also a feature, but feel free to phone or email if you would like to discuss your canal holiday plans.www. kateboats.co.uk | Email: enquiries@kateboats.co.uk | Tel: 01926 492968Holiday of the MonthAdvertising featureWant to advertise your business in our classiﬁ ed adverts section?Call Mike McGlynn now on 01276 402591 or send an email to mike@dogstoday magazine.co.ukwww.dogs-holiday.co.ukDogs stay free!Boturnell Farm CottagesHome from home for you and your dogs. If they are relaxed, then you can relax. Every cottage has an enclosed garden for those late night & early morning comfort breaks. PLUS: 8 acres of woods ● Throws for the furniture ● Animal ﬁ rst aid kit Classiﬁ ed advertsHolidays, Charities, Services & ProductsJuly 2024 Dogs Today65Grooming Product of the MonthWelcome to Abbfabb Acadamy, home to the exclusive range of the ﬁ nest quality grooming scissors. I n a world full of various sizes and models of scissors and accessories available coupled with large amounts of information, we really do understand that it is hard to know exactly which dog grooming scissors to invest in. It is at this point I will tell you that you need not look any further. We are extremely proud of the dog grooming scissors we offer to groomers and we believe whole-heartedly in our mission to provide you with the very best dog grooming scissors.Also, as a family owned business since 1990, we are very proud of the expertise we offer where quality and precision is our passion. Plus we are well on the way to becoming a totally eco-friendly company thanks to our continued efforts to reduce any negative impact we may be having on our environment.Advertising featureAbbfabb Grooming ScissorsSee the full collection at www.abbfabbgroomingscissors.comour passion. Plus we are well on the way to becoming a totally eco-friendly company thanks to 6622JulyWestie ReHoming @westierehoming4www.westierehoming.org information@westierehoming.net 0844 879 4260 PO Box 4204, Swindon SN2 9LA UK Westie ReHomingRegistered Charity England & Wales 1108659 Scotland SC045329Westie ReHoming is a charity dedicated to the welfare and rehoming of the West Highland White Terrier. We take in westies needing a new start in life and place them into a suitable home where they will be loved and have their needs met. DedicDedicatDedicatDediced to the ed to the ated to the atWeWest Higst HigWest HigWeWest Highlhlst Highlst Higst Highland and hland hlhland WWhihiWhiWWhithihie te tTTiTiTiidverts6622July

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Dad’s sudden death was hard to process. He had been such a gentle giant of a man; I never appreciated how safe he’d made me feel. All that amazing unconditional love had made me brave – to believe that anything was possible if you tried hard enough.But the fresh, raw grief had to be parked. Elderly Beardie Poppy had been lost by the dog sitter after the funeral. I was desperate to ﬁ nd her. The thought of her being lost and vulnerable, cold and scared was unbearable. We’d been leaﬂ etting locally, and the Liverpool Echo heard about what had happened and sent a reporter. Local radio picked it up, too. Poppy going missing after Dad’s funeral gave this lost-dog story a news angle.We desperately needed news of a sighting and to warn people to phone us and not to approach Poppy. Every day, more and more Beardie friends joined in the search. All our previous dog sitters joined the ranks, too – horriﬁ ed by their ex-colleague’s behaviour. EARLY-MORNING CALLEvery time the phone rang, I jumped, but soon I came to dread it. None of the calls were about Poppy. The publicity reached lots of people, but many of the callers were grief stricken and in shock. Reading the Echo’s story about Poppy was how they discovered my dad had died. I found myself consoling strangers who were sobbing, upset that they’d missed his funeral. I came to realise that my dad had been much loved by many more people than I’d known. It felt like we now had a whole city willing Poppy to be found.It had been ﬁ ve long days and nights with no sightings. Kevin was telling me it was time to give up, to come home, that Poppy was probably long dead. Mum and I weren’t sleeping; we weren’t eating properly. It was just the worst nightmare, but I wasn’t ready to go back home without her.At 4.30am, the phone rang. I was trying to warm up before my next circuit of the ﬁ elds. It was a security guard from one of the factories a couple of ﬁ elds away. Someone had spotted a frightened dog and they’d had our leaﬂ et that said to phone at any time.BLOOD BONDI put our youngest Beardie, Cleo, in the car and set off. Mum was worried about me. “What if it’s a hoax?” she shouted as I slammed the door.It’s no surprise she was feeling paranoid. In the last couple of weeks, the worst possible things had kept happening to us. Why would that stop?I arrived at the industrial estate to ﬁ nd that pretty much everyone from the factory’s night shift had come out to help! There were people in cars corralling Poppy towards me, it was amazing.Poppy, like many dogs that are lost for a few days, had become almost feral. She didn’t recognise me – all people were equally terrifying. However, she did recognise Cleo – and she ran towards her relative.I picked Poppy up with surprising ease. She was very skinny and her fur felt matted. She was covered in cuts and scratches. I felt her sigh and relax in my arms. I will never, ever forget how good it felt. The workers cheered and many of us were crying. They didn’t want a reward, but I still sent them a case of wine to share. I could not have got her back without their help.I loaded all the dogs and Mum in the car and locked up the house a ﬁ nal time. Everyone could ﬁ t into our little house in Sunningdale somehow. Surely, Kevin wouldn’t mind? PIllustration KEVIN BROCKBANK Confessions of a dogaholic66Dogs Today July 2024 He had been such a gentle giant of a man; I never appreciated how safe he’d made me feel. All that amazing unconditional love had made me brave – to believe that anything was possible if you tried hard enough.Lost & found REVOLUTIONARYHEADCOLLARStops dogs pulling on the lead and gives you back control.Life-Changing products for you and your dog!Also available: Collars, Non Slip Leads and Gripper Training Leads oﬀering added security and conﬁdence throughout the winter months.NO MORE PULLING • NO MORE RIDING UP • NO MORE RUBBINGNO MORE COMING OFF • NO MORE DISCOMFORT‘Matching accessories in a selection of colours’ with high quality workmanship and ﬁttings.Endorsed by Dr David Sands BSc PhD CFBA Fellow of the Canine & Feline Behaviour AssociationCall to join the ever growing number of people changing toDogmatic 01952 245330 or visit us at www.dogmatic.org.ukWINNER2020Global100Best Dog Collar Manufacturer 2020 – UK‘PRODUCT I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT’For Dog People by Dog People Because your dog deserves the BESTWinners 2013-2024AWARDED ‘Best Dog Collar Manufacturer 2020-21 - UK’ and Most Innovative Dog Collar Manufacturers 2019

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