Step Inside, Love Peek inside the sweetest old dogs' home in the world - Wag: The Mag For Dog Lovers: Spring 2020 - Dogs Trust
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Step
Inside,
Love
Peek inside
the sweetest
old dogs’ home
in the world
Wag: The Mag For Dog Lovers: Spring 2020
Welcome Editor: Deana Selby
From the editor...
Assistant Editor: Jordan Harris
Readers’ Dogs: wag@dogstrust.org.uk
High-res Jpegs only please!
Designed by: Anthony Oram
www.mro.design
Print by: Eclipse Colour Print,
managed by Red Mist
Welcome to your fresh spring Wag! We’ve cleared its gutters and regrouted its bathroom,
Thanks to contributors this issue:
we hope you enjoy our new mini makeover. Speaking of looks, it warms my heart just Sophie Burness, Emma Meaden,
looking at our cover chap Max’s happy old face – he really is the good boy. I met Max at our Leila Farndell, Tamsin Durston,
Jodie Sawyer, Cat Charles,
Oakfield Old Dogs’ Home (within our Shrewsbury rehoming centre) and was overwhelmed Claire Rooney, Devon Prosser,
by a) the gentle beauty of older dogs and b) the compassion and patience shown by our staff Kayleigh Docherty, Kayla Maryon
there. We look after thousands of older dogs (eight and upwards) at each of our 21 centres, Reg charity nos.
227523 (England and Wales),
not just at Shrewsbury. I urge you, if you’re ever thinking about adopting a dog, please SCO37843 (Scotland) 20057978
consider letting an oldie into your life; they’ve got so much love to give. Check out Max and (Ireland)
his adorable plod squad on page 10. Editorial address:
Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House,
17 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ
With spring upon us the weather should be a wee bit brighter and for many of us this means
To keep up to date with how we
longer walks, and so we’ve got some fabulous ideas for making your stroll with Rover even collect and use your personal data
more fun for the pair of you. We’ve also got some lovely news about a family of Huskies visit dogstrust.org.uk/privacy.
At any time you can change how we
being reunited after a long break, plus the chance for you to share your dog’s special talent contact you. Simply get in touch with
with the world – see page 4 for Doggos Got Talent. our friendly Customer Services team
and they’ll get any changes made for
you. Call us on 020 7837 0006, visit
Wishing you and your woofers a very happy spring, filled with long, muddy walks and all dogstrust.org.uk/keepintouch/
or write to us at Dogs Trust, Clarissa
the ear skritches a dog could wish for! Baldwin House, 17 Wakley Street
EC1V 7RQ
Deana Selby
Wag Editor
LARGE PRINT AND
AUDIO AVAILABLE!
Large print and audio versions
of Wag are now available, please
email Wag@dogstrust.org.uk
or call 020 7837 0006 to
request your copy.
dogstrust.org.uk
ON THE COVER
(Photo: Martin Phelps.) For more photos, news, videos
Dogstrust.org.uk/wagmagazine
Max, the eleven-year-old chocolate Instagram:
Labrador, pictured below with his best @dogstrust
friend and carer, Elizabeth, enjoying a Send us your Dogs Trust dog
using #Mydogisforlife
cosy, treat-filled afternoon in Oakfield
Old Dogs’ Home at our Shrewsbury Twitter:
@dogstrust
rehoming centre. Max has since been
adopted by a lovely local couple and is YouTube:
youtube.com/dogstrust
settling into his retirement home well.
For a behind the scenes peek, visit page Facebook:
facebook.com/dogstrust
10, and to meet some of
the other residents of Oakfield, visit Phone:
www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/ 0303 003 0000
and select Shrewsbury from the menu. Email:
wag@dogstrust.org.uk
2 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020
News
All the news that’s fit to bark!
Maybe he’s
Born Woof IT?!
From curly perms; to boyband partings; to
Noddy Holder-esque sideburns and serious
snoot fringes, our dogs have got it going on Rudi
when it comes to beautiful barnets.
Meet Rudi, a beautiful boy with the
most awesome shock of curly
blonde hair. This handsome
Spaniel grabs the attention of
everyone he meets, although
he’s quite nervous so will
need patient owners. He
is waiting for his forever
home at Dogs Trust
Loughborough. ROY
Have you ever seen such
impressive sideburns?! Saluki
Roy was found in a terrible
CASPER
state, but is now fully recovered
and awaiting adoption from Dogs
Trust Leeds. Roy loves food, walkies and
big, comfortable beds. Relatable.
Ay Chihuahua! Casper has the best natural blow-dry
we’ve ever seen! He is looking for a patient family that
can give him time to find his paws. He is waiting for
his new family at Dogs Trust Manchester.
Mac is bringing back the 90’s boyband look with his
floppy yet spiky fringe and we think he looks great!
He is a two year old Terrier cross waiting for a
new home from Dogs Trust Manchester and
MAC
would be a perfect walking companion.
Representing the lesser-spotted snoot fringe,
our boy Rex is very friendly once he gets
to know you, and loves meeting other dogs.
Pop into Dogs Trust Manchester to meet him. REX
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 3
News
Naughty* & Nice
MAMA MIA Dog of the Issue
here we go again!
Photo: Kayleigh Docherty
Naughty:
Tigger
Our naughty* dog of this issue is Tigger (that’s T-I-double-
guh-er) who, as his name suggests, is super bouncy;
sometimes too much so. He’s been working hard on it though
and will now stay grounded when you meet him… most of the
time.
NICE: BETH
We are family, I got all my Huskies with me
Here at Wag we love a good reunion, so we couldn’t have
been happier to hear about father and son Huskies, Zeus
and Blade, finally reuniting with Mia, Blade’s mother –
after a three-year break.
In 2017, staff at our Glasgow centre saw the
incredibly close bond shared by residents Zeus and Blade,
making them determined to find the pair a home together.
Step forward Shona, who gave the flooffers their forever
home, in Glasgow. The boys’ original owner, who still And our nice dog of the issue is Beth for giving the best
owned Blade’s mother Mia, spotted the handsome pair cuddles a human could wish for. Beth’s favourite thing in the
in Wag (autumn 2017), and got in touch with Shona via world is to throw herself onto her carers and snuggle in tight;
Facebook. They stayed in contact for a few years, until a great for keeping warm on those cold spring evenings.
recent change in circumstances prompted Mia’s owner to
ask Shona whether she’d like to take in mama Mia too. Both of these lovely beasties are available for adoption from
Fast forward to December 2019, and Shona is now the our Leeds rehoming centre. If you’d like more info visit
proud owner of three beautiful Siberian Huskies - who dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/ and select ‘Leeds’ from the
love living together as a family. Shona tells Wag that drop down menu.
when Mia was first brought to her house, Zeus the father
was overjoyed and wanted to play with her immediately, And remember, any ‘naughty’ behaviour your dog exhibits is
while Blade was aloof at first, but eventually recognised simply your dog doing whatever works out best for them. If
Mia as his mother, and has stuck to her like glue ever you would like to train your pal how to avoid doing ‘naughty’
since. These stunning Huskies are a content little family things, bring them along to Dogs Trust Dog School. To find
once more! your nearest Dog School, visit dogstrust.org.uk/dogschool
*ALL DOGS ARE GOOD DOGS
4 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020
Holidaying News
With Your
Hounds
Whether you prefer an escape to the country,
lounging on a beach or donning a life vest and
taking to the seas (well, canals), Dogs Trust
Holidays have you covered, with thousands of
fido-friendly properties available. Here are our top
tips to ensure your best pal enjoys their holiday just
as much as you do:
- Make sure your doggo is welcome before you travel;
waiting in the car is no fun at all.
- Safety never looked so good! Keep your good boy*
buoyant with a stylish life vest - beautifully
modelled here by Millie - even if they’ve already
mastered the doggy paddle.
- Strong tides and undercurrents are dangerous to
both us, and our furry companions. Always heed
any warning signs or swimming bans at the beach.
- Hot cars can be deadly - never leave your pooch
alone in the car in warm weather.
- Ensure your dog is microchipped and wearing a
personalised pet tag with your contact details, these
are legal requirements and will help you be reunited
if you’re separated.
Photo:
Martin Phelps When you book your next adventure through Dogs
Trust Holidays, you’ll not only be getting a great trip
away, you’ll also be helping us look after all the doggos
in our care with 10% of your booking fee being sent
directly to us! Visit www.dogstrustholidays.co.uk to
book your next adventure.
Treats ahoy!
Millie, the good *or girl
(and safe) girl
Gloudie is a sk8er boi, she
says see you later boy
Photo: James Lincoln
#DoggosGotTalent
Do you have a super-talented pooch who could be the next Susan Boyle? Think
less Simon Cowell, more Simon Howl. If your doggo can smash all the glass in
the room with their beautiful singing voice, we need you!
Please send a short video of your best pal’s talent to wag@dogstrust.org.uk to be in
the running to win a big box of chocolatey goodness for you and something tasty for your
doggo too, and the chance to be featured in Wag magazine. Winners will be chosen on 30 April.
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 5
Spring(er spaniel) has sprung! And with it comes warmer weather and,
most importantly, more daylight for walkies. Here are some of our top
tips to making every walk with your best pal an adventure.
Pup-eration is key.
Always have a ‘walkies bag’ handy; including poo
bags, toys and treats to make sure you’re never
caught short.
Go on sniffari.
We’ll never fully understand the complexities that
go on in those wet snoots we love so much. When
possible, you should let your pal sniff for as long as
they want, so they can ‘read’ any vital pee-mails left
by other doggos (as long as it’s somewhere safe).
6 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020
Circuit training.
You don’t have to go to the doggy gym for this
circuit training. Make your pooch’s plod-about more
pleasant by assigning a different trick or action for
them to do at every lamppost, tree, post box etc,
rewarding them with a treat or a quick game.
Barkour!
A fallen tree, bench or even a bus stop can be made
into a fun game by getting your doggo to jump over,
circle around or just place their paws on them; in
return for a treat of course. Make sure anything you
ask your dog to stand on is low to the ground and
sturdy enough to keep your furry friend having a fun
and safe time.
Hide and seek.
Enlist the help of any friends you’re with and get
them to hide a treat or toy while you keep your dog
with you. Start easy with a treat behind something
nearby; when they get the hang of it, you can make it
more difficult. Just be careful not to stress them out
by making it im-paw-sible!
Do something new every day! You can visit new places, try out new treats and toys, or even just
walk on the other side of the street for your regular walk; this will keep your walks fresh and
exciting and strengthen the bond between you and your dog more than ever. Also consider using
a harness when playing games outside to avoid your doggo accidentally jerking and hurting
their neck. For more tips on how to make your walks more fun, visit dogstrust.org.uk/walkies
And don’t forget to tag us on social in your spring walkies photos - @dogstrust
Illustration by: Hannah George, represented by Meiklejohn
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 7
Helping
Dogs In
Bali
Did you know our affiliate charity, Dogs Trust Worldwide,
works hard to improve dog welfare all round the world,
through a programme of awarding grants to and sharing
our knowledge with local animal welfare organisations?
We’ve been supporting the Bali Animal Welfare
Association (BAWA) to help vulnerable owned and stray
dogs living on the slopes of an active volcano, Mount
Agung. Over the course of six months, with our help, the
BAWA team managed to neuter 807 dogs and vaccinate
158 dogs against rabies.
One of our senior behaviourists, Alasdair Bunyan,
together with animal handling expert Brian Faulkner,
visited Bali to help the BAWA team and local government
officials, with the dog neutering and vaccination
programme which we fund. The pair gave a practical
workshop which included topics such as understanding
dog body language and behaviour, and how to capture and
handle stray dogs humanely. For more information on our
vital work overseas visit dogstrustworldwide.com
We’re very grateful to Petplan
and Marmax Products for co-
sponsoring our staff conference,
enabling us to bring our dedicated
staff together to ensure we’re able
to give the very best futures for our
canine friends.
Each year we have a gathering
of staff from across the UK to get
an update on Dogs Trust’s latest
projects, and the latest in canine
welfare.
Last autumn, our staff heard all
about our education programmes
about changing children’s
behaviour around animals, as well
as how our animal transport team
supported the RSPCA to move a
group of dogs from a commercial
kennel with very poor welfare High paws! Cody showing off his tricks on the Marmax climbing
standards. frame, during his stay at our Salisbury rehoming centre.
8 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020
News
We’re
All Ears!
WAG is your mag and we would LOVE to know what you think of it!
If you love it, loathe it (we hope not), or sit somewhere in between,
please let us know what you feel about of our magazine. Please
complete our online survey at dogstrust.org.uk/wagsurvey, or
if you’d prefer to answer the survey questions over the phone,
you can call us on 0300 303 0893. If putting pen to paper
Photo: Martin Phelps
is more your style, pop an SAE in the post and send it to
Wag Survey, Dogs Trust 17 Wakley Street, London
EC1V 7RQ. If you’d like to get your voice heard,
please let us know by April 8th.
Pupper can you hear me?
Set yourself a challenge and raise some pounds for our pooches by
registering for one of our charity places in these sporting events.
5th April 2020 - Manchester Marathon
23 - 24 May - Edinburgh Marathon Festival (5k, 10K, Half and Full Marathon)
24 May - Great Manchester Run 10K
16 August - Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100
13 September - Great North Run, Newcastle (Half Marathon)
4 October - Cardiff Half Marathon
11 October - Royal Parks Half Marathon
3 - 4 October - Run Bournemouth Weekend (5k, 10k and Half Marathon)
Dog Jog (various dates and locations)
To join Team Dogs Trust email fundraisewithus@dogstrust.org.uk
or visit our website at dogstrust.org.uk/running
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 9
Elizabeth has the best job in the world
– as key canine carer at Oakfield.
She spends her working day playing,
cuddling and administering those
all-important ear skritches to the
beautiful residents. It’s a tough job
but somebody has got to do it.
Meet the OADS
Welcome To Oakfield
Old Dogs’ Home
It is a truth universally acknowledged that there really
is nothing better in life than having a faithful old boy/
girl by your side. Sure, puppies are cute and all, but an
older Rover has got shedloads of personality, not to
mention that wonderful biscuity aroma they seem to
acquire with age.
Here at Dogs Trust we care for thousands of OADs
(old age dogs) every year at each of our 21 rehoming
centres, but we have one very special place - the
Oakfield Old Dogs Home – which houses some of our
creakier residents. With a few more miles on the clock,
these senior boyos and girls appreciate the home
comforts of living in a house, rather than a regular
kennel block.
Today, Elizabeth is sharing the sofa with
Oakfield is a vital part of our Shrewsbury rehoming
Norman and Lucy, a splendid sausagey pair
centre, and while it’s not open to the public, its residents
who adore each other. She’s keen to find
can be brought into the main centre where they can
them a home where they can stay together.
Although not especially aged, Norman and
meet their public - and hopefully find a wonderful new
Lucy benefit from the peace and quiet offered owner with whom to share their twilight years. Join us
by Oakfield because they’ve just arrived from a for a sneak peek inside the sweetest old folks’ home in
breeding establishment and are a little nervous. the world.
10 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020Welcome
Elizabeth is also caring for a trio
of Labradors in each flavour; Pip,
Venus and Max. Pip (12) and Venus
(12) were handed over to our care
when their owner had to move in to
sheltered accommodation, while
chunky chocolate button Max (11)
had been found straying.
Max oversees dinner prep; he has strong views
as to how much food Elizabeth should put in his
bowl. Luckily, Elizabeth knows better than to
listen to dietary advice from a Labrador.
Photos: Martin Phelps
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 11Proving that there is plenty of life in
the old dog, 12-year-old Caspar is
having great fun zooming around one
of the exercise runs. Bouncy Caspar
is still as sprightly as a young pupper
(ish). He’d been cared for at our
Glasgow centre for several years, and
while he is now enjoying his time with
the Oakfield squad, he would simply
LOVE a new home very soon. →
← Zoe, a 14-year-old Yorkie, is helping Theresa out
on reception duties today. Zoe arrived at Oakfield
just the day before Wag arrived. Sadly, her owner
passed away very recently, so now the Shrewsbury
team are helping this teeny poppet feel loved and
secure once more.
Henry, 13, has just been handed over by his owner, as she has
recently split from her partner and now needs to work full-time.
She was very upset at letting Henry go, having had him since he
was a puppy, but she knows he’s in safe hands now. Canine carer
Tom gives him a reassuring stroke. →
7 reasons why you should
adopt an old dog
1 They love sleeping. Every day is a duvet day.
2 They need less exercise. A gentle potter and snuffle
about will suit most oldies just fine thanks.
3 The top of their heads smell fabulous.
Mainly of digestive biscuits*
4 They are usually house-trained.
5 They have those eyes that look into your soul**.
6 They love to lounge just as much as you do.
Planning a marathon Netflix session?
Your old dog is here for it.
7 They have so much love to give, it’s almost
unbearable
*Not scientifically proven **Also not scientifically proven
12 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020←Wilma the Basset Hound is not an Oakfield resident,
but belongs to Louise, our centre manager. It’s written
into Wilma’s contract that she appears in every
photoshoot taking place at the Shrewsbury centre,
as she is such a star. Just look at that face.
Plod goals. Senior dogs still like to mooch about, and Buddy Collie is no
exception; he’s taking a gentle stroll with our training and behaviour
advisor, Helen. Short training sessions give excellent mental exercise
for senior dogs – something which Buddy (11) truly loves. →
Our vet nurse, Toni, gives Henry a
thorough geriatric dog check over.
A typical chocolate Lab, Henry is
a little on the chunky side, so Toni
suggests that he start a weight
control programme the next day.
He also has arthritis in his hips and
elbows, for which she administers
pain relief. Despite all this, Henry is
a super-friendly, chilled out chap.
Thinking of adopting an oldster? Check out our fun short film all about the Oakfield residents, plus our
easy-to-follow advice on caring for an older dog, including common changes in health and behaviour.
Please visit dogstrust.org.uk/olderdogs. We care for plenty of older dogs who would dearly love a new
home, so visit dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/ or call us on 0303 003 0000.
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 13Feature
Shout out to the army of brilliant,
kind-hearted volunteers who
give us hours of their time and a
kazillion kilowatts of energy with
their devotion to helping care for
our rescue dogs - whether at the
rehoming centres or in their own
homes. Wag met just a handful
of our trusted volunteer squad -
but there are thousands more
- THANK YOU ALL!
‘I’m a dog-oholic, but I
Photos: Victoria Tetley
don’t want to be cured!’
14 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020Feature
The foster carer, Auntie Margaret
We’re always so overwhelmed by the kindness and dedication ‘I think it’s fantastic, it really is a dream come true to have all these
of our volunteers, perhaps none so much as Margaret Millar, dogs! And you feel like you’re doing something worthwhile, you’re
who has spent the last 17 years providing foster care for the not just wasting your time; it gives you an interest; there’s always
older dogs from our Merseyside rehoming centre. something different happening everyday with them.
Margaret explains, ‘I’m a dog-oholic, but I don’t want to be cured!’
‘I’ve been going to Dogs Trust in Merseyside since 2002, but I
didn’t think I’d be able to volunteer because I was working. One During her many years of fostering, Margaret has formed
of the staff said that I could still be a volunteer dog walker. So, I a close bond with the staff at our Merseyside branch.
started to go every weekend, and if I was off work, I’d go during Kim Rowlands, Merseyside’s ‘Home from Home’ programme
the week as well to walk dogs!’ co-ordinator, is one of the staff who knows Margaret the best.
In 2004, Margaret opened up her home and became a fosterer, Kim says,
and a change in circumstance in 2006 meant that she had ‘Margaret is a massive help to the centre, and not only through
more free time to spend with the pooches. fostering so many dogs. She is invaluable and all the staff know
her; she often brings things in for us to use as raffle prizes, she
‘I took early retirement in January 2006, so it’s snowballed since always has time for a chat, and nothing is ever too much trouble
then really. I’d only fostered six up until then. to her. We always say that every centre needs a Margaret.’
‘I’ve always preferred to take in older dogs. They actually say now And the feeling is mutual.
when they get an older dog in at Dogs Trust Merseyside, ‘oh, it’s a
Margaret dog’. Margaret,
‘The staff at Dogs Trust Merseyside are so inspirational. I always
‘I’ve fostered 69 dogs altogether. I’m not a very good fosterer say any organisation is only as good as its staff, so I think that
because I’ve fostered 69 and I’ve adopted 49! I’ve got six with me speaks volumes for Dogs Trust. I’m always really impressed with
just now.’ the way they deal with the dogs, and the potential owners. They
always put the animals first, always.’
A lot of our fosterers enjoy the flexibility of being able to take
trips when they want, whilst still being able to have a dog at
home when they are available.
Margaret, however, has a different view,
‘I don’t worry about holidays. To me, a holiday means a couple of
weeks a year. And I think a fortnight holiday in a year, or a dog
for 52 weeks in the year, and to me it’s no contest. The dogs win
hands down.
It’s always treat time at
auntie Margaret’s.
Move over! What Margaret’s
sofa lacks in space, it more
than makes up for in cuddles.
15Feature
The laundry expert/puppy socialiser, Jan
Not just kind, not just super-organised, Jan Beckley combines
fastidious folding skills with a love of puppies to be one of
Dogs Trust Shoreham’s most valued volunteers.
Laundry loving Jan helps wash and dry hundreds of dog
blankets and towels, ensuring the south coast centre’s
residents have fresh bedding each day. Thanks to Jan,
Shoreham’s storeroom is a neat-freak’s dream, with every
towel and blanket stacked in colour-coded piles of perfection.
Marie Kondo would definitely approve.
Jan’s dedication to ensuring our dogs always have a fresh
place to rest their furry heads means that our canine carers
are freed up to look after the dogs and make sure they are
happy, well-exercised and healthy. Jan then goes one step
further by socialising the young puppies, helping them
get used to all the sights, sounds, smells and people they’ll
experience once they leave our care and land in their forever
home. Exposing a pup to as wide a range of experiences
as possible, in a calm and controlled way, plays a crucial
part in their behavioural development, helping to form a
well-balanced adult dog. Thanks to Jan, Shoreham’s puppy
population is always on top form!
Shoreham’s storeroom is a neat-freak’s
dream – thanks to Jan
Photos: Clive Tagg
The dog walker, Geoff
Meet Geoff, who has given an incredible 1,000 hours of his
time to our Loughborough centre as a volunteer dog walker.
During this time, he has helped countless dogs get the
exercise and love they need while they wait for their
forever homes.
Ria Martin, Loughborough’s volunteer coordinator says,
I want to say a huge thank you to Geoff. He is a real asset to our
team, and we are so grateful to him for everything he does for us
and the dogs.’
If you’d like to know more about volunteering
at a rehoming centre please email us on
volunteering@dogstrust.org.uk or call
0303 003 0000.
To volunteer as a foster carer please visit
dogstrust.org.uk/fostering. Please be
assured that we’d be delighted if you could
foster just one dog at a time - we know not
Geoff would walk 500 miles, everyone is like Margaret!
and Geoff would walk 500 more
16 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020News
It’s Tag Time!
Having up-to-date contact details on your dog’s tag is not only
a legal requirement but is often the quickest way for you to
be reunited with your dog, should they go missing. Why not
make sure your dog looks stylish and is fully identifiable by
buying them an engraved tag, available for as little as £5.95
from dogstrust.org.uk/collarandtag What’s more, all profits
go back to supporting the dogs in our care.* Orders placed
through Dogs Trust will be fulfilled by Cleveland Studios
Ltd. Any order queries please contact 01325 282 188 and
reference: Dogs Trust.
* Profits equate to between 35.6% - 43.7% of the sale price depending on the tag ordered Yellow is always in fashion, Karen
And Then Hair
Were None
Say goodbye to having every meal with a side of
hair à la dog, thanks to Shark; and don’t worry, Spring cleaning? No thanks.
this particular shark is more interested in paws Gloudie the Corgi remains
regal and serene, thanks to
than jaws.
our top tips, and the Shark
Shark has created a range of vacuum cleaners for animal lovers; Ninja.
not only do they help keep your house clean and hair-free (ish) ,
Shark has also pledged to raise at least £33,500 for both ourselves
and Cats Protection over a one year period, through donating 25p
to each charity for every TruePet vac sold through Shark’s UK
website.
We know that vacuuming your home can be a stressful time for
your dog, so here are our top tips to help you minimise their fears:
• Introduce the vacuum slowly; start by wheeling it into the room
and having it sit somewhere while off.
• When they’re comfortable with the sight of the vac, you can try
turning it on without moving it. You may need to move it back
into another room for this depending on how your dog reacts.
• As long as they seem unfazed by the noise, start moving the vac
whilst it’s on, until they’re completely at ease and you can
continue the never-ending war on dog hair.
• Giving your dog something they like, such as a treat, at the same
time will help teach them that good things happen when you
vacuum. ‘You’ve missed a bit.’
Judgmental Corgi
For more advice on how to make sure your pal stays calm NOT included with
while you clean, visit dogstrust.org.uk/shark the TruePet cleaner.
Photo: James Lincoln
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 17Minnie, Rumple, Chorizo
Readers’ Dogs and Pepper of Shrewsbury
Butter wouldn’t melt, would it? Posing
beautifully on their annual holiday to
Loch Ness, these four cuties are known
by their friends as the ‘three and a half
Duke of Evesham wieners’. Somehow, we suspect their
Golden oldie Duke spent his final diminutive stature might hide some
years with the Redman family, who pretty big personalities!
are devastated at the loss of their
true gentleman. He was a loyal family
member and great friend to Rosie the
Lurcher. He was also a real help with the
other dogs the family fostered through Dogs
Trust Evesham. He’ll be sadly missed - but has well
and truly left pawprints on the Redmans’ hearts.
Stanley of Leeds
Stanley found his forever home seven years ago with Ed
and Ann. As well as having a huge personality, it turns
out he’s quite the creature of habit – every morning as
soon as he hears Ed putting his socks on, he’s up out
of bed and ready for his morning job to help buy the
newspaper. If only they could teach him to open the door!
Readers’
Meet the Dogs Trust rescue dogs living their best lives with new owners
who love them to bits! Send your adopted Dogs Trust doglet pics to
wag@dogstrust.org.uk and join in with #MyDogIsForLife on Insta.
(NB please send high res jpgs only, thanks!)
Jessie and Chief of Evesham
Harold of Canterbury Taking life a little more slowly now are Greyhounds
This character-filled face belongs to Jessie and Chief. Jessie was rehomed two years ago
Harold, snapped here with his best friend, and as you can see, after only two weeks together
Peggy. They share an amazing bond, she has taken to her new companion very well. They
although Harold is quite happy to have a are seen here looking very smart in their bandanas
little go on the trampoline all by himself! enjoying the Dogs Trust open day at Evesham.
Xavier of Merseyside
After a very difficult start in life, not surprisingly, Xavier was
feeling very confused when Amanda found him.
Having recently lost her previous dog, she
managed to turn little Xavier’s life around,
telling Wag, ‘He has become the most
lovable little dog in just six weeks.
It’s been hard but I live alone in the
country and have dedicated the
past weeks to try and make him
feel secure and loved.’ Mission
accomplished, and a very happy
ending for everyone!
18 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020Sparky of Salisbury
Having carefully warned her son that it might take some time to find Readers’ Dogs
the right dog for their family, Caroline found in fact it was a case of
love at first sight when they met Sparky. After a nervous wait to
see if another family were going to adopt him, they were delighted
to receive the call Sparky was available. Says Caroline, ‘Eight days
later he was home with us. With love, patience, training and time he
settled in and I think he knows now he has his forever home. He’s a
much-loved member of our family. He was a very underweight stray
when we first adopted him, but he now has a home, and sofa, for life.’
Raff of Manchester
Looking rightly proud of himself is Raff, rehomed by
John and Fran, who quickly noticed he enjoyed using
his nose to find things. As his confidence grew, they
began entering him into gun dog competitions. Now Loki of Kenilworth
working at ‘Advanced’ level, Raff recently won his class Enjoying a little snooze together
at his club’s annual competition. When he’s not winning are Chihuahua Loki and owner
prizes, Raff enjoys playing with other dogs, exploring Mark. Nothing wrong with
beaches and climbing mountains in the Lake District. grabbing 40 winks when you
can!
Ripley of Canterbury
Dogs
DOGS
This handsome face belongs to
Ripley, who sadly passed away
recently at the very grand old age of
17. Rachel and Lynn owned him for
ten of those years, and in their own
words, ‘Our life was transformed
by Ripley, he was an amazing dog.
I can’t emphasise enough the good
work that Dogs Trust does. Always
adopt- it’s the most rewarding
feeling. It took Ripley six months to
fully settle in, and he was certainly
worth the wait.’
< Venus of Ilfracombe
This little supermodel is Venus.
Rehomed by human model Suzi as
a puppy she’s quite the little star,
having done photo shoots for
dog accessories and treats.
When she’s not being
gorgeous in front of the
camera, there is nothing
she likes more than a
long walk in the Cornish
countryside.
Lily of Kenilworth >
This is Lilly the Lurcher, Lorraine, Pete
and Lucy rehomed her from Kenilworth
in September. They describe her as intelligent,
affectionate and mischievous. Sounds like the ideal
combination to us!
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 19News
What A
Re-Leaf
– Spring Raffle Is Here
There are some bloomin’ great prizes to be
won in our wagtastic spring raffle! Taking
part really is win-win, as for every ticket
you buy or sell, you will be helping stray
and abandoned dogs around the UK get the
spring back in their step. Each ticket is just
£1 each, and you could win up to £7500!
So get your paws on a raffle book today
by calling the raffle ticket hotline on
020 7833 7652.
NB: Tickets may not be sold by or to any person
Help raise vital funds for dogs in need this
under the age of 16 and the raffle is only open to
residents of Great Britain. Spring. For more information on how to play,
please visit dogstrust.org.uk/raffle
Lifelong dog lover Richard Tomsett was
heartbroken when his beloved wife, Sue,
passed away last spring. Sue had been a
huge dog lover her whole life, so Richard
decided that raising funds for Dogs Trust
would be the most fitting way he could
honour her memory. Richard created a
JustGiving page in her memory, and to
date has raised an incredible £8,355 to
help our dogs.
Not only did Sue’s husband raise an
extraordinary amount, but her co-workers
from the UK Border Force Gatwick Dog Unit
took part in a variety of sporting challenges
to raise funds too. The 16-strong team took
part in a variety of events, including the
Surrey Hills Challenge, a 5km CaniCross race
and the Barns Green Half Marathon. Sue’s
colleague, Vicky, took on the challenge of
running 1,000 CaniCross miles with her dog,
Mishka, throughout 2019. Between them,
Richard and the Gatwick gang managed to
raise an amazing £9,875 in Sue’s name.
We’d like to thank Richard and co
for their wonderful efforts. If you’d like
to find out more about raising funds for
dogs in memory of loved one, please email
fundraisewithus@dogstrust.org.uk
20 www.dogstrust.org.uk Spring 2020News
Dave Is
Goliath
Meet Big Dave; proof that
sometimes, good things come
in BIG packages. Big Dave
arrived at our Kenilworth
rehoming centre as the
largest member of a pack of
Chihuahuas. Dave made a
big impression on his canine
carers, with some claiming
they loved this chonky boi
more than he loved his food.
He has since found his forever
home and is now working on
slimming down in the hopes of
becoming ‘Medium Dave’ by
the summer.
Celebrate Woof Times - Come On!
Dogs Trust Manchester is
celebrating its fifth birthday – and
finding forever homes for more
than 4,400 beautiful rescue dogs.
Since opening on 23 October 2014,
the Denton-based rehoming centre
has found homes for 4,448 dogs of
all shapes and sizes, including 424
puppies and 513 Old Age Pooches.
Dawn Bishop, our Manchester
centre manager, says:
‘Thousands of dogs are in loving
homes - thanks to everyone who
has come to us to give a dog a
second chance. We want to say an
enormous thank you to everyone
that has adopted a dog from us but
also to our volunteers, people who
donate everything from toys to
treats and everyone that supports
our events.’
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 21Come Up And See Us, Make Us Smile!
If you adore dogs, we’ve got some stunning beasties for you. We’ve got big ones, small ones, fluffy ones, KEY
hairy ones, cuddly ones, zoomy ones and dozy ones. Our 21 rehoming centres are dotted about the UK, with
one in Dublin, so our rehoming centre staff would be delighted to make your acquaintance. Simply visit our Fun Day, dogs welcome!
website www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming to find a dog, or call us on 0303 003 0000.
Meet our dogs on the Dogmobile
If you don’t have space for a dog in your life right now, don’t worry, we can still be friends. We run fun
events at our centres, frequently bring our dogs out to meet and greet people on our two travelling
Dogmobiles, and run talks on dog behaviour throughout the year (you can book a place via Behavioural seminar, book
through www.eventbrite.co.uk
www.eventbrite.co.uk/dogstrust)
March
16 Understand Your Dog Workshop, 7.30pm – 9pm, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, TF6 6BP, £10
21 Film Afternoon for the Family, Dogs Trust Loughborough Rehoming Centre LE12 6SE
28 Loose Lead Walking Workshop, 2.30pm – 4pm, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, TF6 6BP, £10
April
5 Manchester Marathon
9-10 Dog Mobile at The Valley, Evesham Country Park, Worcestershire, WR11 4TP
25-26 Dog Mobile at All About Dogs Show, Newark Showground, Coddington, NG24 2NY
May
3 Dogs Trust Harefield Fun Day, 11am – 4pm, Middlesex Show Ground, Park Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1ES
9 Dogs Trust Ballymena Fun Day, 12pm – 4pm, Ballee Playing Fields, Ballee Road West, Ballymena, BT42 2HD
9 Dog Handling Workshop, 2.30pm – 4pm, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, TF6 6BP, £10
17 Dogs Trust Basildon Fun Day, 11am – 4pm, Barleylands Farm Showground, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex, CM11 2UD
17 Dogs Trust Snetterton Fun Day, 11am – 4pm, World Horse Welfare, Hall Farm, Ada Cole Avenue, Snetterton, Norfolk, NR16 2LP
23-24 Edinburgh Marathon Festival (5k, 10K, Half and Full Marathon)
24 Dogs Trust Salisbury Fun Day, 11am – 3pm, Dogs Trust Salisbury Rehoming Centre
24 Dogs Trust Shoreham Fun Day, 11.30am – 4pm, Dogs Trust Shoreham Rehoming Centre
24 Great Manchester Run 10k
31 Dogs Trust Newbury Fun Day, Park House School, Andover Road, Newbury, RG14 6NQ
31 Dogs Trust West Calder Fun Day, The Scottish National Equestrian Centre, SRUC Oatridge Campus, Ecclesmachan,
Broxburn, EH52 6NH
June
7 Dogs Trust Glasgow Fun Day, 12pm – 3pm, Chatelherault Country Park, Ferniegair, Hamilton, ML3 7UE
14 Dogs Trust Bridgend Fun Day, 10.30am – 3pm, Pencoed College, Pencoed, Bridgend, CF35 5LG
20 Loose Lead Walking Workshop, 2.30pm – 4pm, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, TF6 6BP, £10
28 Dogs Trust Canterbury Fun Day, 11.30am – 4pm, Brogdale Farm, Brogdale Road, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8XZ
28 Dogs Trust Evesham Fun Day, Ragley Hall, Alcester, B49 5NJ
29 Understanding Separation Anxiety Workshop, 7.30pm – 9pm, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, TF6 6BP, £10
July
4 Understanding Separation Anxiety Workshop, 3pm – 4pm, Dogs Trust Loughborough, LE12 6SE, £10
5 Dogs Trust Manchester Fun Day, 11am – 4pm, Burrs Country Park, Woodhill Road, Bury, BL8 1DAFundraising
Snoop
Will You Help Us See That
They Are Kept Together?
Roxy had been with her loving owner since she was a
Photos: Martin Phelps
puppy. When she was six, Snoop joined the family and
they’ve been inseparable ever since. Over the years, old age
started to catch up with Roxy, and sadly her eyesight began
to deteriorate, until finally, she became completely blind.
Roxy Since then, Roxy depends on Snoop more than ever to help
her navigate the world and Snoop is only too happy to assist,
as it means more time spent having fun with his best pal.
Snoop Acts As
But Roxy’s world was about to become even darker.
When Roxy was 16 years old, her owner became too ill to
Roxy’s Eyes.
care for her and Snoop and had to make the difficult decision
to give them both up. You can just imagine how confusing
this must have been for the pair, especially for little Roxy
who relies so much on familiarity and comfort. Thank
goodness she still had Snoop.
Luckily, we were there to step in. As soon as the pair set
paws in one of our rehoming centres, our staff quickly
realised how much they relied on each other.
We knew we had to keep them together. But the truth is,
caring for two dogs means twice the amount of everything.
That’s twice the amount of veterinary care, special sensory
walks, enrichment, training, comfy bedding and treats. Also,
many families only have the space, time and finances for one
dog – meaning that pairs are often in our care for longer.
With your support, we promise to look after dogs like Roxy
and Snoop for as long as it takes until we can find them the
perfect home together.
Please give a donation today so we can be there for
inseparable pairs like Roxy and Snoop who need to
stay together. Simply complete the donation form on
the back page and return it in the freepost envelope
provided. Thank you so much for your support!
Thank you for seeing a friend.
Roxy relies on Snoop for everything.
Spring 2020 www.dogstrust.org.uk 23I want to help keep inseparable dogs like Roxy and Snoop together
Your details: Payment details:
Title: First name: Here is my gift of:
Surname: £15 £25 £50 £100 £200
Address: Other £
Postcode: I would like to donate by:
Supporter number (if known):
Cheque/postal order (please make payable to Dogs Trust
and write your name and address details on the back)
From time to time we would like to send you exciting updates about
our work, products, services and how you can support us, including Debit/credit card CAF card
fundraising activities and research by post.
If you’re also happy to hear from us by email and/or phone, please fill in
your details;
Card no:
Valid from (if applicable): /
Email:
Expiry date: /
Phone:
Issue no (Switch/Maestro only):
In order to communicate with you more effectively, better understand
your preferences and ability to support our work, we may analyse
your data. We do share your information within the Dogs Trust Group;
Cardholder’s name (as printed on the card):
currently Dogs Trust Worldwide, Dogs Trust Ireland and Dogs Trust
Promotions. For more information on this visit our privacy section,
dogstrust.org.uk/privacy. You can opt out of communications or
change your preferences at any time by phoning 0207 837 0006 or
visit dogstrust.org.uk/keepintouch.
Signature:
Boost your donation by 25p for Date:
every £1 you donate to Dogs Trust
Gift Aid is reclaimed by Dogs Trust from the tax you pay for
the current tax year. In order for us to Gift Aid your donations
please ensure you tick and date the box below:
Tick Here Date: Snoop
I wish to Gift Aid this donation and any donation I make in the
future or have made in the past four years to Dogs Trust.
I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income
Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift
Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my
responsibility to pay any difference.
Please note your address is required to identify you as a
current tax payer.
Roxy
Please notify Dogs Trust if you:
1. Want to cancel this declaration
To make a donation, please complete this form and return
2. Change your name or home address
it in the Freepost envelope provided. Alternatively, address
3. No longer pay sufficient tax on your Income and/or
an envelope to: RTJE-SXGL-BEEJ, Wag Response, Dogs
Capital Gains
Trust, Moulton House, 10 Pond Wood Close, Moulton Park
Industrial Estate, Northampton, NN3 6DF.
If you pay Income Tax at the higher or additional rate and
want to receive the additional tax relief due to you, you must
include all your Gift Aid donations on your Self-Assessment
tax return or ask HM Revenue and Customs to adjust your tax
code.
If you have any questions about Gift Aid please phone us on
020 7837 0006. Reg charity nos. 227523 (England and Wales),
SCO37843 (Scotland) 20057978 (Ireland) Source: 900064You can also read
