Category Archives: Miscellaneous

Your Guide to Finding a Pup-Friendly Residence for You and Your Pooch

Posted on by

House hunting as a fur parent can be a lot more challenging than most people would imagine. As a result, it can take you quite a while to find the perfect accommodation for you and your pooch. And, if this is the first time that you are attempting a move with your pup, you may feel a little lost.

Well, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. It is easy enough to find a new place to live as long as you know the right tips and tricks. So, if you are looking to make this process easier, here is what you should do:

Be Aware of What Your Dog Needs
Not all homes are suitable for dogs. So, when selecting a house or a flat, there are several elements you should pay attention to.

The good news, though, is that your dog doesn’t need as much space as you may think. Even big breeds do relatively well in small spaces. Due to this, you can comfortably house your pooch in a flat without feeling an ounce of guilt.

However, outdoor space is important. If your dog doesn’t have access to a yard or garden, you need to be mindful of the location. Most dogs need a fair amount of exercise. And, more importantly, they need a place to take care of business. Thus, you need to make certain that you can readily find this space for your pup.

This is why it is a good idea to look at the area around the flat or the house and not just the property itself. Is the place very close to a busy street? If so, it may not be the ideal spot for your pup. Instead, look for somewhere where you can take your pup on long walks or, at least, play with them.

Start Your Search with Pet-Friendly Accommodation
To avoid wasting your time, start by looking at places that accept pets. Now, this can be a bit tricky. Around 78 percent of pet owners admit to finding it difficult to discover such accommodation. The good news, though, is that it has gotten a little easier.

Several websites can help you with your search. These sites give you the option of narrowing down accommodations that specifically allow dogs. This way, you don’t have to go through the additional hassle of convincing the landowner to let you keep your pooch with you.

It should be noted that there may be limitations with these accommodations. After all, many landlords haven’t listed their properties with such sites. Thus, you may not automatically find what you are looking for on these sites.

Fortunately, there are still some options available to you under these circumstances.

Convincing Landlords to Allow Your Pooch
More often than not, you may just have to convince a landlord to allow your pooch to stay with you. Needless to say, you are going to have to resort to a few tactics to make this work.

Your pup may provide you with emotional assistance. They may have even been “prescribed” by a psychologist or mental health expert. If so, they can be called an emotional support dog.

Thus, you should work on acquiring an ESA letter for your dog. While there are no laws protecting animals in the UK, some landlords may make an exception for you. After all, if you have proper certification, it means that you genuinely need your pooch by your side. Due to this, they may be more inclined to allow you to move in with your pup.

To improve your chances even further, gather proof that your pooch is a well-behaved dog. For instance, you can ask your current landlord to write a letter of recommendation. You can even show pictures of your residence as evidence that your dog isn’t destructive.

If your dog has had any kind of obedience training or just training in general, provide proof of this as well. The more evidence that you have to back up your claims, the better.

If the landlord has specific concerns – ruined furniture, etc. come up with how you can prevent or counteract these issues. Showing the individual that you can solve virtually any issue that they come up with will let them know that you have nothing to worry about.

In the event that the landlord continues to have doubts, arrange a meet and greet between your pooch and the landlord. If you have a cheerful, well-behaved pup, you will find that even the hardest of hearts will soften towards puppy dog eyes and a wagging tail.

Paying the Fur Tax
In some instances, you need to be willing to come to an agreement with the landlord. Some individuals will see things your way for the right price. Now, this could involve a type of “pet rent” that you pay on a monthly basis.

Or, your landlord may be required to put down a deposit. This way, if there is any damage done at all, the cost of the repairs will be deducted from this deposit. Such an arrangement gives the landlord peace of mind and shows them that they will be able to recoup all their money.

At the same time, it is important to know your rights. You shouldn’t let the landlord get away with quoting exorbitant amounts at you. Such costs often mean that the landlord is trying to cheat you.
There is no denying that it can take some time to find the ideal place for you and your pup. However, it isn’t an impossible endeavor. As long as you have the right strategy, you will find that it is a lot easier to locate a good place to live.

Just remember to start your search early on. This way, you will have more time to find a place that is perfectly suited to you and your pooch. Then, everyone will be happy with the arrangement – what more could you ask for?

Article Supplies

Tips On How To Disinfect Dog Toys

Posted on by

Pets bring energy, joy, and companionship to our lives, but one of the things we don’t want them to bring is germs. Disinfecting your dog toy can be an easy and effective way to keep germs and bacteria at bay and protect your canine companion from illnesses. When not well sanitized, a pet’s toys can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria.

In this post, we’ll explain why disinfecting your dog’s items is important and give you some helpful tips on how to maintain the cleanliness of dog toys to keep your beloved pet happy and healthy.

Why Is Dirty Dog Toys Dangerous?
Dirty dog toys can be dangerous because it can be a good host for germs and bacteria since they are often used many times in a day. Pets often use their mouths to play with their toys and this is a common way for germs to easily spread from the toys to pets.

According to some vets, your dog’s toy could even make them sick. That’s why they encourage dog owners to wash their pet’s toys at least once a month. Apart from bacteria, a filthy dog toy could be hosting harmful fecal coliforms, like E. coli, which could also affect humans. However, the good news is that pets are capable of dealing with a lot more germs than humans are, so the health risks are not as great.

Contrary to popular belief, canine acne is rarely caused by hormonal imbalances or changes during their early growth years. In fact, it mainly affects pups that chew on filthy toys and generally eat in bacteria-infested areas. Grime and bacteria can accumulate in the hair and pores on their face, leading to irritation – which manifests as red bumps or even pustules.

Disinfecting your pup’s toys and their other items is a suitable solution for puppy acne. Provided the dog’s bowls and toys are properly cleaned and maintained in a sanitary condition, this issue is unlikely to reappear. The actual danger of dirty dog toys is to humans. You might not realize how often you come into contact with your dog’s items; let alone the bacteria and germs that have accumulated on them.

Dirty dog toys also tend to get damaged faster as well. Depending on its material, a dog’s toy will start to weaken and break easily, posing a choking hazard. Therefore, be a responsible owner and do a proper and regular cleaning. This will allow you to examine your pet’s toy to ensure they are in great condition.

But how do you disinfect your dog toy? Let’s find out below:

How to Disinfect Dog Toys?

Hard and Plastic Toys
In order to clean hard and plastic pet toys, start by putting a little white vinegar in a container with water. Soak the toy in the mixture, clean them thoroughly and then let them dry naturally.

Soft and Plush Toys
The main purpose of disinfecting your dog’s soft toys is to eradicate dust mites. These tiny bugs are responsible for the allergic reactions that make pets and humans sick. Wash soft and plush toys by putting them through a mixture of baking soda and hot water in your washing machine on a gentle cycle. Use low-level heat to dry them.

Rope Toys
Plush animals and rope toys should be washed more regularly than other types of pet toys. Rope toys have soft, absorbent fibers that can absorb drool moisture and make them a breeding ground for bacteria and germs.
Start by removing any metallic parts, soak the toys and put them in the microwave for at least a minute. Once they are dry, they will be germ-free and ready for your dog to play with them.

Rubber Toys
When it comes to disinfecting rubber toys, we recommend using vinegar. This natural disinfectant is gentle enough not to destroy the toys. You can soak rubber, nylon and silicone toys in warm water and 5% vinegar solution for around 10 minutes, and then scrub them gently with a clean brush or sponge to get rid of any accumulated dirt. Be sure to air dry the toys properly before giving them back to your canine companion.

Homemade Disinfectant Tips for Dog Toys
Disinfectants kill germs but they don’t get rid of dirt. Before you use any disinfectant, a thorough cleaning is necessary.

Start by removing all toys. Carefully wash and disinfect one toy at a time. Use a scrub brush and gentle detergent to scrub the surfaces to eradicate dirt and waste. Rinse properly to remove detergent before disinfecting.

Although bleach is effective as a disinfectant, it can cause any metal parts to corrode and damage clothing. Moreover, it can irritate your pet’s airways and sinuses.

Vinegar contains 5% acetic acid that acts as a disinfectant to kill germs. To produce your disinfecting mixture, add vinegar to an equal amount of water. Add a little baking soda to eradicate odors. Apply vinegar and water solution to the toy to disinfect and leave it on for around 10 minutes and then rinse them thoroughly.

Ways to Maintain Cleanliness of Dog Toys
So, here are a few tips to maintain the cleanliness of your dog toys so they can enjoy them for longer.

Check labels: Check labels before buying new products for your dog. Choose products that are easier to clean. If they are fabric or cloth, this is even more important.

Wash frequently: Although you don’t have to clean your canine’s toys on a daily basis, it’s advisable to regularly wash the ones they use often.

Sanitize: Keep germs and bacteria at bay with pet-safe disinfectants.

Control the chaos: Create a dedicated play area to help maintain an orderly home.

Toss out damaged or broken toys: This will also help prevent them from becoming a choking hazard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to bleach dog toys?
No, it is not safe to bleach dog toys. It’s best to avoid using them or any other harsh cleaning products since it can cause skin irritation – thus, you should try and avoid it. Instead, try using apple vinegar and baking soda solution.

Will vinegar hurt dogs?
It depends. Vinegar might not be completely safe for dogs, but most pet parents add diluted white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to their pup’s regimens due to its supposed ability to clean, heal and reduce orders. Nonetheless, administering vinegar to your pooch is not an ideal solution as compared to any cleaning requirements your pet may have.

What Laundry Detergent Is Safe For Dogs?
A gentle detergent with no fragrance or dyes is safe for dogs. Make sure to toss them in the dishwasher or washing machine when they start to smell.

How often should I wash my dog’s toys?
You should wash your dog’s toys at least once a month to keep germs at bay. More, depending on how active your dog is. Without proper care of their toy, these products would become be hazardous in a long run. And washing your pet’s toys regularly can also prolong the life of these products – thus, allowing the pooch to enjoy them for an extended period of time.

When Should You Throw Away Dog Toys?
You should toss dog toys into the garbage bin if they are torn, broken or damaged. It’s sad, but sometimes the time comes to part ways with your dog’s favourite toys. Once they are damaged, they can break or crack. This means that your pooch would end up eating small parts of the toy when they are chewing on it.

Conclusion
Keeping your dog toys clean and sanitized isn’t always easy- and at times it feels impossible. However, considering how much your pooch loves his toys, putting in the effort to clean and disinfect them can be a great way to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. It is also important to get the right type of toys for your dogs. Some dogs may be sensitive or dislike certain materials. Fortunately, Well Pet Coach covers this in-depth about the best dog toys to have and how these toys can help to keep them both physically and emotionally healthy. As pet parents, we want the best for them and knowing what suits them is important. Do check out this Facebook page to read more of such relevant insights.

Article Supplied

Canine Kleptomaniacs

Posted on by
Canine Kleptomaniacs
Canine Kleptomaniacs

A Devon-based family (in the UK) is hoping that its home-grown card game, ‘Canine Kleptomaniacs’, will capture hearts and minds around the world with its quirky doggy theme and family-friendly gameplay.

What began two years ago as a wet summer holiday ‘distraction from screens’, has turned into a project involving the whole family, and the prospect of launching the game world-wide through a Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign.

The game is inspired by the family’s 5-year-old Sprocker spaniel, Amber (also known as ‘Ginty’) whose thieving antics border on the criminal.

“Her stealing obsession is hilarious” says Matt Jones, the game’s co-creator.

“Socks, pants, slippers, t-shirts, cycling shorts – you name it, she thieves it”.

Matt Jones, who is married to Jo, with three kids, explains how the whole family has been involved in the project:

“It was never our intention to make a game for other people, it was just a bit of a giggle and a way of us keeping the kids off screens! It has been amazing to see the creativity and how everyone has chipped in ideas”.

Eldest son Ollie (18) has spent hundreds of hours creating quirky illustrations for the cards, making video trailers, setting up websites and managing social media.

“What started out as scribbled drawings on scraps of paper in our caravan has turned into this potentially huge thing”, says mum Jo.

“It’s all a bit scary, really, but the kids have led the way, and they’re so determined to see the game made that they have encouraged us to keep going”.

Now the family has set up a small company, named Golden Ginty Games (in reference to the family pup who has inspired it all), and they hope to raise enough money to produce the game.

“Now we’ve got this far, we have this amazing opportunity to use it for something really positive, and that’s something the kids are into” – says Jo. “Once we decided to go for it, we agreed as a family, that if we were successful, we would give something back”.

The family has decided that a share of any future profits* will go to charities who seek to bring dogs into vulnerable people’s lives, supporting them through providing therapy and companionship.

“The strongly doggy theme makes these causes a natural fit, and we have a particular heart for helping young people and the homeless” adds Matt.

It is still early days for the fledgling family venture as they are now running their first crowdfunding campaign on the website Kickstarter.

The perfect solution to all your dog friendly needs

Posted on by

Head on the keyboard, I’ve had enough.  I’m tired of looking for the perfect solution to my needs.  I grab my coffee and head over to the back door where I stick my head out for some fresh air, oh I wish I could have a holiday somewhere quiet away from it all.  I know that’s not possible because of Lula my mix breed dog, she’s an absolute nightmare on the lead, in the house, in the car, you name it I hide from it!  So here I am stuck at home with my barking, lead pulling (that’s why we don’t get out much) dog.  I do love her and want to have a special bond with her but I can’t find what I’m looking for, I don’t even know what I’m looking for.

I pick up a tennis ball and throw it into the garden, Lula loves to play a game of fetch, it brings her alive and she brings it back and runs to fetch it, this could go on for hours how come it doesn’t make her tired?  I bring her in and try to wipe her paws, yes you guessed it she doesn’t like that either and we end up in a wrestling match with me flat on my face in the middle of the kitchen floor.

That’s it, I’ve had enough! I slam the back door and head out of the kitchen back to the computer.  I know what I’m looking for!  Dog Trainer in King’s Lynn is added to the web browser.  Dog Trainers, Behaviourists and Clubs/King’s Lynn/Norfolk wow that’s the one! I click and get a bright dog friendly page full of dog trainers in King’s Lynn.  I look though a few of the premium pages and it catches my eye Game Based Trainer.  Lula it is meant to be young lady, today is day one of our new journey.

The website was bright, light and full of fun, showing how games created learning through choice – I was hooked and clicked on the Make an Enquiry button on The Good Dog Website.  Excited I jumped up and made another coffee returning quickly to The Good Dog Guide website and where it said click to choose a category I chose Self Catering and in lovely Norfolk.  I booked our holiday for September which gives us four months of intensive game based training sessions to have the best holiday ever!

Thank you The Good Dog Guide you have it all covered!

Article supplied by to Julie Carter at MyLuka Dog Training Solutions

Tips for Making the Right Choice for Your Pet Insurance

Posted on by

Owning a pet comes with a slew of responsibilities, including the basics like feeding and grooming that all pet owners understand. What can create some unrest in a home with a pet is the emotional and financial disruption of a medical issue that requires veterinary care. On average, pet visits to the vet cost £750, per condition, and this can represent a major cost to a pet owner if they aren’t well prepared. Some medical issues require even more veterinary intervention, such as surgery or ongoing treatment plans, which can cost several thousand more.

Pet insurance offers some respite from veterinary costs. Most pet insurance plans provide a percentage of reimbursement for a veterinary care visit, helping offset the expense of an emergency illness or injury. However, making the decision to obtain pet insurance requires some degree of understanding about how pet policies work, what they cover and exclude, and how to know which pet policy makes the most sense from a financial perspective.

Pet Insurance

Understand the Types of Pet Insurance
The first factor to consider when looking at pet insurance policies is the type of cover being offered. Pet insurance plans come in many different forms, with the most common including:

  • Annual policies: these pet insurance plans offer financial assistance for a pet’s medical issues on a 12-month rolling basis. Each year the policy is set to renew, pet owners may be given an option to switch to a new plan or maintain the coverage they currently have. Most annual policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, and while they may be less expensive than more comprehensive options, they may not pay as much to cover vet expenses.

  • Lifetime policies: these pet insurance plans offer the most comprehensive coverage, potentially offsetting the cost of injuries, illnesses, and chronic conditions. Lifetime policies provide for cover regardless of the pet’s age or health condition, but this means the policy will likely cost more for the pet owner.

  • Accident policies: these pet insurance plans provide cover for accidents that may lead to injuries, such as being hit by a vehicle. Although accidents may lead to higher-cost treatments, most pets in need of veterinary care require medical attention for illnesses instead.

Recognise Potential Exclusions or Restrictions
In addition to the type of policy being offered, pet owners also need to take a close look at the specifics of a pet insurance plan. Many pet insurers detail exclusions of a policy, which may include pre-existing conditions a pet had before getting insured. This means that should the animal need veterinary care for an excluded condition, the full cost of care falls on the shoulders of the pet owner, not the insurance company.

Similarly, pet insurance providers may also exclude certain treatments. Alternative medical care, such as physiotherapy or acupuncture may not be covered under a pet insurance plan. Some policies may also have waiting periods that must be met before insurance benefits are available. Others do not cover routine or preventative treatments. Insurers also set limits on reimbursements paid to pet owners, either per condition treated or as an annual or lifetime policy limit. It is crucial for pet owners to recognise these limitations before paying for a pet insurance plan.

Compare Policy Options for Cost and Benefits
A finance specialist from Money Pug, a website used to compare best pet insurance deals, shares that, beyond policy cover and exclusions, pet owners need to do their own cost analysis on a pet insurance plan prior to purchasing. Pet insurance comes at a cost each month or each year, and this ongoing expense can range significantly from one insurer to the next. The cost is based not only on the current health status of the pet and their age, but also the reach of the policy. Pet owners can do themselves a favour by comparing several different pet insurance plans, taking an in-depth look at policy benefits and exclusions weighed against the cost of the policy itself.

Having the right pet insurance plan can make a big difference in caring for a pet without spending an exorbitant amount of money out of pocket. However, pet owners must complete a review of the type of policy that makes the most sense for their needs, alongside the restrictions or limitations or the policy. Carefully reviewing these details as well as the premium amount due for the policy is necessary for making the best decision on whether or not to purchase pet insurance and from which company.

Article supplied.

Why You Should Buy A Dog Stroller

Posted on by

Having a dog stroller sounded quite weird some years back. Nowadays, dog strollers have gained popularity thanks to the numerous benefits they offer. There are various occasions and situation that make it necessary to use a stroller. They are very effective, convenient and comfortable to your dog. Here are a few reasons to get a stroller.

1, Easier for vet visit
Transporting dogs in a stroller when taking them to the vet, especially small puppies, is convenient and eliminates worries of the puppies escaping. A stroller also protects your dog from picking up germs from the floor or other animals in the waiting room. It’s also comfortable in case your dog is convalescing.

2, Ideal for outings
If you’re going out with friends or family, using a stroller can be convenient. You won’t need to worry about your dog as you have your lunch, go to a concert, or indulge in other fun activities. In such crowded places, you don’t have to worry about your dog getting stepped on or picking dangerous stuff. You can also be able to carry your dog once in a while to the office as the stroller provides a confined place for the dog.

3, Ideal for injured and old dogs
A stroller provides a comfortable ride for old, sick and injured dogs that are too weak to walk. Getting such dogs some fresh air and change of scenery may be refreshing, and that’s where the stroller comes handy. A dog that has undergone surgery may need mental stimulation and physical exercise to recuperate.

4, Protection
There is always the danger of your dog, especially the small ones, being attacked by aggressive dogs. A stroller will also protect your precious pet paws from rough sidewalks and pavements. Some dogs are also susceptible to extreme weather conditions. A stroller will protect your dog from excess heat and snow. It also ideal in urban areas where there is a lot of traffic which can be overwhelming for the dog.

5, Better Exercise
It’s fun when you take your dog along for runs and walks. However, it might be hard for the dog to keep up. Therefore, you can bring along a stroller for the dog to ride in. This way, you still get the most out of your workout without tiring your dog. It’s also a great opportunity to have more quality time with your best friend.

6, Ideal for elderly people
A walk is a great way for elderly people to refresh and exercise. However, for the elderly pet lovers who love to tag their pets along, it might be difficult because the dog that can easily stray. A stroller will help keep the dog restrained.

7, Great or multiple dogs
Walking more than one dog can turn out to be a nightmare. It can be tough to control them as they keep running in every direction during walks. Keeping one or more of the dogs in a stroller can save you from all this trouble and keep your pets safe.

A stroller is a great item for pet owners to invest in. It brings convenience and greater mobility to both you and your buddy. However, with the many options available in the market, you may find it hard determining the best one for your dog. Not sure which one to choose? Check out 8 Best Dog Strollers for 2019 | iPetCompanion.

Article supplied.

How much research do we do before adopting a dog?

Posted on by

Something which may surprise a lot of dog owners recently emerged in the news, as the results of a survey from Legal & General revealed that one in every three dog owners did little to no research before deciding on which breed of dog to adopt.

This may feel like a high number, but as some of us know it’s sometimes the dog who chooses the owner rather than the other way around.

adopting a dog?

Out of those surveyed who did their research before adopting, common considerations for settling on a specific breed was size at 43%, followed by temperament at 41% and 34% who considered their breed based on their lifestyle. 11% of people surveyed thought about how much adopting a dog would cost, and just 7% looking into the price of insurance policies.

Considering the numbers, it isn’t much of a shock that 14% of owners said that they had five or more visits to the vet in the past year. 45% of owners also revealed that at some point they have also had to pay a visit to an emergency vet, which can come with astronomical costs.

adopting a dog

Worryingly, 36% of owners revealed that they don’t have pet insurance, with 46% saying that there is no need for it. Thankfully, 48% of owners said that pet insurance is a life safer (and will surely be made up of those who had to visit the emergency vet!)

Sadly 6% of those surveyed said they were unsatisfied with their chosen breed, so to help lower this number Legal and General have released the Breed Selector, an tool which, instead of allowing you to choose the ideal dog for you, allows a dog to choose you as their ideal human.

It’s a fun tool that asks about you, your home and your lifestyle, and matches you with a breed which fits in with what you’re looking for.

adopting a dog

As we all know, owning a dog can be hard work, but it is also rewarding and can bring love and joy to our lives. Whilst research is important before deciding who we want to bring home, we can’t always decide who we fall in love with and want to join the family.

For more information on pet insurance from Legal and General, more information is available on their website.

The Safest Materials for Your Dog Bowls

Posted on by

dog bowls

You’ve got plenty of options when it comes to selecting a material for your dog bow. There is a variety of options in the market, including stoneware, ceramic, plastic, stainless steel, slow-feeding, nonskid and even automated portion-sized dog bowls. However, even with so many options out there, there are still some materials that are naturally safer than others. According to forthefurry.com, here are the five most common, including an exploration of whether they are safe or not.

Plastic Dog Bowls
This is by far the most commonly used material for dog bowls. However, it isn’t the safest. In fact, it can often be the worst material for a dog bowl.
To start with, young teething pups tend to chew a lot on their feeding bowl. A few minutes without you looking and your little pup can tear the bowl apart and ingest the little pieces of plastic. What follows is internal bleeding and blockage of the intestinal system.
Plastic bowls can also be highly porous and easy to scratch. The result is that they develop crevices that make for perfect homes for dangerous bacteria.

Ceramic Dog BowlCeramic Dog Bowls

Ceramic dog bowls are often a pretty good choice, assuming you’ve done your homework before going out to buy one. You should also take care of them to ensure they last longer. The greatest concern when it comes to ceramic dog bowls is that the glazes used to coat them may sometimes contain harmful chemicals like lead. You should be careful about this and go for those that have been certified for food use and are free of lead in their coating. You should also regularly inspect your dog’s ceramic bowl to check for chips and cracks that can harbor bacteria. You also shouldn’t let your dog ingest any chips from the bowl. With such bowls, maintenance is the biggest issue. They are, however, a terrific choice.

Stoneware Dog BowlsStoneware Dog Bowls

Stoneware bowls may have trace amounts of lead so you should be careful about the ones you buy. Lead is very dangerous for pets and can lead to lead poisoning. The symptoms of lead poisoning include cardiovascular problems, renal and kidney problems, skeletal problems, disorders of the muscles and joints, nerve disorders, loss of memory, intellectual impairment, mood swings, infertility and cancer. Select stoneware bowls that are free of lead. Apart from the lead issue, however, stoneware dog bowls are much safer than plastic dog bowls as they don’t chip as easily.

Silicone Dog Bowls
Silicone is a relatively recent material on the market. It is rubber-like, nonstick and nontoxic. It has high heat resistance and does not retain any odors. It can also help you save space as such dog bowls are typically collapsible.

Stainless Steel Dog BowlsStainless Steel Dog Bowls

These dog bowls are nonporous, which means you don’t have to worry about bacteria. They are also resistant to rust and very easy to clean. Steel also isn’t exposed to as many dangerous chemicals as plastic is during its manufacture.

Animal Welfare Act 2018: What does it mean?

Posted on by

Important changes are taking place in England, affecting anyone who breeds, boards, sells or provides day care for dogs. From 1st of October, the new Animal Welfare Act 2018 will come into force providing extra protection for the welfare of our pets.

Animal Welfare Act 2018

From October, dog owners in England will be able to check whether a doggy daycare or home boarder have a licence and see a star-rating awarded by the local authority. The amendments to the Animal Welfare Act will bring changes in terms of licensing and local authority compliance to anyone who sells, breeds or cares for dogs as a business.

As stated on the Dogs Trust website: “There have been significant advances in the understanding of dog behaviour and welfare in recent decades. [We are] pleased that the Government is updating this old legislation, which pre-dates the Animal Welfare Act, and are introducing measures to ensure those conducting animal activities are doing so to the best standards of animal welfare.”

Who must be licensed?

Boarding kennels
At-home boarders
Breeders
Doggy day-care providers

However, the changes to the legislation allow dog walkers, dog groomers, and dog hydrotherapists to continue without the need for a licence from their local council.

A key reform to replace a variety of outdated legislation will be to introduce a single licence for pet vending (selling), dog breeding and animal boarding including home dog boarders and pet daycare. These licences will be issued for a fixed term rather than annually at any point in the year.

Each council will use a risk-based approach to licensing, meaning lower risk and high performing business will be allowed a longer licence with fewer inspections. This new practice aims at incentivising licence holders to operate at and maintain higher standards, enabling council resources to better targeted.

For breeders and sellers, stricter regulations under the new licence will mean better protection for dogs. From October, it will be prohibited to sell puppies below the age of eight weeks in all cases matching the regulation already in place in Wales and Scotland.

The Government, along with several animal charities, hopes the new legislation and focus will help tackle puppy farms in the UK and make it easier for councils to focus their attention on combating issues affecting animal welfare in their local areas.

PetStay has been a strong advocate for licensing, ensuring all their carers across the 42 branches hold a valid licence to care for dogs in their home. Established since 2005, PetStay has built a reputation on the high criteria of their dog carers, ensuring they are checked by branch owners as well as the local authority.

To find out more about our PetStay Carers click here.

petstay

ANIMAL MAGIC COMES TO MAIDSTONE AS ‘WE LOVE PETS’ FRANCHISE OPENS!

Posted on by

Award-winning animal care franchise We Love Pets has opened a new branch in Maidstone.

The local franchise has been taken up by Elaine Dunn, aged 52, who will be helping pet owners with dog walking and boarding, cat sitting and even looking after snakes, lizards and bigger animals.

Elaine, who recently moved back to her birth town of Maidstone, decided that the time was right to start a new career with animals after leaving the care profession. She has already taken on one member of staff to help her with dog boarding and is looking forward to growing the venture.

The mum-of-four said: “Working with animals is my dream and comes so naturally. Already, we’ve helped customers with dog boarding and walking. It’s important for me to do something that helps people who perhaps don’t have the time or mobility to do it themselves.

“I’m delighted to be able to work with We Love Pets and to continue their great track record. I’m looking forward to providing an exceptional service to my customers and Maidstone is a great place to do it thanks to its numerous parks and nature reserve meaning there’s lots of variety and somewhere new to walk all the time.

“We Love Pets have given me so much support already; they’ve been doing this for ten years and the business model is proven to work. They made me feel they care about me and my success. Plus, being outdoors in the fresh air is such a bonus in any job I’d say.”

For more information, click onto www.we-love-pets.co.uk/areas-covered/maidstone