Spinal Stroke Journey

Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE) is also known as a ‘spinal stroke’ in dogs, there is a blockage in the blood vessel supplying the spinal cord and the flow of blood is prevented or reduced to that part of the spinal cord.

FCE can come on suddenly and the physical signs can include paralysis in the back legs being unable to stand and walk properly-dragging the back legs, weakness and being wobbly on the legs. Swift veterinary attention is needed and a physical examination is carried out. One of our dogs had a sudden collapse in the garden one morning and we were refereed by our vets to a specialist centre and hospital; we left our veterinary clinic and drove to the hospital on the same day.

We walked Troops into the reception with a sling around his abdomen, he was alert and calm but unable to stand on his rear legs, haematology, biochemistry, physical and neurological examinations followed and we stayed with him for the initial investigations until he was hospitalised later that day.

IV Fluid therapy, a catheter, anaesthesia and a MRI scan followed, he was under the care of a lovely group of veterinarians and nurses, before being diagnosed by a specialist in veterinary neurology; based on the imaging-FCE. Troops stayed hospitalised for several days and received daily multiple sessions of physiotherapy and making some improvement becoming paraparetic but not ambulatory.

Meanwhile at home, we were able to organise a new safe and comfy area, we cut down the legs on a single sized child bed and inserted a memory foam mattress on top, this was ideal, covered with a waterproof protector, incontinence pads, extra large strong sling to support the back end when  standing and walking and a padded harness to support the body – with a carry handle on top, there are a number of options on the market and you really need to do your research to find the best one for your dog, paying attention to size, comfort, and strength.

Eventually he came home and we followed on with daily physiotherapy sessions, prescription medications, lots of well researched dietary support and supplements, extra mental stimulation (stuffed kongs, safe dental chews, hiding food games, scent stimulation) as there was now less physical activity each day and then we introduced some hydro-therapy sessions in the mornings each week. Eventually we went on to construct our own dog-friendly pool in the garden for summer time use by all the dogs, some fun on a hot day as well as exercise and physical therapy.

There was a urinary incontinence and we found absorbent bed pads which absorb the urine and remain dry on top, these need to be positioned well especially at night, and warm soothing washes are ideal, we had some gentle skin cleansing foam wash which was handy for times when out and about, we kept to a regular daily routine-out first thing in the morning into the garden on the sling, last trip at night etc and Troops began to regain bladder control which was a great step forward, he couldn’t cock his leg, although he did try a few times, so he dipped down a little and had a pee, re-establishing a routine and becoming stronger over several months.

Favourite times were trips out in the car, to explore new places and take in all the smells, especially a trip to the beach-always on the look-out for car parking within reach of the sand and safe dog friendly places to stop on route.

Slowly walking along short distances with the carry sling and one person behind to carry the weight and one in front in case we had off leash dogs running head into us. 

We couldn’t get that far, Troops was very strong on his front end, but also a very big dog so there was a lot of weight to hold on the sling, it was difficult, also his back paws could drag on the ground and this was an issue, we tried several different types of boots and that helped – a pavement will graze the paws very quickly so you have to prevent this, we then researched online and measured up to order a set of ‘dog wheels’: In our situation these took some sessions to adjust to, large dog v need to run and turn corners on a penny!

Government Action Plan for Animal Welfare

The Policy paper was published by Government in May 2021,  the part devoted to pet animals is detailed below, the government has stated that the following steps are now to engage with all key parties to develop their plans, the remainder of this Parliament is set to implement proposals through a programme of primary legislation including the Animal Welfare Sentience Bill, the Kept Animals Bill and the Animals Abroad Bill, there will also be secondary legislation along with other non-legislative measures.

From the Policy paper:

Pets are central to so many families and we want to ensure their welfare is protected, and that sporting animals are cared for responsibly.

One of our key reforms here is to end the abhorrent, cruel practice of puppy smuggling and low-welfare pet imports. Now the transition period has finished, and we have left the EU, we have the opportunity to go further than ever. We have been working closely with our colleagues across the devolved administrations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to provide protection for those animals brought in by these unscrupulous traders, and to prevent the trade as much as we can.

We committed to cracking down on puppy smuggling in our manifesto. We will legislate to reduce the number of pet dogs, cats and ferrets that can be moved under the pet travel rules which apply to non-commercial movements. This will prevent unscrupulous traders from exploiting our pet travel rules.

We will also bring in powers which enable us to go further, to:

• increase the minimum age that dogs can be non-commercially moved or commercially imported into Great Britain

• restrict the ability of unscrupulous traders to move heavily pregnant dogs into Great Britain both commercially and non-commercially

• prioritise the health and welfare of dogs by prohibiting the importation and non-commercial movement of dogs into Great Britain that have been subject to low welfare practices, such as ear cropping or tail docking, in line with our domestic legislation on these practices

We will crack down on pet theft, which is reported to have increased markedly since the start of the pandemic, knowing the devastating impact this offence, and the fear of it, can have on families and pet owners. We have worked across government to set up a taskforce to tackle this issue. This taskforce will:

• gather, research and commission work to build a clear evidence base of the scale of any issue

• consider the issue from end to end, including causes, prevention, reporting, enforcement, prosecution and sentencing

• make clear and timely recommendations on ways to improve the situation around pet theft

We will introduce compulsory cat microchipping to ensure lost or stolen cats can be reunited with their owners as quickly as possible. In addition, we are reviewing the operation of the current microchip database systems, which also apply to dogs, with a view to introducing improvements.

We are also considering reforms to provide greater assurance that microchip database information is checked appropriately, for example in cases where healthy dogs are presented to vets for euthanasia, as campaigned for via the ‘Tuk’s Law’ movement.

We will also:

• continue our initiatives to educate the public on how to source dogs and cats responsibly. Launched in March 2020, our National ‘Petfished’ Communications Campaign aims to raise awareness of issues associated with low-welfare and illegal supply of pets

• pursue the licensing of animal sanctuaries, rescue and rehoming centres including for cats, dogs and horses

• consider changes to equine identification and traceability to improve biosecurity and animal welfare with key stakeholders, and we plan to consult on proposals later in the year

• ban remote controlled electronic training collars (‘e-collars’), given their scope to harm cats and dogs

• consider further protections for racing greyhounds, including further steps to raise welfare standards at trainers’ kennels

• ensure the horse racing sector addresses key animal welfare issues such as fatality levels

• ensure that dangerous dogs legislation continues to provide effective public safety controls

• continue to commit to maintaining high standards of protection where procedures are undertaken on live animals for scientific or educational purposes

Pet Theft Taskforce launched this month

 A Pet Theft Taskforce has been launched to investigate the recent reported rise in pet theft since the start of lockdown, Environment Secretary George Eustice has announced.

Sales platforms have reported a considerable rise in puppy and kitten prices over the course of the past year following more people deciding to buy or adopt a pet. Recent reports have suggested that this may be leading to a rise in pet thefts.

According to DogsTrust, the price for five of the UK’s most sought after breeds grew significantly during the first lockdown with the price of some breeds rising by as much as 89%. Google searches for ‘buy a puppy’ increased by 166% in the months between March and August following the start of lockdown last year. Recent police investigations into dog theft have also resulted in numerous raids and arrests on suspicion of theft and animal cruelty.

The new taskforce has been set up to gather evidence to understand the factors that may be contributing to any perceived rise in thefts and to recommend any necessary measures to tackle the problem. The Taskforce will learn lessons from successes in tackling other types of theft, such as mobile phone or metal theft, and how to clamp down most effectively on this illegal market and those engaged in it.

Stealing a pet is already a criminal offence under the Theft Act 1968, with offenders facing a maximum penalty of seven years in prison. If someone causes an animal to suffer in the cause of stealing it from its owner, then they are also liable to prosecution for offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The taskforce will be made up of government officials from Defra, Home Office and Ministry of Justice as well as operational partners such as the police. It will also seek input from animal welfare groups and experts in relevant fields.

The Pet Theft Taskforce will:

• work with police, law enforcement, and experts to understand and tackle pet theft
• consider the issue from end to end, including causes, prevention, reporting, enforcement and prosecution.
• make clear and timely recommendations on ways to reduce pet theft.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said:

Pets are much loved members of the family, and these reports will be distressing for all pet owners.

Pet owners shouldn’t live in fear so we’ve set up this Taskforce to thoroughly investigate the issue and ensure that we have the measures in place to stop these criminals in their tracks.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said:

Having callous thieves steal a much-loved pet is heart-breaking for families and it is deplorable that criminals seek to profit from this cruel crime.

We are already taking action to combat such lawlessness by bolstering the police with 20,000 extra officers but this new taskforce will ensure we know how best to combat the driving forces behind this distressing crime and clamp down on the perpetrators.

The Lord Chancellor, Robert Buckland QC MP, said:

We are a nation of animal lovers and many of us have sought the companionship of pets during the pandemic, which makes the reported spike in thefts especially cruel and shocking to many people.

This taskforce will examine every option available to protect families from this appalling crime and make sure perpetrators feel the full force of the law.

Taskforce partner, Deputy Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said:

Dog theft is a very emotive issue which has a huge impact on families or individuals and we are aware of a growing concern around this issue. The taskforce will support us in understanding this risk and also identifying trends involving serious and organised crime.

The taskforce will enable us to gather intelligence across the country and tackle groups who work across geographical boundaries. We hope that this is a step forward in providing reassurance that we are committed to understanding any risks fully, and challenging related criminal behaviour.

The police have advised that dog owners should avoid leaving their pet unattended while out in public, vary their routines when walking their dogs and should take basic security steps at home such as checking locks on doors and garden gates.

The Blue Cross has also published detailed guidance for pet owners on how they can protect their animals from theft.

The taskforce will include representatives from operational partners to provide knowledge, experience and guidance on the practical aspects of reducing pet theft. It will also seek the input from stakeholders and experts in relevant fields, such as campaign groups and animal welfare organisations to gather any evidence they may hold and seek their views on the issue.

The taskforce will aim to report on the findings and publish its recommendations in the autumn this year. The full Terms of Reference for the Taskforce can be accessed here.

The plans are part of the Government’s commitment to further strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in animal welfare standards and come alongside other measures including taking steps to end live animal exports and crack down on the illegal smuggling of dogs and puppies, with further proposals to improve standards and eradicate cruel practices to be set out later this month.

Lucys Law Passed in Wales

 Good News Update:

New regulations to ban  3^rd-party puppy/kitten sales in Wales has passed into law, the new legislation, a mayor step forward will come into force on the 10^th September 2021.

Lucys Law came into force in England in April 2020 and the Welch Senydd voted to pass their new law in March 2021, breeders are to be held accountable with enforceable legislation as it will become illegal to purchase a puppy or kitten from a 3^rd party source eg a pet-shop or online front which is selling puppies from diabolical battery farms where hundreds of dogs are imprisoned and used as breeding machines, a sickening situation which dogs, adults and puppies have suffered (and died) from for years.

The vote has now passed in the Senedd introducing new regulations for pet sales. The regulations will also ban third party sales of puppies and kittens – The Animal Welfare Licensing  of Animals (Wales) Regulations 2021.

#LucysLaw #Wheresmum #endpuppyfarming

This means that from 10 September it will be an offence to sell a puppy or kitten which the seller has not bred themselves. Crucially the new Regulations requires the seller to have bred the puppy or kitten “at the premises” – which puts a stop to lengthy and multiple transportations for the young animals, which can cause distress. This applies to travel in and around Wales, as well as banning puppies and kittens from being brought in to Wales, for sale.

Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said:

Our much-loved pets fill us with joy, complete our families, and have helped us get through tough lockdowns during the pandemic.

I want to thank all Senedd members for voting to ban the third party sales of puppies and kittens today. The people of Wales who responded to our consultation were overwhelmingly in favour of making this happen, and the charities, vets, volunteers and organisations that have worked tirelessly to help form the law into what has been passed today also deserve our thanks.

We hope a ban will encourage respectful and responsible attitudes towards all animals, provide greater transparency for people who wish to welcome puppies or kittens into their homes as to how they have been bred, and empower Local Authorities to take action if they have concerns about how puppies and kittens are being bred and sold.

Chief Veterinary Officer Christianne Glossop said:

The way we treat animals reflects the values of our society. That is why Welsh Government and the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group work in conjunction to promote high animal welfare standards and the responsible ownership of animals. This law will now close loopholes to protect the welfare and wellbeing of our puppies and kittens, while educating us all about what is right and fair for our pets.

The Regulations will come fully into force on 10 September.  During this time Statutory Guidance will be co-produced to support enforcement by Local Authorities and this timeline will also allow existing sellers affected to make changes and consider a different operating model to mitigate any potential impact.

A Pet In Every Home - Jasmine's Law

Andrew Rosindell M.P. has introduced to Parliament legislation that would place strict limits on the ability of landlords to include “no pets” policies in rented accommodation.

As part of a 10 Minute Rule Bill, a type of Private Members’ Bill, the former Shadow Minister for Animal Welfare and Member of Parliament for Romford  highlighted the frequently unjust way in which renters are forced to give up their beloved pets in order to move into new accommodation.

The legislation, backed by animal rights and animal welfare organisations, including the RSPCA and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, will prevent landlords from banning “responsible owners” from bringing pets into rented accommodation.

Recognising the concerns that landlords have, the legislation will require renters to demonstrate they are “responsible owners” with a suggested checklist including a vet’s confirmation that their pet is vaccinated, spayed/neutered, free of parasites and responsive to basic training commands in the case of dogs. In cases where the renter can prove they are a “responsible owner”, and the accommodation is suitable for their pet, the right to take a pet into rented accommodation would be assumed.

The legislation is being called “Jasmine’s Law”, named after a dog which was separated from its owner, Jordan Adams, because of restrictions like these. He will also highlight the tragic case of John Chadwick, a homeless man who ended his life after the only housing option his local council provided him with was one which meant separating from his beloved pets. 

His speech and proposals were covered in: London Playbook, Havering Daily, Big Issue, TalkRadio, Lad Bible, Mirror, Yahoo, MSN, Dogs Today Magazine and Pets Mag

Commenting, Andrew Rosindell M.P. said:

“I’m delighted to have secured this slot to speak about an issue deeply important to me. As a dog owner for twenty five years, I understand as well as anyone the connection a person can have with their pet and for too long I have heard tragic stories of pet owners separated from their pets because of blanket bans that landlords implement.

It is a huge opportunity to increase awareness of this issue and to pressure the government to make changes that they promised earlier this year. In January the Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick rightly called on landlords to make it easier for responsible tenants to have well behaved pets in their homes, but as of yet this hasn’t been followed by any legislation.”

COVID Advice Updated:

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for people in England with animals:

Some of the government advice relating to animals, for dog carers looking after the welfare of their pets during the coronavirus pandemic was updated by government in January 2021 and is as follows, full info is available on the government website - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-people-with-animals

Animals with coronavirus:

It is rare for an animal to contract coronavirus, and they may show only mild clinical signs and recover within a few days. Limited evidence available at present suggests that coronavirus:

may pass from infected humans to certain pets such as dogs, cats and ferrets following close contact

does not easily pass between cats or most other pets, but this cannot be ruled out

may pass between ferrets and humans based on the evidence from mink

Pets - In line with public health guidance, you should:

wash your hands before and after any contact with your pet, its food and bedding

not share food with your pet

avoid contact such as kissing or cuddling if you’re self-isolating

There is no evidence that you need to wash your pets to control the spread of coronavirus. Only wash or use products on your pets that are approved for use on animals.

Animal boarding services:

You may leave your home to access animal boarding services.

You should take your pet to, or collect your pet from, a boarding establishment by appointment only. Ask your animal boarding service if they provide a collection or drop-off service.

Grooming:

You may leave your home to take your pet to be groomed. You should do this only if necessary for your animal’s welfare and not simply for aesthetic purposes.

You should contact the groomer in advance to make an appointment. Ask the groomer if they operate a mobile service or provide a collection and drop-off service.

Buying or adopting a pet:

You must follow social distancing rules when buying or adopting a pet.

You should not visit a breeder or rescue centre in person to view an animal before buying or adopting it. This is not a reasonable excuse to leave your home.

You should ask for a virtual tour instead. Take extra care to make sure that the seller is legitimate by following government guidance on how to get pets responsibly.

Breeders and rescue centres should make arrangements to deliver your pet to you when it is ready to be rehomed. Where this is not possible, and it is reasonably necessary for the pet’s welfare, you may collect the animal. You should collect your pet by appointment only.

You must collect the pet without entering the premises where this is a private home.

If your animal needs vet treatment:

You can leave home for animal welfare reasons, such as to attend veterinary services for advice or treatment. If your animal needs vet treatment, phone first to arrange the best way to meet their needs.

You may also leave your home to access urgent veterinary services when you’re self-isolating. You should only do this if it is not possible for another person to take the animal to the vet.

Dog walking:

You may leave your house to walk your dog:

by yourself

with the people you live with

with your support bubble (if you’re legally permitted to form one)

or, when on your own in a public outdoor space, with one person from another household

This is covered by the exemptions for animal welfare and exercise.

Although the government generally advises you should exercise once a day, you can go out more often if you need to walk your dog but should limit this where possible.

You should stay 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household or support bubble.

When walking your dog in areas used by other people, you should consider putting your dog on a lead to ensure you can stay 2 metres away from others.

You should wash your hands before and after handling your dog.

If you’re walking dogs on behalf of someone not able to:

You may walk a dog for someone who is unable to leave their house because they are self-isolating.

You should wash your hands before and after handling the dog and keep 2 metres away from other people and animals, including when handing over the dog to the owner.

If you’re self-isolating:

If your dog cannot be exercised at home, you should ask someone outside of your household or support bubble to walk your dog for you, or access walking services provided by a professional.

You should notify anyone walking your dog on your behalf in advance that you’re self-isolating and arrange a no-contact service where possible.

Fireworks Petition

The Government Petition circulating has now been closed due to there being a General Election in December. A government response was given on the 5th November 2019 and can be read in full on the petitions website.
Petition that have more than 100,000 signatures are considered for debate in the new Parliament and are now waiting for a new petitions committee after the General Election.

The petition gained over 305,000 signatures calling for a ban on fireworks for general sale to the public and reads:

Every year more and more people, animals and wildlife get hurt by fireworks. It’s time something was fine to stop this. There are enough organised firework groups around for us to still enjoy fireworks safely so please help me stop the needless sale of them to the public!

The noise from fireworks causes a great amount of fear, stress and anxiety in wild animals. ... Errant fireworks can also cause environmental damage though fires, and from the release of poisonous chemicals and particle-laden smoke, which is not just inhaled by wildlife, but contaminates the natural environment.
In England last year, 4,436 individuals attended A&E because of an injury caused by a firework - more than double the 2,141 in 2009/10.
With around 40% of the UKs dogs being scared.

This petition closed early because of a General ElectionFind out more on the Petitions Committee website