The UK'S Only West Highland White Terrier Magazine
ISSUE 27, VOL 1
November 2022
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
ISSN 2634-4130
Itchy Skin? It could be house dust allergy Up to 80% of allergic dogs have an allergy to dust. Symptoms include red, itchy skin and scratching that can lead to secondary skin infections. Although insecticidal environmental sprays can help kill dust mites, proteins in the dust mite faeces and on the bodies of the mites can still cause an allergic reaction in sensitive pets. Allergone Spray is a unique environmental spray that coats dust particles that include the mites and their faeces. By doing so it alters the chemical structure and helps inactivate and neutralise allergens found in house dust, helping to reduce the symptoms of house dust allergy.
@NextmuneUK
The innovative microcapsule technology helps bind the dust particles together into larger particles that don’t float in the air, making it easier to remove them when cleaning. To find out more about Allergone and other products that help manage the symptoms of allergy go to www.nextmune.com
@nextmuneuk
nextmuneuk
Nextmune UK | Oakridge House, Cressex Business Park, Wellington Rd, High Wycombe, HP12 3PR Phone: +44 01494 629979 | salesenquiries.uk@nextmune.com | www.nextmune.com
EDITOR’S NOTE
54 More Sleeps! I absolutely love Christmas. I’m one of those annoying people that starts shopping in July, the one that starts watching Christmas movies in September, and the one who opens the Baileys and the Matchmakers just a little bit too early! It’s not that I’m one of those super organised individuals or anything, it’s purely because I want to make the most of it, the run-up to Christmas, Christmas itself, and all that the season brings with it otherwise, I’ll feel like I was so busy that I missed the spirit of it all.
Kim Latham Editor
Our November edition, especially our annual Gift Guide, is one of my favourites of the year. I love putting this together and seeing what beautiful and innovative creations both small and large brands have come up with to tease and entice us Westie owners with during the holiday season. Along with our popular Christmas Gift Guide, we also have a fun and healthy recipe for our Besties so they too can take part and enjoy the hype and excitement along with us thanks to our friends over at Chefs & Dogs who create amazing raw food recipes that even make my mouth water! And before you rush out and spend a small fortune on Christmas gifts for your Westie, have a read of Jessica Barber’s feature on what toys are the best and safest buys for your Bestie! Buffy, Chief Cuddles Officer Photo credit: Image supplied by Kim Latham
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Publisher Westies & Besties Ltd Fidlas Road, Cardiff, CF14 5LZ Editor Kim Latham Tel: +44 7496 310169 Email: Info@westiesandbesties.com Commercial Director Alex Griffin Tel: +44 7496 310173 Email: alex@westiesandbesties.com Front Cover Image Image supplied by shutterstock_1225113238 Design Jayden Ali Printing WPG Group Westies & Besties Magazine is published by Westies & Besties Ltd (the Publisher) and printed on behalf of the publisher by WPG Group. Westies & Besties Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office. Westies & Besties Magazine and the Westies & Besties Masthead/logo is trademarked and are marks of Westies & Besties Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. The views and opinions expressed within Westies & Besties Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher or those of its contributors. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the Publishers cannot/ will not be held accountable for the accuracy of the information here therein, or any consequences arising from it. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited articles or manuscripts in the case of all product reviews. Judgements have been made in the context of the product tested. (All photographs have been supplied unless otherwise mentioned.) Advertisers in this publication must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Advertising Standards Authority. Westies & Besties Ltd is not responsible or liable for a company or individual’s advert. Readers are advised to see a fully qualified veterinarian before attempting to try any of the suggestions made by a contributor.
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20 40 6 STAY HYDRATED
The new brand keeping dogs hydrated with their new tasty and healthy smoothies
8 MISSING DOG
The appeal from a heartbroken family to help find their beloved Scottie
10 ITCHY DOGS
Westies are prone to skin conditions and seasonal allergies so it’s vital to understand what steps can be taken to fix it
14 OH, SO SWEET!
The natural nectar with antibacterial properties that aids your Westie’s health
16 GAMES & TOYS
Before buying your Besties’ Christmas presents, find out if you’re buying the correct toys that encourage development and good behaviour
20 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE From pressies for your Besties to gifts for family and friends – check out this year’s guide to all things festive
40 ANIMALS IN CRISIS
An alarming update from the RSPCA on why animals are staying longer in shelters across the country
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44 OUT AND ABOUT
Over 240 Westies joined the latest walk in Canada to raise funds for a Westie charity
48 FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Serve up a delicious gourmet dinner for your Westie this Christmas
50 JOIN US!
We’ve launched our Westie Magazine VIP Club!
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NEWS
Start-up
PET Company
Images supplied by Furr Boost.
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pet treat start-up business, Furr Boost based in Shropshire, has reached the lofty heights of winning Best Pet Product of the Year at the PetQuip Awards with their range of smoothie drinks.
The products were created by a former technical manager to the food industry with over 20 years’ experience, Louise Toal, and the success of the brand also meant that they were finalists in three other categories as well: Green and Organic, Sustainability and Supplier of the Year. Louise’s Beagle, Phoebe at the age of 18 months became unwell with bladder problems which after investigations with her Vet, were linked to the dog’s food. Using her technical background, Louise then started experimenting with protein shakes to help flush out Phoebe’s system and to provide her with the hydration that she needed when she was refusing to drink enough water in the summer months. This led to the creation of the Furr Boost range of smoothies. Louise says, “There is no one else making a product like ours. Yes, there are drinks on the market that are botanical, broth based, and electrolyte based etc, but none that are like a natural smoothie. Each of our recipes contains a meat, fruit, and vegetable, along with added oils and vitamins, so it’s more than a hydration drink, it supports the dog’s wellbeing in areas such as digestion, skin and coat, anxiety, metabolism and immunity.” 6
Furr Boost can be used in a variety of ways. Served frozen, it can be placed in a Kong Toy or lick mat for dog training or as a distraction, or simply given to a dog as a tasty icy treat. Unfrozen, it can be added as a topper to meals or on hot days, simply pour into a bowl
Westies & Besties - November 2022
NEWS
for instant hydration. In the winter, it provides a comforting nutritious drink for dogs and is particularly good for senior dogs when they need help with their digestion and diet. Furr Boost is available in three tasty varieties which all use the best quality 100% natural human grade ingredients: Chicken, Butternut Squash & Cranberry, Pork, Apple & Sweet Potato and Beef, Broccoli & Blueberry. Other added ingredients include flaxseed, coconut and salmon oils, dried sea kelp, chicory root extract, yeast beta glucan, vitamins B and C and water. Furr Boost is also a sustainable product using packaging materials which are recyclable avoiding single use plastic as each smoothie is available in a Tetra Pak Carton.
Since launching, Furr Boost has seen its customer base grow online with a healthy presence on e-commerce websites, but it is also now looking to expand its retail operation. The business is receiving a high level of international enquiries for the drinks and is currently exploring export opportunities. There also plans to introduce new varieties in the near future. The brand is supported by a number of ambassadors and social media influencers and currently sponsors British Flyball Teams, Dog Agility competitors with interest also from the Canicross community who use the drinks to give their dogs instant hydration. The products are currently stocked by VioVet and Jollyes. Louise is also currently in talks with wholesalers to find a wider distribution for Furr Boost. www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
“Our ultimate aim is to be a global business and a household brand that people can trust. Using Furr Boost as part of a dog’s daily nutrition and diet can help to keep the vets’ bills down for unnecessary health issues associated with food and lack of hydration, which was exactly where I started with my first dog. We haven’t come down from cloud nine since winning the Gold PetQuip Award and we are delighted to be recognised by the pet trade,” says Louise. Pat Flynn at PetQuip said: “The judges really loved the product and thought it was so totally innovative that it had to win!” Furr Boost has also recently found out they have also made the finals in two categories at the PIF Awards, Business Start-up of the Year and Product Innovation.
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ANOTHER
NEWS
MISSING DOG
ANOTHER
Family
HELP GET THIS SCOTTIE HOME! All images supplied by Catriona Hudson
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his is more than just a story about a dog - it’s a story about a local and online community and the determined efforts of a family to bring their dog home where he belongs. The effort, interest, and kindness shown to the family of this missing 5-year-old Scottie has been described by a neighbour as ‘colossal’ and the Hudsons have been overwhelmed with the kindness shown since their dog disappeared.
“My beautiful boy is missing -
presumed stolen. We are heartbroken and desperately need your help,” says Catriona Hudson.
“We are so blessed to live in such a beautiful part of the world (Worcester) where the positivity, and kindness of strangers is the norm. From John the ‘drone’ man who has given us hours of his time for free, to Gabrielle who at 5am was hacking her way through brambles, tearing her shins to shreds because we’d heard news of a possible sighting”. The online community has also helped Catriona and her family by sharing posts across social media and numerous people have contacted them with suggestions, possible leads and sightings. “Just last week a lady in Essex played undercover detective extraordinaire to get footage of a Scottie that she thought may
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
be my boy - alas it was not him - but her efforts were valiant nonetheless,” she says. On Thursday the 14th of July, Catriona’s two Scottie dogs escaped from the garden – and only one returned home. “Our beautiful boy is still missing now presumed stolen. We are heartbroken and his aunty/ surrogate Scottie mum is so upset and misses him dreadfully - in fact she is still searching and crying it’s truly awful. “Our boy is 5 years old, a boy, particularly small, jet black and very affectionate. His coat was cut short in June for the summer as he hates getting hot or getting seeds stuck on him - so at that time he didn’t have his usual Scottie beard or skirt, but it must surely be growing back by now. Back in June/July to the untrained eye he may have looked like a stray unwanted black terrier, but not by now. He isn’t a stray he is our beautiful pedigree Scottish terrier a member of our family and someone we have known since his mum Jenny conceived him. We are the only family he has known (other than his breeders) and he has never lived without a dog family member (our other dog is
NEWS
his maternal aunty) He will be so anxious”. So far, Catriona has contacted all the recommended authorities – the dog warden, the police, vets, sanctuaries. Her Scottie is on local, regional, and national lost dog social media pages too – she spends hours a week updating and alternating between all of them. He has been on local BBC radio and in the local press too. “We have had a drone operator out every night for weeks, we’ve done BBQs, we’ve had motion cameras, night cameras. I have gone door to door posting hundreds upon hundreds of leaflets and we have hundreds and hundreds more posters up in surrounding villages from White Ladies Aston through to Evesham including Crowle, Broughton Hacket, Upton Snodsbury, Pinvin, Peopleton, Drakes Broughton, Flyford, Bishampton, Fladbury,
Pershore - to name a few (certainly not all)! You name it we’ve done it,” she says. “We realise that someone may have initially picked him up as an act of kindness, he may have been sold on to an unsuspecting buyer. Whatever the scenario it is THEFT. I think it is important to highlight this as not everyone is aware that it is illegal to take in a dog without reporting it to the authorities and people can be prosecuted for this. For us…all we want is our boy home - we aren’t interested in naming and shaming or the repercussions of anything, we just want to educate people on the rules, share our thanks and tell people just how amazing our local and online community is, and of course above all bring our boy home where he belongs. If finding a dog was simply down to effort and the kindness of strangers and our community, he would have been home weeks ago.” www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
Catriona and her family need your help. Please share his profile and keep him in the spotlight – so he becomes too hot to handle. Speak to your community, ask if someone recently acquired a Scottie that matches his description or perhaps you been offered a young dog?
If you have any information on this family’s Scottie, please contact the owner directly on 07786378125.
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Health
Westies are prone to several skin conditions and seasonal allergies making life miserable for your Bestie so it’s vital you understand the steps to take to fix it
WORDS & IMAGES SUPPLIED BY CLARE PHILLIPS
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wo of the most important words in itchy dog management are ‘external microbiome’. In fact, the external microbiome is the missing piece in so many areas of your Westie’s wellbeing. If you are not familiar with the microbiome, or how to keep the microbiomes in your Westie’s life balanced and healthy – read on to find out more! There has been a huge increase in poorly, ‘itchy dogs’ in recent years, according to a study published in MDPI, a
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
Veterinary Sciences Journal, and Westies are among them. Although Westies are generally robust, they can have a genetic predisposition to several skin conditions. These include uncomfortable reactions caused by environmental and seasonal allergens. Young dogs are especially susceptible to these bioallergens, and symptoms often develop before the age of three. This can make life miserable for your beloved Westie – and for you:
SOUND FAMILIAR?
Unfortunately, if your Westie has itchy skin, you’ll know how complex, chronic, and hard to resolve this tough condition can be. The problem is, there is rarely one clear cut cause - and if there is, it is hard to pinpoint. Instead, there are a myriad of possibilities, including: • Diet and lifestyle • Seasonal allergens (grass, tree, and leaf pollen)
• Exposure to chemicals – including household cleaning products • Microbes (parasites, bacteria, mould) • House dust mite poop • Pollutants in their outdoor environment Most dogs can’t escape these everyday allergens that trigger their symptoms. They often don’t understand the need to stay away from them - or can’t tell you what
Health
Itching and scratching Chewing and licking – particularly paws Inflamed skin, rashes, and redness Dry, flaky skin Recurrent ear infections – shaking head Hair loss and dandruff Unpleasant odour
A diverse, healthy, and dynamic microbiome supports good health, well-being, and immunity. This is one of the most important factors in dog skin allergy care. they suspect is making them unwell. In addition, their attempts to alleviate the itching by licking and scratching often makes things worse. This all makes itchy skin hard to resolve; it can easily develop into a frustrating and lifelong chronic condition. The Microbiome and Allergic Skin Disease So, back to the most important words in itchy skin relief: the external microbiome.
The microbiome is the natural community of microorganisms, including bacteria (‘good’ and ‘bad’), viruses and fungi, that exist on skin, in the gut, and on all surfaces, including your home.
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Health
A diverse, healthy, and dynamic microbiome supports good health, well-being and immunity. This is one of the most important factors in dog skin allergy care. Problems with itchy dogs can increase when either the microbiome on their skin (the ‘skin biome’) and/or in their home (the ‘home biome’) is out of balance.
microorganisms in the microbiome – both helpful and harmful. This creates disruption at a cellular level and increases the risk of repeat infections, yeast overgrowth, atopic dermatitis, allergies and more. This can tip your poor Westie into a chronic cycle of recurring flare-ups of bacterial and yeast infections.
Restoring and maintaining healthy microbiome balance is key to protecting and preventing Westies from the nightmare of itchy skin.
Repeat outbreaks and repeat treatments, are stressful for your poorly pet and can cost you a small fortune.
The Skin Biome A healthy skin biome provides a defensive barrier that shields your Westie from the external influences and bio-allergens listed above. Unfortunately, many traditional treatments (antihistamines, steroids, medicated and antibacterial shampoos, repeated antibiotics, antifungals…) focus only on symptoms. They don’t resolve a key root cause – the disrupted microflora - or reduce exposure to the bio-allergens that constantly trigger reactions. Some treatments act like a nuclear bomb, wiping out all 12
(Note: Although the indiscriminate and overuse of antibiotics causes problems, when antibiotics are genuinely needed there is nothing better; always finish the course if prescribed). The Home Biome A healthy home biome creates a protective indoor space that supports your Westie’s health and well-being. The problem is, chemical cleaning products and air fresheners are proven to cause long-term health issues for pets (as well as humans). Floor cleaning products are especially problematic if your cheeky pooch Westies & Besties - November 2022
walks on your freshly chemically cleaned floor with sweaty or wet paws - and then licks those paws. Many contain phthalates, parabens, QUATs, GMO or chemicals of concern such as Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and Phenoxyethanol. These toxins are also designed to destroy the microbiome. Cleaning products boasting ‘kills 99.9% of all known germs’ should send shivers down your spine! How to Restore and Maintain Healthy Microflora Balance in the Microbiome Itchy skin is often a complex condition but making small improvements in different areas of your Westie’s life can make a big improvement overall. Like athletes, consistent marginal gains make a significant difference. One easy improvement is to re-introduce healthy, ‘good’ bacteria (probiotics) externally to your Westie’s skin and home environment. This works in a similar way to probiotic supplements that support and rebalance your Westie’s digestion and gut health.
Introducing healthy bacteria into your Westie’s life is beneficial – the World Health Organisation (WHO) agrees!
The ‘Itchy Westie’ Remedy Plan with Probiotics Simply swapping microbiome-damaging pet care and cleaning products for microbiome-friendly, properly pet-safe versions with added probiotics can make a big improvement. This instantly reduces chemical exposure and rebuilds and regulates a healthy biome that supports your Westie’s immunity and well-being.
Helpful probiotics actively remove harmful bacteria, pollen, dust-mites and more. They remain active on the skin, coat, and other surfaces for up to three days.
This simple step in the right direction helps to: • Restore and maintain a healthier skin and home biome. • Prevent and limit exposure to environmental triggers. • Soothe and alleviate symptoms.
Adding probiotics also works proactively - prevention is always better than cure.
Health
Step 1: Replenish the Skin Biome Introduce a healthy shampoo and skin spray with added probiotic as ‘good’ bacteria restores a healthy microbiome and reduces allergen exposure. This gently reduces inflammation, itching, odour, and redness and restores healthier sebum and skin. Secondly, apply a Probiotic Allergen-Free Spray twice daily onto the skin and coat for the first few days and then reduce to one, then use as required to relieve itching. This healthy spray prevents, protects, and relieves itchy skin and reduces excessive scratching, hot spots, rashes, and flaky skin. You can also spray directly onto your bedding, toys, (especially stuffed toys,) coats and harnesses to reduce hidden allergens lurking there. Step 2: Replenish your Home Biome Firstly, clean floors (and carpets if desired) with a Probiotic Floor Cleaner Concentrate. A naturally sourced floor cleaner reduces your Westie’s skin-to-skin contact with chemicals as well as environmental bio-allergens that settle on the floor. The healthy probiotics remain on the floor and keep working for up to three days, for longer lasting results. Secondly, clean the hard surfaces where your dog hangs out – around your home, in your car and any kennels or pet carriers with a probiotic cleaner. A versatile, naturally sourced allpurpose cleaner is safe for your Westie and the environment. The added probiotics actively reduce bio-allergens, improve indoor air quality, and reduce odours and organic waste. This promotes a healthier home biome that is a safer space for you as well as your pet!
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Nutrition
THE GOOEY GOLDEN NECTAR THAT AIDS YOUR WESTIE’S HEALTH…NATURALLY BY SUE MAKEPEACE
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anuka Honey has very powerful healing properties. Historically, medicine men and healers used it for an array of ailments and Honey has been an extremely useful tool and a valued natural medicine for centuries. It is not used, or has very limited use, in modern medicine, however, as there is no science to support these claims. For many years it has been noted that honey may be beneficial in helping humans suffering from liver issues, gastrointestinal problems, and even cardiovascular disease. It has also been mentioned in various studies that highlight the benefits of the anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of honey, it has been shown to be beneficial at fighting bacterial infections and may help the healing process when used to treat wounds as it possibly stimulates the immune response and helps the healing process. Real Manuka Honey is produced in New Zealand. The honey is made from the nectar the bees collect from the common species of manuka bush found in the wetlands, coastal areas, and lowland forests. The mix of the nectar and the way the bees make the honey gives it its amazingly unique healing properties. Honey is a beautiful product, completely natural, and is one of Mother Nature’s wonderful gifts to this planet. It has the ability to heal inside and out and it’s incredibly popular with not only humans, but with dog owners who use it extensively too. Raw Manuka Honey not only tastes delicious it is incredibly versatile too. This amber nectar is used to
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treat anything from environmental allergies (the jury is still out on that one), bacterial skin infections, hot spots, kennel cough, sore throats, and gastrointestinal issues. Honey of course provides many nutrients for our Westies including Vitamins A, B Complex, Vitamins C, D, E and K. It is also packed with several minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, and calcium - all essential for a healthy dog. Just remember if you have a diabetic dog, they should not have honey internally because of the high sugar content. You could use it externally but make sure the dog cannot lick it. Puppies of under 12 months of age have an under developed immune system so it’s best to avoid honey until they are over 1 years old. It’s also best to avoid honey if your dog has had a reaction to a bee sting. Out of all the honeys you can purchase, the most benefits are derived from Manuka Honey and this is due to its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. If you wish to use Manuka Honey on a wound, then you will need to purchase a UMF grade of at least 10+. Apply directly to the wound, and cover with a dog proof bandage. This is to stop your Westie from tucking into this wonderful amber delight before the honey can perform it’s healing magic. Obviously only use on minor wounds, anything serious you will need veterinary intervention. Kennel cough spreads like wildfire between dogs and there is no known cure for it that I am aware of, but a bit of Manuka Honey can give the dog a little bit of relief. If you’ve got a fuss pot that won’t eat it off a Westies & Besties - November 2022
spoon then smear its favourite treat in it, that normally works, or mix with goats yoghurt and feed. It has been believed that by consuming small amounts of local honey it can help with allergy relief, but there is no evidence that I know of to support this so the jury is still out at this time. Manuka Honey is also great for oral health, so if your Westie’s breath turns you a bit green then a little manuka honey may help with bacteria in the mouth and gut. How much Honey can I give my Westie? 1/2tsp per day for a Westie that weighs 10kg So Westie owners, we have the wonderful black and yellow buzzy things in New Zealand and Mother Nature to thank for this amazing golden sticky goo that does so many wonderful things for us and our Westies. So, let’s get inventive about how we provide this wonderful stuff to our Westies. How about mixing a teaspoon with some yoghurt, freeze it with a couple of blueberries and you have a little lolly packed full of goodness. Or how about adding a teaspoon to your doggy treat recipes for a change? Remember the more eating experiences you can give your dog the healthier they are, and the less likely they are to be fussy with food. Give your Westies the food they deserve to help them thrive and live a long and healthy life, and of course they’ll give you more kisses and love you even more than they already do.
Nutrition
Sue Makepeace is the Founder of the Westie Advice Group on Facebook and she is also a Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist.
Image supplied by shutterstock_1296674548
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BEHAVIOUR
Top tips for choosing the best for your
Image supplied by shutterstock_1603706278
BY JESSICA BARBER
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oys can be a brilliant source of mental and physical stimulation – and FUN! - for dogs. Without taking care to choose the right toys and use them in the right way, however, toys can pose a risk to our dogs’ health and mental wellbeing. With so many on the market, knowing which ones to choose can feel overwhelming, so read on for top tips on finding the best suited toys for your Westie and avoid common pitfalls and dangers.
Do dogs need toys? In short, yes! Toys are incredibly valuable in aiding the development of young dogs and providing mental and physical stimulation to dogs of all ages. They’re an excellent source of fun and entertainment, as well as offering an outlet for our dogs’ natural drives. Keeping boredom at bay is one of the best measures you can take to prevent unwanted behaviours (think: chewing furniture, digging in the garden, stealing socks…) from cropping up. 16
What kind of toys? Different kinds of toys provide different sorts of stimulation and satisfy different drives within our dogs. It’s important to consider what our dogs were bred to do. Our Westies were originally bred to hunt out rats and other small rodents. They’re super smart and often have strong prey/chase drives. The best kind of toys, with these characteristics in mind, will therefore be ones that challenge their clever brains, allow them to chase and grab something soft and fluffy, and/or let them dig out treasures.
Interactive toys Tug toys Having a good game of tug is a brilliant way to let your Westie live out their hunting drives without harming any unsuspecting wildlife! Tug toys also carry the benefit of being a toy reliant on interaction with you. These kinds of activities
Westies & Besties - November 2022
BEHAVIOUR
foster strong dog-owner relationships, as well as offering a great opportunity to train behaviours such as ‘drop’ or ‘give’. Chase! The opportunity to chase satisfies another of our dogs’ natural urges and is a great source of physical and mental stimulation, in moderation. Playing fetch can place a huge strain on a dog’s body. When you picture the burst of activity when the toy is thrown, the leap or bend to grab the toy and the twisting needed to turn back and return to you, it isn’t hard to see how! Physical injuries such as muscle and ligament strains and tears can result from performing these actions repeatedly. Often being so fixated on the item of chase, dogs also don’t always pay attention to where they’re running. This can risk joint sprains and strains as well as broken bones and impact injuries, especially on uneven or slippery ground.
As well as physical injuries, repeatedly chasing after a ball or toy can result in high levels of adrenaline and cortisol being released. These can leave a dog feeling wired and unable to fully relax, even long after the game has finished. It can take days for these levels to return to normal and this can contribute to unwanted behaviours like excessive barking, chewing or destructiveness. Dogs can also become obsessed with the chase and fixate solely on this during their walk, missing lots of opportunities for sniffing and exploration, and may carry on despite feeling fatigued or sore. Playing fetch is a great activity, as long as it is carried out safely and the time spent playing is limited. Make sure the ground is even and free of hazards before beginning a game, throw from your hand rather than the high-speed ball launchers to limit the speed of the chase, gently build up the intensity of the game to allow your dog’s muscles
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Behaviour
to warm up, and mix in plenty of other activities such as tug, scent games and puzzle toys.
Independent toys
Repeatedly chasing after a ball or toy can result in high levels of adrenaline and cortisol being released. These can leave a dog feeling wired and unable to fully relax, even long after the game has finished.
Westies can be strong chewers so hardy materials are a must but avoid anything too hard or brittle. Toys should have a little bit of give to prevent cracked teeth and should be large enough that it can’t be accidentally swallowed, but small enough to fit comfortably in your dog’s mouth. Preferences vary between dogs so offering a variety can help narrow down the kind that your dog prefers. Some dogs enjoy chewing on hard rubber while others favour softer fabric toys. Take care to supervise your dog when they’re chewing and be mindful of squeakers or other small parts that could be swallowed. Removing a toy when you spot signs of damage can help keep your dog safe. Soft toys Soft toys are often given a special place in our dogs’ hearts… or totally destroyed! Either way, they can provide a lot of enjoyment for your Westie. Some dogs like to carry around and snuggle with a soft toy, while others immensely enjoy tearing them to pieces. Make sure to use only soft toys designed specifically for dogs to ensure they are safe and monitor any chewing or destruction so you can remove any items that could become a choking hazard. If you have a toy-destroyer in the house, opt for specifically designed ‘tough’ toys which can withstand more chewing, such as the Beco ‘Rough and Tough’ range, or the Outward Hound ‘Invincibles’ collection.
Image supplied by shutterstock_92597641
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Chew toys All dogs have a need to chew that lasts far beyond their teething stage. Chew toys are great for dental hygiene and chewing can be a great outlet for any pent-up energy in our dogs, including anxiety or frustration. When choosing chew toys, it’s very important to consider the strength and material the toy is made from, as well as the strength of our individual dog’s jaws. Providing toys with a variety of textures will help to satisfy the urge to chew and can help keep precious possessions and furniture from being chomped!
Westies & Besties - November 2022
Make sure to choose a toy that is of an appropriate size for your Westie, as well as considering the difficulty of the puzzle you’re giving them – start them off with the easier games and work up to the more advanced puzzles as they get the hang of it.
strips of fabric and satisfying this drive, reducing the chance of them digging up the garden! Behaviour
Food/Puzzle toys Last but not least… Food dispensing or puzzle toys are a great way to keep your dog occupied when you’re not able to interact with them. They encourage our dogs to use their brains and natural sniffing and licking instincts to get at the food which offers great mental stimulation. Examples include classic KONG rubber toys which can be stuffed with a range of food types, Nina Ottosson puzzle feeders and JW Hol-ee Roller fillable balls.
Variety is the spice of life – it can be a good idea to have your dog’s toys on a rotation, so they don’t get bored of them all. Swapping out their toys for a different set every few weeks can help to keep their interest – research has shown a strong preference amongst dogs for new objects over familiar ones (Kaulfuss & Mills, 2008) meaning that stashing some toys away for a few weeks can help make them much more interesting when you bring them out again. Ensure you regularly inspect their toys for signs of damage and supervise your dog for safety when they’re chewing or if they have a penchant for tearing their toys apart.
As Westies often love to dig, Snufflemats can be very popular, allowing them to sniff and dig out the treats hidden among the
Image supplied by shutterstock_1505048528
Jessica Barber is the owner of Follow My Lead Training. For more information, visit: www.followmyleadtraining.co.uk
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GIFT GUIDE Image supplied by shutterstock_750058360
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GIFT GUIDE
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GIFT GUIDE
Corrie’s Capers Books Book + Bag Christmas is all wrapped up for Westie lovers with an adorable Corrie’s Capers gift. With your choice of any one of the Westie titles autographed by the author tucked inside a beautifully handmade bespoke cloth book bag. Check out www.westie.scot/shop for all available book and fabric options. £15.90 (+p & p) Westies & Besties readers can claim a 10% discount on any Corrie’s Capers orders until 20 December 2022 using Coupon Code W&B22 at check out. Photo credit: Image supplied by Corrie’s Capers
Hugo & Hudson Brussels Sprout Dog Toy Make sure your four-legged friends are included this Christmas with the Hugo & Hudson Brussels Sprout dog toy. The rope toy will provide hours of fun for your pooch, from playing fetch to playing games or just having a good chew. The Hugo & Hudson sprout also has a built-in squeaker for added fun and excitement! Explore the entire Hugo & Hudson Christmas range at www.hugoandhudson.com £9.99 Photo credit: Image supplied by Hugo & Hudson
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GIFT GUIDE
Ruff and Tumble Drying Coats This festive Burgundy Drying Coat has a smart faux leather trim. Double layered, this natural cotton towelling coat wicks wet from fur fast. Perfect for dogs that love the outdoors, brilliant after baths and superb after sea dips! The original and best award-winning Ruff and Tumble Drying Coat. S in pic, £48.95 plus P&P https://ruffandtumbledogcoats.com/ products/country-dog-drying-coat-burgundy Photo credit: Image supplied by Ruff and Tumble
The Golden Paste Company Pick up the perfect Christmas treat for your dog this festive season with the Golden Paste Christmas Pet Stocking. The stocking includes specialist turmeric supplements in the form of 100g Golden Paste for Pets and a trial pot of TurmerEase Pet Supplement (12-day supply for a small dog). The delicious Blitzen’s Bites Treats and a Christmas dog toy to keep canine friends entertained are also included. An online voucher which you can use to get money off your next Golden Paste Company purchase is an added treat this Christmas time. Available online for £9.99 while stocks last, visit www.goldenpastecompany.co.uk to treat your pet to the benefits of turmeric this Christmas. *Please note this product will only be available during the festive period whilst stocks last. Photo credit: Image supplied by the Golden Paste Company
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GIFT GUIDE
Bugalugs Pet Care Gifts Sets The perfect Christmas gift for your dog. Bugalugs Gift Sets are packed with bestselling, vegan and cruelty free pet care products. Ultimate Set 6 X bestselling pet care products. £44.99 Shampoo Set 4 X 500ml vegan dog shampoos. £35.99 Mini Gifts Sets This includes Bugalugs Baby Fresh Set, One in a Million Set, Essentials Set & Shampoo Set. £19.99 (each) www.bugalugspetcare.com/giftsets Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BUGALUGS
KONG KONG Wild Knots are soft and cuddly on the outside while durable and strong on the inside. Wild Knots bears are sure to be a hit with dogs and their pet parents. Dogs love the knotted skeleton, and the reinforced plush body provides extra durability. KONG Wild Knots have less stuffing for less mess, and they squeak to entice play. Look out for the Christmas additions! Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY KONG
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
Don’t leave your pooch out this Christmas Treat them every day to 100% natural, air-dried treats from regenerative farms. Better for your dog. Better for the planet.
Ultra Low carbon
Biologically appropriate
Beyond sustainable
Beyond organic
Nutritionally balanced
Treat your dog at: ethicallyraised.co.uk
GIFT GUIDE
Burns Pet Nutrition Burns Christmas Turkey Gift Box Give your dog the Christmas they deserve; our new and exclusive Christmas Turkey gift box designed to fit through your door! Including classic favourites; Grain Free Turkey & Potato Dry Food and Turkey Bites, with the addition of our brand-new limited edition Burns Christmas Turkey Wet Food! Visit: https://bit.ly/3T8NA7V Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BURNS
Burns Pet Nutrition Christmas Turkey Wet Food Hand-cooked in Wales and sustainably produced, our Christmas Turkey is a healthy, wholesome and hypoallergenic food for dogs. Get the whole furmily involved in the festivities with our Christmas Turkey wet food. Even the most fussy and sensitive dogs will get their tails wagging for Burns this Christmas! Ditch the table scraps this Christmas! Go to Burns Christmas Shop to get all of the festive goodies for your pooch! Visit: https://bit.ly/3T8NA7V Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BURNS
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GIFT GUIDE
Ingenious Probiotics Pet Skin Allergy Remedy Pack with Probiotics Shampoo, skin allergy prevention spray and properly pet-safe cleaning products with added ‘good’ bacteria (probiotics) alleviate itchy skin and bio-allergens: Reduces seasonal and environmental allergies. Significantly reduces itching. Eliminates organic triggers - dust mite, pollen, skin cells, dried saliva. Reduces chemical exposure. Restores a healthy, protective skin/home microbiome. Natural ingredients. £64.40 (includes free Probiotic Hand Soap worth £11.67) BUY NOW: Pet Skin Allergy Remedy Pack Free Hand Soap
Ingenious Probiotics LUCAA+ Pet Probiotic Dental Spray 100ml This simple-to-use spray contains healthy ‘good’ bacteria (probiotics) that naturally restore oral microflora balance and improve dental hygiene significantly: Reduces plaque/tartar build up and bad breath Reduces gum inflammation. Cleanses teeth, tooth sockets and gums. Helps reduce ultrasound cleaning/de-scaling. Helps protect inner organs from damage. Often improves whiteness too! £17.00 BUY NOW: Pet Dental Spray - Reduces Plaque and Bad Breath in Dogs
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GIFT GUIDE
In Your Dog House Gifts Westie Makeup Bag This beautiful accessories/make-up bag featuring the adorable Westie makes the perfect present for a Westie lover. Made from quality and sturdy 100% cotton to stand up to everyday use. Fully lined with a thick black cotton, machine washable at 30 degrees. Perfect for make-up, toiletries, pencils, stationery, dog treats. www.inyourdoghousegifts.com/ products/westie-accessories-bag-1 Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY IN YOUR DOG HOUSE GIFTS
Paleo Ridge Classic Christmas Pheasant, Turkey and Lamb (500g) Paleo Ridge have compiled a taste sensation, in their Classic 80-10-10 formula with the finest ingredients including festive turkey with bone, a fantastic staple of lamb tripe, succulent pheasant breast, tremendous turkey heart and the finest turkey liver. £3.79 paleoridge.co.uk/shop-raw/classic-christmas Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY PALEO RIDGE
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Happy Hound Treats 100% Natural Treats & Chews Our selection of 100% natural, single protein, rawhide-free, air-dried dog treats are suitable for all ages. Our boxes and individual treats are the ideal Christmas present for your fur baby! Visit the website to check out our full product range at www.happyhoundtreats.co.uk 10% Discount Code: XMASWESTIES Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY HAPPY HOUND TREATS
KONG The KONG Wobbler is an action-packed toy that is a mentally stimulating food dispenser, ideal for those who feed a dry kibble. The KONG shaped toy sits upright until nudged by the dog’s paw or nose, dispensing tasty rewards as it wobbles, spins and rolls. The unpredictable movement stimulates natural instincts keeping even the most seasoned users challenged. The KONG Wobbler can also be used as an alternative to a dog bowl to help extend mealtime while providing exercise for your dog. Trying to get your dog to lose a few unwanted pounds? The KONG Wobbler is a great way to keep dogs moving while making them work for their food. Unscrews for easy filling and cleaning. Use the large Wobbler for medium to large-sized dogs. www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
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GIFT GUIDE
Fish4Dogs Christmas Advent Calendar and Christmas Cracker Behind 24 numbered windows, lay two varieties of delicious treats. Our Fish4Dogs Sea Jerky Squares and Fish4Dogs Mackerel Morsels, will have them crunching all the way to Christmas day. This year’s Fish4Dogs Christmas Cracker is filled with our delicious Salmon Bites. A natural, aromatic treat for your dog this Christmas. Available now for £9.50 and £3.50 at leading independent pet shops or online with free delivery at fish4dogs.com. Hurry while stocks last! Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY FISH4DOGS
Brewski’s Beer Biscuits Brewski’s Beer Biscuits are made sustainably from spent grain from the BrewDog Brewery. These allnatural, tasty, low-fat treats are good for your dog AND good for the Planet – they’re pupcycled! Choose from Punk IPA or ‘Hoppy’ Christmas Cheers Big Ears... £6.50 for a 2-pack www.brewskisbiscuits.com Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BREWSKI’S
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GIFT GUIDE
SOOPA PETS Christmas Selection Box Soopa is here to make your Christmas shopping as stress free as possible and has the most pawfect gift for your furry friend this festive season. Combining healthy bites and delicious dental sticks, this selection of scrumptious snacks is everything your pet needs. £6.99 Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY SOOPA
SOOPA PETS Cranberry & Sweet potato Dental Sticks Completely natural and tasty beyond belief, the tasty treats will leave your furry friend desperate to rip open that wrapping paper and see what’s hiding beneath the tree. Completely hypoallergenicand 100% grain free, these snacks will give your pooch a taste of what Christmas is all about. £3.99 Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY SOOPA
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Naked Dog Turkey with Cranberry Christmas Special We believe all dogs should enjoy a delicious, fresh Turkey dinner over Christmas this year. After all they deserve it. Which is why you’ll find our complete and balanced Christmas meal on a fantastic half price offer in stockists across the UK. Giving back, because we care. £2.50 www.nakeddog.com/stockistlocator Photo credit: IMAGES SUPPLIED BY NAKED DOG
Naked Dog Venison and Duck Cold Pressed A chance to spoil your dog with festive meats from our new high quality cold pressed food. Complete and Balanced to a high standard of nutrition. £24.99 For more details, find a stockist or check it out online visit www.nakeddog.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGES SUPPLIED BY NAKED DOG
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GIFT GUIDE
Naked Dog Turkey Neck Treats Let your dog join in the Christmas fun with our super Turkey Neck Treats as a gift this year. Providing both nourishment and enrichment, a perfect opportunity to put your feet up after dinner knowing yourdog is happily entertained. £2.40 In stockists up and down the UK, or online at www.nakeddog.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGES SUPPLIED BY NAKED DOG
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GIFT GUIDE
TK Maxx Pink Paw and Bone Large Stainless Steel Dog Bowl This large pink and paw dog bowl is sure to be the centrepiece of your kitchen, catching the attention of your best friend the whole day long. £5.99 www.tkmaxx.com Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY TK Maxx
Matalan Pet Xmas Sack Put all your bestie’s special gifts in one place with this red Santa sack from Matalan. It reads, ‘Have a Paw-some Christmas on the front of it and it’s decorated with small doggy bones and has a drawstring to keep your furry friend’s nose out until the big day! £5 www.matalan.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY MATALAN
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GIFT GUIDE
M&Co Dog Leg Warmers Keep your Bestie’s tootsies warm and cosy this winter with these little reindeer leg warmers from M&Co. Your pal is sure to feel pawsome on the cold winter nights. £8 www.mandco.com Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY M&CO
Getting Personal Personalised From The Dog Christmas Socks Not sure what to get your neighbour for Christmas? How about a pair of these cute personalised from the dog Christmas socks with a unique message from your canine pal! (You can personalise the socks with a name to appear in up to 12 characters. You can also personalise the socks with the dog’s name to appear in up to 12 characters.) £13.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY GETTING PERSONAL
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GIFT GUIDE
Scottish Keepsakes “Christmas Westies” Who doesn’t love a cute, mischievous Christmas Westie? Our unique design is available on either silver-handled ceramic mugs, microfibre cloths, tea towels, coasters, & rock slate/polymer hanging hearts. Choice of text. See the full Westie range on our website: https://scottishkeepsakes. com/product-category/westies/ Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY SCOTTISH KEEPSAKES
Twiggy Tags Adventure Mat Made specifically for adventures with your best friend, water-resistant, one size fits all dogs, reversible patterns with NO VELCRO! Ideal for helping your dog settle in public places, for picnics on the grass without fear of muddy bums, an easy-clean crate blanket, or anything else you want it to be. £45.95 https://www.twiggytags.co.uk/category/ ADVENTURE-MATS Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY TWIGGY TAGS
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GIFT GUIDE
Barker & Barker Tasty Food Toppers Make every meal a treat with our Tasty Toppers. Available in 4 delicious flavours; Liver, Chicken, Arctic Fish and Veggie. Ideal for both wet or dry food and for dogs on raw food diets. To use, simply sprinkle over food or mix with warm water to make a thin gravy. Save 15% with code W&B15 www.barkerandbarkertreats.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BARKER & BARKER
Barker & Barker Multi Treats – 6 Delicious Flavours Barker & Barker’s tasty treats are perfectly sized for small dogs. Their lowcalorie content allows for a high daily treat allowance. Available in 6 delicious flavours. Our treats are made in the UK with 100% natural, high quality human grade ingredients. Ideal for treat balls, treat dispensers, and snuffle mats. www.barkerandbarkertreats.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY BARKER & BARKER
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GIFT GUIDE
Ancol The Soho Pet Collection Tartan/ Star Harness This reversible harness by Ancol has been designed with both comfort and style in mind. Lightweight and weatherproof, it is also made from recycled plastic bottles! Matching collar, lead and accessories are also available. (Medium) £9.75 Available in all good pet stores.
Ancol Little Stinkers Scented Gloss Spray Little Stinkers gloss sprays by Ancol are manufactured in Great Britain and are designed to give your pet a glossy shine and a fresh scent. On top of that, they are also vegan! £3.66 Available in all good pet stores.
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GIFT GUIDE
Pawfect Bags The British made Pawfectbag is robust and waterproof. Each bag has three pockets inside, two of which can be removed should they become dirty. The first pocket can hold phone keys, the second can hold clean poo bags etc and the third pocket can conveniently be used for full poo bags. Machine washable too! www.pawfectbags.co.uk Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY PAWFECT BAGS
Animology White Wash Shampoo Perfect for Westies, White Wash is a mild shampoo with stain removing technology. Enriched with pro-vitamin B5 and built-in conditioners, the formulation brings out the natural shine of white and light coats and is easy to rinse out. Suitable for dogs withsensitive skin and puppies from 6 weeks old. £5.50 Available online at www.animology.co.uk, in Pets at Home and many independent pet stores Photo credit: IMAGE SUPPLIED BY ANIMOLOGY
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FEATURE
ARE WE ON THE BRINK OF AN ANIMAL RESCUE CRISIS? A worrying time for the RSPCA as the intake of animals increase and adoption rates fall By Amy Ockelford, RSPCA
My RSPCA rescue dog, Storm, was a lifesaver during lockdown. Every day he brought me laughter, companionship, and joy as I battled with isolation, working from home, and worries about the pandemic. So, it’s no surprise that pet acquisition soared during 2020 and that - according to the PFMA’s Pet Population Report - more than three million households acquired a new pet during lockdown.
The number of animals we rehomed last year was 8% lower than in 2020 - during the peak of lockdown pet acquisition - and a staggering 31% lower than in 2019, before the pandemic. Dogs, specifically, have also been affected - with 6% less rehomed in 2021 compared to the previous year; and dogs in our care staying, on average, for 9.4% longer. We also rescued almost 12% more dogs last year, compared to 2020.
But many of us were concerned about how these pets would be cared for further down the line; when people returned to the office, school, and normal life. And now, with the cost-of-living crisis hitting families hard, it appears that all of our worst fears are coming true… In October, the RSPCA launched its annual rehoming campaign: Adoptober; with the aim of highlighting issues in the world of animal rescue and promoting adoption to anyone thinking of getting a pet. Sadly, our new figures - showing we rehomed almost 27,000 animals in 2021 - also revealed that animal intake - via our frontline inspectorate - has risen 8.4% while rehoming has dropped 8%; all at a time when abandonments are also 24% higher than previous years. Are we on the brink of an animal rescue crisis? 40
Unfortunately, the cost-of-living crisis is having a huge impact on pet owners across England and Wales, causing more to abandon or hand over their pets for rehoming, and meaning less people are looking to take on an additional cost at this time. The RSPCA’s landmark new Animal Kindness Index - released earlier this year - highlighted the impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on pet owners. The survey found that 68% of pet owners were concerned about the increasing cost of pet care while 19% were worried about being able to afford to feed their pets.
Westies & Besties - November 2022
It’s really concerning to see that animals are staying in our care for longer and that less are being rehomed year-on-year. Unfortunately, we’re really starting to see the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. Many of the animals - particularly dogs who are coming into our care have behavioural challenges which could be linked to how they were bred as well as lockdown limiting the amount of training, socialising, and outside world experience they had. We’re also beginning to see more animals coming into our care because their owners simply couldn’t afford to care for them anymore; or, in the most extreme cases, having been neglected or abandoned due to the rising cost of pet care. This is coming at the same time that potential pet owners are deciding now is not the best time to
FEATURE
THE SURVEY FOUND THAT 68% OF PET OWNERS WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCREAING COST OF PET CARE WHILE 19% WERE WORRIED ABOUT BEING ABLE TO AFFORD TO FEED THEIR PETS.
take on an animal due to the soaring cost of living and feeling they cannot financially commit to adding a pet to their family at such a worrying time. We’re doing what we can to help animals stay in their homes; the last thing we want is for a beloved pet to be separated from everyone they know and love. We’re supporting pet food banks across the country by providing food and supplies for those families who are struggling to cope; and many of our branches are offering vouchers and access to discounted veterinary care. We’ve also launched our new Cost of Living Hub online, with access to lots of information, advice, and tips for pet owners. And our inspectors continue to respond to calls regarding animals who need help, while our centres take in animals who need rescuing. But this all comes at a time where our costs as a charity are also rocketing too; and our centres are practically full to bursting, meaning growing waiting lists and rising bills from private boarding establishments where we have animals waiting to come into our care.
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FEATURE
We simply can’t keep helping animals without your help; so, if you can support our work, please donate by visiting www.rspca.org.uk/give. For those who are able to bring a pet into their home, we are urging them to consider adopting rather than buying. Many of our animals will already be neutered, vaccinated, and treated for fleas and worms - making it much more cost-effective - and we will work with them to make sure they find their perfect match. Visit www.rspca.org.uk/findapet to Find Each Other.
IT’S REALLY CONCERNING TO SEE THAT ANIMALS ARE STAYING IN OUR CARE FOR LONGER AND THAT LESS ARE BEING REHOMED YEAR-ON-YEAR. UNFORTUNATELY, WE’RE REALLY STARTING TO SEE THE DEVASTING IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND THE COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS.
And if you can’t commit to the longterm responsibility of pet ownership, perhaps you could consider fostering? Find out more online at www.rspca.org.uk/findapet/foster.
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Four-year-old terrier Yoko arrived at the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home, Gloucestershire, in May 2021 and has been patiently waiting for her forever home for a very long 19 months. He’s a cheeky chap with a big personality but he has a strong hunting drive so will need owners who understand this. He’s very clever and needs lots of stimulation to keep him busy. Lurcher Clover has been waiting at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre for her forever home for almost 18 months. She’s an active and clever girl who loves spending time with people and playing with bouncy balls. She’s got a high chase instinct so will need to be kept on the lead when out walking but loves to run free in a secure garden or paddock. This loving and affectionate girl is looking for her perfect match and would ideally like an adult-only home without other pets. Ten-year-old German Shepherd Jake has spent almost two years waiting for his forever home at RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre, Hertfordshire. He’s a sweet, affectionate boy who loves sitting with you for cuddles and going on long walks. He’s described as
FEATURE
Long-Stays Looking for ‘everybody’s best friend’ but can be a little nervous of other dogs which causes him to bark. He’s looking for a home with experienced owners who can help him moving forwards. RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre is hoping to find a special home for a pair of beautiful Alaskan Malamutes who have been in their care for 18 months. Six-year-old Joe and eight-year-old Zac had been living as part of a large pack at a site in Wales and have never lived inside a home before. They’d like a home without other pets or children and ideally would go to someone with experience of the breed. They are big boys (at more than 30kg each) and have big hearts with lots of love to give to the right people. Four-year-old German shepherd cross Kobe was brought overseas as a puppy before moving to the UK. He was taken in by Stubbington Ark, Hampshire, and has been waiting over a year for his forever home. He can be reactive towards strangers and dogs so needs continued training. He has formed close bonds with our staff and acts like a big puppy around them. He loves toys, cuddles on the sofa and playing new games and learning tricks.
All images supplied by the RSPCA.
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A WESTIE WALKABOUT IN COMMUNITY
CANADA Images supplied by Julie Wright
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
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COMMUNITY
OVER 260 WESTIES TOOK PART IN THE EVENT ORGANISED BY ‘WESTIES IN NEED RESCUE’
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COMMUNITY
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Recipe
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
Recipe
Turkey Meatballs A MOUTH-WATERING
BY DANIEL TOMAS OF CHEFS & DOGS
Ingredients: • • • • •
500g Turkey mince 25g Beef liver 1 Egg 20g Psyllium husk 25g Carrot
• 25g Celery • 10 Cranberries • 2 Sprigs of Dill • 2 Sprigs of Parsley • 1 tsp Greek Yoghurt
Method • Place turkey mince into a medium sized mixing bowl. • Then in a food processor add 25g beef liver, 1 egg, 20g psyllium husk, 25g carrot, 25g celery, 6 cranberries, 1 sprig of dill, 1 sprig of parsley. • Blend for 30 seconds until broken down & combined, then mix through the turkey mince. • Next, roll your mix into round meatballs (if the mix is too soft, place in the fridge for 1 hour before rolling). • Place a small amount of Greek yoghurt on top of each meatball. • Garnish with carrot slices, cranberries, dill and parsley.
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Please note: Any extra meatballs from this recipe can be kept frozen and defrosted when needed. We recommend feeding 2-3% of your adult dog’s bodyweight a day in fresh food for raw fed dogs. For your dog’s daily individual needs we encourage speaking to a holistic vet or dog nutritionist.
For more information on healthy recipes for your Westie, visit: www.chefsanddogs.com.au
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Westies & Besties - November 2022
We topped 92% in a Which? consumer poll of best dog foods
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