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News from the Press Office:

2010 News ~
Keep
Your Dog Cool As Temperatures Soar
RSPCA
finds new homes for more Staffies than any other dog
94%
Support RSPCA’s Call To Ban Wild Animals In Circuses
Launch
of our Political animal website
Sad
Endings For Buzzard And Tawny Owl Tangled In Trees
75
Starlings Die In Mystery Crash Landing
Irresponsible
owners need to be focus of dog law consultation
RSPCA
helping in Haiti
Hunting
Act Marks Five Years Of History -RSPCA celebrates success of anti-cruelty law-
Animal
Welfare Revolution Continues In Economic Recovery
Marley
And Us Mystery
Surrounds Abandoned Pony

2009 News ~
Second
Dog Found Tied To A Tree
The
RSPCA’s Comedy Calls Of 2009 Remember,
Remember Your Animals This November
Vote
Now For Your Favourite Pet Picture
Chuckle
Brothers visit the Burnham Shop
Update
on the Dumped Trio
Tiny
Trio Dumped At Roadside Abandoning
Faith In Pet Owners As Animals Are Dumped At RSPCA Centre
Man
Found Guilty Of Causing Dogs To Suffer
RSPCA
Reveals Rise In Unwanted Cats
Three
Wild Birds Found Dumped
Life
Ban For Causing Cat To Suffer
Play
It Cool This Summer And Keep Your Dog Safe
Tortoises
Injured In Suspected Dog Attack The
Staffie Is The East Region’s Most Unwanted Dog ~ RSPCA East Region Launches Bull
Breed Neutering Campaign Swan
Injured By Hook Was Also Shot Dog
Breeder Found Guilty of Causing Suffering
RSPCA
Adds New Science Review To The Pedigree Dogs Debate
Life
Ban For Causing Suffering To Dog
Couple
Banned For Horse Suffering
Fresh
Appeal for Iggy the Iguana
Are
UK shoppers pig ignorant?
Ducks
Shot Dead In Airgun Attack
Archived News ~ Click Here
2010 NEWS ~
Keep
Your Dog Cool As Temperatures Soar
Friday, 25 June 2010
The RSPCA is urging pet owners to make sure their
four-legged friends do not frazzle in the heat this summer.
With temperatures set to rise this weekend, the charity is reminding dog owners
to not leave their pets in cars, conservatories or caravans while they enjoy the
sunshine.
All too often, owners make the mistake of thinking that it is sufficient to
leave a bowl of water or a window open for their pet but this is not enough to
protect your pet from heatstroke, which can have fatal consequences.
Already this year, the RSPCA has been inundated with more than 1,400 calls from
members of the public who are concerned about how a total of 1,911 dogs are
coping in the hot weather.
Last year, the charity was contacted more than 4,670 times about 6,365 dogs
being left in cars – this peaked in July when we took more than 1,100 calls
voicing concerns about 1,545 dogs.
The Society is hoping not to see a repeat of the tragic fatalities witnessed
year after year when dogs are literally cooked alive. Last June, two dogs died a
horrific death after being left in a police car in Nottingham on one of the
hottest days of the year.
During the Appleby Horse Fair in 2009, two dogs were literally cooked alive
inside a car. The dogs’ body temperatures were so high that they exceeded the
maximum thermometer reading of 42°C (108°F)*
RSPCA chief veterinary advisor Mark Evans said: “If you leave your dog in a car,
caravan or conservatory during the summer you are putting your much-loved pet at
risk, it’s as simple as that.
“Every year, we ask pet owners the same thing and remind them of the dangers
posed but we still get thousands of calls from people who are concerned about
animal welfare in the warm weather.”
The temperature inside a car can soar to 47°C (117°F) within 60 minutes, even
when the outside temperature is just 22°C (72°F).
Other dangers are:
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 the air conditioning being
turned off.
The most obvious sign of heat stroke in dogs is excessive panting and profuse
salivation. Other signs include:
Overly red or purple gums A rapid pulse Lack of co-ordination, reluctance or
inability to rise after collapsing, seizures, vomiting or diarrhoea Coma or
death in extreme instances
Owners who fear their dog may be suffering from heat stroke should act with
great urgency. Pets should be moved to a cooler spot straight away before
ringing your vet for advice immediately.
Douse your dog with cool (not cold) water. You could put your dog in a shower
and run cool water over him/her, spray your dog with cool water and place
him/her in the breeze of a fan. 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 veterinary surgery
Under the Animal Welfare Act it is illegal to cause an animal unnecessary
suffering. Penalties for doing so are a fine of up to £20,000 and/or a six month
custodial sentence.
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RSPCA
finds new homes for more Staffies than
any other dog
Wednesday 28 April 2010
-More good new owners are still needed
to care for Staffordshire bull terriers-
Animal lovers helped the RSPCA find new homes for more than 5071
Staffordshire bull terriers and Staffie crosses in 2009 – the highest number of
new homes found for any breed of dog.
The RSPCA is calling for more owners to come forward as we still have many
Staffies in desperate need of good new homes.
Our animal centres took in large numbers of Staffies2, but we found new owners
for them because in the right hands they can make an excellent pet.
Happy Staffie owners include 47-year-old Denise Winters who adopted Staffies
Dennis and Kane from RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre. She says she gets extra
satisfaction from caring for dogs that really need a new home (see case studies
below).
This RSPCA Week (Monday 26 April to Sunday 2 May 2010)3 we are encouraging
everyone thinking of getting a dog to consider a Staffie and help us continue to
find them good new homes.
A new RSPCA website -
www.gettoknowadog.co.uk – launched today, aims to
help people find out more about adopting a Staffie4.
Anna White, manager of the RSPCA's Southridge Animal Centre in Potters Bar,
said: “Some people think Staffies don't make good pets but when in the right
hands, well cared for and properly trained, they can make brilliant companions.
“If you're thinking of getting a pet, please visit our special new website and
find out more about Staffies. You can also visit an RSPCA centre to get to know
one of the thousands of animals in our care. Our staff can help you decide if
you can provide a good home for a dog and, if so, whether a Staffie could be the
right dog for you.
“And if you adopt a Staffie, you'll know you've given an extra special animal a
much-needed new home.”
We believe so many Staffies are in need of new homes because in addition to
being a popular pet, the breed has become fashionable with irresponsible owners
who are more interested in their own image than their dog's welfare.
Common reasons given for handing Staffies over to the RSPCA are that owners are
unable to cope with looking after a dog, or that financial or housing
circumstances have changed. Many of the dogs in the RSPCA‟s care have been
neglected or abused and need very special new owners to help them recover.
If you would like to help the RSPCA continue with its vital animal welfare work
by making a donation, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/donate or call 0300
123 0346.
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RSPCA
Delighted With Electric Shock Collar Ban in Wales
24 March 2010
The RSPCA has welcomed the
National Assembly for Wales’ decision to ban the use of electric shock
collars on dogs and cats in Wales.
This is the first ban of its kind in the United Kingdom, and the Welsh
Assembly Government has used its devolved powers under section 12 of the
Animal Welfare Act.
Claire Lawson, RSPCA public affairs manager for Wales said: "We are
delighted with the stance that the Welsh Assembly Government has taken in
banning the use of these instruments of cruelty. They have been consigned
to the dustbin of history and I hope the rest of the UK will follow suit
and do the same."
Electric shock collars are used to remotely apply an electric shock,
usually to the animal’s neck, to stop unwanted behaviour. But research
clearly shows that the application of an electric shock causes both a
physiological stress response and behaviours associated with pain, fear
and stress in animals.
The world's oldest animal welfare charity responded to the Welsh Assembly
Government consultations in 2008 and 2010 on the use of electric training
aids. The RSPCA argued that the use of such training devices can cause a
long-term threat to an animal’s welfare. Animals trained with these
devices can show behaviours associated with pain and fear both during
training and some time afterwards. There is also a great potential for the
misuse of these devices, either through ignorance or malice by those
intent on deliberate cruelty.
Research has also shown that the use of punishment based techniques can
result in, or make some behaviour problems worse.
The RSPCA strongly believes that there is no place for these devices in
modern animal training and recommends the use of reward based methods
instead.
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94%
Support RSPCA’s Call To Ban Wild
Animals In Circuses
26.03.20
The
RSPCA's thrilled with the results of a Government consultation showing
that 94 per cent of people want to see a complete ban on the use of wild
animals in circuses.
Nearly 13,000 took part in the Defra consultation that ran for 12 weeks
from the 21 December 2009. The majority of responses were from individual
members of the public, but were also received from a range of groups such
as veterinary, zoological and local authority organisations.
RSPCA's Government Relations Manager Claire Robinson said "We're extremely
delighted to see that the Government has decided to finally move forward
with proposals to ban the use of animals in circuses and that the Animal
Welfare Minister agrees it's no longer acceptable.
This is an issue the RSPCA has worked on for a number of years, most
recently through our hugely successful „Big Stop Campaign' and we'd like
to say a big thank you to all our supporters who signed up to it. We hope
that the Welsh Assembly Government and other devolved administrations will
now follow suit.
The RSPCA has long held the view that animals should not be subjected to
the suffering associated with circuses.
Wildlife Scientist Dr Ros Clubb said 'Circuses are clearly no place for
wild animals. Confining animals like elephants to beast wagons and cramped
temporary cages, transporting them from site to site and exposing them to
abnormal social groups and noisy conditions all add up to a recipe for
poor animal welfare. Watching animals perform unnatural tricks also does
nothing to educate the public or promote compassion for animals.
I hope this brilliant response to Defra's consultation is the start of a
journey that will finally bring an end to this unnecessary animal
suffering.
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Launch
of our Political animal website
17.03.10
We
need your help to lobby prospective parliamentary candidates ahead of the
next government election on our new interactive website.
We want to make sure laws
protecting animals are not watered down and progress is sustained under
the next government.
The
Political animal site gives you all the information you need to lobby
your prospective parliamentary candidates, debate key issues and help
write an animal welfare manifesto for the next government. This is a great
opportunity to vote on issues that you feel strongly about.
A unique resource
The website gives suggestions on ways to
quiz your local parliamentary candidates, and our experts will be able to
come online to answer your queries. There is vidoe footage to watch and
up-to-the-minute information about Political animal on Twitter too. This
is a unique resource, explaining our stance on issues like status dogs,
higher welfare farming, wild animals in circuses, and animals used in
experiments. RSPCA parliamentary officer Stacey Frier said: "The Political
Animal microsite is a unique project allowing our supporters to drive the
debate by letting politicians know what they want them to do for animal
welfare if they are elected. " Stacey added “The RSPCA and its supporters
have been instrumental in campaigning for change in animal welfare
legislation since the Society’s creation in 1824, and we’re urging the
incoming parliament to continue to work with us to achieve further animal
welfare milestones.”
The Political animal site
contains a timeline of the last 20 years of animal welfare law, leading up
to the
Animal Welfare Act 2006, showing landmark changes.
Join in the debate at:
www.politicalanimal.org.uk
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Sad
Endings For Buzzard And Tawny Owl
Tangled In Trees
Friday 12th March
2010
 The
RSPCA rescued two birds tangled and caught up in the branches of trees in
two different locations. A tawny owl was left dangling over the River Severn
at Stourport-On-Severn after getting fishing line tangled around its wing.
RSPCA inspector Lee Hopgood was called to rescue the owl. It was in a very
tricky place to get to, a long way from the bank of the river, and too high
up to reach from a boat. It was also too remote for the Fire and Rescue
Service to reach. Lee said "I had a pole, but that wasn’t long or strong
enough, so in the end I had to grab a strong tree branch, tie a net to the
end of it and then hold it under the bird. A colleague then managed to snap
the branch it was on, and it fell safely into the net." It was taken
straight to a local wildlife rescue centre, but the injuries to its wing
were too severe and it sadly had to be put to sleep. Lee added: "Fishing
litter continues to cause pain and suffering to wildlife, and whilst most
responsible fisherman are aware of the importance of clearing up after
themselves, there’s still a minority that don’t bother. Taking just a few
minutes extra to dispose of litter properly can help prevent distressing
incidents like this occurring." In the second incident RSPCA inspector Dawn
Burrell was called to Underwood Road in Newcastle where a buzzard was caught
twenty feet up in a tree by its foot, which had a jess attached to it.
Jesses are thin straps used by falconers to keep control of their birds and
so this buzzard must have been owned by someone. Dawn said "The bird was
clearly distressed. I saw it was too high for me to reach, so I called out
staff from N & J Tree Surgeons who were very generous with their time and
helped me to get close to the buzzard. I managed to untangle it and then
took it to RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre where, despite best
efforts, it sadly died from its injuries."
Back to top
75
Starlings Die In Mystery Crash Landing
10.03.10
Mystery
surrounds the death of 75 starlings which crashed to the ground and died on
a single driveway in Somerset.
The birds were spotted falling
from the sky and onto the driveway of a house in Coxley, Somerset, on Sunday
7 March. RSPCA animal
welfare officer (AWO) Alison Sparkes was alerted to the unusual incident by
the police and went to help.
She discovered that most of
the birds had suffered broken beaks, broken legs and wings and abdominal
injuries, but were otherwise in good bodily condition.
All but five of the birds were
dead and sadly they had to be put to sleep by veterinary staff at the
RSPCA’s West Hatch Wildlife Centre, Taunton, Somerset, because of their
severe injuries. Alison
said: "It was a remarkable sight and I’ve never seen anything like it
before. Onlookers said they heard a whooshing sound and then the birds just
hit the ground. They had fallen onto the ground in quite a small area, about
12 feet in diameter.
"They appeared to be in good condition other than injuries that they appear
to have suffered when they hit they ground.
"Our best guess is that this
happened because the starlings were trying to escape a predator such as a
sparrow hawk and ended up crash landing."
There is no evidence that the
birds had been poisoned or were ill before they crashed into the ground.
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Irresponsible
owners need to be focus of dog law consultation
09.03.10
The RSPCA is calling for irresponsible pet ownership to be the focus of the
Government's newly announced public consultation on dog legislation.
The nation's biggest animal
charity today welcomed the Home Secretary's announcement that the Government
will hold a serious debate on how best to tackle anti-social behaviour with
dogs. The RSPCA has
long called for more effective legislation that puts greater emphasis on
punishing irresponsible dog owners who cause animals to suffer, rather than
the breed or type of dog concerned.
Claire Robinson, the RSPCA's
government relations manager, said: "There is a real need for updated
legislation that enables enforcers to tackle the problem effectively and
prevent serious incidents from occurring rather than waiting till after a
tragedy or penalising certain dogs just because of their breed or type.
"The RSPCA has been
working with the police and local authorities to develop good practice in
this area and also consolidate and update legislation that will tackle the
root cause of the problem – indiscriminate breeding and irresponsible dog
ownership. "It is
fantastic news that the Government has opened a genuine debate on the
subject and given the public a chance to have their say on the best way to
tackle the issue of dogs being used anti-socially."
She said vets at RSPCA animal
hospitals, as well as many of the charity's inspectors out in the field,
come across dogs on a daily basis that have suffered cruelty or neglect at
the hands of irresponsible owners.
"It needs to be remembered
that dog welfare isn't just about „dangerous dogs'. Strays and over-breeding
are also areas that would need to be properly addressed as part of any
comprehensive dog welfare strategy.
"We look forward to going
through the consultation documents in full and submitting our response to
Defra," added Claire.
The Government's public consultation was launched following a visit to the
RSPCA Harmsworth Animal Hospital, in north London, by Home Secretary Alan
Johnson, and Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,
Hilary Benn MP, yesterday (MON).
Mr Benn met hospital director
David Grant who explained how he and his team have to treat and care for
thousands of animals each year as a direct result of irresponsible dog
ownership.
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RSPCA
helping in Haiti
03.03.10
An RSPCA chief
officer has been deployed to earthquake stricken Haiti to take over the day
to day running of the Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH), a group of
21 animal charities from around the world.
ARCH was formed specifically to deal with the Haiti crisis. It is led by the
World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and the International
Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The Coalition is already on the ground in
Haiti, working with local people to help injured animals as well as provide
a massive vaccination programme for livestock, poultry and pets.
Chief officer Kevin Degenhard has left to take over the role of coordinator
from WSPA’s Gerardo Huertas, who is the charities’ disaster operations
director for the Americas. Kevin said:
Being
asked to take on this role is both a massive honour and a great
responsibility. I will spend two months in Haiti helping to co-ordinate
the running of the mobile outreach clinics and other field operations, and
working with the Haitian government to put the ARCH programme plan for
animal welfare into action.
Rebuilding lives
A vital part of rebuilding communities in
Haiti is helping people to look after their surviving animals, as they
depend on these animals for food, protection and companionship.
“The situation on the ground at the moment is still very difficult, but the
ARCH team is working very closely with local people, and I am confident that
we will be able to help make a difference to the humans and animals affected
by this terrible tragedy,” added Kevin.
So far ARCH has helped over 2,000 animals* and is now working with the
government of Haiti to help rebuild services for people and their animals.
This sort of operation is only possible because of the combined efforts of
all the animal welfare groups involved in ARCH, and it is through this
co-operation that we strive to make a real and lasting difference to the
people and animals of Haiti.
For updates on our emergency relief work in Haiti, or any of the other
emergency international relief work we do, see our
emergency response pages.
*The latest numbers of animal treated in Haiti. The last day on record is 22
February, and the total at that time stood at 2,226. This figure will have
increased significantly since then.
About ARCH Coalition
The Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH)
is jointly led by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and
the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in partnership with over a
dozen of the world’s leading animal protection organizations.
Animal welfare organizations formed the Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti
(ARCH) so that we could work together to bring aid to as many animals, and
in as short a time, as possible.
At present, ARCH partners include: Royal Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (England and Wales) International Fund for Animal
Welfare, World Society for the Protection of Animals, American Humane
Association, Best Friends Animal Society, In Defense of Animals, American
Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Foundation,
Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society, American Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals, United Animal Nations, Kinship Circle, One Voice, Swiss
Animal Protection and Petfinder.com Foundation. ARCH members urge other
animal welfare groups to join in the group efforts.
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Hunting
Act Marks Five Years Of History -RSPCA
celebrates success of anti-cruelty law-
18th February 2010
It was
five years ago today that hunting wild animals with dogs became illegal and
the RSPCA is today celebrating the anniversary of the Hunting Act that
continues to prevent cruelty to wildlife across England and Wales.
RSPCA's Director of Animal Welfare Promotion, John Rolls says "To think that
chasing and killing animals was considered a sport still disturbs me, and
thanks to this Act, that cruel and pointless activity is now not only illegal,
but recognised by a large majority of the public as unacceptable."
An Ipsos MORI poll* in
September 2009 found that:
75% of people support
the ban on fox hunting,
84% are against the
reintroduction of hunting of deer
85% say hare coursing
and hunting should remain illegal.
Figures reported by the
International Fund For Animal Welfare (IFAW) show that between 2004 and 2009,
over 100 people were found guilty of offences under the Hunting Act.
John added "The Act is clearly working and remains essential in deterring
others from this now illegal behaviour. It has modernised a traditional
countryside pursuit by removing the element of animal cruelty previously
associated with it."
"Five years on, various forms of drag and trail hunting have apparently
flourished and dire predictions surrounding loss of jobs and explosions in fox
populations have failed to materialise. The picture of our countryside now is
a lot prettier than it was five years ago. It's vitally important that this
Act remains in force."
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Animal
Welfare Revolution Continues In Economic Recovery -
Freedom Food announces record number of animals
reared to RSPCA standards
Wednesday 17 February 2010
British
shoppers are standing firm by animal welfare in 2010 as Freedom Food today
reported a record breaking 532 million farm animals are being reared under its
scheme to the RSPCA's higher welfare standards. This is a 46 per cent increase
since 2008.
Early signs this year already show the trend is set to continue, with more
than 13,000 animals coming on board just last month. This is proof Freedom
Food says that despite the credit crunch, higher welfare food continues to
make an impact on British shoppers.
This news follows a recent consumer survey from IGD, the food and grocery
research body, that found that animal welfare standards have risen up the list
of priorities for shoppers when choosing food and grocery products. In January
2010, 19 per cent of shoppers said that animal welfare standards influenced
their shopping decisions, compared with just 10 per cent in 2006.
Freedom Food saw an annual rise in animal numbers from more than 363 million
at the end of 2008 to 532 million at the end of last year. This means that
nearly 170 million more animals are now benefitting from being reared to the
RSPCA's higher welfare standards compared to just over a year ago.
Top of the Freedom Food charts is salmon – up a whopping 56 per cent in 2009,
from just over 281 million in 2008 to nearly 440 million fish. This represents
about 60 per cent of Scottish salmon production.
Pigs also showed a 23 per cent growth from nearly 1.6 million (2008) to more
than 1.9 million (2009), accounting for 20 per cent of UK production. This
result comes a year after separate campaigns were launched by the RSPCA
(„Rooting for Pigs") and Jamie Oliver („Jamie Saves Our Bacon" on Channel 4)
to improve pig welfare.
Other Freedom Food highlights include:
Number of ducks in the scheme
up 84 per cent (about 42 per cent of UK production)
17 per cent increase in turkeys (nearly seven per cent of UK production)
Chicken up by nearly nine per cent – following a 125 per cent hike in 08
versus 07 (more than seven per cent of UK production)
Leigh Grant, Chief Executive of Freedom Food, said: "Faced with the credit
crunch we were worried the number of animals under Freedom Food would also
take a downturn.
"But thanks to consistent consumer demand for higher welfare, the opposite has
happened. More than 530 million animals are now being reared to the RSPCA's
welfare standards, compared to one million when the scheme began 15 years ago.
We had more applications from farmers wanting to join the scheme last year
than ever before.
"It's incredibly encouraging that in spite of the economic decline, people
don't want to compromise on animal welfare and are still prepared to pay a
little more for Freedom Food labelled products. And as we start to head out of
recession I've no doubt we will see the trend accelerate even more."
Last year Sainsbury's reported a mammoth 164 per cent increase in sales of
Freedom Food year-on-year.
And not only are sales of Freedom Food products on the up but the range of
products on offer is also at an all-time high, with more than 700 different
lines now available across major retailers, independents and online. These
include chicken, eggs, salmon, pork, duck and dairy products.
For further information on Freedom Food visit www.freedomfood.co.uk
For all media enquiries
contact the press office on 0300 123 0134 or 0300 123 0244/0288.
Back to top
Marley
And Us -
12-Year-Old Shows You Can Teach Old Dogs New
Tricks
Friday 29 January 2010
Many
of the RSPCA animal centres and branches have lots of older animals which need
new homes but are often overlooked in favour of a puppy or kitten.
Marley’s story shows that an older dog can be every bit as rewarding as a
youngster.
Paul and Alison Isherwood, of West London, had been thinking about getting
another dog in June 2009. They already had a 10-year-old Jack Russell terrier
cross, called Dottie, who was rehomed from the RSPCA in 2000. The couple
wanted a terrier and looked online, finding Marley at the charity’s Blackberry
Farm animal centre in Quainton near Aylesbury.
He was described as a 12-year-old who needed to be loved. Alison said:
“Marley’s age did deter us slightly but we decided to make the trip to meet
him. We took Dottie along to see how she would get on with Marley as she can
be a little bossy!
“Marley seemed a bit quiet and looked sad but he was friendly and got on fine
with Dottie.”
The two dogs explored the field together and the Isherwoods returned home to
think things over. But they had fallen for Marley and returned the next day
to make sure the dogs really did get on with each other. They did and the
four of them went home together.
It is now seven months on and Marley has settled in well. Alison added: “We
cannot believe he is as old as he is, he is so full of life and love. He goes
running with my husband and still has lots of energy when he comes home.
“We can’t thank the staff at Blackberry Farm enough, as they were wonderfully
patient and supportive with us.
“I would definitely recommend considering older dogs. Marley is just so
affectionate and gives us - and our extended family and friends – so much
love. He is a delight!”
Back to top
 The
RSPCA is appealing for information after a healthy and seemingly well-cared
for pony was found tied to a fence in Dinton, near Aylesbury.
The pony, which has been
named Brandon by animal centre staff, was discovered on Saturday morning (23
January) on Ford Road. It is thought he was left some time between 11pm on
Friday evening and 8am on Saturday morning.
Brandon is a gelding dark
bay adult with three white feet, possibly aged between six and eight years
old. He measures approximately 14 hands and was wearing a black head collar
with a red lead rope. He was wearing horseshoes on his front feet.
The pony was timid and
frightened at first, but seems used to being handled and is well-behaved.
RSPCA inspector Will Rippon said: “It is unusual for a healthy and otherwise
well-cared for animal to be abandoned in this way. It seems that whoever
dumped the pony did want him to be found but people must realise that it is
not acceptable to just dump an unwanted animal.”
Anyone with information
about where Brandon came from or who his owners may be should contact the
RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999.
Brandon has been moved to
a charity in Oxfordshire where he will be cared for until his owners can be
found or a new home can be found.
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Second
Dog Found Tied To A Tree
Monday 14 December 2009

The RSPCA is appealing for
information about a second dog found tied to a tree in Buckinghamshire.
The appeal comes after Holly, an
English bull terrier cross, was found in Great Missenden, on Monday 7 December.
Vets contacted the RSPCA after a
German shepherd/collie cross was found tied to a tree in High Wycombe on Friday
4 December. Freddie, as he has been named by kennel staff, was discovered in
woods at the end of Micklefield Road during the evening. He was wearing a chain
collar, but had no other form of identification.
The black and tan-coloured dog was
suffering from a flea allergy which had caused some hair loss. He also had
mange on his feet and a large untreated tumour between his back legs.
It is thought that Freddie is
about 11 years old. The vets think he may have had the tumour for several
months, but he will be treated and should make a good recovery.
The South Buckinghamshire branch
of the RSPCA is placing the dog with a fosterer until his owner comes forward or
a new home can be found.
RSPCA inspector Martin Rivett
said: “It is worrying that dog owners think it is acceptable to tie their pets
up and leave them, especially when they have medical problems. Both Holly and
Freddie urgently needed veterinary treatment.
“We understand that owners may
sometimes face difficulty, but they must seek help for their pets. I can never
understand why someone would leave a once-loved pet out in the cold with little
thought for their welfare.
Anyone who knows where Freddie may
have come from should contact the RSPCA in confidence on
0300 1234 999.
To find out how to support the
work of the Buckinghamshire South branch of the RSPCA please call
01494 564026
or visit
www.southbucksrspca.org.uk
Back to top
The
RSPCA’s Comedy Calls Of 2009
Wednesday 16 December 2009
Every 29 seconds, a member of the
public calls the RSPCA for advice on animal welfare or to report an incident of
cruelty.
Whilst the majority of these calls
are of a serious nature, occasionally they range from the weird and wonderful to
the downright wacky.
This year, the RSPCA national call
centre has taken more than one million calls and here, in no particular order,
are our top 10 funny phone calls received over the last 12 months.
-
A member of
the public called the RSPCA to report a slow moving tortoise on the hard
shoulder of a motorway. After calling on the Highways Agency for assistance,
they tracked down a deflated football.
-
Someone
reported that a seagull was looking sad because it was sitting in the rain.
-
A caller
asked us if we could remove the spider from her bathroom sink.
-
An
inspector went to a call that a bat had been on a bedroom ceiling for a number
of days. It turned out to be a damp patch.
-
A lady
called our emergency telephone number to ask us to reserve a chair she saw in
an RSPCA charity shop window.
-
Another
woman asked if we could collect her RSPCA catalogue from her friend’s house as
she had borrowed it a long time ago and not returned it.
-
A lady
contacted the RSPCA to say that the farm next door smelt and wondered if there
was anything we could do about it.
-
A cat-lover
wanted advice on why his furry feline did not purr.
-
A hotel
located next to a duck pond was receiving complaints from guests because their
neighbours could be heard quacking.
-
A man
requested help to remove the ladybirds which were climbing up a wall at his
house.
Although we may have a little
laugh at these stories, the RSPCA would like to remind members of the public
that the 24-hour advice and cruelty line is for reporting serious cases or
emergencies concerning animal welfare. Many requests are for animals to be
rescued or to report animals involved in accidents.
The cruelty and advice line operates in a very similar way to the 999 emergency
services number and non-urgent calls could prevent us from dealing with a
serious incident.
People with general enquiries about the RSPCA should call our non-emergency
enquiries line on 0300
123 4555.
You can
hear more about these calls in this month’s RSPCA wildlife podcast available
online at www.rspca.org.uk/wildlife
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Holly
Found Tied To A Tree
Wednesday 9 December
2009
 The
RSPCA is appealing for the owner of a dog found tied to a tree in
Buckinghamshire to come forward.
Holly, as the English bull terrier cross has been nicknamed by veterinary staff,
was found tied to a tree in The Lee, near Great Missenden on Monday afternoon (7
December).
She was taken to Wendover
Heights veterinary surgery, in Halton, who then contacted the RSPCA. Holly was
found to be suffering from mammary tumours, an infected womb and infected teeth.
She also has some eye and skin problems.
It is thought she is about 10 years old. She is white and has distinctive black
spots on her ears.
The south Buckinghamshire branch of the RSPCA is funding Holly’s treatment as
she is a very friendly dog with a great nature and they wanted to give her a
chance.
She has had emergency treatment and is responding well.
RSPCA inspector Martin Rivett said: “Holly is a lovely little dog and I’m
surprised that someone has dumped her, possibly having owned her for some time.
“Even if they couldn’t afford to keep her or get veterinary treatment, the
owners should have sought help.
“We often see unwanted animals abandoned or given up before Christmas and Holly
seems to be just another one of those animals left out in the cold.”
Anyone who knows where Holly may have come from should contact the RSPCA in
confidence on 0300 1234 999.
To find out how to support the work of the Buckinghamshire South branch of the
RSPCA please call 01494 564026.
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Remember,
Remember Your Animals This November
Friday, 30 October 2009
The number of complaints to the
RSPCA about firework related incidents fell to its lowest level in four years in
2008, with hopes for even fewer this year.
The RSPCA received a total of 451 complaints from members of the public about
fireworks throughout 2008, compared to 573 in 2005, 501 in 2006 and 555 in 2007.
The RSPCA investigated 306 fireworks related incidents last year, which is a
significant drop compared with 553 in 2007, 500 in 2006 and 575 in 2005.
Mark Evans, the Society’s chief veterinary advisor, shares his advice on how to
deal with firework phobia in the latest RSPCA wildlife podcast, which can be
listened to at
www.rspca.org.uk/wildlife.
“Fireworks, as well as other loud noises such as thunder, cause a great amount
of anxiety in dogs, but it is important that owners realise there is help out
there for them and their animals. They don’t have to watch their pets suffer,
year after year.
“A number of scientifically proven sound therapy packs are available to buy,
while your vet will be able to refer your pet to a clinical animal behaviourist
if necessary,” said Mark.
An estimated 45% of dogs in the UK – more than three million – are likely to
show fearful behaviour when they hear fireworks.
It is therefore encouraging that the amount of people visiting the fireworks
pages on the RSPCA’s website doubled last year to 21,710 visits, compared to
approximately 10,000 in 2007.
Numerous packs – including the RSPCA endorsed Sounds Scary! by Sound Therapy
Pets – are available to help owners help animals to learn to be less afraid of
loud fizzes and bangs.
In a scientific trial where owners trained their dogs with the Sounds Scary! CD,
together with the use of a dog appeasing pheromone (DAP), 93% of owners stated
there was a degree of improvement in their pet’s behaviour.
Mark added: “It takes plenty of time and effort to help your pet overcome his or
her firework phobia, but we want owners to help their dogs well in advance of
Bonfire Night, rather than attempt and often fail to provide short term fixes
that have no long-term benefit.
“It may be too late for this Guy Fawkes night, but it is an ideal time to start
helping your dog ahead of the New Year fireworks.”
Suzie Graham, RSPCA East regional manager, said: “It isn’t just household pets
that can suffer at this time of year and it is extremely important that people
think about the dangers bonfires and fireworks can pose to wild animals RSPCA
wildlife centres often have to treat injured and burned hedgehogs that have been
caught in bonfires as a result.
“People should build bonfires as late as possible to reduce the risk of animals
hiding in them. Disturbing the bonfire’s foundations and checking carefully for
any animals before lighting the fire can also give wildlife a chance to escape
before it is lit.”
The RSPCA’s firework
leaflet, which is full of useful advice, is available to download at
www.rspca.org.uk/fireworks
RSPCA advice for cats and dogs
- Treat fireworks phobia early
– speak to your vet about what you can do for your pet.
- Close windows and curtains
during fireworks, and play music quietly to mask the firework noise.
- Try to ignore your
cat/dog if they show signs of fear, unless there there is imminent danger and
never show anger to your cat/dog if he/she appears frightened. Either action
will only convince your pet that there is something to be afraid of and will
make things worse.
- Make sure your cat/dog is
kept in a safe environment at all time, but has somewhere to hide safely.
- Make sure your pet is
microchipped as this will help the chances of a safe return if they do escape.
- Consider using a
dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser that disperses calming chemicals into a room
where your pet is. Speak to your vet for advice.
- Provide a doggy play area in
your house in a quiet room, where your pet can go during fireworks.
- If possible, keep your cat
indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off and remember to lock the cat
flap once he/she is indoors.
- Make sure your cat/dog has
somewhere to hide if he/she wants to. Don’t try to tempt them out as this can
cause increased stress.
RSPCA advice for small animals
- If your pet lives outside,
partly cover cages, pens and aviaries with blankets so that one area is well
soundproofed. Make sure your pet is still able to look out.
- Provide lots of extra
bedding for your pets so that they have plenty to burrow in.
RSPCA advice for wildlife
- Before setting fire to any
bonfire or pile of vegetation, make sure you check it carefully for any
animals.
- Only build bonfires at the
last moment to prevent wildlife from hiding inside them.
- Disturb the foundations of a
bonfire before lighting it to give wildlife the chance to escape.
General advice
- Use lower-noise fireworks as
they will reduce the likely stress caused to animals.
- Make sure that pet and farm
animal owners in the neighbourhood are aware of the time and date of any
fireworks event you have planned.
- Fireworks debris and litter
can harm animals, so pick it all up after it has cooled down and dispose of it
safely.
- If you find any injured
animals during the fireworks season, contact the RSPCA on
0300 1234 999.
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Vote
Now For Your Favourite Pet Picture
30 September 2009
A teenager from
Buckinghamshire is after your vote in the RSPCA’s prestigious Young
Photographer Awards (YPA) after being shortlisted for the competition’s
People’s Choice Award.
Joanne
Faulkner, from High Wycombe, is one of six budding snappers from across
England hoping to be crowned the winner of the new prize, which is up for
grabs for the first time this year. Her photograph of her pet dog Dave has
been shortlisted from thousands of images submitted to the competition,
which is sponsored by Olympus and Warners Midlands.
Joanne, aged 13, said: “This picture portrays my dog, Dave, and his
inquisitive nature. I had only walked to the end of the driveway with my
sister to put the bin out, and when we came back he was poking his nose out
from underneath a bit of broken fence.”
To vote for Joanne to win, text ‘RSPCA 01’ to 81400. Approximately 61p of
every text vote will go direct to the RSPCA and helps improve animal welfare
across England and Wales.*
The shortlist for the RSPCA People’s Choice Award, in association with The
Sunday Express, was put together by a judging panel which includes BBC
Countryfile presenter and YPA host Matt Baker.
He said: “For me it is all about catching the character of the animal and
these pictures do exactly that. Some of these photographs would easily hold
their own against those taken by professionals.
“I think people would be stunned to know how young some of these people are
when they see what extraordinary images they have captured.”
Fellow judge and awarding winning wildlife photographer Danny Green also
cast his expert eye across this year’s finalists.
“The standard was so high that there were plenty of superb shots which
simply didn’t make the final cut.
“I had seen the standard of winning photographs from previous years, so I
expected the quality to be high, but not as high as this. Some of these
youngsters have fantastic futures as photographers based on what I’ve seen.
“To get a great photograph is a difficult art to master, but some of these
people have made it look easy,” said Danny.
Voting closes at the end of October and the RSPCA YPA People’s Choice Award
winner will be announced by Matt Baker on Friday, 11 December at the Tower
of London.
The winner of the People’s Choice Award will also receive an Olympus Mju
9000 sleek 10x zoom compact camera.
-
You will
be charged £1.00 plus one message at your standard network rate. The RSPCA
will receive approximately 61p per text from all major networks apart from
Virgin where the amount is 44p.You can increase this amount by responding
to your confirmation text and gift aiding your donation.
-
The
voting will close on 31 October, 2009 at 23.59. Any texts received after
this will not be counted but you may still be charged.
-
For help
or queries on this service please phone 0300 1234 555.
-
For full
terms and conditions please visit
www.rspca.org.uk/ypa
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On
the 23rd of September we had the
Chuckle Brothers visit the
Burnham Shop!
They were
recording their new T.V series and used our window and shop front as scenery
- although don't expect to recognise it (if you watch children's t.v?) as it
became a trophy shop for the afternoon. The crew, (around 18 of them!) were
all really considerate and managed to work around our intrigued customers,
most of the filming was done outside, we didn't even have to close the shop
- it was business as usual - almost!
We all enjoyed a very interesting afternoon, as well as being the centre of
attention in Burnham High Street (to the surprise of the staff at the new
Tesco store who had opened their doors for the first time this morning - I
wonder what their first impression of Burnham is after today!?!)
We are also extremely pleased to be able to tell you that for our
hospitality we are to receive a donation of £250 for the branch.
Here is a photo of The Chuckle Brothers with Jackie Orelious our shop
supervisor, Tom Willis our van driver, Myself, and 2 of our youngest
volunteers ( as well as Tilly the dog - well the animals had to get in on
the act somewhere didn't they?)
When people ask why I love my job, I always say "because no two days are the
same", I wonder if they realise just how true that is - and what tomorrow
will bring! ~Anna Meredith
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Update
on the Dumped Trio
Monday 21 September
2009
You may
remember the below story which I sent out last week. Since then, the two male
puppies, Toffee and Bumble, have sadly died from parvovirus, which they were
already infected with when they were found.
Bumble died on the night
of Monday 14 September and Toffee died two days later. They were both
receiving veterinary treatment but were sadly too ill to survive.
Alise continues to be
cared for by an RSPCA fosterer.
The RSPCA strongly urges
pet owners to have their animals regularly vaccinated against diseases like
parvovirus.
Heidi Free from the Bucks
South branch said: "The deaths of these two tiny pups could so easily have
been prevented by routine vaccinations. Instead they were just left to get
sick and were dumped when it was too late to save them."
Tiny
Trio Dumped At Roadside
Monday 14 September 2009

The RSPCA is appealing for information after three tiny puppies were found
dumped at the side of the A40 on Saturday 12 September.
The pups had been left in a grey plastic dog carrier at the side of the
eastbound carriageway near Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. They were found at
8.15am and it is thought they had been left there some time during the
night as the carrier was wet with dew. Inside the carrier was some shredded
paper which was soaked with the puppies’ urine.
The dogs were taken by a passing motorist to a veterinary surgery in
Beaconsfield. The two males, named Toffee and Bumble by volunteers from the
RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, are suffering from gastroenteritis and are
on drips. They also have worm infestations and have no interest in food. The
female dog, named Alise, is in better condition and is being hand fed.
The puppies are thought to be aged between seven and eight weeks old and are
Yorkshire terrier crossbreeds. They will be placed with fosterers when they
are well enough and will then be made ready for rehoming if their owner cannot
be found.
Heidi Free from the Buckinghamshire South branch said: “Toffee was very cold
and was the lightest of the three puppies, weighing just 1.34kgs. Bumble
seemed OK at first and was lively and friendly, but he is now also very
poorly.
“It will take a while and lots of TLC to bring them back to health, but
hopefully they will all be OK.”
RSPCA chief inspector Rob Skinner said: “These puppies had been left at the
side of a busy road with no thought for their welfare or safety. If they had
not been found, there would have been a much less happy ending to their story.
“There is no excuse for dumping animals as help is available from the RSPCA
and other animal welfare charities.”
Anyone with information about this incident should contact the RSPCA in
confidence on 0300 1234 999.
Although the puppies are not ready for rehoming yet, anyone interested in
rehoming an animal from the RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch should call
01494 564026.
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Abandoning
Faith In Pet Owners As Animals
Are Dumped At RSPCA Centre
Tuesday 11 August 2009
 The
RSPCA Blackberry Farm Animal Centre is making a desperate appeal to the public
to stop dumping their animals after a spate of abandonments at the centre.
In the last two weeks, three cats, four kittens and three guinea pigs have all
been left outside the centre in Quainton, near Aylesbury. Animals are rarely
dumped there.
Micha, a very friendly tabby cat was left in a box with a blanket at the gates
on Friday 24 July. However, the box was cardboard and had no lid, so Micha
managed to overturn it and ended up in nearby bushes. Although she was hiding
when Julie Allen, the centre’s manager, went outside, Micha soon rushed over
to her and wanted to be picked up. Micha gave birth to five kittens three
days later.
Hermione, a white cat, was dumped at the gate on Friday 7 August. However,
staff found only a box with three kittens inside and a note which said “Mum
and kittens inside. My name is John and I will come in on Monday”. No one
has been in about the cats since.
They eventually tracked the mother down, as well as another kitten late that
night. There is thought to be at least one more kitten out there and staff
are continuing to search, although there are fears for the safety of the
others as there is a busy road and a water-filled ditch nearby.
Another cat was left in a box on Tuesday 28 July and two days later, three
terrified guinea pigs were discovered in a cardboard box which had been
suspended from the gates four feet above the ground. It was swinging
precariously in the high winds.
Julie said: “To have this many abandonments at the centre is unusual and
seems to be part of a worrying trend.
“This is not the way to deal with unwanted animals. If someone rings us or
comes into the centre we will do our best to help them. Just dumping pets
shows no regard for their safety. If we can’t find those kittens they could
starve to death just because their owner couldn’t wait to find them a new home
or even make sure they were safe.”
The cats and kittens came to the centre at an already busy time, when there
were already more than 90 cats in care. The RSPCA appeals to owners to have
their pets neutered to prevent them having unwanted litters that they are not
willing to care for.
To find out how to rehome an animal from RSPCA Blackberry Farm please call
0300 123 0752.
To find out more about neutering please visit
www.rspca.org.uk
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Man
Found Guilty Of Causing Dogs To Suffer
Wednesday,
5 August 2009 
Jan Ward (aged 23) was yesterday
(Tuesday, 4 August) found guilty in his absence of causing unnecessary
suffering to his two dogs by Aylesbury Magistrates’ Court, in a case brought
by the RSPCA. Ward, of Chelsea House, Witan
Gate, Milton Keynes, was reported to the RSPCA in November 2008 after his
Rottweiler, Bruno, died. Bruno was already dead when veterinary staff
received a call from Ward asking them to collect him from his then address in
Plover Close, Buckingham. The one-year-old dog had
multiple deep bite wounds to his head and legs, including more than 30 wounds
on his left hind leg alone. The wounds were infected and his back legs were
caked in urine, faeces and dried blood. Some of the wounds were so severe
that muscle and bone was exposed. The examining vet found that
Bruno would have suffered for two to four days and his death was caused by a
combination of septicaemia, huge blood loss and shock. Ward’s other Rottweiler, Tyson,
was thin and had puncture wounds and scrapes on his face, ears, neck and legs,
including two deep lacerations. The wounds were found to be several days old
and were infected. Both dogs’ injuries had been
caused by them fighting with each other. They had then received no treatment
and Bruno had been left to die. The defendant claimed that he
had no transport to get the dogs to a vet, despite being given taxi details by
the vet during a previous phone call. RSPCA inspector Kirsty Hampton
said: “These dogs were left to suffer for no reason. Bruno in particular was
just left to slowly bleed to death over more than two days. “There can be no excuse for
allowing animals to go through the sort of ordeal that these dogs went
through.” A warrant has been issued
for Ward’s arrest so that he can be sentenced for the offences.
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RSPCA
Reveals Rise In Unwanted Cats
Monday 3 August 2009
The RSPCA East region has
announced a rise in cat abandonments for the fourth year running.
The number of cats picked up by RSPCA officers rose from 2,519 in 2007 to 2,850
in 2008 in the East region.* In 2006 the figure was 2,020.
So far in 2009, the number of feline abandonments has already reached 1,363. As
the numbers traditionally rise in the summer months, this figure is set to
rapidly increase when the totals for August and September are added.
RSPCA centres, branches, private boarding facilities and foster carers are
currently over run with cats, with hundreds in care.
The summer and early autumn period is the busiest time for cat abandonments.
Between July and September 2007 calls involving 915 abandoned cats were
received. In 2008, this rose to an incredible 1, 068 cats.
The RSPCA believes that failure to get their pets neutered means that owners are
left with unwanted litters of kittens on their hands, which they then give up
for rehoming or, in many tragic cases, simply dump.
One RSPCA branch in Lincolnshire took in a cat, which had a litter of small
kittens and was already pregnant again. Branches hear a variety of reasons for
not neutering pets. These include “I didn’t think they would mate as the lights
were left on,” and, “I didn’t need to get them neutered as they are brother and
sister.”
As well as reducing the numbers of unwanted cats and kittens, neutering is vital
to protect against illness such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). It will
also help stop tom cats fighting over territory or females. If Marvin and six
other cats taken in by the Nottingham and Notts branch had been neutered they
wouldn’t have fought with each other, causing Marvin to suffer from a badly
infected bite which left a wound which stretched from his chin to the top of his
head.
RSPCA regional manager Suzie Graham said: “Sadly Marvin’s story isn’t one in a
million. Hundreds of cats end up becoming unwanted, injured or sick just because
they weren’t neutered.
“Many of our branches can help towards the cost of cat neutering so there is
never any excuse to risk your pet’s health.”
The RSPCA believes that the increasing numbers may also be due to a failure of
cat owners to have their pets microchipped and many people going off on holiday
and leaving their cats to fend for themselves.
Many of the cats collected by the RSPCA are thought to have caring families, but
without a microchip there is no way of knowing where they belong. Suzie Graham
added: “This places a huge burden on our animal centres and branches who take in
more cats than they can find homes for. We are appealing to all owners to have
their pet microchipped – it really could mean the difference between losing them
forever or having them safely home.”
More information on microchipping and neutering can be found at
www.rspca.org.uk
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Three
Wild Birds Found Dumped
Thursday, 9 July
2009
The RSPCA is appealing for information after three wild birds were found
dumped in box in Aston Abbotts, near Aylesbury, on Monday 6 July.
The pair of juvenile wood
pigeons and a juvenile collared dove were discovered in a blue cardboard box
on the edge of Cublington Road. The box also contained the remains of a
small nest and branches from a hedge or tree.
A passer-by took the birds to
the RSPCA Blackberry Farm Animal Centre in Quainton. Animal welfare officer
(AWO) Andy Eddy took them on to St Tiggyinkles Wildlife Hospital in
Haddenham and is investigating the incident. All three youngsters were
alert and healthy.
AWO Eddy said: "It is only
luck that these birds were found before any they came to any harm. If they
had remained undiscovered there could have been a much less happy ending to
their story.
"Whoever moved this nest must
have known that what they were doing was illegal and we are appealing for
anyone with information about this to come forward."
It is an offence, under the
Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981, to damage, destroy or remove a wild
bird's nest, unless it is done under licence. Those found guilty could face
a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £5,000 fine.
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Life
Ban For Causing Cat To Suffer
Thursday 2 July 2009
Vivienne Smith (aged 54) was
yesterday (1 July) banned from keeping animals for life at High Wycombe
Magistrates Court after she was previously found guilty of causing her cat to
suffer.
Magistrates also ordered Smith,
of Berwick Road, Marlow, to pay £3,000 in costs and to comply with a curfew
order to stay at home between 2pm and 4pm Monday to Friday and between 7pm and
7am at weekends for three months.
The RSPCA brought the case after
being contacted about a tortoiseshell cat named Tina in August 2008. The
eight-year-old cat had an abscess on her hind leg and, despite noticing the
injury, Smith did not seek veterinary treatment for several days. The abscess
burst, causing severe injuries to the leg and Tina went into shock.
The leg was so seriously injured
that it had to be amputated. The examining vet said that Tina had been in
severe pain and that the infection was poisoning her body. She also said that
had she been left for another 12 hours she could have died.
In mitigation, the defendant
cited personal circumstances and said she did not deliberately mean to cause
harm.
RSPCA inspector Martin Rivett
said: “This cat was in a huge amount of pain simply because she had not been
taken to a vet. Owners have a duty to seek treatment for their pets if they
become sick or injured.
“There is financial help
available and insurance can help towards meeting unexpected veterinary costs,
so to leave an animal to suffer for any reason is unnecessary and must not
happen.”
Tina was signed over into the
care of the RSPCA and is now being rehomed.
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Case Studies:
Puppy Found Dead In Canal
The body of a Staffordshire bull terrier puppy was found dumped in a canal in
Lenton in Nottingham in January.
The distinctive black and white-coloured dog was just six months old. He had
been dead for four days when the RSPCA was alerted.
RSPCA inspector Sue Haywood said: “I was deeply shocked when I pulled the body
from the water. To treat an animal in such a throw-away manner is despicable and
shows a complete disregard for the pain and distress he would have suffered.”

Dog Dumped From Van
A Staffordshire bull terrier was
seen being dumped from the back of a silver van in Borrowash, Derbyshire, in
February.
The brindle and white-coloured dog, since named Clara by the RSPCA, was
uninjured and was eventually found a new home by the Society’s animal shelter in
Derby.
RSPCA inspector Edwina Davidson said: “Animal owners who find themselves unable
to look after their pets should contact the RSPCA or another responsible animal
welfare charity. Dumping dogs is irresponsible, illegal and is never an option.”
Young Dog Found Dead In River 
The body of a young Staffordshire bull terrier was found in the River Nene in
March, Cambridgeshire in March.
A brick had been tied to the brindle and white-coloured dog’s lead to weigh the
body down. The terrier still had his baby teeth, meaning he was less than a year
old. It is thought he had been in the water for a week.
RSPCA inspector Jon Knight said: “It can usually be presumed that an animal
found dead in a river with bricks tied to it was intentionally put there to
drown. If this was the case, the dog would have suffered a distressing and
painful death.
“This appears to be a callous and deliberate act of cruelty.”

Sick Puppy Found Dumped
An eight-month-old Staffordshire bull terrier was found wandering along a street
in Beeston in Nottingham in March.
The brindle and white-coloured dog was suffering from severe mange which had
caused her skin to become sore, infected and even bloody in parts.
She was a normal weight and it is thought she was being cared for by someone
until quite recently.
RSPCA inspector Sue Haywood said: “This puppy was in a lot of discomfort. Her
skin was infected and she had lost much of her fur. An owner did not come
forward so we presume that someone dumped her when they couldn’t afford or
couldn’t be bothered to seek veterinary treatment.”
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Swan
Injured By Hook Was Also Shot
Friday, 3 April 2009
The RSPCA is appealing for information after a swan with a fishing hook injury
was rescued and found to have five air gun pellets in his body.
The swan was picked up from Dimocks Pit, Bletchley Road in Newton Longville,
Milton Keynes on Friday 27 March by RSPCA animal collection officer (ACO) Andy
Eddy. A fishing hook was embedded in the bird’s cheek and he was taken to St
Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital for treatment.
Vets at the hospital removed the hook which had not caused serious injury and
x-rayed the swan. It was then that they saw that he had five air gun pellets in
his back. The wounds had healed and the pellets were not causing the swan any
discomfort so it was decided to leave them to avoid causing further distress.
ACO Eddy released the swan back to Dimocks Pit on Thursday 2 April. He said:
“This poor swan suffered pain and distress because someone was careless with
their fishing litter. He had also endured pain when someone deliberately shot at
him in the past.
“Those with air weapons need to remember that it is illegal to use them to cause
suffering to animals. Animals and birds are not there for people to use as
target practice and we need to hear from anyone who sees this happening.”
The RSPCA also reminds people to take their fishing hooks and used line home to
dispose of them properly.
Those found guilty of killing or injuring a wild animal or bird could face a
maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a £5,000 fine under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act, 1981.
Anyone with information
should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999.
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Dog
Breeder Found Guilty of Causing Suffering
Thursday, 26 March 2009
A
breeder of Old English mastiffs and Great Danes was yesterday (Wednesday 25
March) found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog by Aylesbury
Magistrates Court in a case brought by the RSPCA.
David Blaxter (aged 71) and his
wife Sylvia Blaxter (75)* were ordered to pay £4,130 in costs and fines after
being found jointly responsible of failing to provide veterinary treatment for
one of their Old English mastiffs.
Blaxter took Henry, an
11½-year-old dog, from the couple’s cottage in Barton Hartshorn,
Buckinghamshire to the Croft Veterinary Centre in Brackley, Northamptonshire
in December 2007. The vets were so concerned about his condition that they
contacted the RSPCA. Henry was extremely emaciated and had a cancerous tumour
in his mouth that had disintegrated his lower jaw, making it impossible for
him to eat. He also had bed sores caused by him being unable to stand.
Henry had never had a veterinary
examination in his life and the defendants admitted they had noticed he had
problems with his mouth as much as six months earlier.
David
Blaxter regularly showed his dogs at Crufts and has acted as a judge at
various dog shows.
Upon reaching his verdict, the
district judge praised the vets for calling in the RSPCA. He also said that
the case was ‘black and white’, adding that the dog was in an appalling
condition.
In mitigation, Mr Blaxter said
Henry was just an old dog and he had not noticed his tumour.
RSPCA inspector Kirsty Hampton
said: “I am pleased with the verdict as this dog was in a terrible state and
little remorse was shown by someone who should know one of the most basic
duties of a responsible owner - that sick animals need veterinary treatment.
“I would have liked to have seen
a disqualification order imposed but I hope that the verdict and sentence will
serve to prevent animals from suffering in the future.”
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Fresh
Appeal for Iggy the Iguana
19.01.09
You
may remember the appeal for information about an iguana left at a garage in
High Wycombe last month. We now have a CCTV picture of the man who left the
iguana, and we are making a fresh appeal for information about the owner of
the animal.
Iggy now has a permanent new home with an experienced keeper in Hertfordshire.
Click on the image to enlarge
the CCTV image.
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