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We are NOT a rescue ourselves, we help animals at risk into rescues

Click on above photos to enlarge.

This page is for Rescues who we have looked into or have been recommended, however, please make your own enquiries from the rescue and satisfy yourself. Whilst we put rescues on here, we do not extend recommendations to anyone and it is your choice as to where you source your pet from. We do not accept any liability for decisions made

 

 

RESCUES OR BREEDERS

 

 

RIP Paul O’Grady

Unlike most days at the Rainbow Bridge, this day dawned cold and gray. All the recent arrivals at the Bridge did not know what to think, as they had never seen such a day. But the animals who had been waiting longer for their beloved people to accompany them across the Bridge knew what was happening, and they began to gather at the pathway leading to the Bridge.

Soon an elderly dog came into view, head hung low and tail dragging. He approached slowly, and though he showed no sign of injury or illness, he was in great emotional pain. Unlike the animals gathered along the pathway, he had not been restored to youth and vigor upon arriving at the Bridge. He felt out of place, and wanted only to cross over and find happiness.

But as he approached the Bridge, his way was barred by an angel, who apologized and explained that the tired and broken-spirited old dog could not cross over. Only those animals accompanied by their people were allowed to cross the Bridge. Having nobody, and with nowhere else to turn, the dog trudged into the field in front of the Bridge. There he found others like himself, elderly or infirm, sad and discouraged. Unlike the other animals waiting to cross the Bridge, these animals were not running or playing. They simply were lying in the grass, staring forlornly at the pathway across the Rainbow Bridge. The old dog took his place among them, watching the pathway and waiting, yet not knowing for what he was waiting.

One of the newer dogs at the Bridge asked a cat who had been there longer to explain what was happening. The cat replied, “Those poor animals were abandoned, turned away, or left at rescue places, but never found a home on earth. They all passed on with only the love of a rescuer to comfort them. Because they had no people to love them, they have nobody to escort them across the Rainbow Bridge.”

The dog asked the cat, “So what will happen to those animals?” Before the cat could answer, the clouds began to part and the cold turned to bright sunshine. The cat replied, “Watch, and you will see.”

In the distance was a single person, and as he approached the Bridge the old, infirm and sad animals in the field were bathed in a golden light. They were at once made young and healthy, and stood to see what their fate would be. The animals who had previously gathered at the pathway bowed their heads as the person approached. At each bowed head, the person offered a scratch or hug. One by one, the now youthful and healthy animals from the field fell into line behind the person. Together, they walked across the Rainbow Bridge to a future of happiness and unquestioned love. The dog asked the cat, “What just happened?”

The cat responded, “That was a rescuer. The animals gathered along the pathway bowing in respect were those who had never found forever homes. The arrival here of a rescuer is a great and solemn event, and as a tribute they are permitted to perform one final act of rescue. They are allowed to escort all those poor animals they couldn’t place on earth across the Rainbow Bridge.”

The dog thought for a moment, then said, “I like rescuers.” The cat smiled and replied, “So does God, my friend. So does God.

When your dog comes to a Rescue

When your dog comes to the dog kennel because you’re tired of him, because he bothers you, prevents you from going on holiday or other excuses..

He sits and waits.
He’s waiting for you to come get him.
A second, a minute, an hour, a day, a month, a year is waiting for you.

He doesn’t know why, but he’s waiting because he trusts you, because unlike you, he loves you.

Listen up well then. Your animal is not a toy.
Think twice before getting a pet. You have the responsibility of a living being and of a family member.

https://www.facebook.com/692701420/posts/pfbid0WAgUJYPCiiLTNXZwN7thWjZpwRdPczbs9tiw1qdfwWD2aXFmyG7HzsnDJE3tGMQSl/

 

 

Doggos & Puppers

“She was 18. Her people, who loved her whole life, took her, a vaccination booklet, a leash, a collar and her belongings and took her to the Baldwin Park shelter. They said they were tired of fighting with an older dog, signed papers and left, without even looking at her.

When she was picked up by a volunteer at the shelter, she leaned on him probably wishing it was all just an ugly dream.

The moment was immortalized by photographer John Hwang, who was in the shelter at the time.

Unfortunately, dogs love sincerely, with all their heart, with all their soul and are unable to understand that human ‘love forever’ most often has an expiration date.. – to annual, to moving, to illness, to old age…

Dogs definitely deserve better people!”

Credit: Stuart James

https://www.facebook.com/groups/272782783107366/permalink/1842953222756973/

 

 

Puppy found underweight and covered in fleas in Cornwall dies after being abandoned on Christmas Eve

Murphy died after vets were unable to save the weak pup.Credit: National Animal Welfare Trust

A puppy found covered in fleas and heavily underweight died after being abandoned in Cornwall on Christmas Eve.

National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) were alerted to two puppies and their mother found neglected in an undisclosed location within the Duchy.

They were cold, hungry, underweight, and in need of urgent care.

Found in a horrific condition they were covered in flees with stomachs swollen and worms.

They were also anaemic to the extent that they couldn’t lift their heads to feed.

In the early hours of Christmas Eve, one of the puppies called Murphy died after being too weak to carry on.

A second dog, Frankie, was also in a critical condition and was rushed to the vets to be put on emergency IV fluids whilst being monitored for the afternoon.

Frankie had to be monitored for several days but made a miraculous recovery.Credit: National Animal Welfare Trust

Frankie and Murphy’s mum received continuous care from the team at NAWT.

Frankie was able to recover and returned to the charity’s care looking brighter and ready to be with its mum.

Volunteers at the charity continued to monitor the two through the day and night, feeding them every two hours through Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and into the week.

Frankie has already found a new home but whilst continuing to get better has already made friends with the kittens in the cattery – even though they are bigger than him.

Following Frankie and Murphy’s story, the charity is now urging those struggling with the upkeep of their pets to look to look for help instead of choosing to abandon them.

Pet owners in need of support can call the charity on 01736 756005 for advice and help.

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.itv.com%2Fnews%2Fwestcountry%2F2023-01-09%2Fpuppy-dies-after-being-abandoned-on-christmas-eve%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0PpAs-jL_SaBxLvVH-r8OgTg_kwsu_SyVtDjSQ85eXzvcFsLuEJEtOIqk&h=AT0SkYZCGG_cVlTZI7DqH-nyNmzQnaKQ_N1xhBxb6_jLk3Mn2oxUfpyUtvewZAi37Hx9Q5-a4z08MDrK8SSPzQYXKUO9h7hfDGEQgqDuZ1zNUnUatVxkKG4el_Dnl2s&s=1

 

 

 

PAWS FOR THOUGHT
29 pups rescued at Belfast Port

Almost 30 pups have been rescued at Belfast Port as part of a multi-agency crackdown against illegal puppy trafficking and Christmas puppy sales.

The crackdown is the latest in a significant series of seizures at Northern Ireland’s (NI) ports and is part of the ‘Paws for Thought’ initiative, where dogs and pups travelling through the ports are subject to welfare and transport checks prior to boarding.

Discrepancies in the paperwork evidence provided by the transporter led to Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) portal staff, in partnership with Belfast Harbour Police and Belfast City Council, rescuing 29 pups in the early hours of 15 December 2022. The pups are now in the process of being rehomed.

A DAERA spokesperson said: “At this time of year, the demand for a Christmas puppy is high, which fuels the trafficking of low welfare pups through our ports to sell them at an inflated price in Great Britain (GB). Innocent animal lovers are often duped into believing these pups have come from a reputable breeder. Quite often, pups that are being trafficked come from illegal breeding establishments known as ‘puppy farms’ where they are bred in horrendous conditions.

“We have zero tolerance to this type of activity – reputable breeders will be able to prove origin and destination and have all their paperwork in order.

“The Department with the support from partners agencies, including Belfast Harbour Police and Belfast City Council, is leading the battle to stamp out this abhorrent trade. The rescue of these 29 pups demonstrates the effectiveness of the multi-agency approach in targeting those involved.

“We would also like to extend our thanks to our portal staff for their diligence and swift action in this case.”

The Paws for Thought Group said: “We wish to reiterate our message that people think long and hard before deciding to get an animal this Christmas. Prospective dog owners should check the guidance available online before thinking about getting a pup. If you must buy a pup, only use a licenced breeder.”

Whilst the enforcement activities undertaken by statutory agencies is critical in detecting and deterring the illegal trade in low welfare pups, the public’s help is essential to combating this abhorrent trade.

The Paws for Thought Group continued: “Anyone encountering anything suspicious, or with information about persons possibly involved in the illegal breeding and sale of pups, can report their concerns to the Department, Harbour Police, councils or the PSNI, or by emailing: [email protected]?

 

 

The Christmas puppy sales funding organised crime gangs

Many dogs have been illegally imported from Ireland via the port of Cairnryan in Dumfries and Galloway

Illegal puppy trade warning as sales boom during the Covid pandemic

 

 

Scottish parliament bid to make dog abduction a new crime

Spaniels have been reported as a high-value target for dog thefts

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-63373338

MILSTREAM ANIMAL CENTRE

Cats rescued after being crammed into plastic box and dumped in Manchester park hedge to die

 

WOODSIDE ANIMAL WELFARE TRUST

In a post on social media the Woodside Animal Trust said: “Puppy farms are still very much in operation and closer to home than you may imagine.

“These are from a number removed from a Devon property and brought to us this week. Hair matts, fleas worms are the least of their problems and further dental treatment and even an eye removal will be necessary as we move forward.

“Thankfully they are all now receiving veterinary treatment and have had baths and clips, let’s hope this will be the first steps to the road to recovery

In a post on social media the Woodside Animal Trust said: “Puppy farms are still very much in operation and closer to home than you may imagine.

“These are from a number removed from a Devon property and brought to us this week. Hair matts, fleas worms are the least of their problems and further dental treatment and even an eye removal will be necessary as we move forward.

“Thankfully they are all now receiving veterinary treatment and have had baths and clips, let’s hope this will be the first steps to the road to recovery.”

One of a number of dogs removed from from a puppy farm by a welfare charity may have to have its eye removed.

The Shih Tzu type dogs were discovered with dirty, long and scruffy hair and also had patches of matting.

The Woodside Animal Welfare Trust, which has taken the puppies in, said all the dogs had fleas, worms and dental problems as well as infections.

The RSPCA says puppy farms continue to be a growing problem.

Dog welfare expert, Lisa Hens, said: “We’d urge families to carefully consider whether getting a dog is right for them. Dogs are a huge commitment and need lots of time and attention.

“If you do have the time and money for a dog then we’d urge you to consider rescuing instead of buying a puppy.

“Not only will this give a rescue dog a chance at finding his forever home but it’ll also save any potential heartache caused by unwittingly buying a dog from a puppy farm.”

 

 

Two charities have announced a new partnership they claim will protect affordable care provision for low-income pet owners and ensure rescued animals get help more quickly.

The initiative between PDSA and the RSPCA comes as the latter group reported a 24% increase in abandoned animals during the first seven months of this year alone.

The agreement affects RSPCA-affiliated owners in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Merthyr Tydfil.

No job losses

Officials said the agreement was drawn up following the RSPCA’s decision to stop providing subsidised veterinary care, so it can focus its resources on helping the animals it rescues from cruelty or neglect.

The deal will see PDSA take over the running of the Finsbury Park Animal Hospital in North London, where it said it also plans to make “significant” investment.

Staff are currently being consulted on a transfer proposal and officials insist no job losses are planned.

Fee support

The groups said all current RSPCA-affiliated owners in Birmingham, plus most in Manchester, will be able to access services at PDSA Pet Hospitals from November.

Others, including those registered at Merthyr Tydfil, will be able to access a £1 million treatment fund and the charities insist they will both continue to offer fee support.

Richard Hooker, PDSA’s director of veterinary services, said: “This partnership strengthens the strategic direction of both charities, enabling us both to expand our reach and benefit – and ensuring every pound donated works harder.”

‘Powerful partnership’

In its latest figures, the RSPCA said it had received 22,908 abandonment reports between January and July this year, up from 18,375 over the same period last year.

Chief executive Chris Sherwood said: “This is a powerful partnership which helps both people and animals at a time when our services are needed more than ever due to the cost of living crisis.

“By working together with PDSA, we can both focus on our strengths, our core charitable objectives, and ours is rescuing the thousands of animals most in need, those who have no one else.”

It is also hoped that some PDSA hospitals will be able to treat some of the animals rescued by the RSPCA in the future.

 

 

We are based in Macedonia with amazing support from volunteers, fosters & shelters in the UK & Macedonia

Here is a video to see all about us:

https://fb.watch/fb2atrP-11/

 

We were asked by the municipality of Tetovo Komuna e Tetovës / Општина Тетово to take over a complicated matter in the city of Tetovo where after the encouragement of Më mirë për Tetovën we accepted and took it upon ourselves to help feral and homeless dogs throughout the city. Based on previous findings the streets of the city of Tetovo are home to 500 homeless dogs where at least 50% of those dogs are a huge size (40+kg).

The municipality contacted us for help because in the past few years there have been more than 1000 incidents of dog attacks in the city and the numbers were rising each week, they were desperate for a solution.

The municipality has given their approval and has allowed us to start catching dogs from the city which with the help of our wonderful vets (different vets for different situations) we have managed so far to catch and treat 25 dogs from the cruel streets. Some are immediately loving and social when separated from their street pack while others still have a long way to go before they can be homed.

On the video in the comment section you will find one of our most recent cases where a huge pack of unneutered males was formed by surrounding and guarding one unspayed female in heat. This is very dangerous for the dogs in the pack, the dogs outside the pack, other animals and humans passing by.

The people of Tetovo live in fear because of the many homeless dog packs on the streets. That’s why we created an SOS line where people can point us to such packs so that we can help disperse them. Because of this initiative we have received multiple comments and messages from them expressing their gratitude. Some citizens even offered their help! We appreciate the support we have gotten so far from the citizens of Tetovo and the municipality of Tetovo with whom we have an official agreement for this specific initiative. In the agreement it is stated that we will be saving 82 problematic dogs from the streets which we will make sure are completely healthy and socialized before finding a suitable home for them abroad.

As we have been very successful in finding homes for many different animals before, we are confident that every one of these dogs has a chance to experience the joys of family life with the right family. Before this can be possible they will all be staying in different kennels or foster spaces thanks to a selected few Macedonian citizens who are very eager volunteers for joining us in successfully completing this project. (Because of the huge media attention this initiative has attracted, these individuals have strongly urged us to not post any private information because they do not feel comfortable allowing someone to invade their privacy).

The following are specific details concerning this initiative/project:
*82 dogs will be saved from the streets, put into foster care or private shelters owned by different individuals and eventually homed into suitable homes.
*This project has a duration of 12 months.
*For each dog the municipality pays 15.500 MKD (212.88 Pounds or 252.45 Euro) (without VAT – because as an association we are not subjected to VAT until a certain amount is reached) which in total for the project is 1.271.000 MKD (17400.40 Pounds or 20634.69 Euro)
*The above amount covers vet treatment (tests for most common deadly diseases, bloodwork, vaccinations, microchip, passport, spay/neuter, deworming and flea/tick treatment). Anything more such as a broken bone, other surgery except spay/neuter, or a lifelong condition that needs constant treatment will be covered by us with the help of donations.
*Treatment and socialization can last from 14 to 30 days for less serious cases and up to years for severe cases.
*All animals (with the approval of the municipality and based on the animal welfare law) will be microchipped in our name and thus will become our responsibility for the rest of their lives or until they are officially adopted.
*The municipality of Tetovo will receive a detailed report for all 82 dogs (for every dog separately) by the end of the project.

Our adopters are our inspiration, our adoption success stories are what keep us going! We are very excited at the prospect of seeing all these wonderful creatures in suitable and loving homes in the near future.

UPDATE:

We want to take this time to thank everyone for their support.

We have been overwhelmed with positive feedback from citizens in Tetovo and would like to express our gratitude to them for working with us and contributing to our mission.

We would also like to thank our wonderful network of adopters, a network which grows monthly and supports us fully.

The Amos family has never been stronger and more positive. As a registered organisation both in N. Macedonia and the UK so many doors have opened for us and with time we will be able to save many more animals.

Our success is a result of a wonderful combination of Amos volunteers, adopters, fosters, behaviourists and supporters.
Thank you ?

 

 

RESCUES OR BREEDERS?

NOWZAD – Operation Ark Adoption Updates

ALEX ❤️

Our lovely girl Alex really found the perfect home when she was adopted. She settled quickly and we’ll into British country living and happily spends her days with her new family never far from their sides. She loves a ride in the car and has really embraced her golden opportunity to live a life of love and companionship. We could not be happier for her – such a lucky girl ?

MALEK ?

Handsome boy Malek is happily settled with his new family and enjoying a quiet life. Malek was one of our seniors and we are so grateful to his new family for giving him the chance to experience a life of love in his golden years. Happy days ahead now for this darling boy. ?

OZZY ?

Our little tripaw Ozzy is so full of character and luckily did not have to wait too long to find his perfect home. This energetic little dog spends his days running on the beach with his new canine companion. He really is a lovely fella and has the perfect home. Thank you to his new family for giving him a dream life! ?

Thank you to everyone who donated and supported us to help these deserving souls to fly home on the Ark. I’m sure you’ll agree it’s just wonderful to see them all so happy.

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HOPE RESCUES

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION – STRAY DOG FOUND LLANHARAN

Just under a week ago we were made aware of a lurcher straying in Llanharry. Attempts to catch him were not successful and he seemed to disappear for a few days. Today we had a phone call from a member of public that he was on their property and with their help we were able to confine and catch him.

He is extremely scared, thin and exhausted (as you can see, he fell asleep in our van). He also has a number of open wounds and is currently at our vets having these treated.

We believe he is 2-4 years old and we have named him Rowan. Due to the length of time he has been straying and how scared he is we are concerned that he may have been deliberately abandoned. If you have any information regarding where he has come from please call us in confidence on 01443 226659.

We will keep you updated on his progress.

 

APPEAL FOR INFO – PUPPIES FOUND ON MOUNTAIN SIDE

APPEAL FOR INFO – PUPPIES FOUND ON MOUNTAIN SIDE

These two patterdale pups were bought into us last night by a member of the public who had found them on Llanwonno Mountain. We believe they are around 9 weeks old.

The female, who we have named Greta has an eye infection and is underweight and both her and the male, who we have named Bertie were covered in fleas and appear to have a heavy worm burden. Both had dirty and smelly coats and very waxy ears.

We are appealing for any information as to where these puppies have come from. Whilst they are safe and receiving care with us we are concerned about the condition their litter mates and their Mum maybe in. .

If you have any information please call us in confidence on 01443 226659

We will keep you updated on Greta and Bertie’s progress over the next few days.

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ALMOST HOME DOG RESCUE

Rescue is overwhelmingly difficult at the moment and sometimes you have to take a chance on people. Maybe people who on paper don’t seem like the right fit for a dog but after talking to them and meeting them, your gut wants to give them a chance.

ANIMAL RESCUE SOFIA BULGARIA

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PLYMOUTH CAT RESCUE

Cautionary tale for cat owners in the Plymouth area!!

I have deliberated over the past few hours if to post something on here or not, my heart is broken and I’m at a loss for words to explain why events have occurred.

When we operated as a rescue we chipped all our cats on duel registration to protect them in the event of needing sanctuary , if scanned they should always come back to us no matter the circumstance, it was the duel registration that led me to continue as a sanctuary instead of just closing everything down – however it would appear all that was done in vain!!

Tuesday afternoon I received a phone call to say three of our rescue cats had ( for whatever reason) been dropped off to Gables , Ruth ( who had always been publicly vocal against PCR ) rang me to let me know she had the cats and wanted all relevant info on them sharing with her.

I immediately offered to come collect the cats, bring them home to the sanctuary and they would stay with us for life – Ruth had other plans and refused to let me have the cats back.

I later found out Ruth had already initiated having the chips put in her name BEFORE she even rang me so by the time I had spoken to chip company and tried to contact owners the cats had already been transferred to Gables.

There is nothing I can do and the helplessness I feel to protect my babies is killing me.

It begs the question – why would a multimillion pound rescue , who shouts from the rooftops on a weekly basis that it is over run with unwanted cats refuse to let these cats come back to the rescue / sanctuary they originated from??

What does Ruth Rickard and Gables have to gain from keeping these cats ??

And how many other cats have they withheld for nefarious reasons before today??

Utterly heartbroken and angry ?

Sadly not shocked by Ruth’s behaviour !!

So I am now left to deal with the grief and loss surrounding this despicable situation.

Anyone who rescued a cat from us , please be aware if Gables pick your moggy up they will ignore our details as a second owner so they are not as protected as I would like.

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FORGIVE ME, MOMMY …

I was there where you left me for two whole days. Sleeping right on the side of the road. I was terrified of the noise from the cars but I did not move.
Last night one of those cars stopped and she got out. She invited me to lunch but I said no. She invited me to come sleep at her house and I also said no. I tried to explain to her that I was waiting for you but she wouldn’t listen. She pulled out a leash and said I couldn’t stay there any longer. I bit her several times and ended up peeing on myself as I growled and cried! She didn’t understand that she was separating me from you! She took me against my will and we drove off! I was so sad because I knew you were going to be worried. We ended up at her house.
I kept screaming hoping you would hear me but you never came. I vomited because of my nerves, feeling so sick. I kept telling her I had to go back because you were going to think I abandoned you when you saw I wasn’t there! I, who love you with all my heart and soul have not stopped crying since we separated a few days ago. I want you to know, I would never do that to you.
I don’t know where you are now or why you stopped the car and left me there. Surely you had something very important to do. Can you come find me now, mommy?
Today I ate because my tummy was hurting. I also slept on a very soft bed. And by accident I also wiggled my tail a bit. I’m so sorry, please forgive me. She’s just being really nice to me. She said I could stay forever. She’s calling me Milo but I already have a name. When you pick me up you can tell it to her. You’ll see how surprised she’ll be when you explain to her that this was a big mistake.
Because mommy, you’re coming back for me, right ?

Author unknown

“Pets are not disposable when we don’t want/need them anymore. They are a lifetime commitment. They are family! Thank you so much to everyone who adopts and rescues them until their last loving breath. Because of you this world is a better place.”

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Phoenix Rehoming is a charity based in Hampshire and operates in the South of England. We were awarded the prestigious “Rescue of the Year 2021” award at the Animal Star Awards held in Portsmouth in February 2021.

The charity was established in 2016 and has now rehomed 1504 dogs. We rescue dogs from the U.K. and overseas. Any dog, for any reason, from anywhere. We are staffed entirely by volunteers, the charity can dedicate 100% of its donations to helping dogs in need.

The charity has an unrivalled ethical and professional approach. We are members of Kids Around Dogs the institute of Modern Dog Training, the Pet Professional Guild, the Pet Industry Advocacy International and the U.K. Dog Behaviour & Training Charter.

The year goal is to identify and purchase land within Hampshire to enable a rehabilitation and training centre to be built. We welcome all and any help with identifying a suitable field! Ideally around the Fareham area.

The charity has been successful largely due to the good will of sone amazing foster carers who are willing to care for rescue dogs in their own home. We are always desperate for more foster carers and welcome applications from dog loving people within Hampshire and surrounding areas.

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Hope Rescue  is a registered charity (number 1129629) that saves stray & abandoned dogs in South Wales. We operate from a rescue centre in Llanharan

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

Here we go again. Right now we have over 230 dogs in our care across the rescue and foster homes. Many of them can’t move due to ongoing investigations. What very little space we have needs to be reserved to ensure we can fulfil our three stray dog contracts for genuine strays, as well as taking the unclaimed strays from another three local authorities. Over the last few weeks, we have had not one, but nine apparant fake strays. We’re facing an animal welfare crisis with owners abandoning their pets almost daily.

Most of them we had received surrender calls for earlier in the day and had explained we didn’t have space and suggested other rescues to try. But rather than do that or wait for a space, the owners have decided to lie, putting not only Hope Rescue in a very vulnerable position, but also jumping the queue ahead of other desperate owners who have done the right thing and reached out asking for help on our waiting list. Some of those owners on our waiting list really, really need our help due to issues such as poor health, the death of the owner, or a tragic change in circumstances but are pushed further down the list due to the fake strays.

Many of these dogs also have health problems which may well be the reason they have been abandoned. Our vet bills are through the roof and we are trying to manage them the best we can. With the cost of living crisis, fundraising is also understandably difficult right now. It’s not fair, and we can’t tell you how angry we are right now that as a charity who chooses to do the most difficult of rescue work – stray dogs – that we are being taken advantage of in this way. Of course, as always, we will make sure the dogs get the very best care – it’s not their fault their owners chose to abandon them.

 

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My Thoughts

Each month we allow a person or company to give their thoughts on any subject (not just pet related) for the information of our members

 

RESCUES OR BREEDERS

A last look back ? Please don’t shop and buy and let beautiful dogs like this die.

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Can my landlord prevent me from keeping a pet?

Constituency Casework

Published Tuesday, 21 June, 2022

What does the tenancy agreement say?

The tenancy agreement (contract) might say pets aren’t allowed. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 prohibits “unfair terms” in a contract. This means a blanket ban on keeping pets in a tenancy agreement might be struck out if challenged in court.

Alternatively, the tenancy agreement might say the landlord’s permission should be sought if the tenant intends to keep a pet. In this case, the landlord’s permission should not be unreasonably refused. What amounts to a reasonable refusal will vary with the circumstances. For example, it might be reasonable to refuse permission to keep a large dog in a small flat.

The tenancy agreement might not mention pets, in which case it will likely be harder for landlords to argue that pets are not allowed.

Landlords cannot charge a fee for agreeing to a request to keep a pet and cannot ask for a higher deposit if this would breach the deposit cap requirements in the Tenant Fees Act 2019 (see page 41 of Tenant Fees Act – Tenant Guidance.pdf).

The Government’s model assured shorthold tenancy agreement

Private landlords have discretion to use a model tenancy agreement drafted by the Government. The latest version was published on 28 January 2021. Where this agreement is used the default position is for landlords not to unreasonably withhold consent where a tenant asks for permission to keep a pet:

A Tenant must seek the prior written consent of the Landlord should they wish to keep pets or other animals at the Property. A Landlord must not unreasonably withhold or delay a written request from a Tenant without considering the request on its own merits. The Landlord should accept such a request where they are satisfied the Tenant is a responsible pet owner and the pet is of a kind that is suitable in relation to the nature of the premises at which it will be kept. Consent is deemed to be granted unless the written request is turned down by a Landlord with good reason in writing within 28 days of receiving the request.

The guidance on this clause says:

Clause C3.5 prohibits a landlord from exercising a blanket ban on pets. A responsible pet owner will be aware of their responsibilities in making best efforts to ensure their pet does not cause a nuisance to neighbouring households or undue damage to the Property. A landlord should take steps to accommodate written requests from responsible tenants with pets. They should only turn down a request in writing within a 28 day period if there is good reason to do so, such as large pets in smaller properties or flats, or otherwise properties where having a pet could be impractical. Landlord consent is therefore the default position unless otherwise specified in writing by a landlord. If consent is given on the condition that additional deposit is paid by the tenant, the total deposit must not breach the deposit cap introduced under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 and must be protected in an authorised tenancy deposit scheme.

Is the Government changing the law to allow tenants to keep pets?

On 16 June 2022, the Government published A fairer private rented sector. There is a plan to introduce a Renters’ Reform Bill in the 2022-23 parliamentary session to “ensure landlords do not unreasonably withhold consent when a tenant requests to have a pet in their home.”

Landlords will be able to refuse a request to keep a pet, but tenants will be able to challenge a refusal and landlords will have to show good reason for refusing permission (ie refusal must not be unreasonable). A fairer private rented sector says:

Alongside this, we will make it easier for landlords to accept pets by amending the Tenant Fees Act 2019 to include pet insurance as a permitted payment. This means landlords will be able to require pet insurance, so that any damage to their property is covered. We will continue to work with landlords and other groups to encourage a common-sense approach.

What if I need a guide or assistance dog?

Under the Equality Act 2010, service providers (including landlords) must not directly or indirectly discriminate against people with a disability. Section 20(3) says they must make reasonable adjustments where a provision, criterion or practice puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person.

What amounts to a reasonable adjustment will depend on individual circumstances. The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s Guidance for social housing providers(PDF), says a landlord would have to change a tenancy agreement prohibiting pets to allow a tenant to keep a guide or assistance dog as a reasonable adjustment because: “Failure to do so may risk breaching Article 14 of the Human Rights Act (Prohibition of Discrimination).”

Further information

Tenancy Deposit Scheme: A_Guide_to_Pets_in_Rented_Properties.pdf

The Dogs Trust: Lets with Pets

https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/can-my-landlord-prevent-me-from-keeping-a-pet/

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Dog related laws every owner should know

Dog laws aim to keep you, your dog, and everyone else safe and happy. Most people will be following the law just by being responsible pet owners. However, knowing the laws can be helpful, and they’re essential to protect our pets.

Dog laws don’t just cover criminal offences – such as animal cruelty or livestock worrying – they also cover most areas of your dog’s life, including breeding, walking, boarding kennels and microchipping.

Understanding dog laws can be a real minefield – there are so many laws that can affect dog owners, which you might not be aware of. We’ve broken down some of the most important laws that affect dog owners. Of course, we can’t cover everything in this list, and laws are constantly changing, so make sure you check what regulations apply in your area.

If you’re worried that you may have broken a dog law or need legal advice, speak to a lawyer (ideally one who specialises in dog law) to get more in-depth information and help.

Contents

• Your dog’s wellbeing
• Out and about with your dog
• At home
• Breed Specific Legislation

 

Your dog’s wellbeing

Animal Welfare Acts

The Animal Welfare Acts cover most aspects of animal welfare, but most importantly:

• Your dog’s welfare needs: We all want to look after our pets and make sure they are happy and healthy. The Animal Welfare Acts put this into law to help ensure all owners meet their pets’ 5 Welfare Needs for environment, diet, behaviour, companionship and health. Dogs must have all these things so they can have the best possible life. Failing to provide for them will mean your dog’s wellbeing could suffer. In extreme cases, if a dog’s needs aren’t met, this would count as neglect and could lead to prosecution for animal cruelty.
• Cruelty: It is an offence under the Acts to cause an animal unnecessary suffering. This includes both cruelty, such as deliberately hurting an animal, and neglect, where someone doesn’t take action to prevent suffering — for example, not meeting a pet’s Welfare Needs. The Acts also lays out specific laws about mutilations and cruel operations (prohibited surgeries such as ear cropping), tail docking, dog fighting and poisoning. Anyone who lets their dog suffer can be prosecuted and face a criminal conviction, potentially facing prison time fines or a ban from keeping animals.

In 2019, legislation known as Finn’s Law was introduced preventing those who attack or injure service animals from claiming self-defence…

From 29 June 2021, Finn’s Law Part 2 will see the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty will be raised from six months to five years and an unlimited fine.

If you suspect cases of animal neglect or cruelty should, they should be reported to RSPCA (England and Wales), SSPCA (Scotland) or USPCA (Northern Ireland).

Laws:

• Animal Welfare Act 2006 in England and Wales (this includes The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill and The Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill)
• Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 in Scotland
• Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 in Northern Ireland.

Shock collars

If you live in Wales, it is an offence to fit an electric collar on a dog. These shock collars are sometimes used for training but can hurt dogs if used improperly. Even if used as intended they can cause them a lot of stress.

Unfortunately they are still  legal in the rest of the UK, but the English and Scottish governments are reviewing legislation to ban their sale and use. We would never advise using shock collars or any other negative training techniques. Reward-based training is far more effective than any other methods.

Law: 

• Animal Welfare (Electronic Collars) (Wales) Regulations 2010 in Wales.

Breeders and getting a puppy

Animal Welfare Acts

Dog breeding laws set out guidance to protect breeding dogs’ health and wellbeing, and try to help their puppies have a good start in life.

Anyone running a business that breeds and advertises dogs for sale should have a dog breeding license. This includes:

• Anyone breeding three or more litters a year in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
• Anyone breeding five or more litters a year in Scotland (to be changed to 3 or more from September 2021)
• For those breeding one or two litters in 12 months and selling puppies, a licence may be required if they are deemed to be breeding dogs and advertising a business of selling dogs. The local authority determines this.

When getting a puppy, always check if the breeder has a license. Breeders should give their license details, including the license number, in the advert for your puppy.

License holders must provide for all the welfare needs of the breeding dogs and their puppies. They should also provide socialisation for their puppies, have preventive healthcare plans in place agreed with their vet and make sure all their dogs have toys and exercise.

License holders must not sell a puppy under eight weeks old or in need of any veterinary treatment (for example, an ill puppy).

You can also check a breeder’s star rating on your local council website in England. A five-star breeder should have higher standards with extra steps to make sure their dogs are healthy and happy.

If a breeder doesn’t have a license and you think they should, or if you feel they’re not following the regulations of their license, you can report them to your local council. If someone is found breeding dogs for business without a license or is breaking the conditions of their license, they could face a fine or even prison time.

From April 2020, the third party sale of puppies and kittens was banned in England, which means if you buy a puppy under six months, you must deal directly with the breeder or rehoming centre; puppies should only be sold from their place of birth. Similar legislation will be in place for Wales and Scotland from September 2021.

If you have concerns that a puppy is living in bad conditions, like a puppy farm, you can also call the RSPCA (or SSPCA in Scotland).

Laws:

• Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare Act) 1999
• Welfare of Animals (Dog breeding establishments and miscellaneous amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013 in Northern Ireland
• Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 in Wales
• Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 in England.

 

Out and about with your dog

Animal Welfare Acts

Identification

Legally, all dogs must wear a collar and ID tag when out in public, which must detail their owner’s name and address, including postcode. This applies whether your dog is on their lead or not.

Since 2016, it is also a legal requirement across the UK to have your dog microchipped by the time they are eight weeks old and to keep your contact details up to date on one of the government standard registers. You should ask for proof a microchip has been implanted before buying a dog.

The police enforce microchip legislation; if your dog was to be picked up as a stray or scanned by the dog warden for another reason, you have 21 days to get them chipped to avoid a fine.

It’s important to check your dog is microchipped when you bring them home and that you keep the details on their microchip up to date throughout their lives. If you’re not sure if your dog is microchipped, they need a microchip implanted, or you don’t have their microchip details, your vets should be able to check their chip and provide help and advice.

Laws:

• Control of Dogs Order 1992
• Dogs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 in Northern Ireland
• Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015 in England
• Microchipping of Dogs (Wales) Regulations 2015 in Wales
• Microchipping of Dogs (Scotland) Regulations 2016 in Scotland.

Cleaning up after your dog

There are several laws that cover dog fouling – sadly it’s a big problem in a lot of areas across the country. In most public areas, you will be required by law to clean up after your dog.

Your council also has the power to introduce Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs). These can be used to make sure dogs are kept under control (see below) as well as to require dog owners to clean up after their pets in other areas.

In places with a PSPO, you can get an on-the-spot fine if you let your dog foul without a reasonable excuse (and not noticing your dog going to the toilet or not having a poo bag don’t count!). Areas with a PSPO should have signs to indicate this.

Even where it is not legally required to clean up after your dog, it’s a good habit to get into. As well as keeping the streets tidy it means you won’t be responsible for passing on some nasty parasites that can harm people and other animals.

Laws:

• Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 in Scotland
• Litter (Animal Droppings) Order 1991 under the Environmental Protection Act 1990
• Litter (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 in Northern Ireland
• Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 in Scotland
• Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 in England and Wales.

Restricted access

Dogs can’t always go everywhere we can go. In England and Wales, councils can create PSPOs (see above), so that in certain areas your dog may have to be kept on a lead. PSPOs could also limit the number of dogs you can have with you or ban dogs from certain areas. Areas under a PSPO will be clearly marked.

Law:

• Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 in England and Wales

Damage

You can be held responsible for damage your dog causes. This could be to a person, property (including vehicles) or another animal. There are complicated rules around when you would count as liable, so we recommend doing some further research and reading up if you want to know all the ins-and-outs of the law.

We would strongly advise taking out third party insurance so that if your dog did happen to damage something or hurt someone you would be covered.

Law:

• Animals Act 1971

Out of control dogs

In public places, you must keep your dog ‘under control’. Generally, this means close to you and ideally on a lead. If they’re not on a lead, they need to be under control in another way, such as paying attention to your voice commands.

It’s a criminal offence to allow your dog to be ‘dangerously out of control’ – this counts in both public and private areas (such as inside someone’s home). This could be anything from your dog chasing a person or another animal to physically harming them. It can also be if someone feels at risk of being injured by your dog. Either the owner or the person in charge of the dog can be charged. If this happens, you may have to pay a fine, compensation and costs. If your dog hurts a person, unfortunately they can be seized by police and may even be humanely destroyed.

We recommend making sure you’re on top of your dog’s training. Always keep your dog on a lead around strange dogs if they don’t have good recall as, even if your dog is friendly, you never know how the other dog is going to react.

Law:

• Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (Section 3)

Dogs and livestock

If your dog were to attack or chase livestock, or isn’t ‘under close control’ (on a lead) at certain times of year or in certain areas in the countryside, you could face a fine plus compensation. If they think your dog is a threat to livestock, a farmer is legally allowed to stop them and this can include killing a dog that’s chasing or worrying farm animals. This is why it’s so important to keep your dog safe and under control at all times when walking in the countryside.

Law:

• Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953

 

At home

Noise

A dog barking or howling a lot can be considered a noise nuisance for your neighbours and other people around you. The odd bark shouldn’t be a problem, as the goal isn’t to stop dogs being dogs. However, your neighbours can complain to your local council if your dog is making excessive noise. Read our advice on dealing with unwanted behaviour if you’re having trouble with barking.

Law:

• Environmental Protection Act 1990

Boarding your dog

Remember that any boarding kennel must be licensed by the local council, including doggy daycare and home boarding. As with breeders, you should check the license (and look for a five star rating in England) before picking a kennel to send your dog to.

If you spot a boarding kennel without a license, let your local council know as it means they won’t have been inspected to make sure they meet standards.

Laws:

• Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963
• Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 in England.

 

Breed Specific Legislation

There are four breed types of dog which it’s illegal to keep in the UK:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero.

It is illegal to own, breed, sell or rehome these types of dog without an exemption from a court. If there are concerns a dog may be an illegal breed, the police will usually ask an expert to verify the dog’s appearance and if they look enough like the breed type (or a cross) of one of these breeds, then they will be considered to be a banned breed. If you are found to have one of these breed types, you can apply to the court for an exemption order. Your dog will then undergo a behavioural assessment to prove they are not a danger to society.

Dogs who are granted exemption must still be on a lead and muzzled in public at all times. You must also take out third party liability insurance for your pet. You still can’t breed, sell, gift, or let stray a dog with an exemption.

There are very few dogs of banned breeds in the UK, but unfortunately, if your dog is judged to be one of these breeds and fails their behaviour assessment, they will be humanely destroyed. Any dog in a rehoming shelter judged to be a banned breed cannot legally be rehomed and will have to be destroyed too.

Law:

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

(Section 1 and 4B)

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JUSTICE FOR REGGIE

Justice for Reggie is a volunteer campaign fighting to Regulate Online Animal Sales. This campaign became hugely successful in such a short time, giving us ammunition to stand up for the changes that we all know are needed.

Justice for Reggie was established in December 2020 after Richard Ackers bought a puppy for his family. Richard searched extensively on one of the online selling sites to purchase his new family member. He thought he had done all the necessary checks when choosing a seller. Richard contacted the seller and asked what he thought were all the right questions, but it transpired later that he was imported from Ireland.

When Richard arranged to meet the seller, the first red flag was the area where the puppies were located as the advert stated 6 miles from where Richard was asked to meet. When he met the seller and the puppies, Richard asked where the mum was but he was told they had just moved and the mum would be upset with the separation, so brought the puppies alone. After meeting the puppies, and with the seller’s story sounding so convincing, Richard couldn’t leave little Reggie as by then it was love at first sight.

Sadly little Reggie lost his fight to canine parvovirus after 3 days. The family were absolutely devastated with the loss of their new puppy. Richard’s partner took to Facebook to vent the frustration and anger they were all feeling, and from then the ‘Justice for Reggie’ campaign was created.

The campaign was initially set up to provide public knowledge to raise awareness of the horrific and cruel puppy farms, with criminal gangs selling poorly bred and unwell dogs for profit over animal welfare.

Out of nowhere members of the public reached out to help and volunteer wherever they possibly could. From there the campaign grew and we quickly realised we needed to do more.

We now speak with MP’s, online selling sites, the police as well as councils, rescues and the RSPCA on a regular basis. We are pushing to get Online Animal Sales regulated that will make buying any animal online safer for the buyer and the animal.

After a few months of meetings with MP’s, and gaining their support, we spoke about how we can create change, (the knowledge they have is astounding). We then started our petition  – Regulate Online Animal Sales.

All our volunteers worked extremely hard to push the petition to reach the 100,000 signatures needed to get the petition debated in parliament. After 6 months of hard graft promoting the campaign, the petition gained over 109k signatures. Richard and the team were overjoyed with the result and planned on handing in the petition to parliament, which was debated in December 2021.

Richard wanted to do something to show his appreciation for the support we received in such a short space of time. ‘Regulate Online Animal Sales’ would never have been debated if it wasn’t for the amazing public support, who believe in what we are all fighting for.

Richard wanted to raise money for some of the Rescues who supported us right from the start. This lead to the brilliant idea of walking 232 miles from his home in Wigan to Downing Street. If any of you followed Richard’s walk you will already know it didn’t end too well.

Sadly Richard had painful blisters that stopped him finishing the last 3 days of his walk. With medical advice Richard had to get a train to finish his journey. Reggie HQ were glad to know Richard was safe and that he followed medical advice.

We all had an amazing time in London. We met MP’s face to face who we had spoken with over many Zoom calls, and we finally met the Reggie team in the flesh for the first time following many months of talking over the computer. We all enjoyed speaking with the public who came along to show their support and congratulate us for all our hard work and dedication. It rained nonstop all day but that didn’t dampen our spirits.

We marched to Downing Street to hand in our petition. We were all like school kids waiting in line to go through security to get to stand outside the famous number 10. We naturally overstayed our welcome, taking umteen photos with the MP’s and the whole Reggie team. We made sure we celebrated our massive achievement and handing in the petition on that day, leaving us with everlasting memories we will always treasure.

Shortly after handing in our petition, we heard how our hard work (Regulate Online Animal Sales) was being used by another person. With quick thinking we contacted some MP’s for advice and they informed us to push our petition to be debated as soon as possible, which it was after 6 days of handing it in.