Create a winter wonderland for wildlife
24.12.08

Whilst wrapping your presents in the warm indoors and stocking up on food for Christmas, the RSPCA is asking you to spare a thought for those out in the cold over the festive period.

RSPCA Senior Wildlife Scientist, Tim Thomas says: "This time of year can be hard for wildlife. Already we've seen a huge increase in the numbers of hedgehogs admitted to our wildlife centres due to the recent cold spell. The more we can do to help animals through this chilly period the better."

The charity is providing the following tips to make sure garden visitors get through the cold weather.

Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs hibernate between November and mid to late March, so you can help by leaving those lovely piles of leaves that you haven't got round to raking up yet. These are perfect places for nests.

Birds
In winter, birds may have difficulty finding natural foods such as berries, insects, seeds, worms and fruit. Any alternative food you put out during these cold months will help birds survive until the spring.

Birds love the festive left-overs you can't manage, such as crumbled bread, stale cake and biscuits, cheese, cooked rice, and fruit. Nuts of all kinds are welcome but make sure they are not sweetened or salted, and put them in a strong birdfeeder.

Badgers
Although badgers will sleep through much of the most severe weather, they do not hibernate and will continue their nightly forays to enjoy worms and fruit. However, when the ground is frozen they have a tough time finding food. They will certainly enjoy food like lightly cooked meats, cheese, peanuts and fruit.

Squirrels
Squirrels are always thankful of the offer of nuts over winter. Unsweetened and unsalted are the preferred choices this time of year. Hazlenuts, walnuts, and almonds are the favourites, and for an extra treat, why not throw in some chopped apple, carrots, spinach or green beans.

All animals rely on a good supply of fresh, clean water during winter. Not only to drink but in the case of birds, water to bathe in to keep their feathers in tip-top condition to stay warm and dry.

Make sure you clean water bowls and drinkers daily and top up with fresh water, as dirty drinkers can be a major source of disease. Make sure too that there is water available for mammals at ground level as well as at height for the birds.

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The RSPCA is appealing for information after three kittens were found dumped in Aylesbury on Saturday 13 December.
18.12.08

The tabby kittens were discovered inside a cardboard box which had been left in a blue canvas Ikea bag on the doorstep at the Society's shop in Cambridge Street. All three are aged seven to eight weeks old and are healthy.

The kittens were found at about 1.45pm by customers who alerted shop staff. Shop administrator Robyn Barnett took the taped-up box upstairs to open it. She said: "We could feel something moving around but I couldn't believe it when I opened the box and three little pairs of eyes peered up at me. They were very hungry but otherwise OK and we should be able to find new homes for them." The kittens, one of which is longhaired, were named Rag, Tag and Bobtail by staff.

Chief inspector Skinner said: "Whoever left these kittens may have thought they were doing the right thing by leaving them at an RSPCA shop and we do see so many animals which are abandoned in much worse circumstances.

"However, by far the best thing to do is to make sure your pets are neutered to prevent unwanted litters and contact the RSPCA for help if you no longer feel able to care for your animals. This way, we can try to find space in our animal centres for them."

This time of year is especially busy for the RSPCA - more than 50 unwanted dogs and cats per day were taken in by the Society in December 2007.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999.

Those found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to animals could face a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.

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The RSPCA is appealing for information after an iguana was left in a petrol station in High Wycombe on Sunday 7 December.
10.12.08

RSPCA animal collection officer (ACO) Dennis Lovell received a call at 6pm from staff at Esso in New Road. A customer came into the garage and asked if he could leave a box inside while he was fixing his car on the forecourt. Staff were busy serving and thought nothing of it until they looked inside the box some time later. Inside, they found the young female iguana.

ACO Lovell took the iguana to the vet on Monday morning as she had some serious burns to her skin, some of which were recent and others were older injuries. Burns of this type are usually caused by improper housing, when owners, often due to ignorance, use bare, unguarded light bulbs to heat vivariums. Reptiles, attempting to keep warm, then get too close to the bulbs and burn their skin.

The iguana is now receiving veterinary treatment and will stay at a specialist reptile facility to recover.

ACO Lovell said: “We’re hoping that the owner forgot about the iguana and is wondering where he left it. If he did deliberately abandon her there he should realise that it is not acceptable to dump an animal when you can’t be bothered to care for it.

“We do find that people take on exotic animals like reptiles without researching their needs or having any idea of how to care for it properly. They then end up injured, sick or even dead just because their owners either didn’t have the money or knowledge about how to care for them.”

Anyone with information about this incident should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999.

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RSPCA warns of antifreeze dangers
 26.11.08

The RSPCA is warning of the dangers that antifreeze can pose to cats after two died in the village of Yaxley in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, last week.
One of the cats, Millie, returned home on Wednesday, 19 November and was very sick. Her owner took her to a vet, but sadly her health declined and on Thursday she had to be put to sleep. The vet discovered that the two-year-old cat had ingested a toxic substance, possibly antifreeze. The other cat belonged to a neighbour and also died from poisoning on Monday, 17 November.

Antifreeze tastes sweet to cats - but can be fatal
According to veterinary advice, antifreeze tastes sweet to cats and is very attractive to them. Only a small amount can then cause a cat to become very ill and, in many cases, end in fatality. Vets say that owners should look out for symptoms including lack of coordination and disorientation, shaking, vomiting, seizures, excessive thirst, a faster heart rate and rapid breathing. The sooner a cat is taken to a vet, the better its chances are of recovering.

Please take care when using antifreeze
RSPCA Inspector Kat Parfitt said: "We have no reason to believe that there has been a deliberate act here. "However, many people are unaware of the dangers of antifreeze and, especially at this time of year, fill their cars and may just tip the remainder down a drain or in a gutter. "We just want to ask the public to take care when using antifreeze and make sure that none is spilt where animals may have access to it."

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Man Sentenced For Neglect Of Five Ponies
25.11.08

Jayson Stanley (39) was yesterday (24 November) fined £9,800 by Aylesbury Magistrates Court for failing to meet the needs of five ponies, in a case brought by the RSPCA.

Stanley, of Nash Lee Road, Terrick, was also ordered to serve 200 hours of community service after he was found guilty of the offences as the person responsible for the animals. As he was already serving a suspended sentence for another unrelated matter, the court ordered Stanley to serve five days in prison.

The RSPCA was alerted to the ponies’ condition in January 2008. They were being kept on land, without the landowner’s permission, in Halton, near Wendover. A field officer from World Horse Welfare assisted with the case and had seen the ponies earlier in January on land in Stoke Mandeville.

One black and white pony had long, untrimmed hooves and there were two black mares which were extremely underweight, one of which later had to be put to sleep to prevent her from further suffering. There was also a bay which was in foal. There was no water present at the field for them and the horses all had ‘scouring’ or diarrhoea, as well as salmonella. The ponies had dirty and oily coats and were very quiet and subdued. The area they were in was covered in debris and broken glass.

Stanley was found guilty of two offences relating to not meeting his duty of care, including not providing veterinary treatment, to each pony under section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act.

RSPCA inspector Kirsty Hampton said: “The ponies were all in an unacceptable condition and three were in a very poor state.

“Under the Animal Welfare Act, owners must make sure that their animals are adequately cared for. If they fail to do this they can be prosecuted, as in this case.”

The ponies were confiscated into RSPCA care by the court. The bay pony has since given birth to a foal which will also remain in RSPCA care.

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And the winner is....
17.11.08

A young dog from the north-east of England, who turned prematurely grey after being kept in a pen and neglected by his original owners, has won the hearts of the nation to be voted RSPCA Rescue Dog of the Year 2008.

After winning his way through his local heat at the Newcastle & North Northumberland branch, Alfie, a three-year-old Newfoundland, went on to win his regional heat in an online public vote on this website.

He then claimed a triumphant 29 per cent of Sunday Express readers' votes in the grand final, which ran exclusively in the newspaper during the first week of November.

Alfie helps owner Julia on her darkest of days
Proud owner Julia Marsh-Pitt, from Chester-le-Street in County Durham, said: "This is really lovely news, something positive to concentrate on.

"All I've had is bad news for weeks and this is something to really lift me. Everything about Alfie has been positive."

Julia suffers from a rare neurological condition called Cluster Headache, which gives her regular debilitating bouts of prolonged illness.

She is currently awaiting brain surgery, but she credits Alfie with helping her cope with the illness - especially on her darkest days.

Naughty, but nice!
"Alfie's a real character - he knows when to be good and when to be naughty! I wouldn't want him to be good all the time because he wouldn't have his character."

That streak of naughtiness actually ended in Alfie making it snow in the summer - but Julia manages to keep a big smile on her face.

"When he chewed my sun lounger, there were bits of foam covering every piece of the garden. I looked out and thought it had been snowing...in July! He's also had my M&S cushions and my Bertie shoes!

"I would really like this story to encourage people to think about rehoming - there are lots of dogs that need new homes - especially Newfoundlands. And if I can do it with all my ailments, then anyone can."

Rescue dogs really can make loving companions
Commenting on Alfie's incredible story of triumph over adversity, RSPCA director of animal welfare promotion, John Rolls, said: "The great British public have voted Alfie the nation's top dog and he really deserves the accolade.

"The gentle giant is a fabulous example of the loving, caring companions rescue dogs can make.

"There are thousands of dogs waiting for a second chance at rescue centres around the country, so please visit your local centre first if you are considering adding an animal to your family."

Alfie will receive a whole host of prizes as the winner, but probably the best prize he'll get is even more fuss and attention from his family and friends. After all, that's all he ever really wanted!

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Illegal gin traps cause more suffering
12.11.08

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a fox and a cat were both caught in illegal gin traps in two separate incidents in October.

Fox put to sleep to end his suffering:

The fox was discovered on Sunday, 26 October amongst reeds in Wendover Canal, behind Wenwell Close, in Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire. The chain attached to the trap, usually used to anchor them to the ground, had become tangled in the reeds.

The fox was still alive, but the trap had mutilated his back leg. It is thought that he had been there for at least a day and had dragged the trap along on his leg. However, he would not have been able to travel far, so the trap had probably been set nearby.

RSPCA Animal Collection Officer (ACO) Andy Eddy removed the trap, but the leg was too badly damaged and the fox was sadly put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further.

Cat loses leg due to extent of injuries:

A neighbour found Fluff, a female tortoiseshell cat, screaming in agony on Thursday, 23 October in a communal parking/garden area on Woodhall Road in Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire. Unfortunately due to the extent of her injuries, Fluff had to have her leg amputated.

Owner Debi Mackney said: "I just can't believe these devices are still out there and I'm disgusted that someone would put something like this where children play.

"It's been three weeks since it happened now and physically Fluff is managing okay without her leg. I am amazed at how she is getting about.

"Mentally, however, she's a wreck. She's become a totally different cat. She used to be outside all the time, now she doesn't want to leave the house. She's gone from being a very affectionate cat to scared and jumpy. It's very sad."

One of the most harmful traps:

Gin traps are mechanical traps designed to catch an animal by its leg using spring-operated jaws with teeth, or a serrated edge as in both of these cases. The use of gin traps has been illegal in England and Wales since 1958, but some are still being used to catch animals such as rabbits and foxes.

The traps are indiscriminate so domestic animals, like cats, may fall foul of them, but it is illegal to cause any animal to suffer by using the traps. The sale or possession of such traps is not illegal, but the RSPCA wants to make people aware that they can face prosecution by setting a gin trap.

RSPCA Inspector Kirsty Hampton said: "People have to realise that by setting a gin trap they are breaking the law and could be causing animals like this fox and cat to suffer a great deal of pain and distress.

"If you have a gin trap, please do not use it as you could be leaving yourself open to prosecution."

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, anyone found guilty of setting a gin trap which causes unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.
Anyone with any information about either of these incidents is urged to contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line: 0300 1234 999. Calls will be treated in the strictest confidence.

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Measuring animal welfare in the UK
10.11.08

Eight out of 10 people believe that animal welfare is a key priority for a civilised society, according to new figures produced by the RSPCA - compared to just five out of 10 who believed it two years ago.

In addition, almost six out of 10 shoppers are now concerned about animal suffering when buying chicken - as many as those expressing concern about human rights or the environment.

The figures are part of an annual study conducted by the charity to determine how much animals are suffering or being exploited in England and Wales.

"These figures are extremely impressive as they show that the plight of animals is a hot topic at the moment," said David Bowles, the RSPCA's head of external affairs.

"The campaigns led by Jamie Oliver and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall earlier this year mean that higher welfare chicken is literally on the tip of people's tongues."

Areas of major concern
Many figures are not as positive, however, and reveal some areas of major concern.

The number of dog fights being reported to the RSPCA has become 15 times more prevalent - up from 24 to 358 - since 2004.

Despite recent improvements, 85 per cent of chickens bred for meat are still raised in poor conditions, and 62 per cent of eggs are still produced by caged chickens.

Nearly 30,000 reptiles caught in the wild were brought into the UK last year - a fivefold increase since 2000.

At least a fifth of dolphins and porpoises washed up on our beaches are killed by fishing nets.

Around 3,000 primates are used in experiments every year in the UK - and 10,000 in the European Union (EU) - a figure that shows no sign of reducing.

Measuring animal welfare in the UK
The annual report entitled The welfare state: measuring animal welfare in the UK is the RSPCA's unique and groundbreaking snapshot of animal welfare data.

Each of the 'animal welfare indicators' in the report measure a year-on-year change using a system of green, red and amber traffic lights to show whether animal welfare has improved, deteriorated or remained the same.

In the latest 2007 report there are five green lights, five red and 18 amber. There are also five grey lights, which show that at present there is insufficient or no data available to accurately measure the indicator, but where the RSPCA believes there should be.

"While the public are clearly concerned about animal welfare, this report shows that there are many areas in which we need to vastly improve," said David Bowles.

"We've all got an animal welfare footprint - whether we be individuals, governments or organisations - so we need to seize the moment, make the changes that people are crying out for, and ensure that we are the generation that delivers dramatic improvements in the way we treat animals."

We all have an impact on animal welfare. Read the latest report and find out what your Animal Welfare Footprint is at: www.animalwelfarefootprint.com
 

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EU laboratory animal law updates unveiled
07 November 2008

The RSPCA is relieved at the long awaited announcement that European laws regulating the use of animals in research and testing are to be updated.
On Wednesday, 5 November, the European Commission announced its proposals to revise animal experimentation Directive 86/609/EEC, which regulates the use of animals in experiments across the European Union (EU).
The draft revised Directive contains many of the improvements that the RSPCA has taken every opportunity to lobby hard for over many years.

Positive changes for animal welfare
Barney Reed, RSPCA senior scientist, said: "If rigorously implemented, the revised Directive will help ensure that the justification for using animals in experiments is always critically questioned, with more done to replace or avoid their use.
"It will also play a significant role in helping to reduce the suffering and improve the welfare of those laboratory animals still used.
"There is still some way to go before the final wording is agreed. The longer this takes, the more animals will be used without the improved controls this Directive will bring."
Mr Reed added: "The European Commission, the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament must now give the highest priority to establishing the revised law, and the positive changes for animal welfare it can bring, without further delay."

Amongst other things, the RSPCA believes:

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Ethical Shopping – Are you a sheep? ~New survey reveals majority of shoppers only ‘Ethical When Easy’~
Monday 22 September 2008

New research* published today has identified two emerging social groups – EWEs (Ethical When Easy) and COWs (Crusaders of Welfare).

While EWEs do show a desire to be more ethical, they are frequently tempted by special supermarket offers on cheaper standard products such as chicken and give up too quickly if they can't find a welfare friendly option, opting for the standard product - demonstrating that they are more likely to be 'Ethical When Easy'.

Meanwhile COWs are far more committed to their ethical principles. They let their host know they will only eat higher welfare food when eating with friends and grill store managers when they cannot find higher welfare products on-shelf.

The research was carried out to mark RSPCA Freedom Food Farm Animal Week (22-28 September) and measures just how ethical our shopping and eating habits are and how they impact on farm animal welfare.

In spite of the credit crunch, it found that 54% of respondents in the Midlands say that they choose higher welfare eggs, 32% higher welfare labelled chicken and 40% of adults who buy eggs/ chicken stated they are now more likely to let animal welfare influence their choice of food compared to five years ago. These figures, although encouraging, were lower than the national averages.

These trends are tempered by the fact that barriers and temptation can still get in the way of a desire to be more ethical:

• 65% of all respondents (who buy eggs and/or chicken) admitted that they had bought cheaper standard chicken or salmon when tempted by special offers such as Buy One Get One Free (BOGOFS).
• 66% per cent of those who buy eggs/chicken will buy the standard option if they can’t find a higher welfare version of the animal product they are looking for
• A substantial proportion of all respondents who buy eggs/chicken– 79% do not think to check ingredients such as eggs and chicken as ingredients – in spite of a clear trend towards welfare-friendly purchase of whole, boxed eggs

Whilst the research highlights a trend towards Ethical When Easy (EWE) a further small, but seriously committed category was identified – COWs – Crusaders of Welfare. These respondents really show they are prepared to go the extra mile when it comes to farm animal welfare. They will:

• Question restaurants on the provenance of their ingredients (5%)
• They will even go as far as letting their host know they will only eat higher welfare food, when eating at a friend’s house (1%)

Leigh Grant, a spokesperson for the RSPCA’s Freedom Food said: “COWs and EWEs are already making a huge difference by choosing to buy higher welfare eggs and chicken in such numbers. We now need to persuade the EWEs to behave more like COWs and not let their principles slip when confronted with special offers, when buying ready made products and when eating out in restaurants.

“Just by making changes to our shopping and eating habits we can affect the way farm animals are reared. If more people go out of their way to choose or ask for welfare-friendly food such as RSPCA Freedom Food labelled products, more of the 900 plus million animals reared for food each year in the UK will be raised to higher welfare standards, farmers will be rewarded for their efforts and others will be encouraged to follow suit”.

To help raise awareness of the issue during RSPCA Freedom Food Farm Animal Week (22-28 September) shoppers are being given the chance to test their out their own welfare credentials or ‘Farm Animal Footprint’, by visiting www.animalwelfarefootprint.com and participating in a simple quiz.

The interactive quiz will test out how welfare-friendly visitors are in terms of their shopping and eating habits, and provide some easy ways for them to improve.

For more information about the scheme, please visit www.freedomfood.co.uk

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Cat Left Seriously Injured After Disturbing Attack
Wednesday 17 September 2008

The RSPCA is appealing for information about a serious assault which left a cat with serious injuries in Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire, on Monday 8 September.

The brown tabby named Charlie left her home in Weston Road at lunchtime and returned at 4pm that afternoon. She was subdued and she seemed to have a wound in her rear so her owner took her to a vet. Upon examination, the vet discovered that the front of Charlie’s hip bone was fractured and she had also sustained severe internal injuries. Her claws were shredded as if she had tried to escape.

Charlie’s injuries were treated and her internal wounds had to be stitched. The vet said that the injuries could only have been caused by an attack involving something being pushed into the cat’s rear end.

RSPCA inspector Kirsty Hampton said: “This was an absolutely sickening attack which would have caused Charlie a great deal of pain and distress. For someone to be capable of harming an animal in this way is very disturbing and we need to find out who did this.”

Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.

The RSPCA would urgently like to speak to anyone with information about this attack. Please call 0300 1234 999. All calls are treated in confidence.

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RSPCA Pulls Out Of Crufts ~ Urgent change is needed to save the pedigree dog ~
Monday 15 September 2008

The RSPCA has suspended plans for a stand at Crufts and is calling for new measures to tackle the unacceptably high levels of disability, deformity and disease that threaten pedigree dogs.

In the wake of the BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed broadcast last month, the RSPCA has become increasingly concerned about the health and welfare of pedigree dogs - and this includes animals entered into ‘best of breed’ classes in dog shows like Crufts.

In the past, the RSPCA has staffed a stand at Crufts in order to promote general animal welfare issues.

RSPCA chief veterinary adviser Mark Evans said: “Dog shows using current breed standards as the main judging criteria actively encourage both the intentional breeding of deformed and disabled dogs and the inbreeding of closely related animals. There is compelling scientific evidence that the health and welfare of hundreds of thousands of pedigree dogs is seriously compromised as a result. From a dog health and welfare perspective, such shows are fundamentally flawed and do our much loved pedigree dogs no favours. Intentionally breeding deformed and disabled animals is morally unjustifiable and it has to stop.

“We want to see the emphasis shifted away from arbitrary appearance, so that health, welfare and temperament are considered first and foremost. We want to help ensure that pedigree dogs have the best possible chance of being fit, healthy and happy and well suited to the lives they will lead as pets. All those who benefit from pedigree dogs have a collective responsibility to solve what is now a very serious and totally unnecessary animal welfare problem - not just here in the UK, but around the world.”

The RSPCA has commissioned an independent review of the science in this field, and will be discussing its findings with relevant experts and stakeholders later this year. Amongst a raft of specific recommendations, the following themes have been identified as possible ways forward:

 An overhaul of the rules and requirements for pedigree dog registration and competitive dog showing (including breed standards). Health, welfare and temperament should be prioritised over appearance.
 The development and implementation of health and welfare-focused breeding strategies for individual breeds. This should include pro-active steps to increase the genetic diversity of dog breeds.
 More data collection and scientific analysis on causes of disease and death in dogs
 Education, especially of would-be owners, to encourage demand for dogs which have the best possible chance of leading healthy, happy lives as pets.

“We know that hundreds of thousands of dogs are vulnerable to illness, pain, disability and behavioural problems because they’re primarily bred for how they look rather than with health, welfare and temperament in mind,” Mr Evans said.

“If things don’t change pedigree dogs will continue to suffer unnecessarily, and their welfare will continue to decline – this is totally unacceptable and can’t be allowed to happen. Careful breeding with an emphasis on health, welfare, temperament and quality of life is the only way to ensure a positive future for the pedigree dog.”

The RSPCA has also cancelled plans to attend the Discover Dogs show, due to take place in November.

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RSPCA urges clergy to celebrate animals as Church places fresh emphasis on protecting creation
11th September 2008
The RSPCA is calling upon clergy to celebrate animal services with renewed focus this October following a new Church of England initiative to make 'Time for God's Creation'.

Launched in June, the Archbishop of Canterbury and leaders of other denominations called upon Christians throughout England to put the environment at the heart of their worship this autumn.

Oxford theologian the Revd Professor Andrew Linzey said the initiative presented a perfect opportunity for congregations to re-examine their duties towards living creatures.

He said: “It is vital that Christians remember their specific responsibilities towards animals during this welcome renewal of environmental concern. What we call ‘the environment’ or ‘creation’ comprises individual creatures, many of them sentient, who need our care.

“Animal Welfare Sunday falls on 5th October and provides a real opportunity for clergy to organise services that both celebrate God’s creatures and underline the importance of behaving responsibly towards them.”

RSPCA director general Mark Watts said: “Many people tend to think that animal abuse happens at the hands of just a few, but in truth as a society we need to think far more deeply about how our lifestyle impacts on animals and how we may be, directly or indirectly, permitting suffering.

“Faith groups can play an important role. We hope they will seize the moment and take a lead in promoting responsible attitudes towards animals.”

The RSPCA has published a Service for Animal Welfare booklet, written by Professor Linzey, complete with prayers, readings and liturgies, which is available to download from the Society’s website (www.rspca.org.uk).

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, is Vice-Patron of the RSPCA, which was founded by an Anglican Priest, the Revd Arthur Broome in 1824.

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Prepare Your Pets For Bonfire Night
Friday 5 September 2008

RSPCA supports the use of sound therapy to reduce firework phobias in dogs

The RSPCA is appealing to dog owners to start preparing their canine companions for Bonfire Night by using sound therapy to minimise the misery suffered by terrified animals.

The number of firework related calls received by the RSPCA’s national control centre rose to 940 in 2007 – more than double the 456 received in 1999 – with more than half of the calls received in November.

It has also been estimated that up to 45% of dogs in the UK show fearful behaviour when they hear fireworks1. This could mean that anything up to three million dogs could be affected2.

In a bid to reduce this number, the RSPCA has endorsed the Sounds Scary CD therapy pack, produced by Sound Therapy 4 Pets. This can be used to help dogs learn to be less afraid of loud fizzes and bangs in the build up to the traditional Bonfire Night celebrations. The two-CD pack features a wide variety of firework sounds, as well as thunder and gunshots.

Mark Evans, the RSPCA’s Chief Vet, said: “Fireworks and other loud noises are a source of great anxiety for many dogs. This year, the RSPCA’s fireworks campaign is encouraging people to help treat and prevent their dogs’ fireworks fears using the Sounds Scary CD – a scientifically proven therapy tool.

“We want owners to help their dogs become less afraid of fireworks noises well in advance of the fireworks season, rather than attempting and often failing to provide short term fixes that have no long-term benefit.

“Treating dogs that are afraid of loud noises takes time and commitment from owners, but can transform the welfare of the animal. The more time spent now will be rewarded by the time Bonfire Night comes around.”

The CD works by gradually allowing dogs to be less afraid of loud noises. It should initially be played at a very low level, so that the dog shows no reaction to the noises. The volume can then be gradually increased in the months leading up to 5 November, until the dog doesn’t react to the noises, even when the CD is played at moderate to full volume. The last stage is to teach the dog to associate the sound of the CD with something he or she finds pleasant and rewarding, such as food or play.

Sounds Scary has been designed by internationally renowned vets Jon Bowen and Sarah Heath, who have a combined 30 years of experience. They now exclusively treat animals with behavioural problems.

Jon said: “Sound Therapy 4 Pets has led the way in designing proven therapy products for dogs with noise phobias and we are proud to be involved in the RSPCA campaign this year.

“Dogs that are afraid of loud noises have a miserable time every firework season and they tend to get worse year on year. Unfortunately their owners may not be aware that this problem is, in fact, treatable.

“Sounds Scary has been independently and scientifically tested and proven to be highly effective and easy to use.”

Every dog is different and the amount of training needed will vary from dog to dog. However, the RSPCA recommends that owners start training with the Sounds Scary CD well in advance of 5 November. It can take several weeks to see the improvements in a dog’s fearful behaviour, so owners should not see this as a quick-fix solution.

The pack comes complete with a comprehensive manual that answers typical questions many pet owners have about phobias, as well as an easy start poster helping you to help your dog.

10% of the money from each CD sold will go to the RSPCA, so that we can continue to help more animals. For more information, or details on how to purchase an RSPCA discounted copy of the Sounds Scary CD, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/fireworks.

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More farmers than ever switching to higher welfare methods
4 September 2008

The RSPCA announced this week it has been flooded with applications from farmers and producers to join its Freedom Food accredited scheme, the highest number since the scheme began almost fifteen years ago.

The higher welfare market has been growing steadily for the last few years and high-profile campaigns from Jamie Oliver and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall have propelled the issue even further into consumers’ priorities.

Now the RSPCA has reported that it has seen the largest number of applications from farms and producers to join the Freedom Food scheme since its inception. Totalling 115 in July alone, the RSPCA have seen a massive surge, with pig producers topping the list with 68 applications in just one month.

“The fact that we have seen such a dramatic uptake in the scheme is very encouraging. There is a very clear demand for higher welfare foods, both from retailers and consumers, and these findings also show that there is ample opportunity for continued growth within the market,” said John Akehurst, marketing controller of Freedom Food.

“This is great news for farm animal welfare and we hope the number of animals under Freedom Food will continue to leap forward as consumer demand rises and more farmers see the benefits inherent in adopting the scheme” he added.

Freedom Food is a farm assurance and food labelling scheme set up by the RSPCA in 1994 to improve farm animal welfare and to address growing consumer demand for higher welfare produce.

The Freedom Food label enables shoppers to recognise higher welfare products - products that come from animals reared on farms inspected to strict RSPCA welfare standards, with assured traceability from farm to fork. It is the only farm assurance scheme in the UK with improved welfare as its primary goal, and is completely independent from the food industry.

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RSPCA reports Eastern abandonment crisis
Tuesday 19 August 2008

New RSPCA figures from the East region* show that more animals have been abandoned in the first seven months of this year than the same period in 2007.

From January to July 2007, the Society received calls about 4,028 abandoned animals.  In 2008, this increased by more than a thousand to a worrying 5,136.  This means that with almost half the year still to go, 2008 is quickly catching up with last year’s total of 7,746 abandoned animals.

Figures for all but one of the inspectorate groups in the East show an increase compared to last year, with Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire and Norfolk and Suffolk showing increases of 300, 246 and 210 respectively.

The summer months are traditionally those which see the most abandonments.  In June last year, there were 772 abandoned animals reported and 676 in July.  This year, those figures increased to 804 and 963 respectively.  With 1,112 reported in August 2008, the figures are set to increase again during this month. The RSPCA believes that the increasing numbers may be due to a failure of owners to have their pets microchipped and many people going off on holiday and leaving their animals to fend for themselves.  

RSPCA acting regional superintendent Simon Parker said:  “While the majority of owners are responsible, we still see people going away and not making provisions for their pet, together with those who do not want to pay for veterinary care and either abandon or give up sick animals.  This puts a huge burden on our centres who are taking in more animals than they can find homes for and are having to turn some away.”

The cost of keeping a pet should be considered when taking on its care.  RSPCA animal centres and branches are sometimes given financial problems as reasons for owners giving their pets up.  Animal Welfare Manager Paul Williams said:  “While some people do have genuine reasons for having to give up beloved pets, there are many who see blaming the cost of living as an easy way out of caring for their animals.” 

Simon Parker added:  “It is time for pet owners to face up to their responsibilities.  Get your pet neutered if you cannot cope with unwanted litters and only ever take on an animal if you know you can care for it for the whole of its life.  Animals are not just another must-have accessory, they deserve our respect and care.” 

Although many animals are deliberately dumped, some may have caring owners somewhere who are missing their pets, but have little chance of being reunited with them without a microchip or another form of permanent identification.  Paul Williams commented:  “We often pick up sick and elderly animals which may well have owners but they are reported to us as strays and we have a duty to take them in.  They can then be rehomed with their owner having no idea what happened to them, simply because they have nothing to identify them.” 

To find out more about microchipping or how to get help towards the cost of neutering or veterinary care, please visit www.rspca.org.uk 

*The RSPCA East region consists of Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Derbyshire, Hertfordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Suffolk.

The table below shows the figures for the first seven months of 2007 and 2008: 

 Case studies:

Guinea Pig Dumped In Scunthorpe

A guinea pig was found abandoned in undergrowth on Tuesday 12 August.  He had been shut inside a small mouse cage which was then tied up in a black dustbin liner.
The multi-coloured short haired guinea pig was discovered at about 5pm in land behind Pinchbeck Avenue in Scunthorpe.  He was suffering from severe skin sores caused by a mite infestation.
RSPCA inspector Emily Bottomley said:  “The guinea pig had been left for dead.  It was only luck that our caller’s dog found him and alerted his owner.  If he hadn’t been found, he would almost certainly have suffered from the heat or his untreated skin problem.
“He is very distinctive, with one black and one pink ear, so we hope that someone knows where he came from.”
The guinea pig is currently being fostered on behalf of the RSPCA Lincolnshire North and Humber Branch. 

He is not ready for a new home yet, but the branch has another four adult guinea pigs and two babies which do need new homes.  Please call 01724 843620 for more information.

 Kittens Died After Being Dumped 

Three tiny black kittens were found on Monday 11 August in Emneth near Wisbech in Cambridgeshire.  They were thought to be just a week old when they were discovered in an open cardboard box which had been left at The Wroe, behind the fence of an electrical sub-station.
The kittens were taken to a vet and then to the RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre where they had to be fed every two hours by hand.  Sadly, the kittens lost their fight for life two days later as they were just too young and weak to survive.

Block Fen has plenty of animals needing new homes, please call 0300 123 0726 for more information.

Feline Pair Found In Bulwell 

Two cats were found abandoned in a plastic cat carrier in the Bulwell Bogs park area at 4.40pm on Monday 4 August.  The pair were suffering from flea infestations, but were otherwise healthy.
The grey carrier had been left behind a wall next to the River Lean.  Newspaper and a water bowl had also been left inside the carrier.
Both cats were taken to the RSPCA Nottingham Branch, where the grey five-year-old was named Tigerlily and the one-year-old tortoiseshell and white cat was called Sassy due to her feisty nature!  Tigerlily was rehomed, but Sassy is at the Radcliffe-on-Trent Animal Shelter and is still waiting for a new home.
RSPCA inspector Emily Bottomley said:  “These cats probably had a caring owner at some point who either could not or did not want to care for them any longer.  If they had just contacted the RSPCA or another organisation for help and been patient we could have tried to help.  As it is, the cats were just left alone with no thought for their safety." 

To find out more about rehoming Sassy or another animal from the Radcliffe-on-Trent shelter, please call 01159 334422. 

Cats Came To Animal Centre After Being Abandoned 

The RSPCA Chesterfield Animal Centre takes in animals which have been abandoned.  Sapphire and Grayson, two 11-week-old grey kittens were found in a cardboard box in Chesterfield and brought to the centre on Friday 25 July.
Caesar, a black and white tom cat, was found abandoned in a property by RSPCA inspector Mike Scargill.  He is described as extremely good natured and very friendly.
Assistant Animal Centre Manager Gary Taylor said:  “There does seem to be a problem with abandonments at the moment and we take dumped animals in which have been found by members of the public, as well as our inspectors.  This means that, together with sick and injured animals and those which are brought in as unwanted pets, we are very busy trying to find new homes for them all.” 

To find out more about rehoming any animal from the Chesterfield Animal Centre, please call 01246 273358.

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Sadly, Buster was yet another tragic animal victim of our throwaway society - yet he managed to survive against all the odds.
Friday, 01 August 2008

Buster was so thin when he was taken to the RSPCA Wirral and Chester Animal Centre in Wallasey, Merseyside, that staff and volunteers could not even identify what breed he was.

The male boxer/bullmastiff cross had been starved to half his natural body weight.

RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Leanne Hardy said: "Buster was in a pitiful state when he came to our attention. He was very thin, hadn't been exercised, and had no social skills. He was really timid and frightened of everything."

Buster suffered mentally as well as physically
Andrew Ward from Birkenhead pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide an adequate diet and failing to exercise reasonable supervision of the dog.

At Wirral Magistrates Court in March 2007 he was banned from keeping all animals for five years, given a supervision order for two years to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay costs of £300.

Animal centre manager, Joanne Hughes, said: "It was touch and go whether Buster would make it at all when he first arrived. He had to be fed a couple of spoonfuls of food every few hours and it took months for him to recover physically.

"Mentally, he needed a lot of TLC, but when he left us he was a beautiful, bouncy dog with a lovely personality."

Buster now flourishing in his new home
Carly and Les Church from the Wirral offered Buster a new home, where he has flourished. Last September he was in the running for the RSPCA Rescue Dog of the Year competition, where he made it to the regional heats.

He has been attending dog-training classes and has achieved his Good Citizen's Dog Scheme Bronze Award. He will also shortly be examined for his silver award.

Mrs Church said: "Buster is a really loving and playful dog. He's so confident and friendly, it's hard to believe that he went through such a horrific ordeal. Needless to say, we feel very lucky and privileged to have him as part of the family."

Cruelty to dogs up by more than a third
The RSPCA's latest cruelty statistics for 2007 show that convictions for cruelty to dogs are up by more than a third, but there are also some incredible stories, like Buster's, of survival against all the odds.

To report an act of cruelty to any animal, or to reported a sick or injured animal, please contact the RSPCA 24-hour Cruelty and Advice Line: 0300 1234 9999. Calls are treated in the strictest confidence.

photo © RSPCA

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Right Decision For Both Badgers And Cattle ~ RSPCA responds to reports of a 'no cull' decision
Friday 04 July 2008

A government decision not to embark on a badger cull in England, as reported today, will be the correct one for both badgers and cattle, says the RSPCA.

"This would be the right decision based on compelling evidence, particularly because the most authoritative scientific research ever undertaken on the subject recommended against badger-culling as an effective way of controlling TB," said Dr Rob Atkinson, RSPCA's head of wildlife science.

"Evidence indicates that the majority of badgers are not infected with TB. Our opposition to a badger cull is based on solid science not sentiment.

"The RSPCA cares as much about cattle welfare as badgers. We are keen to work with farmers and governments to find positive solutions to the challenge of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in cattle."
 

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Orphaned birds given CDs to listen to ~ 'Dawn chorus' recordings help fledglings learn to sing
 

Monday 16 June 2008

Baby birds in the care of RSPCA wildlife centres are for the first time being played recordings of the dawn chorus to help them to learn to sing.

A recent scientific study* funded by the RSPCA concluded that birds being reared in captivity could benefit from being played song from birds of their own species before they are released back into the wild.

As a result, CDs of birdsong - which contain all the calls of birds cared for - are this year being played twice a day to the hundreds of fledglings being cared for in RSPCA wildlife centres.

Tim Thomas, an RSPCA wildlife officer, said: "The ability to sing is extremely important to the males of most bird species because it is vital for them to form and then defend their own territory and find a mate. Female birds in many species choose a partner based on the way they sing.

"Birds learn to sing from their parents so being reared in captivity can mean that they don't know how to sing properly.

"The study found that the majority of birds species benefit from being played birdsong - they listen to it and it helps them become good singers which will in turn help them to survive when they are released."

The report looked at the findings of 158 previous studies to reach general conclusions about songbirds including:
• Song is important to many bird species and may affect their success in acquiring a territory, which in turn affects their chances of survival and breeding.
• Song is a learned behaviour. To a certain extent the ability to sing is hardwired into the birds' brains but to master the art they need to learn by listening to other birds of the same species.
• Females don't sing as commonly as males but are attracted to males because of their song.
• Females often prefer males that sing more often, or have longer or more complex songs.
• Birds reared in isolation can develop abnormal songs. This is not liked by females.
• Most, but not all, bird species can learn by listening to a recording.

The report concludes that while being played a recording is not as effective as being taught by their parents, it doesn't do the fledglings any harm.

Each year the RSPCA's four wildlife centres receive about 4,500 fledglings during the peak months of April to August, which accounts for about a third of the animals they care for. The average stay for these birds is about 50 days, which puts a pressure on staff as well as space.

"At this time of year we get thousands of fledglings brought in by members of the public who see them on the ground, not able to fly, and assume they have been abandoned. But very often the mother is nearby and is still feeding them,” said Tim Thomas.

"The best thing to do is to leave them alone but watch from a distance and call the RSPCA only if you're sure they're in trouble. Although RSPCA centre staff look after them as best they can, and on average release more than 70 per cent, it's always far better if they are looked after by their parents."

The RSPCA's wildlife centres carry out research into the success of their rehabilitation work. For example blackbirds will be again radiotracked later this year to check whether the birdsong CDs are helping the birds' rehabilitation in the wild.

What to do if you see a fledgling on the ground:

• Fledglings of garden birds usually leave the nest just over two weeks after hatching - shortly before they can fly well. They will have grown all or most of their feathers, are very mobile and are able to reach low branches. They are normally being fed by their parents who are rarely far away. If in doubt, don't touch!
• Leave the bird and return in an hour or so.
• Young animals in immediate danger from traffic or a predator should be placed out of harm a short distance away.
• Don't try to return a fledgling to its nest as you may disturb other young birds.
• If you have a good reason to believe that a bird is orphaned - for example if you have seen both of its parents killed by a car - or it is clearly sick, put it in a dark, warm box and take it to your nearest vet or RSPCA centre.
• If you find an unfeathered bird that has fallen out of its nest this should also be brought into care immediately.

Another way in which CDs can help birds:

The birds in the RSPCA's four wildlife centres are not the only ones being given CDs in an attempt to help their welfare.

The RSPCA's standards for meat chickens also require that birds are given 'environmental enrichment' to help encourage them to express natural behaviour.

In many Freedom Food farms, which implement the RSPCA's standards, one of the ways they provide environmental enrichment is by suspending CDs on string from the ceiling. This gives the birds an interesting object to interact with and peck. Some chickens are also given footballs to play with.

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MBE Honour For RSPCA Chief Inspector

Saturday 14 June 2008

RSPCA chief inspector Lee Hopgood is to be appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen’s birthday honours this year, for his outstanding services to animal welfare.

The announcement follows 14 years of remarkable work for the charity, and coincides with the publication today of the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2008.

“I am absolutely delighted to be awarded this honour by Her Majesty the Queen,” said chief inspector Lee Hopgood. “I was speechless when I received the news, and for those that know me that’s a feat in itself!”

Lee (40), chief inspector for Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire, headed up the RSPCA’s regional ground response to last year’s summer floods. He and his officers worked closely with the emergency services to rescue both needy animals and people, and to deliver fresh water to farmers, boarding kennels and small holdings cut off from the mains supply by the floods.

Lee has also recently worked at the sharp end of the outbreaks of foot and mouth disease and avian flu - as well as equally challenging day-to-day work, such as investigating those suspected of harming animals.

He grew up on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent where his only direct involvement with animals was earning pocket money working on a farm during the lambing season. Since joining the RSPCA in 1994, he’s had to deal with animals of all shapes and sizes - and their owners. Lee made the change to animal welfare after serving with the Grenadier Guards for 10 years.

“I joined the RSPCA because it appeared to be an honourable career which would keep me active, I felt that it was an area where a person could make a difference, not just to animals but to people’s lives too,” said Lee.

“I experienced many things in the forces, some good, some very unpleasant. The army gave me the skills to deal with unpleasant people and unpleasant situations, something all RSPCA officers face regularly.”

Nigel Yeo, RSPCA Director of Animal Welfare Operations, said: “This honour is a fitting recognition of Lee’s unwavering commitment to preventing animal cruelty and neglect, however difficult the circumstances.

“Through his professionalism and devotion, Lee commands the respect of all around him, and everyone at the RSPCA is delighted that he is being awarded an MBE for his services to animal welfare. I pass on my personal thanks and congratulations.”

Lee said: “This honour is directly reflective of the dedication, hard work and professionalism to be found within the RSPCA inspectorate and the charity as a whole. I have a first class team of inspectors and animal collection officers covering Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire who all work with me to deliver the best service we can for animal welfare.”

Lee lives in Worcestershire with his dog Kheta – who was rescued four years ago by the RSPCA weighing just half that of an average two-year old Huskie. Her previous owners were prosecuted by the charity for causing Kheta and two other Huskies to suffer, but Kheta has since made a full recovery.

Lee’s partner Claire Brown is a local veterinary surgeon.

photo © RSPCA

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RSPCA Dog Fighting Raids - Four Arrested

Friday 13 June, 2008

Four people have been arrested and four pitbull-type dogs have been seized during a series of co-ordinated raids today across the Midlands and north-east England. A total of eight addresses in Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough and Birmingham were raided by the RSPCA and police on suspicion of organised dog fighting.

Officers from the RSPCA’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) and RSPCA uniformed inspectors were joined by police officers from West Midlands Police and Cleveland Police this morning in simultaneous raids.

Two arrests were made at an address in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, where officers also seized three pitbull-type dogs – one of which had scarring to its face. Two treadmills and a dog fighting training record were also discovered. One person was arrested at a property in Yarm and a further arrest was made at a property in Middlesbrough where officers also seized a pitbull-type dog. A treadmill was also seized at a property in Stockton-on-Tees.

Those arrested are currently in custody awaiting interview. The dogs are now in RSPCA care and have been taken to undisclosed locations for veterinary checks.

Chief Inspector Mike Butcher of the RSPCA Special Operations Unit said the raids were part of an operation code-named ‘Castle’. The operation follows a series of raids in the east of England in March and April, which led to six arrests and the seizure of 30 pitbull-type dogs.

“People may think that dog-fighting has gone away, but that’s simply not true,” he said. “There are still people who seem to gain pleasure from seeing two dogs ripping each other to pieces, so whilst those people continue to pursue their vile hobby, the RSPCA will continue to pursue them,” said CI Butcher.

“We would like to thank the police for their help and co-operation, and also members of the public for the information they have given us regarding dog fighting. We would ask people to continue being vigilant and call us if they suspect that dog fighting, badger baiting or cock fighting are taking place. These so-called ‘sports’ belong in the dark ages, and we would like to eradicate them from the UK.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999. Calls are treated in confidence.
 

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Talking Dogs - RSPCA 'summit' gathers as dog fighting culture continues to grow

Tuesday 3 June 2008

A dramatic increase in the number of dog fighting calls received by the RSPCA is revealed today (Tuesday) as the charity hosts a major 'summit' to discuss the increasing controversy over dogs in our communities.
In 2007 the charity received 358 calls specifically about dog fighting - compared to 137 in 2006. This is a staggering 15-times higher than the 2004 figure of 24. Of the 358 calls, 132 referred specifically to youths or 'hoodies' fighting their dogs in the street or park.
The figures are backed up by new Metropolitan Police statistics, which show a massive increase in the number of dogs seized in London under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Between 2003 and 2006, the numbers averaged around 38 dogs a year. Between May 2006 and April 2007 this leapt to 173, and in the 12 months up to April 2008 the figure was 480(3).
The Metropolitan Police say there has been no special push on 'dangerous' dogs - these figures reflect purely incidents to which they have reacted. Of the total figures, around 80% of the dogs are pitbull¬types, with the remainder being dogs which are dangerously out of control.
RSPCA Chief Officer of the Inspectorate Tim Wass said: "These new figures confirm what the public, our inspectors, other charities and our animal hospitals have been telling us - that there is a real problem at the moment with people using dogs for aggression and fighting.
"Our concern is that talk of dog fighting promotes images of 'dangerous' or 'devil' dogs, when in the vast majority of cases, it is the owner who is causing the problem, not the dog. All types of dog can be trained to be aggressive, just as all types of dog can be loving family pets. The purpose of this conference is to es~ablish what the real problems are, and to come up with real answers."
Dog attacks, dogs as weapons, 'status' dogs, stray dogs and dog registration will all be discussed at what looks set to be an important, lively and provocative gathering, to be held in London.
High-profile speakers include The Rt Hon Lord Rooker, Minister of State for Animal Welfare, who will be launching a new Defra leaflet on status dogs.
Other speakers include North Wales Chief Constable Richard Brunstrom and Inspector Neil Davies, the Head of the Dog Unit for Merseyside Police, which brought in a 'pitbull amnesty' following the tragic death of five-year-old Ellie Lawrenson on New Year's Day, 2007.
"We didn't agree with the pitbull amnesty, so some people have questioned why we've asked Neil Davies to speak at the conference," said Tim Wass. "The point of this gathering is to get a wide range of opinions on what are difficult issues, and to try and establish a unified, workable solution. Dogs are man's best friend, so we want to ensure that they are still seen that way, and not seen as a danger."
Delegates to the conference will be able to take part in instant voting on the issues, to enable the RSPCA to gather opinions. The summer conference is the first organised by the RSPCA as an annual series, aimed at confronting topical animal welfare issues.
 

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Man Punished For Starving TV Presenter Kate Humble's RSPCA Rescue Dog
- Kate supports RSPCA Pet Adoption WeekSaturday 7 June to Sunday 15 June 2008

Sunday, 1 June 2008

The previous owner of BBC Springwatch presenter Kate Humble's RSPCA rescue dog has been convicted for animal neglect. The RSPCA inspector who investigated the case said Badger was one of the thinnest dogs he had ever seen.
TV presenter Kate - a supporter of the RSPCA's Pet Adoption Week - recently adopted the now healthy Badger from the RSPCA's Newport Animal Centre.
Rhondda Magistrates' Court heard that the two-year-old crossbreed terrier - was severely underweight at just 4.8kg when he was first rescued by the RSPCA. His weight had increased by 84 per cent just one month later.
Badger's previous owner, from Pontypridd, recently pleaded guilty to failing to meet the welfare needs of the dog.
He was instructed to complete a one-year community order and banned from keeping animals for five years. He was also ordered to do 150 hours' unpaid work, attend an Enhanced Thinking Skills course and pay £260 costs.
In mitigation he said it was his girlfriend's dog and work commitments kept him away from home.
RSPCA inspector Simon Evans, who investigated the case, said: "This is one of the thinnest dogs I have ever seen. Badger's rapid rate of recovery shows that he was not underweight due to any illness, but merely from a lack of food.
"The owner showed a complete disregard for his duty of care to the dog - it was his moral and legal responsibility to provide food and he failed to do so. This case sends out a strong message that the courts will take this kind of wilful neglect seriously."
Badger is now back to full health and happy in his new home with Kate. If you would like to join Kate and give an animal a much-needed new start in life, the RSPCA's Pet Adoption Week could be your chance.
Kate said: "RSPCA Pet Adoption Week is vital for ensuring as many animals as possible get a really good second start in life. Give an animal like Badger a new home and you give him new hope. It's brilliant and I've loved every minute of adopting my dog. If you know you're ready for the responsibility of looking after a pet it's the most rewarding thing you can do."

In fact, a survey carried out for the RSPCA showed that 89 per cent of people in Great Britain who have adopted a pet said it was a good experience and 87 per cent of people said they would recommend adopting a pet to others.
Every year the RSPCA rehomes around 70,000 animals. They may be unwanted pets that have been dumped, victims of cruelty, or have been handed over to the Society by those whose circumstances have changed. At anyone time, the RSPCA has hundreds of animals looking for loving new homes, from large horses to tiny mice - and everything in between!
For an information pack about adopting an animal from the RSPCA, people should call the dedicated PAW phone line on 0300 123 8484 - or they can find out more by visiting www.rspca.org.uk/paw.
 

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Jail for man after mobile phone footage shows pitbull being set on smaller dog

Thursday 29 May 2008

A man has been sentenced to 26 weeks in prison after setting a pitbull onto another dog, and filming it on a mobile phone.
Following an RSPCA prosecution, James Harland, 21, of King Street, South Bank, Middlesbrough, was yesterday sentenced by Middlesbrough magistrates to 22 weeks for procuring a dog fight. He was also sentenced to four weeks for failing to attend an earlier court hearing, to run consecutively, and was disqualified from owning dogs for 10 years.
In January this year, Daniel Tate, 20, of Cresswell Road, Grangetown, Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to the same offence and was sentenced to five months in prison. He also pleaded guilty to possessing an illegal dog, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and to causing unnecessary suffering to a dog. He received five months custody for each of these charges, to run concurrently, and was disqualified from owning any animal for 10 years.
The RSPCA Special Operations Unit launched an investigation after mobile phone footage showed the pitbull, Chico, being restrained as another dog is brought in front of it. The other dog is believed to be a stolen Staffordshire bull terrier. Chico is then released and attacks the other dog, which can be heard whimpering.
Solicitor John Ellwood, representing the RSPCA, said: "Offences of this nature are abhorrent to right¬thinking members of society, and this was reflected by the court's' decision. We hope the sentence will be a lesson to others who might consider taking part in such a barbaric activity."
Chico has since been destroyed. The other dog has never been traced, so its fate is unknown.
The court case comes just a few days before a major conference on 'dangerous' dogs, being held by the RSPCA in London on Tuesday 3 June. Police, charities, dog wardens, vets and other dog professionals will meet to discuss increasing concerns about dog fighting, dogs being used as 'weapons' and 'status' dogs.
RSPCA Strategic Campaigner Miranda Luck said: "There is a concern among the public at the moment about dogs, whether it be high-profile attacks on children, organised dog fighting, or young people with tough looking dogs on street corners. The RSPCA wants to bring people together to discuss these issues, and hopefully we'll come up with effective solutions."
 

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Keep Dogs Cool ~ Soaring temperatures this week suggest that summer is on the way - which means dogs could potentially die or suffer from heat stroke if left in their owners' cars.

13 May 2008

Each year the RSPCA receives around 6,000 calls from members of the public concerned about an animal in a car on the street, in a supermarket car park or at a public event.

"A car left in direct sunlight quickly becomes an oven. Everyone knows that," says RSPCA chief veterinary adviser Mark Evans. "But even on an average warm, even cloudy summer day a car may become unbearably hot and stifling. Imagine how terrifying it would be if you were locked inside, unable to escape the oppressive heat and humidity. Don't let your dog be the one to find out the hard way. It may end up being the last thing he or she ever does."

It's not just cars that are the problem, as caravans and conservatories could also pose a risk. The RSPCA is also talking to event organisers and supermarkets, as these are common venues for incidents of dogs suffering in car parks.

The dangers

• Dogs can suffer from heatstroke, which can be fatal.

• Even when it is just 22°C (72°F) outside, the temperature in a car can soar to 47°C (117°F) within 60 minutes.

• Open windows or a water bowl make little difference.

• Cloud cover can disappear quickly.

• All dogs will suffer, but some dogs are more prone to heatstroke. For example, dogs that are old, young, short nosed, long-haired, overweight or heavily muscled are more at risk, as well as dogs with certain diseases.

• Temperatures in air conditioned cars can reach the same temperature as outside within just five minutes of being turned off.

Signs of heat stroke

The most obvious warning signs of heat stroke are excessive panting and profuse salivation. Other signs include:

• a rapid pulse

• overly red or purple gums.

• lack of coordination, reluctance or inability to rise after collapsing, seizures, vomiting or diarrhoea

• coma or death in extreme cases.

Treating heat stroke

• Heat stroke can be fatal, so speed is essential. Move your pet to a cooler spot and call your vet for advice immediately.

• Douse your dog with cool (not cold) water. Never cool your dog so much that he/she begins to shiver.

• Let your dog drink small amounts of cool water.

• Continue to douse your dog with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle and then take him/her straight to the vet.

Find out more about the dangers of letting your dog overheat in summer and what you can do to keep your dog cool at:

www.rspca.org.uk/keepdogscool

Did you know...

Under the Animal Welfare Act, which came into force in April 2007, pet owners have a duty of care to their animals, which includes preventing suffering. Penalties are a fine of up to £20,000 or six months in prison.

photo © Angela Hampton/RSPCA Photolibrary

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