Royal Mail and CWU Dog Awareness Week

Dog Awareness Week July 2017:

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Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union are launching their annual dog awareness week 3 – 7 July.
As the UK school break for their summer holidays, families enjoy the summer weather, which is good news for them but BAD NEWS FOR POSTAL WORKERS as this signals what Posties know as the ‘dog-bite season’ and the time of the year which traditionally sees a big spike in the number of attacks.

Royal Mail and postal workers trade union the CWU will be campaigning again to raise public awareness and urge customers to be responsible dog owners as well as urge caution amongst postmen and women who want to provide a good service but sometimes pay a heavy price.

CWU National Health and Safety Officer Dave Joyce said: "Seven postal workers are attacked by dogs every day of the year. It is unacceptable and the whole idea of Dog Awareness Week is to highlight the problem and the repercussions for dog owners and the victims, many of whom are seriously injured and some can not return to mail delivery work”.

“Over 70% of Dog Attacks on Postmen and Women occur on the garden path or at the doorstep of the dog owners home. It just needs owners to restrict their animals access to the front garden or to put their dog in another room before opening the door to collect a parcel or sign for an item.”

“Customers are always pleased to see the Postman or Postwoman arrive as they’re eager to take delivery of their goods they’ve ordered and paid for on the internet but thousands of customers who own a dog unfortunately don’t give a second thought to the Postal Worker’s safety by putting the dog in a safe, secure place.”  

“The vast majority of our customers and their dogs aren't a problem but irresponsible and reckless dog owners are.”

“The new dog control laws now identify and penalises irresponsible dog owners and many are now facing prosecution and paying heavy court penalties and end up withcriminal records. So it’s in their best interest in more ways than one to make sure the dog don’t bite the Postman.”

“One Essex dog owner was recently fined £8,800 after his dog injured a Postwoman’s fingers as she put letters through the door – which is another problem Postal workers face!”

“The penalties can also include losing their dogs, being banned from dog ownership, paying compensation and even a Jail sentence.”

“Dog owners need to fully understand that their actions usually are the cause of a dog being dangerous and simple precautions can prevent the pain for everyone concerned. No matter what breed of dog is involved, the dog can present a substantial danger to postal workers."

Top tips for dog owners to help the postman or woman deliver the post in safety:
• Keep your dog indoors around the time that the postman calls to deliver mail.
• Before you opened the door to collect a parcel or sign for an item - put your dog in another room.
• Make sure children don’t open the door, as dogs can push by them and attack the postman.
• If you have a back garden, close off the access, so your dog can't get round to the front when the postman calls.
• If your dog attacks the mail and could bite a postman’s fingers as he puts mail through your letterbox, please fit a letter box cage.
• If it’s not practical for you to keep your dog away from a postman delivering your mail, consider fitting a secure mailbox on the edge of your property.

Dog Bite Incidents Database Proposed:

We have received this news released from the KC, following a meeting which took place in London earlier this week:

A meeting of dangerous dogs experts, led by the UK's largest dog welfare organisation, the Kennel Club, has laid the groundwork for an agreed strategy for reducing dog bite incidents in the UK.

The meeting enabled experts from across the veterinary and medical professions, the police, local authorities, government representatives, academics, sociologists and animal welfare charities, to share existing knowledge and information on dog bite incidents in order to develop a plan to garner government support and funding for a new nationwide strategy for dangerous, or out of control dogs.

A proposal will now be developed which will incorporate the need for a robust central database for the investigation of dog bite incidents, which can be fed into by relevant parties including vets, medics, the police and dog wardens.  This will provide crucial data on the causes of dog bites and will enable more preventative measures to be implemented, such as required training for any dog which shows early signs of aggression.

Also included in the proposed strategy will be the need to treat dog aggression as a public health issue and the importance of educating dog owners, the general public, children and educators on responsible dog ownership and how to safely interact with dogs.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said:  "Dog bites are clearly a public health issue, and to ensure that both public safety and dog welfare remain paramount we need to make changes to this country's strategy on dogs which are allowed to be out of control. It is absolutely crucial that we get it right to avoid a further increase in dog bite incidents.

"We believe the key to this is through gathering data on incidents as they happen through immediate and thorough investigation, so that genuinely preventative measures can be put in place and the law can be overhauled to reflect this.

"There are so many factors that need to be looked at when a dog bites someone, including social, medical, cultural, psychological and behavioural elements, and by gathering such data we can get far better insight into the reasons for bites.

"A key part of a preventative strategy is education on how to interact safely with dogs.  The majority of recorded incidents involve children in some way, so educating them from an early age is crucial.  There are initiatives and information resources that exist already, such as the Kennel Club's Safe and Sound programme and Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme, as well as the Pet Education Resources group, but we would like to see a more unified education programme to reduce dog bite incidents.

"We were overwhelmed by the turnout and the level of interest in the roundtable discussion and are glad that all relevant stakeholders are keen to move forward together on this important issue.  The meeting was very much the first step in pushing for a new strategy on dangerous dogs and we are particularly appreciative for the support of our speakers at the meeting, Kendal Shepherd, Danielle Greenberg and Chris Mannion, who delivered effective arguments for why we need urgent change."

The Kennel Club believes that dangerous dog law should be updated and consolidated and replaced with preventative measures based on evidence gathered through data collected on a national level from hospitals and GPs, veterinary surgeries, police dog units, and dog wardens, amongst other sources, instead of laws based on the stereotyping of certain breeds. 

Biographies for four key speakers at the dangerous dog meeting held by the Kennel Club:

Kendal Shepherd BVSc CCAB MRCVS
Kendal qualified from Bristol University in 1978.  With extensive experience in small animal practice, she was the first veterinary surgeon to be accredited by ASAB as a certificated clinical animal behaviourist in 2005.  She is currently heavily involved in the behavioural assessment of dogs for the Courts under both sections 1 and 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Danielle Greenberg BA Hons (Oxon.) MA BVSc MRCVS

Danielle studied Modern History at Oxford University before following her dream to become a vet. She qualified in 1998, and works in a busy small animal hospital in Liverpool.

Christopher J. Mannion FRCS(Eng.) FDSRCS(Eng.) PGC MedEd FHEA

Christopher qualified in Dentistry and then in Medicine from Guys, Kings and St Thomas' Medical school. Christopher works as a Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. He has a subspecialty interest in trauma and facial reconstruction. He is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Leeds, School of Medicine, and is the Training Programme Director for training in Maxillofacial Surgery.

Bill Lambert

Bill is the Kennel Club Health & Breeder Services Manager. Bill has been involved with dogs all his life and bred his first litter in 1982. He is a Championship show judge of Bull Terriers and Miniature Bull Terriers and has officiated in a number of countries around the world. He is a former Vice Chairman of the Bull Terrier Club, and was a Committee Member from 1984 to 2007. Bill's interest in dangerous dogs began as early as the late 1970s when the American Pit Bull Terrier was first imported into the UK in large numbers and since that time he has visited breeders across the globe to gain a fuller understanding.

Our Christmas Advice

Seasonal Tips For Dog Owners:

 

Christmas and the New Year is a time of joy and cheer for us and our families and is also often a time of stress, rushing about and pulling your hair out!
Here are some handy tips for you to help maintain your sanity and keep you and your dog happy and safe over the festive season.

Your Christmas Tree & Decorations:

Once a year we fill our rooms up with trees, dangling objects, lights and even hang food around in odd places. We know what is going on, but our dogs probably just think we have gone a bit nuts in the nicest of ways!

Electrics: Make sure you keep your tree lights and any other electrical decorations safely out of your dogs reach-especially if your dog is inclined to investigate or chew through exposed electrical cord. Electrocution can easily be caused.

Trees: If you have a real tree, the needles which fall daily can become stuck in your dog’s paws and are also dangerous if eaten, vacuum daily and keep your dog (and other animals) away from them. Don't let your dog drink the tree water. Some dogs like to mark out against them (why else did human bring a tree indoors but to save going out in the cold?) so bear that in mind too!

Tree Decor: From a dogs point of view – the Christmas tree with its dangling goodies is pretty tempting and begging to be investigated, trees can easily topple over especially once weighed down with decorations and lights etc so try to secure the tree down so it does not fall over so easily if bumped into by your dog (or wagging tail). Trees do tend to look better by the window rather than being worn round the house by your enthusiatic dog!

Dogs can easily be caught up in tinsel and find hanging decorations particularly appealing and ripe for pulling off. Life will be a lot easier and safer if you limit your dog’s access to the area if you need to and don’t leave tree and dog unattended!

Plants: Many Christmas plants including Mistletoe, Holly, Pot Pourrie and Poinsettias are toxic, keep them out of your dogs reach and seek immediate veterinary advice if you think your pet has ingested.

 

Decorations: Those which are edible (or not when they are ten years old) to humans, e.g. hanging chocolate tree decorations may be sniffed out by your dog with his amazing nose detection capabilities, so keep these away. Chocolate is just pure poison to your dogs system, tinsel, tin foil, cling film etc can also be dangerous if swallowed and cause serious internal problems. Fairy lights look lovely, problems can arise when dogs get tangled up in any loose wires left lying around.
Spray snow - the type in the cans, is attractive on the insides of your windows, check you dog isn't interested in licking/scratching it off, chemicals=poisons.

Blu-tack and similar adhesives may cause drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhoea if eaten by your dog. Silica gel found in packaging can have the same affect-contact your vet for advice.

Plastic bags and balloons are also a hazard-keep them away from your dog.

Candles: If you like to use candles-do place where your dog, e.g. your dogs waggy tail, will not accidentally knock over.

Christmas Presents:

Your goodies: Many dogs will be intrigued by the sudden appearance of wrapped boxes and who could blame them, so if you don’t want yours unwrapped by Santa’s little helper, keep them boxes hidden!

Wrappings, trimmings etc can be very dangerous if chewed or swallowed, so keep safely away when not in use & bin after.

Doggie presents: Make sure your dogs own Christmas present(s) are ’dog proof’ – suitable for your dog, robust enough and safe for use.

Christmas Day can in some households seem like a day gone mad from a dog's view, then there is the excitement of the present opening, the paper, the noise, all those socks too!

If you have more than one dog and are giving out a present to each dog bear in mind how each dog is going to react with their new possession around the other dogs, sharing might be right out the window to begin with. Give your dogs space and maintain control - it's not like you 're too busy right? You are after all supermum and superdad - dogs need your help too.

Festive Food, more food, did I mention there's more food and treats:

Some of the foods we love to fill up on over Christmas are actually toxic for our dogs.

It can be a tough job to keep a watch on your dog even with the extra set of eyes you have developed in the back of your head, but you'll need to be one step ahead.

Cooked foods left on top of the oven are very tempting to your dog and many a time the whole lot has been reached and knocked back in one or two gulps; bones, trimmings, stuffing the lot-this can lead to an expensive out-of-hours veterinary visit or if you are lucky it will pass though and you will need one hell of a shovel or plastic bag out in the garden on Boxing Day, plus you've missed your lunch so watch out.

Diet - We often get carried away with extra festive treats and unusual foods this time of year, it’s nice to include our dogs and treat them too – but don’t forget that a sudden intake of unusual foods, or too much of anything is likely to cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting, so watch out for how much and what exactly your dog is being offered - keep an eye on any guests sneaking in the treats too, or Fido will end up with an upset tummy and it could be a messy and uncomfortable Christmas!

Chocolate -  is a definite NO! It contains a chemical called Theobromine which is actually poisonous to dogs and even just a small amount can be lethal for some. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and death. If you want to treat your dog – buy treats designed for dogs, our rescue dogs loves to chew on a carrot or apple, keep them safe and keep them healthy. If you suspect chocolate poisoning – contact a vet immediately.

Sweetcorn -  isn’t digested and corn on the cob is very dangerous, cobs can easily cause an obstruction which will require surgery to remove if it doesn’t kill your dog. If you have corn on the cob-dispose of the cobs where your dog can’t reach and never ever feed to your dog.

Bones - you may have more cooked meats around and your dog is sure to have spotted exactly where all his goodies are! Bones can be dangerous, cooked ones becoming brittle and easily breaking into sharp pieces which can choke a dog, don’t give anything you wouldn’t usually.

Coffee – alcohol – sweets - yummy for us but NO NO NO for our canine friends. Give your dog a nice Christmas and keep well away.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas should not be fed to your dog, these are now known to be toxic to dogs and can cause poisoning. Cases of kidney failure have been documented. Other foods such as liquorice, avocados, onions and some nuts can also cause problems.

A poisons leaflet produced by the British Veterinary Association is available online here.


Fun, parties & visitors over the holidays:

Some dogs will enjoy extra people around, for some it can be very stressful-just because you are enjoying 'festive fun' it, doesn't mean your dog must too.

If you’re hosting a party/get together: Some dogs will becomeoverexcited or frightened when around unusual noises such as children toys, balloons popping, party bangers, flashing lights etc and intoxicated visitors can also cause a dog to feel uneasy - being grabbed, cuddled and told your a good boy over and over by auntie who has hit the sherry early is not a dog's idea of a fun day out, so plan in advance to help keep your best friend relaxed.

If your dog is known not to cope well with these types of situations, or you haven't owned your dog long enough to find out, don't take chances, be ready with your dog's 'retreat area':

Make sure your dog(s) has a retreat somewhere familiar where he can go and relax away from all the noise and excitement if he needs too or you need to put him somewhere safe, for example a room upstairs or a dog crate somewhere familiar and quiet. This is especially important if you are likely to become putting it bluntly - drunk and not much use to your dog. Provide some favourite chews, or a stuffed Kong to help keep him occupied,where he likes to be, leave the radio/TV on to help block out some noise, make sure he has the remote control handy too but don’t let him on the karaoke! Exercise in advance to help him settle down whilst you get on enjoying yourself!

Try plugging in a DAP diffuser two weeks before your busiest week and keep it plugged in over the Xmas to help relax your dog if needed.

Extra guests: Many households will receive extra guests, relatives and often young children, so bear in mind that if your dog isn’t used to the extra attention, noise etc, have a quiet retreat as mentioned above. If your dog is happy mixing (not the cocktails hopefully) - keep an eye out for him becoming too excited and step in if that is the case.

Ground Rules: When your family and friends arrive, try laying down some house rules - ask your guests not to overfeed your dog or leave food and alcohol on the floor to help keep party food and drinks out of reach to your dog. But remember, when the booze is flowing, rules are out the window so be prepared in advance, you don't want to end up trying to pull a trapped object out of your dog's throat after he's just found himself a plateful under the chair.

Children: Letting off steam at Christmas is all part of the fun, they are off school, enjoying themselves, excited and often charging about. Parents are knackered, stressed out and tired. It's at times like this when dogs can be let down unintentionally and placed in awkward situations.

Please do not leave children and dogs alone attended-always make sure children and dogs are supervised by a competent adult at all times. If it is too much for your dog - just remove your dog from the situation, be vigilant and prevent accidents.
Exercise: Try your best to keep your dogs normal routine as much as possible – getting away from the washing up with the excuse of walking the dog does come in handy!

Fireworks are often used over the holiday season, especially on New Years Eve, read up on our firework advice here.

Extra people in and out increases the risk of your dog being let out of your home by mistake; always make sure doors are closed and that you know where your dog is - safely inside. Each year dogs go missing during the holiday period - is your dog wearing a collar and Id tag, is your dog identi-chipped?

Pain killers and human drugs for hangovers etc often get left lying around and these packets can be of interest to your dog, if you think your dog has swallowed-contact you vet.

Travelling: If you are visiting and taking your dog with you – don’t forget to pack his bag too! Check in advance that your dog is welcome, exercise beforehand to help him settle down when you get there, take a bit of his bedding, water bowl, own food, toy etc.

Record your vets number somewhere safe, just in case, be careful and give your dog a big hug from us this Xmas!

 

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year to you all and your dogs!

 

Copyright © 2012 Endangered Dogs Defence and Rescue Ltd

Cold Weather Guide - Canines & Carers

Keeping Warm I Water & Ice I Poisons I Roads & Pavements

Snow Tips I Older Dogs

 Exercise I Paw Care I Travel I Hypothermia I Frostbite

Dogs and Cold Weather Advice, Information & Tips:

As the cold weather bites down this winter, it’s important to remember that our four legged companions also have to cope with the cold conditions and all the weather can bring. Here follows a handy and informative guide for you and your best friends this winter.

Keeping warm at home:

All dogs feel the cold weather just like we do, how cold it gets depends on your location and home set up. Different dogs have different needs, like puppies and older dogs who find it harder to regulate their body temperature and short coated, thin skinned ones (e.g. greyhounds).

Provide a warm dry bed which is in an area free from drafts. Remember that certain floor surfaces, such as tiles, become very cold (unless you have under floor heating) so make sure your dog is not left sleeping on a cold surface as he has nowhere else to go.

Dog coats or dog sweaters are good for when your dog ventures outside even if just out into the garden and can be worn inside as well-depending on your dog and how cold it gets where you live.

Keep an eye for how long your dog is outside-don’t forget your dog is out in the garden if you have closed the door.

If you bath your dog, avoid letting outside until completely dry all over.

Provide clean drinking water at all times, if the water bowl has frozen (depending on where you keeps yours) knock out the ice and refill regularly, move into an area where it will not freeze if possible. Glass and china dog dishes can crack in cold weather.

If you are away from home, say at work, day or night and your dog is alone at home, what temperature is it going to fall to in your home if your turn down or off your heating, how cold will it be when you are not there?

Make sure open fires and any other heat sources are safe with your dog(s) around.

Different breeds, long haired and short coated dogs, young dog and older dogs will have different tolerance levels to the cold weather. Some dogs have double coats to help them but don’t think that because your dog has a coat he will not feel the cold.

Some breeds are closer to the ground and their bellies become wet and cold quickly when out, this can cause a dog's temperature to plummet.

Dogs don’t like being cold any more than we do!

Water and Ice:

Always keep your dog away from water including garden ponds and canals no matter how solid any ice may appear on top if frozen over – never let your dog anywhere near cold and frozen water of any depth.

There have been many reported cases each winter of dogs falling through ice and drowning, if you are walking your dog near frozen or part frozen water - please keep on leash and away to be safe.

Poisons:

Anti-freeze, screen wash and some types of de-icers contain ethylene glycol which is poisonous to dogs and cats.

These types of chemicals are more abundant this time of year and are extremely dangerous - even a very small amount. Many dogs are attracted to its sweet taste; please remember not to leave any anti-freeze etc. lying around or accessible to you dog(s) or cat(s), keep out of reach at all times.

Seek immediate veterinary advice if any is suspected to have been swallowed or even suspected of coming into contact with your dog (or cat).

Roads & Pavements:

Winter roads - local authorities and others often use chemicals and salt to melt the ice on the roads and pavements, good for us and our cars, but not so nice for your dog’s feet, avoid where possible, as it can irritate your dog’s pads and can be toxic if swallowed.

Rinse off paws when home if walked through.

Reflective clothing for you and a reflective collar and/or collar light is sensible for walks near roads on dark evenings, dim winter days and during snow fall.

Snow survival tips:

Snow looks very inviting for some dogs and can spark off excitement and play, the problem is that snow covers all ground objects including sharp ones and as your dog is rushing through it having fun a paw or nail can easily be caught and torn.

Keep a first aid kit handy for your dog and give paws a quick check after play/exercise outside.

It’s also a good idea to keep note on how long your dog is outside and limit if necessary when it’s cold out, dogs can suffer from hypothermia (see below), just like we do, as an example, playing in the snow caused hypothermia to a dog in Scarborough recently, which resulted in the need for urgent veterinary attention to save the dog’s life.

Snow can become impacted and form balls of ice caught up in your dog’s hair or squashed into between his paws/toes, these are uncomfortable and can be painful, wash the ice crystals away with warm water to help dissolve and dry.

Dogs can become disorientated as they loose their sense of smell and direction when there is snow on the ground which can result in a lost dog. Keep your dog close or on leash.

Older dogs:

Older dogs are less able to deal with cold weather; it becomes difficult to regulate body temperature as age increases.

The cold may affect certain physical conditions such as arthritis.

Older dogs may not be able or take longer to warm up when moved between areas differing in temperature.

A comfy sweater can help keep the chills off your older dog during the night in your house like the one pictured here on our elderly exempted dog Tara.

Keep your oldie warm indoors and be extra careful when out.

Exercise:

Sometimes it's just not worth the risk of going out and routines have to be temporarily adapted.

When you have been out, after exercising your dog, wipe the snow and any ice off your dog with a towel, dry through properly and make sure the bedding area is dry.

Icy patches mixed with snow, or stretches of ice and black ice can be particularly hazardous to dogs and their owners!

A dog running and slipping on ice can result in damage to tendons, pulled muscles and damaged joints etc.

It’s no fun if your dog pulls on leash and you are having difficulty yourself with the ice under foot, which is one good reason to yourself have some appropriate footwear on and be extra careful that you can maintain your own balance and keep your dog under control.

Do be aware that dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia (see below).

Paws:

Trim the hair around the pads to help prevent a build-up of compacted ice – little snowballs which collect in hair and can be hard to get out; they also make it uncomfortable for the dog to walk. If these have collected up inside the pad and in between the toes, melt with warm water to help remove and gently dry the feet. Keep tails trim, long nails make it even more difficult to walk.

After walks, rinse off each paw in some warm water, this will remove any salt/grit or ice melting chemicals your dog has walked through and prevent it from irritating him later or licking his feet and swallowing the stuff.

Some dog owners use dog boots to protect the paws.

Get into a routine of having a quick check in between the toes and the back of the each paw, look out for cracks and cuts.

Traveling:

Vehicles become very cold, very quickly this time of year once switched off. Don’t leave your dog in a vehicle; it will soon be like a fridge inside.

Plan your journey ahead of time and allow for road delays.

Have a plan in case your vehicle is caught in snow or on icy roads and your dog is inside with you.

Further info here: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/advice/snow.html

Hypothermia:

Can be mild, moderate or severe.

It happens when your dog’s body temperature falls below its normal range, symptoms include; shivering (a body response to generate heat) lethargy, weakness, stiff muscles, a change in heart and breathing rate, co-ordination difficulty. Collapse and come can follow.

If you are out with your dog, get home/indoors ideally, dry your dog in a warm room, keep your dog from standing directly on a cold floor surface, wrap in a warm blanket, take your dog’s temperature and contact your veterinary clinic without delay.

Your dog can’t tell you he feels cold and can’t warm up-it’s up to you to take charge.

Canine Frostbite:

This is damaged or dead body tissue caused by over exposure to cold temperatures.

Common areas of concern are your dog’s ear tips, toes, scrotum and tail.

Frostbite can be harder to spot under the dog’s hair.

Affected areas can appear pale or grey in colour and cold to the touch. As body tissue warms it turns red and this is painful, black colour indicates death of body tissue.

Contact your vet for immediate help.

Don’t rub or massage the area, you can warm in warm water and gently pat dry. Remember that a dog may display aggression when in pain.

Written by Amanda Dunckley

Copyright © Endangered Dogs Defence & Rescue 2012

Canine Christmas Tips

Christmas Tips &
Seasonal Advice For Dog Owners:

Christmas and the New Year is a time of joy and cheer for us and our families and is also often a time of stress, rushing about and pulling your hair out!

Here are some handy tips for you to help maintain your sanity and keep you and your dog happy and safe over the festive season.

Your Christmas Tree & Decorations:

Once a year we fill our rooms up with trees, dangling objects, lights and even hang food around in odd places. We know what is going on, but our dogs probably just think we have gone a bit nuts in the nicest of ways!

• Electrics: Make sure you keep your tree lights and any other electrical decorations safely out of your dog’s reach-especially if your dog is inclined to investigate or chew through exposed electrical cord. Electrocution can easily be caused.

• Trees: If you have a real tree, the needles which fall daily can become stuck in your dog’s paws and are also dangerous if eaten, vacuum daily and keep your dog (and other animals) away from them. Don't let your dog drink the tree water. Some dogs like to mark out against them (why else did human bring a tree indoors but to save going out in the cold?) so bear that in mind too!

• Tree Decor: From a dogs point of view – the Christmas tree with its dangling goodies is pretty tempting and begging to be investigated, trees can easily topple over especially once weighed down with decorations and lights etc so try to secure the tree down so it does not fall over so easily if bumped into by your dog (or wagging tail). Trees do tend to look better by the window rather than being worn round the house by your enthusiastic dog!

Dogs can easily be caught up in tinsel and find hanging decorations particularly appealing and ripe for pulling off. Life will be a lot easier and safer if you limit your dog’s access to the area if you need to and don’t leave tree and dog unattended!

• Plants: Many Christmas plants including Mistletoe, Holly, Pot Pourrie and Poinsettias are toxic, keep them out of your dog’s reach and seek immediate veterinary advice if you think your pet has ingested.

• Decorations: Those which are edible (or not when they are ten years old) to humans, e.g. hanging chocolate tree decorations may be sniffed out by your dog with his amazing nose detection capabilities, so keep these away. Chocolate is just pure poison to your dog’s system, tinsel, tin foil, cling film etc can also be dangerous if swallowed and cause serious internal problems. Fairy lights look lovely; problems can arise when dogs get tangled up in any loose wires left lying around.

• Spray snow - the type in the cans, is attractive on the insides of your windows, check your dog isn't interested in licking/scratching it off, chemicals=poisons.

• Blu-tack and similar adhesives may cause drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhoea if eaten by your dog. Silica gel found in packaging can have the same affect-contact your vet for advice.

• Plastic bags and balloons are also a hazard-keep them away from your dog.

• Candles: If you like to use candles-do place where your dog, e.g. your dog’s waggy tail, will not accidentally knock over.

Christmas Presents:

• Your goodies: Many dogs will be intrigued by the sudden appearance of wrapped boxes and who could blame them, so if you don’t want yours unwrapped by Santa’s little helper, keep them boxes hidden!

• Wrappings, trimmings etc can be very dangerous if chewed or swallowed, so keep safely away when not in use & bin after.

• Doggie presents: Make sure your dog’s own Christmas present(s) are ’dog proof’ – suitable for your dog, robust enough and safe for use.

Christmas Day can in some households seem like a day gone mad from a dog's view, then there is the excitement of the present opening, the paper, the noise, all those socks too!

If you have more than one dog and are giving out a present to each dog bear in mind how each dog is going to react with their new possession around the other dogs, sharing might be right out the window to begin with.

Give your dog space and maintain control - it's not like you’re too busy right? You are after all supermom and superdad - dogs need your help too.

Festive Food, more food, did I mention there's more food and treats:

Some of the foods we love to fill up on over Christmas are actually toxic for our dogs. It can be a tough job to keep a watch on your dog even with the extra set of eyes you have developed in the back of your head, but you'll need to be one step ahead.

Cooked foods left on top of the oven are very tempting to your dog and many a time the whole lot has been reached and knocked back in one or two gulps; bones, trimmings, stuffing the lot-this can lead to an expensive out-of-hours veterinary visit or if you are lucky it will pass through and you will need one hell of a shovel or plastic bag out in the garden on Boxing Day, plus you've missed your lunch so watch out.

• Diet - We often get carried away with extra festive treats and unusual foods this time of year, it’s nice to include our dogs and treat them too – but don’t forget that a sudden intake of unusual foods, or too much of anything is likely to cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting, so watch out for how much and what exactly your dog is being offered - keep an eye on any guests sneaking in the treats too, or Fido will end up with an upset tummy and it could be a messy and uncomfortable Christmas!

• Chocolate is a definite NO! It contains a chemical called Theobromine which is actually poisonous to dogs and even just a small amount can be lethal for some. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and death. If you want to treat your dog – buy treats designed for dogs, our rescue dogs loves to chew on a carrot or apple, keep them safe and keep them healthy. If you suspect chocolate poisoning – contact a vet immediately.

• Sweetcorn isn’t digested and corn on the cob is very dangerous, cobs can easily cause an obstruction which will require surgery to remove if it doesn’t kill your dog. If you have corn on the cob-dispose of the cobs where your dog can’t reach and never ever feed to your dog.

• Bones - you may have more cooked meats around and your dog is sure to have spotted exactly where all his goodies are! Bones can be dangerous, cooked ones becoming brittle and easily breaking into sharp pieces which can choke a dog, don’t give anything you wouldn’t usually.

• Coffee – alcohol – sweets - yummy for us but NO NO NO for our canine friends. Give your dog a nice Christmas and keep well away.

• Grapes, raisins and sultanas should not be fed to your dog; these are now known to be toxic to dogs and can cause poisoning. Cases of kidney failure have been documented. Other foods such as liquorice, avocados, onions and some nuts can also cause problems.
A poisons leaflet produced by the British Veterinary Association is available online.

Fun, parties & visitors over the holidays:

Some dogs will enjoy extra people around, for some it can be very stressful-just because you are enjoying 'festive fun' it, doesn't mean your dog must too.

• If you’re hosting a party/get together: Some dogs will become overexcited or frightened when around unusual noises such as children toys, balloons popping, party bangers, flashing lights etc and intoxicated visitors can also cause a dog to feel uneasy - being grabbed, cuddled and told you’re a good boy over and over by auntie who has hit the sherry early is not a dog's idea of a fun day out, so plan in advance to help keep your best friend relaxed.

If your dog is known not to cope well with these types of situations, or you haven't owned your dog long enough to find out, don't take chances, be ready with your dog's 'retreat area':

Make sure your dog(s) has a retreat somewhere familiar where he can go and relax away from all the noise and excitement if he needs too or you need to put him somewhere safe, for example a room upstairs or a dog crate somewhere familiar and quiet. This is especially important if you are likely to become putting it bluntly - drunk and not much use to your dog. Provide some favourite chews, or a stuffed Kong to help keep him occupied, where he likes to be, leave the radio/TV on to help block out some noise, make sure he has the remote control handy too but don’t let him on the karaoke! Exercise in advance to help him settle down whilst you get on enjoying yourself!

• Try plugging in a DAP diffuser two weeks before your busiest week and keep it plugged in over the Xmas to help relax your dog if needed.

• Extra guests: Many households will receive extra guests, relatives and often young children, so bear in mind that if your dog isn’t used to the extra attention, noise etc, have a quiet retreat as mentioned above. If your dog is happy mixing (not the cocktails hopefully) - keep an eye out for him becoming too excited and step in if that is the case.

• Ground Rules: When your family and friends arrive, try laying down some house rules - ask your guests not to overfeed your dog or leave food and alcohol on the floor to help keep party food and drinks out of reach to your dog. But remember, when the booze is flowing, rules are out the window so be prepared in advance, you don't want to end up trying to pull a trapped object out of your dog's throat after he's just found himself a plateful under the chair.

• Children: Letting off steam at Christmas is all part of the fun, they are off school, enjoying themselves, excited and often charging about. Parents are knackered, stressed out and tired. It's at times like this when dogs can be let down unintentionally and placed in awkward situations.
Please do not leave children and dogs alone attended-always make sure children and dogs are supervised by a competent adult at all times. If it is too much for your dog - just remove your dog from the situation, be vigilant and prevent accidents.

• Exercise: Try your best to keep your dog’s normal routine as much as possible – getting away from the washing up with the excuse of walking the dog does come in handy!

• Fireworks are often used over the holiday season, especially on New Year’s Eve; read up on our fireworks & dogs advice.

• Extra people in and out increases the risk of your dog being let out of your home by mistake; always make sure doors are closed and that you know where your dog is - safely inside. Each year dogs go missing during the holiday period - is your dog wearing a collar and Id tag, is your dog identi-chipped?

• Pain killers and human drugs for hangovers etc often get left lying around and these packets can be of interest to your dog, if you think your dog has swallowed-contact you vet.

• Travelling: If you are visiting and taking your dog with you – don’t forget to pack his bag too! Check in advance that your dog is welcome, exercise beforehand to help him settle down when you get there, take a bit of his bedding, water bowl, own food, toy etc.

Record your vet’s number somewhere safe, just in case, be careful and give your dog a big hug from us this Xmas!

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year to you all and your dogs!

Written by Amanda Dunckley
Copyright ©2011 Endangered Dogs Defence and Rescue Ltd

Fireworks and Dogs - Advice

Safety Tips I Dogs & Fireworks Survival I Long-term Action I Fireworks & the Law

Every year many dogs (and other animals) will be affected as a direct result of fireworks. Fireworks legislation exists but for many the fireworks are still extremely loud and the mayhem seems to start earlier and earlier each year, depending on where you live, with Nov. 5th as the 'main event' there are also other celebrations involving fireworks such as Diwali, Chinese New Year and increased popularity in some areas around Christmas and New Year.

For many of us, there isn’t just one evening of Fireworks, sounding like World War III to cope with, but a whole run up of weeks leading to it which doesn’t end with the loudest blitz on Bonfire Night.

Here we have collated some information regarding the safety of your dog, coping suggestions to help get you through it, long term treatment and current legislation.

Safety tips for you and your dog(s):

Around this time there will be a steep increase in the number of stray dogs picked up and handed in, dogs which have become scared and bolted when out and off leash or having escaped from the home, here follows a few tips to help you and your dog: Please check the following today: Collar & ID Tag: Your dog needs to be wearing an ID tag or a collar with Identification clearly inscribed on it (this is a legal requirement) - check it can be read - can you actually see what it says? The information on it needs to be up to date and securely attached to your dog’s collar. Make sure your dog’s collar is in good condition and fits properly. Microchip: Is you dog micro-chipped? If not now would be a good time to get that done. It’s a simple painless procedure that your vet can do and is relatively cheap – it will make all the difference if you lose your dog. If your dog is already chipped check that you have the number to call should the worst happen. Also make sure your contact details are up to date. Bonfire night is coming and for many dogs it’s terrifying. You may think your dog is bombproof but maybe, this time something will surprise him and he may bolt. If the details on his tag are wrong, or if in the panic he loses his collar, your chances of being reunited with your pet are greatly reduced.

Keep your dog inside the house with you during the worst times, check your garden fencing – is it secure? Does the gate(s) lock?

Don’t leave your dog out in the garden unattended or leave your dog tied up outside the shop or alone anywhere, e.g., in a vehicle, yobs throw bangers & fireworks at animals and find it amusing to wind them up, keep your dog safe.

Keep your dog leashed when out. If you use a flexi leash be extra careful, as your dog suddenly running full throttle to the end of it will cause a jolt which can pull the lead right out of your grasp-you end up with a dog running in a panic with the equipment bouncing along behind, the sudden bang of a rocket etc. can cause the most laid back of dogs to bolt; before they know it they are lost.

Dogs that are known to have a problem with fireworks and are affected are best not left alone at home. As dogs are pack animals, stay with your pet and keep inside when the fireworks are being let off. A dog under stress can sometimes become unpredictable and panic, so double check how safe the inside of your home is, e.g., ornaments, glass doors, open fires.

Never take your dog or any animal to a Firework display, it may be fun for you to watch but keep your dog away and safe.

Getting through it – some survival tips:

Preparation is the key, if your dog has a problem remember your dog feels the need to escape from the source of the fear, your dog may become destructive and/or aggressive, panic, go off its food, have diarrhoea, vomit etc., - your job is to minimize the effects as much as you can, keep your dog safe and seek long term professional help so that fireworks are less of a problem in the future. If you’re worried about your dog’s reactions to fireworks it makes sense to go and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and help.

Exercise your dog earlier; try to have him tired out ready for the evening.

Is the house secure-windows closed, cat flap locked (keep the cat safely inside as well), doors secured etc. and both escape proof and safe should your dog panic?

Draw the curtains/blinds to keep out visual reminders-flashing lights etc.).

Have some familiar calming music on or turn up the TV (not too loud) to help block out some of the noise.

Make sure your dog has access to an area where he feels safe - a 'den' which is away from windows with his bedding and toys inside. Place some of your clothing in here so there is a familiar comforting scent, don’t move his bed suddenly, if you are going to set up a safe area in a specific part of the house, do it a few weeks in advance to give him time to adjust and familiarise himself. To make your dog’s den a place where good things happen - you can feed him in there, hide treats in there, favourite chews etc. so that your dog should want to go into his den-don’t ever force him in.

Offer a stuffed Kong (introduce in advance) toys and/or favourite chew toy to distract; giving him something to do can help relieve stress as it may take his mind off the noise and smell of fireworks in the night air.

Make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available and feed your pet a couple of hours before the fireworks in the evening to help relax him (if your dog is likely to vomit and/or have diarrhoea be prepared for this).

You could also try using adaptil dog appeasing pheromone-just search DAP as it’s sold widely online & in pet shops. You can use a DAP diffuser which you leave plugged in all day a couple of weeks in advance (next to your dog’s den or bed is ideal) also available is DAP spray and a DAP dog collar (worn in addition to your dog’s normal collar). The canine appeasing hormone is released into the atmosphere and is odourless, it doesn’t affect humans or other animals and helps relieve general anxiety in dogs.

Natural Remedies can also be useful for behavioural problems in dogs, try Dr Bach Rescue Remedy. Another homeopathic remedy which can also help is called HomeoPet Anxiety TFLN it is designed to promote a sense of calm. Scullcap and Valerian tablets are a herbal combination which some dog owners use to bring relief to their dogs when anxious and nervous. Further details at Dorwest Herbs.

An ‘anxiety wrap’ is a relatively new idea and now available to buy. It is worn by a dog (looks like a dog coat) to help relieve stress during times of fireworks & thunderstorms, you can find out more here: http://www.petsperfect.co.uk/products/Anxiety-Wrap.html

If your dog is affected by the noise – do NOT ever punish him. If you go out and find your dog has been destructive whilst you were gone – don’t punish him, stay calm, tidy up any mess and have a cup of tea! It is a completely pointless to punish him, damaging & extremely unkind to your dog, the bond between you both is affected and likely to make him even more stressed out.

 You and your family members need to remain confident, relaxed and cheery, try distracting him if possible.

Try to yourself remain relaxed and upbeat – conveying the message that there is nothing to worry about.

If you are worried at all – get help and further advice now, the more in advance of the fireworks season the better. Desensitisation programmes take months not weeks so think ahead and visit your veterinary clinic for advice and seek out the assistance of a behavioural councillor who will be able to help your dog.

Don’t forget to keep your cats, other animals and birds safe too.

Long-term Action:

If your dog needs help then once the firework session is out the way it’s time to plan ahead as any good behavioural re-modification programme will take time, effort and patience.
There is no ‘quick fix’ to fireworks phobia, treatment programmes involving desensitisation and counter conditions techniques are available.

We recommend you seek help from a professional canine behaviourist-for advice please contact us and visit your veterinary surgeon.

The Fireworks Act:

The Fireworks Act was introduced in August 2004, it makes it an offence to:

* Be under the age of 18 and in possession of fireworks in a public place.

* Let off fireworks louder than 120 decibels.
* Let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.

The 11pm to 7am curfew is extended on the 5th of November, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.

It is against the law to throw or set off fireworks in the street.

Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18 years of age.

For a full copy of the legislation (The Fireworks Act 2003) visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/22/contents

Further information on fireworks and the law can be found here.

The Animal Welfare Act:

Under section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captive animals.

The penalty on conviction is either imprisonment up to 51 weeks or a fine of up to £20,000 or both. Enforcement of this section of the Act rests with Trading Standards, the Police or the RSPCA as appropriate.

Written by Amanda Dunckley
Updated 2011
Copyright © Endangered Dogs Defence & Rescue 2011