All the news that s fit to bark!

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2 WAG Welcome From the editor... elcome to your spring Wag. Spring is all about new beginnings, so here at Dogs Trust W we re celebrating some major milestones: Last year we found great new homes for over 13,000 dogs; we completed the major rebuild of our Evesham rehoming centre; just a few weeks ago we also completed the refurbishment of our Newbury centre; and we ve - at last! - received planning permission to create a brand new dog rehoming centre in Cardiff! With the number of stray and abandoned dogs in Wales totalling 4,900 last year, we re delighted to be bringing our expertise and experience to help alleviate dog welfare problems in the area. Our nearby Bridgend centre is always filled to capacity with gorgeous dogs seeking special someones, so the new Cardiff centre sited on a plot in Splott - will certainly help matters. Crucially, it will go a long way in improving the lives of dogs in Wales for decades to come. Dogs Trust Cardiff is scheduled to open in The editor with assistant editor Daniel the Spaniel All the news that s fit to bark! S COOL FOR THE SUMMER Dogs Trust Dog Schools will be running FREE family-friendly puppy and adult dog training workshops over the spring and summer months - so get involved! Focussed firmly on helping Fido and all the people in his family feel happy and confident, at home and on the move, our 90 minute family workshops welcome owners of all ages. Our Dog Schools also welcome children into their regular five week training courses, which run all year long, and cost 50 per dog. To find your nearest family friendly workshop, and/or dog training course, visit: WAG News FESTIVAL OF THE FIDOS We are the UK s largest dog welfare charity, but we couldn t do a thing without YOU! My thanks to all of you for reading Wag, supporting Dogs Trust and above all, loving dogs just as much as we do! Deana Selby Editor PS Thank you to everyone - all 2,500 of you - who entered their dog snaps for our photography competition. We loved seeing so many beauties, cuties, jokers and barkers! Check out the winners on page 18. LARGE PRINT AND AUDIO AVAILABLE! Large print and audio versions of Wag are now available, please Wag@dogstrust.org.uk or call to request your copy. Editor: Deana Selby Readers Dogs: wag@dogstrust.org.uk High-res Jpegs only please! Designed by: Anthony Oram anthonyoram.com Print by: Eclipse Colour Print, managed by Red Mist Thanks to contributors this issue: Lee Paris, Tamsin Durston, Linda Mazza, Catherine Davies, Sarah Morgan-Davies, Cat Charles, Kayla Maryon, Emma Meaden, Hannah Baker, Lucy Jackson, Gemma Sorrell, Tamsin Durston. Reg charity nos (England and Wales), SCO37843 (Scotland) (Ireland) Editorial address: Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House, 17 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ Tel: wag@dogstrust.org.uk A dog is for life, not just for Christmas COVER STAR Smokey the Lurcher at Dogs Trust Basildon, by James Lincoln. Smokey arrived as stray shortly before Christmas, and has since found his forever home. Do you look like your dog? Share your photos with us wag@dogstrust.org.uk Many thanks to Catherine Davies dogstrust.org.uk For more photos, news, videos Dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine Send us your Dogs Trust dog using #DTDogOfTheWeek YouTube: youtube.com/dogstrust Facebook: facebook.com/dogstrust Pinterest: pinterest.co.uk/dogstrust Phone: wag@dogstrust.org.uk For information on how we use personal information please visit Photo: Clive Tagg Photo: Rachel Taunton FREE family dog training classes are taking place at the following Dogs Trust rehoming centres: March 27 Leeds tel Loughborough tel April 3 Leeds tel Bridgend tel Oval Community Centre, Stevenage SG1 tel Evesham tel Shoreham tel Bridgend tel Kinsbourne Common Hall, Luton Rd AL5 tel Leeds tel Loughborough tel July 31 Shoreham tel Leeds tel The best days out are those shared with your best friends (furry and non-furry) - so bring them along, do, to one of our splendid Dogs Trust fun days. A Dogs Trust fun day is like the best village fete, foodie festival, country fair and fun sports day rolled into one - but a million times better because they re all designed with dogs in mind. There s usually have- a-go agility courses, food stalls galore, doggy paddling pools and plenty of games for you and your dog to try together, such as best biscuit catcher and the doggy dash. You ll find all the details you need on the back page of your Wag! 02 Spring 2018 Spring

3 WAG News WAG News Bloomin marvellous Rosie STOP DOG THEFT BE A PUPPER SIGNER-UPPER! Still a vibrant beauty at 20 years old, sprightly Rosie is the light of the lives of Mr and Mrs Slessor, who rehomed her from our West Calder centre an incredible 14 years ago. Says Mrs Slessor, Thank you for giving us the opportunity of giving Rosie the home she so deserved and for brightening our lives. She is a smashing wee girl who loves snuggling up and gets lots of hugs. Rosie used to love swimming but not so much now as the water is too cold for her. That said, she was paddling at North Berwick last week. Only up to her ankles though. Would you like to play a vital part in protecting the future health and welfare of dog-kind? Do you own a puppy who is under 16 weeks of age? Then we would LOVE to hear from you! Generation Pup is a pioneering study into the health and behaviour of dogs from birth until death, and we need even more pups to take part so that we can ensure the results will be beneficial to dogs for years to come. We will ask owners to answer questions about their dog s health and behaviour at various stages of their lives, and, if they wish, owners can also send in hair, faecal and saliva samples from their dogs. We need 10,000 puppies to join us - so if you own a pup of any breed or crossbreed and they are less than 16 weeks old, then visit our website at to find out more and sign up. ALL types of puppies welcome! Top 5 dogs signed up so far: 1 Labrador 2 Cocker Spaniel 3 Border Collie 4 Cockerpoo 5 Golden Retrievers - and share your family pawtrait! With reports of dog theft on the rise, we are urging owners to be vigilant through the launch of our new campaign video Family Pawtraits. With our dogs playing such a huge part in our lives, it is important for us to offer them the same care and protection given to all family members. Whether two legs or four, we all want to be kept safe. By following our three simple steps, you can reduce the risk of theft and offer the best possible chance of being reunited with your dog should they go missing; SAFE: ensure your property and garden is kept secure SPOTTABLE: keep your dog in sight and trained to reliably respond to a recall command SEARCHABLE: know what to do and who to contact should your dog go missing Jules, Jamie and Daniel adore their girl Willow. To watch our video and download our Safe, Spottable and Searchable factsheet, visit our website Tell us (@Dogstrust) what your dog means to you and your family and share your own Pawtraits,remembering to include #dogstrustfamilypawtrait Photo credit: with thanks to Venture Studios Woofers Very Welcome! Is your favourite dog not on the list? Then you know what to do! (NB pups must be under 16 weeks of age.) LIFE SKILLS BY TUBE We ve now got Dogs Trust Dog School s fun dog training classes for puppies and adults running in 26 locations around the UK, but if you can t make it to a class the next best thing is Dog School on our Dogs Trust Youtube channel. Check out our easy to follow videos for top tips on essential life skills, including housetraining your puppy, teaching your dog to settle and walking nicely on the lead. Visit We at Wag reckon it s not a real holiday unless Rover comes too - so head over to where you can take your pick from over 5,000 pretty and pet-friendly holiday cottages all over the UK, Ireland and France. By booking a Dog Trust holiday cottage, you ll not only be ensuring Rover feels part of the family, but you ll be helping dogs in need too - as 10% of your booking fee comes straight to Dogs Trust. Photo: Jen, Ben and Daniel are loving the fresh air and their Dogs Trust holiday cottage! 04 Spring 2018 Spring

4 WAG News WAG News I m forever barking Bubbles We LOVE hearing all about how our dogs are getting on once they ve left our care. Way back in 2006, Michelle visited the newly opened Dogs Trust West London rehoming centre where they met and fell in love with Bubbles. Bubbles, a sparkling four year old Border Collie, was one of the centre s first residents to find their forever home; fast forward 12 years and Bubbles is still popping smiles on her doting owners faces. Owner Michelle says, She is such a loving, kind, sweet girl. We live in Oxfordshire with fields and rivers nearby to walk along, although Bubbles is getting on a bit now, so prefers to stroll around the garden and relax with the cats. A huge thank you for all the hard work at Dogs Trust, we are so lucky to have a very special dog who we adore. Get Thee To A Nunnery Lucky loves his new habits of a lifetime Photos: Wendy Lovatt ROCKY KNOCKS OUT THE COMPETITION PRAISE BE! For scruffular terrier cross, Lucky, is enjoying his great new home with not just one special someone, but ten. Rehomed by our Dogs Trust Manchester team to Sister Sheila and her fellow nuns at the Convent of Saint Emilie, Lucky is having a heavenly time being doted on by the sisters. Explains Carol Margieson, deputy manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, When Sister Sheila visited us she explained that her eyesight had started to fail, and she could no longer enjoy many of the things she once did, but she wanted to stay active. A dog seemed to be the answer. When they first met, Lucky immediately jumped onto Sister Sheila s knee and made himself very comfortable! He now enjoys lots of walks and playtimes every day, taking afternoon naps on his own chair alongside the sisters, and settles down in Sister Sheila s bedroom at night. Says Sister Sheila, As soon as I met him I knew he was the dog for me. He enjoys all the love and attention he gets from the sisters, and loves heading out every day with different people. He brings us so much joy. A litter of seven pups which had been abandoned at the roadside have been hand-reared by devoted staff at Dogs Trust Darlington. Wedged in a cardboard box beside a busy road when they were just one week old, Daisy, Diva, Kong, Dakota, Georgia, Texas and Nevada had to be bottle fed every two hours. This mammoth task was shared by centre staff Sharon Boult and Joanne Alford, who each took the pups into their own homes in order to give them the 24/7 attention they needed to simply survive. Photos: Francesca Gent 24/7 TLC The puppies recently became old enough to be rehomed and the Darlington team are delighted that all of them are thriving and have found loving new owners. Explains Sharon, You do get attached to the dogs in your care, especially when spending so much time with them, as Jo and I did. Whilst it s sad to say goodbye we re so happy all the pups have found new homes and everyone at the centre wishes them well as they head off with their new families. Stop. Think. Pup! With so many dogs in the UK really needing to find a special someone to call their own - we cared for over 15,000 dogs in 2017, and we are just one of many canine rescue charities - we always urge people to adopt a puppy from a rescue centre. However, if you re certain you d like to purchase a pup then please follow our top tips to ensure you don t inadvertently end up lining the pockets of unscrupulous puppy smugglers nor bring home a traumatised, sickly pup which has endured appalling conditions and travelled hundreds of miles across Europe. Do 1. Ask to see mum and pup together 2. Visit your new pup more than once 3. Get all your pup s paperwork before going home 4. Walk away if you are at all unsure 5. Report suspicious sellers or breeders 6. Take your puppy to your own vet for a health check asap Don t 1. Meet anywhere that isn t the pup s home 2. Buy a pup from anyone who can supply various breeds on demand 3. Buy a pup that looks too young/small or underweight 4. Feel pressure to buy a puppy 5. Buy a pup that you suspect has been illegally imported A Labourite Labrador has made his pawmark on the nation s political landscape by winning the coveted title of Westminster Dog of the Year. Chocolate Lab, Rocky, who is owned and adored by Tracey Brabin MP (Lab, Batley and Spen), impressed the judges with his fantastic obedience and clear devotion to his owner. This is the 25 th year of the uniquely apolitical canine competition, run by Dogs Trust with the Kennel Club, and winning owner Tracey says, Rocky is friendly, smiley and desperate to please. He is really responsive and sympathetic to the people around him. He s also exceptionally well trained, and is a wonderful pet to my daughters as well as being a masterful retriever. Daisy, Diva and Kong: needed feeding every 2 hours Photo: Kevin Johnson 06 Spring 2018 Spring

5 Safe As Houses WAG Feature Home is where the heart is, and for many people having a family pet is what completes their home. Unfortunately, the majority of dog bites to children happen in the family home. This is due to a number of reasons, but there are plenty of ways to avoid bites. With around 25% of us owning a dog, learning about how they tick can only benefit everybody. People often think their dog wouldn t hurt a fly, and in most cases they are right, but all dogs are animals with natural instincts for responding to anything they perceive as dangerous. If a dog feels scared, nervous or threatened this is the time they are most likely to bite or growl at whatever is making them feel that way as a means of protecting themselves. To help spread the word about keeping every member of the family safe and sound, our youth education officers are offering FREE Be Dog Smart workshops in schools all over the country. Each workshop is tailored to fit the age group and educational abilities of the pupils. To book a free workshop in your school please us at educ@dogstrust.org.uk You can also download our FREE factsheet on staying Dog Smart from here So the number one rule for safety in the home is to actively supervise at all times: Never leave children unattended with a dog! However small, cute and fluffy, young or old, they still have teeth and there are many ways children can provoke dogs without meaning to. The Rules: Kids running and shouting around a dog Dogs may growl, chase, hide or even bite if they feel overexcited, trapped or threatened. Children who are shouting, running around and playing noisily can easily frighten a dog. Chasing a dog can also get him overexcited and the dog might then find it hard to control himself. Give your dog something nice to do, like a food-releasing toy, in a completely different area of the house while children play. Invading a dog s space Dogs can be scared by us getting too close to their faces. They need space, and they may feel threatened by someone smothering them with hugs and kisses. Even though some dogs do tolerate this, it s far safer for the child not to do it all. Ear pulling / eye poking Small children in particular may pull and poke which could hurt or irritate the dog. They are too young to know better, so teach your child never to do this, and always supervise, as a hurt or worried dog might bite. Teasing a dog Teasing a dog can make him angry or frustrated enough to bite. For instance, if a dog has food or a toy, you should never try to take it away. Dogs need clear and consistent messages about how we expect them to behave so have a family discussion about whether or not your dog will be allowed on furniture, or upstairs, for example, and make sure everyone sticks to these rules so he doesn t become confused and frustrated. Let sleeping dogs lie and don t interrupt feeding time Dogs can feel particularly vulnerable when they are sleeping, eating or drinking. Kids should be encouraged to completely leave him alone at these times. Just like us, dogs need their own space or they could react unhappily you wouldn t like it much if you were being poked awake or interrupted while eating your dinner. So now you know the rules on being safe around dogs at home, here s what to look out for: Dog body language warning signs: If a dog s ears are back, his tail is between his legs and he s cowering, he s probably scared. If a dog is licking his lips and yawning when he is not tired or hungry then he could be stressed. This is a less obvious one so be aware of these small signs. If a dog is moving or turning away, this might mean that he doesn t want your attention, so if it is safe to do so just leave him be. If a dog s teeth are bared and he is growling this is likely to mean he is feeling extremely uncomfortable about whatever is happening around him. He could bite as a way of trying to keep himself safe. The best thing you can do is to immediately stop whatever is happening to or around the dog and then quietly calmly and slowly move everybody away and seek help. Illustrations: Mike Jefferies 08 Spring 2018 Spring

6 WHAT MY DOG MEANS TO ME Last autumn around 100 Dogs Trust rehoming centre staff from across the country shared their feelings on my special someone - what my pet means to me at the bi-annual staff conference, the session kindly run by Petplan who cosponsored the conference with Marmax Products. Nico Joiner, Dogs Trust Loughborough s training and behaviour advisor, shared his thoughts on his dog squad, Dog ownership is a responsibility, every now and then it s a cause of frustration and sadness, but being a true dog lover there is nothing more rewarding than having the friendship of the four dogs I currently own. Nico (right) and Craig Joiner with Bagel, Vinnie, Fudge and Chimp So go ahead, roll in fox mess, raid the bin and make sure I never have a clean car; I am still going to want as many of you as possible on the sofa with me when we snuggle up in front of a good film! Aside from giving me purpose, happiness, entertainment and company even when I want to be away from the world, they add an extra dimension of care and pride to mine and Craig s newlywed lives together. It s my overt love and respect for my dogs that made Craig want to message me on the dating sites, so without me and my family being who we are, we wouldn t have the incredible life we have ahead of us! HUGE thanks to everyone who has donated their unwanted stamps, postcards and foreign currencies; you helped our dedicated volunteer Jenny Thomas raise over 30,000 in 2017, enough to sponsor five kennels for the year! Please keep them coming to: Jenny Thomas, 15 Wentworth Avenue, London N3 1YA. Don t forget to use a LARGE stamp on your envelope! Amy and her new owner, Graham AMY S STORY Amy, a 14-year-old Collie cross, had lived with her owner since she was a puppy. Suddenly, she found herself alone when her owner passed away and their next of kin couldn t care for her. Thankfully, Amy s owner had registered for a Canine Care Card. It s a free service run by Dogs Trust, where we promise to care for your dog should you pass away first. It meant a family member simply had to call Dogs Trust to take Amy into our care at the nearest rehoming centre. Amy was understandably missing her home comforts, so our staff decided it would be better to place her into temporary foster care until we found her a new owner. It wasn t too long before Amy met her perfect companion, 85 year old Graham Buckingham, who told Wag: I have always had dogs in my life, and, as I now live alone, I was looking for a dog to keep me company. Amy loves her walks so she gets me out of the house and keeps me active; we help each other. I m so lucky to have her in my life and I m glad that I ve given her a second chance. If you re worried about what would happen to your dog if you were to pass away before them, then request a Canine Care Card registration form today. We will send you a wallet-sized card which acts in a similar way to an organ donor card, and notifies people of your wishes for your dog. Once your dog arrives at one of our rehoming centres, they will be examined by vets and cared for by our dedicated staff. We aim to find your dog a new owner, whose lifestyle and experience match their needs. If, for any reason, they cannot be rehomed, rest assured Dogs Trust never puts down a healthy dog, so we will look after them for the rest of their lives. Please fill out the coupon, or alternatively call or ccc@dogstrust.org.uk and quote code WAG Feature Yes I d like to apply for my free Canine Care Card In order to communicate with you more effectively, better understand your preferences and ability to support our work, we may analyse your data. We will only share your information with Dogs Trust Worldwide, Dogs Trust Ireland and Dogs Trust Promotions. To read our full privacy policy visit dogstrust.org.uk/privacy Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other Name Address Postcode Source: From time to time we would like to send you exciting updates about our work, products, services and how you can support us, including fundraising activities and research by post. You can opt out of communications or change your preferences at any time by calling Please send this coupon to: Freepost RTJA-SRXG-AZUL, Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House, 17 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ No stamp required. Registered Charity Numbers: & SC Spring 2018 Spring

7 WAG Fundraising VIRTUALLY PERFECT GIFTS FOR ANIMAL LOVERS Looking for a more meaningful gift? Dogs Trust Virtual Gifts help us transform the lives of stray and abandoned dogs, while giving dog-lovers peace of mind, knowing that they have helped dogs in need. IT WAS ALL YELLOW WAG Fundraising The owner of a café in Abersoch is so proud to proclaim her support for the UK s largest dog welfare charity that she coated her caff in Dogs Trust bright yellow! Heidi McKinnell also managed to raise over 10,400 for Dogs Trust by running a host of fundraising events throughout the summer, including turning her café yellow, holding a charity auction, throwing a BBQ, painting portraits and selling home-made dog treats. If you feel inspired by Heidi s pawsome fundraising efforts and would like to organise your own event, please drop us a line: fundraiseforus@dogstrust.org.uk. With every Virtual Gift purchase you ll be sent a Dogs Trust gift card, which you can personalise and send on to your loved one, letting them know how your donation has helped the dogs in our care. Squeaks and Snacks 10 Pawfect for your fun-loving friend or family member, you can now send the gift of a treat and toy to one of our playful pooches who just needs to be taught the meaning of fun while they wait for their forever home. As well as bringing joy to dogs, toys and treats help them bond with their dedicated canine carers and are also great for stimulation, training and rewarding good behaviour. Healthy Hounds 20 You can now give the gift of a five star check-up by our vet experts and help one of our dogs get back on four paws again. From giving routine check-ups and emergency treatment, to performing major operations and ongoing medical care, this gift could help make all the difference to one of our dogs. Bed and Biscuits If you re stuck for gift ideas for a luxury loving friend or family member, why not buy one of our dogs a night of rest and rehabilitation at one of our rehoming centres and give them all of the creature comforts your loved one would appreciate. From every day essentials like food, treats, bedding and toys, to routine vet check-ups, training classes, exercise and extra TLC from their dedicated carers, this gift will help to pay for a dog s day at a rehoming centre. Buying a virtual gift is really easy; just complete the donation form on the back page of your Wag and send it in a stamped envelope to; DOGS TRUST VIRTUAL GIFTS, Woodview Road, Paignton TQ4 7SR. Thank you for your kind support! Mate, you missed a bit Taekwondogs We love it when our supporters put their thinking caps on, and so we were delighted when we heard that Newry Taekwondo School held the world s first Bake and Break marathon - and raised 1,305 for our Ballymena rehoming centre. Over five hours, pupils and teachers sold dozens of homemade cakes and broke over 200 wooden boards and kerb stones - although not at the same time! Many thanks to Mr Kidd, the school s head teacher, and all of his pupils and their families. RUN FOR IT! If you d like to raise money to help our dogs by running in these events, please fundraiseforus@dogstrust.org.uk 8 Apr Greater Manchester Marathon 20 May Great Manchester Run (10k/Half) 26/27 May Edinburgh Marathon Festival (10k/Half/Full) 3 Jun Great North Dog Walk (South Shields) 10 Jun Great Women s Run Glasgow (10K) 9 Sep Great North Run (Newcastle Upon Tyne) 23 Sep Scottish Half + 10K (Edinburgh) LOLLIE S COLLIE-CROSS WORD Here is the solution to last issue s puzzle, brought to you by our friends at Postcode Scratch and Postcode Bingo. The winner is Jane Irvin of Yorkshire, who wins a 50 Tesco e-voucher. Postcodescratch.co.uk/Dogs-Trust For me? You shouldn t have! Sarah and Laurel are delighted with their Dogs Trust Virtual Gift Across: 7 Holiday, 8 Spaniel, 10 & 18 A Blue terrier, 11 Scent, 12 Mary, 13 Rawhide, 15 Elton, 19 Vaccine, 22 Cross, 24 Bulldog, 27 Jean, 28 Ankle, 30 Claw, 31 Beardie, 32 Samoyed. Down: 1 Lolly, 2 Wire hair, 3 Pads, 4 Spitz, 5 Animal, 6 Deerhound, 9 Leeds, 14 Heel, 16 Retriever, 17 Tail, 20 Chow-chow, 21 Husky, 23 Sentry, 25 Paris, 26 Water, 29 Exam. The special clue was Dogs Trust Scratch 12 Spring 2018 Spring

8 WAG Feature The dilemma The project s success relies on a pool of big-hearted dog lovers who take in and care for dogs belonging to the victims of domestic violence, often at short notice. Crucially, this allows the victim time to reach a place of safety, often a refuge, and have a chance to begin rebuilding their lives. Sadly, the majority of refuges are unable to accept dogs, which leads to many people choosing to stay in an abusive relationship, rather than risk their partner harming or even killing their dog should they leave. The Freedom Project provides the answer to this ghastly dilemma. Wag caught up with some of the volunteer foster carers making all the difference to some families - and their beloved pets. Chrissie, foster carer, London I have nothing but admiration for the women who, rather than just getting out with their kids, take the time and effort to ensure that their beloved pets are taken into care too. I can t begin to imagine what it s like to have to run from your home leaving most of your belongings behind. Luckily my support worker at the refuge knew about the Freedom Project and helped me to refer him. If it wasn t for the Freedom Project, I think Riley would have been passed around from home to home amongst my friends, which would have been distressing for him. But there is no way we could have given up our dog. I was so relieved. When I received the Freedom Project paperwork I saw that they had thought of everything, which was so comforting to me. Explaining to my children what was happening with Riley was much harder; they kept asking if they would ever see him again. The Freedom Project sent us pictures and updates on Riley every step of the way, which made me feel closer to him. They also gave me such peace of mind knowing that he was being well cared for in his foster home. When he came back to me, having spent five months in his foster home, I felt like my heart was complete again. I just want to say to the Freedom Project, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are a godsend. Throwing a lifeline to dogs and their people, the Freedom Project is Dogs Trust s foster care service for dogs whose owners are escaping from abuse. Chrissie has been providing love and affection for dogs on the Freedom Project for over three years, and enjoys every moment. Her first foster dog was Monty, a small but lively Staffie, and her second was Albert, a staffie cross. She d known all about the Freedom Project through her work at the British Veterinary Association, and took the plunge of becoming a foster carer following the passing of her beloved dog, Sunny. Albert s owner was able to take him back after an eight month stay with Chrissie, who adored him. A few weeks after Albert had left her care, Chrissie was delighted to receive, via Dogs Trust staff, a letter from his owner, including a photo of a very happy Albert sitting on her lap. Says Chrissie, Her letter was wonderful, she said how much it meant to her to know that while she was going through an awful time, her beloved pet was being loved. It was so nice for me to hear this. If you ve never thought about fostering a dog but have the time and space in your life to take one on I would assure you it s a fantastically fulfilling experience. Also of course if anyone out there is considering fleeing, please be assured that your baby will be really well cared for until you re able. Pippa and Riley s story My ex-partner couldn t accept that I had moved on after we split up, and his abuse towards me was emotional and mental rather than physical. He was stalking me, but when the police arrested him and said he could be freed again within 24 hours, I didn t feel they were able to protect me and my children. So we fled to a refuge. I later found out that when my ex-partner came to visit his son, he would shout at and hit my dog, Riley. I hadn t realised this at the time, as Riley was so happy when he was with us. But whenever my ex-partner walked through the door his tail would go between his legs, and he would run and hide. Photos: Richard Murgatroyd 14 Spring 2018 Spring

9 WAG Feature Dogs Trust staff would come by each month to see how Jack was getting on and take a few photos, which they d then send on to his owner together with an update letter. We were both so fond of Jack, as he was such a sweet-natured friendly dog. We cared for him for around four months, and while we were sad to see him go, we both felt proud to be a part of his life. You do build up a bond with your foster dog, but we went into this knowing that the dog will always go back, so we don t feel too bad. Once, mum and I received a thank you note from our foster dog s owner, after he d returned to his family, saying our help has made such a big difference to their family s life - that was brilliant to hear. Awaiting his turn at the Neuter-thon Saving Dogs Lives Rebecca and Ranjeet, volunteer foster carers, Yorkshire Becki and her mother, Ranjeet, had always been huge dog lovers, and saw the Freedom Project as something incredibly worthwhile to be involved with. This, together with the dogshaped hole left in their lives by the passing of Alfie, their beloved German Shepherd dog; and the fact that Becki knew she d be studying at home for the next few years, led them to volunteer their services with the Freedom Project. Becki was already aware of the project through her studies; she is currently writing her doctorate examining honour-based and domestic violence. Says Becki, For mum and me, the Freedom Project made complete sense. We get all the benefits of having a dog in our lives, with the added bonus that we know we are not just helping the dog, but we are potentially saving someone s life. It s amazing to feel a part of this. Becki and Ranjeet have been foster carers for three years, during which time have provided a loving a home from home for eight dogs in need - thus helping seven people flee an abusive partner. Their most recent foster dog was Jack, a two year old Staffie, who joined them when his owner and her three young children fled from a violent husband. Poor Jack was very overweight with severe tooth decay when he first arrived with Becki and her mother. Sadly, all too often, owners aren t able to access veterinary care for their dogs because an abusive partner controls the finances, and in some cases also restricts them from leaving the home. Consequently, some dogs aren t able to get their usual exercise, and so become overweight. Dogs Trust paid for dental work to remove the rotten teeth, and provided a special diet, while Becki and Ranjeet provided love and affection, and made sure he lost his extra kilos. CAN YOU HELP US? We urgently need more foster carers in the central belt of Scotland, Yorkshire, the north east of England, Essex, Hertfordshire and London. Dogs Trust covers the cost of all dog food and any veterinary care or medication needed, plus our staff will visit each month to check all is well. In return, we ask that the foster carer has experience of caring for dogs, is at home for most of the day, and if they have a dog of their own, it must get along well with other dogs and be neutered. We would love to hear from you: Central belt of Scotland Tel Greater London, Hertfordshire, Tel Essex, Surrey, Sussex, Kent Yorkshire/the North East Tel To know about the Freedom Project watch our short film here Visit: freedomproject.org.uk or freedomproject@dogstrust.org.uk One in four women experience physical or mental abuse at the hands of a partner (source: Office for National Statistics 2014/15) Since the Freedom Project began in 2004, we have enabled 1,185 people to escape from an abusive partner, by fostering 1,153 dogs. e ve been busy kick-starting a wide variety of life-changing W projects to help dogs overseas, through our sister charity, Dogs Trust Worldwide. We award grants and provide practical guidance to local animal welfare groups so their project can get off the ground; we then ensure the groups can support themselves and run their programmes smoothly without our help for years to come. Recently we ve been active in Mexico, where we ve advised and funded three local welfare groups to humanely manage their stray dog populations. In Mexico, most owned dogs are free to wander, hence the large number of stray dogs, and the importance of establishing a well-supported neutering programme. Mass Neuter-thon The aim was to neuter 1,000 dogs in just six days - and in the end we enabled our partner charity, VIDAS, to sterilise 987 dogs in Playa Del Carmen, last summer. Using the sports arena as a vast operating theatre and recovery suite, dozens of veterinary professionals from Mexico and the States sterilised almost 1,000 owned dogs, thus helping prevent countless unwanted pups being born. Veterinary professionals from Coco s Animal Welfare and Planned Pethood International (see below) joined the VIDAS team in order to neuter and give post-operative care for as many dogs as possible - proving that great things are possible when we work together. New veterinary clinics and adoption programme We also co-funded (with IFAW) the construction of a new veterinary clinic for Coco s Animal Welfare. They provide veterinary care and sterilisation services to dogs in Playa Del Carmen, one of the fastest growing cities in Latin America. The Coco s team now run a permanent veterinary clinic, a mobile unit outreach programme and an adoption programme. After one full year of being open, the team had neutered around 2,500 dogs, given veterinary care to over 1,000 dogs and even found new homes for 700 street dogs. Additionally, we funded a further veterinary clinic in Puerto Morelos, between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, which provides free and low-cost veterinary services for dogs and cats belonging to people on low incomes. For this project we partnered with Planned Pethood International (PPI), a US-based charity which works in Mexico and Slovakia. For more information about all of our work overseas, visit Down Mexico Way Comforting her dog in the post-operative recovery area Muchas gracias Two happy owners and their pooch Chuchin show their gratitude 16 Spring Photos: Kevin Johnson

10 PHOTO COMPETITION Wow, what a lot of gorgeous dogs and adoring owners you are! Last summer, we asked you to send in your best shots, and you did not disappoint; with over 2,500 entries, choosing just a few winners was no mean feat. This photo of Bob Snowden and his dog Holly, taken by his daughters, was entered for the Best of Friends category, and is our overall winner. They win a 500 voucher towards a cottage holiday in the UK or Ireland, courtesy of our friends at Each category winner will receive an Instax Mini 8 camera. Huge thanks to everyone who entered and enjoy the pics! HOLLY IS A VERY IMPORTANT MEMBER OF THE FAMILY AND HAS BEEN BY DAD S SIDE SINCE WE LOST MUM FIVE YEARS AGO. WAG Feature BON VOYAGE! WINNER HONEY & TESS by Janet Curson BEST FRIENDS WINNER & OVERALL WINNER RUPERT by Kate Fisher Bob Snowden with Holly, by Julia Oaten and Anne Snowden EVA by Amy Robson SCOTT by Dave & Elaine Hewitt BILLY & STANLEY by Amber Jeans BRIAN by Jenny Silcox PADDINGTON BEAR by Emma Yates NELLIE by Sharon Evans BADGER by Sammy Jackson 18 Spring 2018 Spring

11 THAT S ENTERTAINMENT! WINNER MAGGIE by Patricia Morris WAG Feature THE GREAT OUTDOORS WINNER BUSTER by Anne Whyte PHOEBE by Ruth Pulley HIGHWAY & SCOUT by Christopher Gerry LEXI, ARCHIE & JASPER by Natalie Bradley-Day EDDIE by Kerry Ross PHOEBE by Carrie Braithwaite NOODLES by Phil Wade BELLA by Amey Upfold & Paul Chappell REBA by Jon Kirkham 20 Spring

12 WAG News THE SIMPLE THINGS WINNER BENTLEY by Claire Rank WIN BIG! At Dogs Trust, we know it s not just our fourlegged friends who love to play games and win treats! Playing our spring raffle is the best way to sniff out a top prize up to 7,500! Whether you re in it to win it yourself, or selling tickets to friends and family, every 1 ticket sold will help our playful pups get the second chance they deserve. To order raffle tickets, call our raffle hotline on today we re keeping our paws crossed for you! Please note that in accordance with Gambling Commission Rules; - You must be aged 16 years or over to buy or sell raffle tickets. - This raffle is only open for residents of Great Britain. Residents of Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are unfortunately not eligible to take part. Book Reviews BILLIE ROSE by Danielle Bouch LUNA by Jessica Barton Things my dog has taught me about being a better human Jonathan Wittenberg, pub. Hodder, hardback The goodness of dogs the human s guide to caring for your dog India Knight, pub. Penguin, hardback Unleashed Amanda Jones, pub. Chronicle Books, ARCHIE by Chris Mabey BRONTE by Jennifer Woodford This is a book full of warmth and wisdom, written by someone who clearly adores not only their dog, but the human race too. If you ve ever looked at a dog and marvelled at his capacity for empathy, forgiveness and pure zest for life, you ll enjoy this book. On multitasking, Jonathan writes, There s a special art to doing just one thing, at one time, with the whole of one s self. To appreciate what that looks like, all one has to do is watch a dog staring at a biscuit. It s an uplifting, almost spiritual, read, making it perfect for the more contemplative canine enthusiast. Funny, informative and beautifully illustrated, India Knight s book provides a jolly good giggle alongside some top tips for dog owners. Written by a normal person who has done their research, rather than an expert, this a super easy read. India writes frankly on all matters dog, so expect to hear strong views on everything ranging from Should you really get a dog? to We are all responsible for teaching our dogs manners and I am of the opinion that owners who don t bother to do this shouldn t be allowed to have dogs in the first place. While most of India s advice is sound, please note that on the subject of what to feed your dog we recommend you discuss this with your vet. Page upon page of dogs simply having a ball in the great outdoors, there s nothing not to love about this glossy coffee table tome. Photographer Amanda Jones captures dogs frolicking, rollicking, leaping and howling amid some stunning American landscapes you can almost smell the surf as Lulu the Labradoodle leaps over a log on the beach in San Francisco. Every page will make you smile and/or make you consider booking your next holiday in the USA; definitely one for the coffee table Spring 2018 Spring

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