by Yasmin | 6 Aug, 2025 | Blog, Rescue Stories
In April’s newsletter you may have read the article about Laura & her pug Ethel and how her pug story began 40 years ago. Well following on from that, as Laura is my daughter, here is my story of how I discovered Pug Welfare and my pug journey.
Having bought from a breeder, our first pug Honey in 1984, during a chance meeting while out on a dog walk with Honey a fellow pug owner told me about PDWRA and the annual Pug Days at Crowhurst. We sadly lost Honey in 1994 and after her loss we decided to go down the rescue route as PDWRA seemed such a great organisation to adopt through. Over the past 30 + years I have had the pleasure of adopting :- Hanky Panky, Millie, Lily, Mabel and finally, our precious Black Betty, who has been with us for the past 10 years.
I found the process of adopting through PDWRA quite straight forward and it became easier for us as time went by, after each adoption we didn’t have to wait too long to receive a call from Pug Welfare with our next adoptee. Over the years, all our girls were taken to almost every Welfare Day at Crowhurst from 1987 until 2016, when sadly they became no more. They were a great day out, games for the pugs, raffles and various different stalls, plus the much loved auction to raise money for pug welfare. Another not to be missed PDWRA occasion were the Pug Tea Parties that were held once or twice a year during the summer months, the pugs and the humans always had a great time!!
The pugs I have adopted have always enjoyed a holiday away with us, over the years they have been to Yorkshire, Norfolk, down to Devon and to West Sussex, and nearer to us on the Kent coast. I must say, although the girls have always enjoyed a change of scenery, running on the sand – definitely not in the water! or enjoying a new walk and smells in the Countryside, they always loved getting home, back into their comfort zone! This goes especially for Betty, she’s a real home pug and loves her daily routine.
We adopted Betty in 2015, she was a little over 5 years old and my most vivid memory of her is arriving at 2pm on the 26thMarch. Judi and Andrew pulled onto the drive and out jumped the prettiest, bright eyed little black pug, who promptly breezed into our lives as much to say “well I’m here”! She had a quick look around, made sure she had no opposition and everything met with her standards and approval, checked out the garden, christened the grass and decided she’d stay!!!
Betty has been a joy to have in our lives, as an elderly lady now she has become even more feisty and stubborn, aging ladies do have that privilege. Her sight is not so good now and Betty has arthritis in her back, but she copes well with her eye drops and her regular injections at the vets and she still retains the loveable character she has always been blessed with. Due to Betty’s advanced years, she has just celebrated her 15th Birthday, her favourite pastimes now are eating, sniffing lampposts, barking at anything and sleeping, in any particular order!!
Obviously over the past 40 years there have been ups and downs with looking after a pug, the sheer overwhelming sadness when one of the girls have passed away, but such happiness when a new little pug arrives, full of enthusiasm to start a new life in their forever home.
If I was ever asked “would I pursue the adoption route again after over 30 years?”, I would answer a resounding yes in a heartbeat. Young, middle years or an oldie, each pug brings their own character and rewards you with love and the trust they give you, is such a beautiful thing.
I feel so grateful to have shared such a large part of Betty’s life, and parts of all the other girls who have gone before, and also my 35 years of being part of such a wonderful pug charity. Plus, the added assurance that you are always able to contact PDWRA if you need any medical advice or support, the members are always there to help and advise.
Hopefully PDWRA will continue their brilliant work rehoming our lovely breed for another 50+ years!
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If you could provide a forever home by adopting a pug in need, please see latest details for applications at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
If you would alternatively like to help a pug along its journey by fostering, please see:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 20 Jun, 2025 | Blog, News, Pug Health
As temperatures have been rising to above 30°C in parts of England for the first time in 2025, we are expecting further very warm or even hot conditions into the weekend with maximums over 30°C, before cooler and fresher air returns from the West.
This transition may also bring some thunderstorms in places.
So, here is our regular advice & tips for keeping your pugs, so sensitive to heat, cool, comfortable, and safe.
- Make sure your pug has constant access to fresh water – day and night.
- fresh fruit, chilled or frozen, make ideal refreshing & healthy treats to help keep them hydrated.
- Make sure your pug has constant access to shade and cool surfaces.
- Remember to move sources of shade as the sun moves around gardens.
- Provide cooling jackets and shallow paddling pools to enable your pug to cool down, and remember that carpets do not help pugs cool down, so provide cooling mats to help your pug cool down indoors and swap them for a spare cool mat regularly to ensure they are cool.
- DO NOT rely on fans alone to cool your pugs down as they are not as effective on pets as they are on us.
- Plan your walks
- Walk your pug in the early morning or late in the evening if the temperatures are cool enough and try to stick to shaded areas.
- If the mornings/evenings are still warm – DO NOT walk your pug!
- Particularly if they are overweight, have health issues, are elderly or very young.
- The Seven Second Test
- Tarmac /pavements even artificial grass can get very hot in the sun – hold your hand on it for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand it’s too hot for their paws. DO NOT walk your pug as they could burn their paw pads.
Temperature guide for deciding whether it’s safe to walk your pug/s.
- Below 12°C: Perfect walking weather! Your dog will be comfortable and ready to explore.
- 12-19°C: Safe for most dogs, but keep an eye out for signs of overheating if they’re running around a lot.
- 20-23°C: Start to take precautions. Stick to shaded areas, keep walks short, and bring water.
- 24-26°C: This is risky territory. Only take your dog out if it’s absolutely necessary, make it a quick, shady stroll, early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Above 27°C: It’s too dangerous to walk your dog. Stay indoors or let them relax in a cool, shaded area instead.
All dogs are individual & different, so always monitor how each of yours reacts to the heat and adjust their activity accordingly.
Here is a quick-glance, useful guide, regarding temperatures & risks.
REMEMBER: NEVER leave your pug unattended in a car on a hot day – even if it’s just for a couple of minutes, even if you have left the windows open.
Pugs can die in hot cars in minutes!!!
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HEATSTROKE.
This is an extremely dangerous condition that can develop if your pug gets too hot with limited ability to sweat and little or no nose/muzzle, they will struggle to lose heat through panting alone, more-so if they are overweight or have other health problems. Very old and very young dogs are most at risk.
Normal body temperature for a dog tends to be between 38-39°C (100.4-102.2°F), this can rise a bit if they are unwell with a fever.
Heat exhaustion typically occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises above 39.4°C, then they are at risk of heatstroke which can cause seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and be critical for them.
Nearly three quarters of heatstroke cases develop while playing and exercising though it can also be caused by simply sitting somewhere too warm, or being trapped somewhere hot, such as a car, conservatory or room without proper ventilation.
Signs of HEATSTROKE to look for, include:
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- Excessive panting
- Difficulty breathing (fast, heavy, noisy)
- Increased heart rate
- Drooling / Foaming at the mouth
- Diarrhoea (may be bloody)
- Vomiting
- Weakness / Collapse
- Stupor / confusion
- Drowsy & uncoordinated
- Lethargy (low energy)
- Shaking
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
If your pug experiences any of these symptoms, please seek the advice of your Vet immediately.
Heatstroke is more dangerous the longer it lasts, so the quicker your pug is cooled down and treated by a vet, the better their chance of a full recovery.
In an EMERGENCY:
1) Immediately move your pug to a cooler area, a cool, darkened room or into the shade
2) Cool them down straight away
- Calmly and quickly use cold water (water from the cold tap is fine) over their whole body, or use wet cloths or towels
- Be extremely careful they don’t inhale any water by keeping it away from their nose and mouth
- Offer them a drink of cold water but don’t force them to drink if they don’t want to. Wet their tongue with water instead.
- Create a breeze by opening doors and windows or turning a fan/air-conditioning on
- Put them on top of a cold wet towel.
- Don’t cover them with a wet towel or cuddle them as this will make them even hotter
3) Go to your Vet as soon as possible
- Transport them in an air-conditioned car or with the windows open (ensuring they can’t get out)
- If possible take someone with you to keep cooling them down while you travel
For more advice about heatstroke from PDSA including first-aid, please see:
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/heatstroke-in-dogs
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For latest seasonal advice about hazards & tips, please see our webpage:
Seasonal Hazards for Pugs | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association
by Yasmin | 10 Jun, 2025 | Blog, Pug Health
Article by Helen McKee (MRCVS) PDWRA Vet Advisor.
How can I tell if my pet still has a good quality of life?
All pet owners want their companion to have a good life. As your pet gets older, or if they’re diagnosed with a serious illness, you may worry that they’re suffering and have more bad days than good.
It can be easy to tell if your pet has a really good quality of life – they’re still playful, active, comfortable and enjoying their food normally. Sometimes, it’ll be very noticeable that your pet is in pain and is suffering after an accident or a sudden illness. But it’s more difficult to notice problems when your pet’s quality of life gradually changes over time.
As owners, we get used to the ways our pets slow down as they age and the extra medications they might need to take. It can be difficult to tell when things start to deteriorate and, emotionally, we might not want to admit that they’re struggling.
It’s important for us to be aware of when things might be getting too much for our pet. It means we can start to prepare ourselves and ensure that our beloved friend won’t suffer.
Measuring your pet’s quality of life
Quality of life isn’t measured by just one thing; it takes into account all of the parts of your pet’s mental and physical wellbeing. This means it can be difficult to measure.
Your vet can help you measure your pet’s quality of life. But your vet only sees your pet during an appointment, and they know you are best-placed to understand how they are getting on day to day.
If their quality of life is getting worse, this doesn’t always mean that it’s time to say goodbye. It’s always best to visit the vet if you notice a change in your pet, even if they already have a diagnosis of a serious illness. There may be other medications or management techniques to help your pet. If other options are not right for your pet, then your vet can give you guidance on when it might be the time to say goodbye. It is particularly important if your pug has a terminal disease and medication cannot keep them comfortable.
You can use the pointers below to regularly check on your pet’s quality of life. It’s good to do this regularly as it can help you spot when things are starting to change.
- Are they in pain?
- Do they shake, tremble or pant, even when they’re resting?
- Do they hide away and not want to be touched or stroked?
- Does it seem to you that their pain medication has stopped working?
- Are they struggling to get around?
- Do they struggle to get up without your help?
- Are they unable to exercise, even just gently?
- Do they lie in the same place all day?
- Do they often fall over or lose their balance?
- Do they pant more than usual or seem to be struggling for breath?
- Are they eating and drinking normally?
- Have they lost interest in food, even turning down their favourite treats?
- Are they being sick or suffering from diarrhoea?
- Are they losing weight?
- Are they going to the toilet normally?
- Is your dog struggling to let you know when they need to go outside?
- Is your pet pooing and weeing where they rest?
- Can they keep themselves clean?
- Do they smell of wee or can’t keep their bum clean?
- Does their fur look duller and less healthy than it used to?
- Has the way they behave changed?
- Have they stopped greeting you when you come home?
- Are they hiding or sleeping in strange places?
- Have they stopped being interested in what’s going on around them?
- Does your pet seem unhappy or unwell in themselves?
- Do they seem confused in normal situations?
- How are you coping with looking after them?
- Do you feel overwhelmed by caring for them?
- Are you worried that you can no longer meet their needs?
- Is it becoming more stressful to give medications to them?
- Are they coping overall?
- Are they having more bad days than good days?
- Is your pet finding being medicated very stressful?
- Put yourself in your pet’s position – how do you think they would rate their quality of life?
If the answers to many of these questions is yes, it’s a sign your pet is struggling. You can use these questions as a guide to see if their quality of life is changing. You may feel like you’re able to help them through the changes for a while longer or perhaps that it’s time to consider having your pet put to sleep.
You also need to consider what is important from your individual pet’s point of view. If, at their best, they love to chase their ball, then it will have greater impact on their wellbeing if they can’t do this anymore. Other pets may be fairly happy as long as they’re comfortable and not in pain, even though they can’t race around as well as before. As well as considering the questions above, make a list of your pet’s favourite activities. Think about whether your pet is able to do those activities as normal, less than normal but still acceptably, or not at all. It can help to keep a diary or a log to track changes over weeks, or even months.
What should I do next?
Now is the time to speak to your vet. Talk to them about your pet’s quality of life and what your concerns are. The vet will be able to guide and help you make the right decision.
In Summary
Unfortunately, it is rare for a dog to die peacefully at home without some intervention.
We have to decide if there are more bad days than good, and also ask ourselves, are we doing the best by the pug, or are we being selfish.
For me, I feel it is a gift that we can give our beloved companions, so there is no suffering (unlike humans!) and I personally would rather say goodbye a little earlier than leave later when they could be suffering.
Wishing everyone the strength to make the difficult decision we all need to make at some stage as an owner of a pet.
Helen McKee (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet Advisor.
*****
For other informative pug health articles, please see our web section: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/pug-health/
by Yasmin | 10 Jun, 2025 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Way back, I have wanted to have a dog, particularly a pug but I felt blessed to have neighbours who have a grumble and allowed us to care for them when they went away. These were great times. My partner was also very keen to have a dog, but a big one, particularly a German shepherd. After hours of discussion, we agreed that fostering was a good option for us, and a pug would be more suitable to manage. We completed the online forms to be a foster parent, and had a home check and I think at the time I was not expecting to hear anything again. But less than a fortnight later, I received a call from PDWRA asking if we could foster a little girl for 2 weeks who was about to be surrendered. Of course, we said yes, and arrangements were made between the multiple volunteers to make this happen – they really are heroes – the volunteers put their own lives on hold at a moment’s notice, for free to save pugs.
As our foster girl was coming a long way, we met halfway in a service station. The volunteers passed on the information available, and I sat in the back of the car cuddling and soothing a frightened little black pug who cried all the way home.
Once we were back home, we let her explore and she stopped crying and ate her tea. She had a little walk and was a bit more settled. When darkness fell, the howling started, so we spent the night soothing her. Luckily, nothing wrong with her appetite! After a few days, she was slowly becoming more confident, as we were too. After a week, she seemed more settled and happier and the howling stopped. She was enjoying walking with other pugs, exploring the woods, seeking new sniffs and the outdoor sunshine. I recall a particular day, she had just eaten, worn out from a walk, and she jumped on my lap whilst I was on the sofa and just sat still using me for warmth. This was the moment I realised that she could not go to another home. Arrangements were quickly made, and we formally adopted Martha. I love that we failed at fostering!
Since then, Martha has become the boss – Breakfast is 8am and dinner is 5pm and there is no deviation permitted! Carrot lunch is 12.30 and must not be forgotten. We never knew how strict a pug routine was! She has suffered from the usual pug things, BOAS surgery, eye ulcer and usual pug tummy issues, but thankfully quick to bounce back. We have adjusted to life with a full-time pug jointly enriching our lives. She comes camping with us, loves the beach and exploring. Martha loves company and lucky to be spoiled rotten by grandparents, she walks daily with the grumble in our neighbourhood and is always first to lead us into coffee shops and restaurants, where she behaves impeccably. She will do anything for treats which we do need to watch!
The PDWRA are amazing, they help change lives for many, and we remain ever grateful. I have transported other pugs and love reading about pug adventures from other fosterers and adopters. Each pug is a lovable force that deserves to live their best life.
by Yasmin | 10 Jun, 2025 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Why pugs, why rescue, why the PDWRA? This for us began a long time ago, my eldest son (now 16) fell in love with pugs when he was 4 after meeting a very handsome pug on the Isle of Wight called Dave. A love affair began, which never dwindled, however we could never own a pug because my husband was allergic to pet hair. Fast forward many years and a divorce later, also back on the Isle of Wight, a pug was on holiday in the caravan next to us !! It is fair to say that my son did not relent in his persistence over owing a pug & fate has a funny way sometimes. When we returned home, the research began. I knew I wanted to rescue a dog, there was no way I was buying a puppy when so many dogs need a forever home and the most important part was that whoever came our way, their name had to be Dave.
I researched local pug rescue teams, found the PDWRA and applied. Thankfully we passed all the interviews and were placed on the adoption register. A call came through sometime later asking if we would consider a lovely boy with wonky legs and with a resounding ‘yes’ from our little family of 3 Dave became ours.
I knew nothing about pugs, a lot about dogs but not pugs. I have totally fallen in love with their wacky little characters, their need to be with you, the fact that they are as excited to see you if you have gone into the garden and come straight back in or if you have popped off to the shops, the fact that they have to be on your lap if you are sitting down.
We were smitten! We utterly adored Dave and his existence in our lives changed a lot of things for the better. Sadly, he became very ill, very quickly, a year after we adopted him and was put to sleep in December of 2023. I have known heartbreak but nothing on this level, so whilst scrolling the PDWRA Facebook page in the following January, getting my fix of puggy beauties, I saw a post asking if anyone could give a cute, tiny little innocent looking lady a home! Cue Sandra ….. a sign from Dave I think! She is a pint-sized hurricane of a dog…
We adopted our chaotic 4kg bundle of energy, also known as Sandra, in February 2024 and have not looked back. She is hilarious, stubborn and totally adorable, she absolutely has us wrapped around her little paws. She is our world and owns us, it is not the other way around and our lives are infinitely better with her in charge of our house.
by Yasmin | 5 Jun, 2025 | Blog, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
Finding the right match of pug to adopter can mean literally going the extra mile for the pug in question, and this was the case for Wilfred.
PDWRA have a network of Volunteers who generously give up their time to transport pugs for us, collecting from owners, being part of a transport run, or taking to waiting homes.
In Wilfred’s case he needed to join his adopter near the South Coast, so getting him from his Foster Carer in the North, all the way there, was going to be a challenge!
We already had another pug, Michael who was due to be rehomed further along the South coast to Wilfred’s destination. His journey was already arranged and he was due to travel by train from London. So it made sense for both pugs to travel together, and our Volunteers stepped up to get Wilfred to London in good time to catch his train.
Both Wilfred and Michael travelled in style down to Brighton, attended by Michael’s Foster Carers, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
It’s not usual for pugs to travel by train and we don’t insist on first class ! However, we do welcome those who are able to give up some time on the odd occasion to drive a pug, or pugs, to their destinations.
At the Station they were met by their respective adopters who were overjoyed to make the acquaintance of the new members of their families. Everyone was beaming!
It is such a rewarding way to participate, albeit in a short but important part of a pug’s life.
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Wilfred, at the end of a long day & just the beginning of his new adventure!
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Volunteers are welcome in all parts of the country, and it may be that the trip could be incorporated into a planned visit for business or a family occasion. One of our Volunteers even dropped a pug off to its Forever Home on her way to a funeral !
We are grateful for the time freely given by our Volunteer transporters; pugs could not join their respective fosterers or adopters without their support.
If you are able to help a pug along its life journey by transporting between homes, sometimes in a convoy for longer journeys, please complete the online application form here:
Volunteering for PDWRA | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association
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by Yasmin | 4 Jun, 2025 | Blog, News, Volunteering, Fundraising
💖This week is National Volunteers’ Week, and the perfect time for PDWRA to celebrate its ongoing gratitude to ALL Volunteers! 💖
🤗 THANK YOU ALL! 🤗
We could not help Pugs in Need without the voluntary contributions each & everyone makes with their skills, experience & time. Our costs are covered solely by public donations & fundraising!
Volunteers contribute to all stages that enable rehoming, from Trustees in Management to the regional rehoming co-ordinators (Voluntary Area Co-ordinators – VACs), who facilitate local pug rescue/surrenders, health & welfare assessments, rehabilitation where needed, and organise the onward placements to the pugs’ best-suited homes.
This is where regional, local, Home-checkers & Transporters are essential, volunteering their time to achieve the goal of rehoming Pugs in Need safely and securely.
Additionally, to support these operations, are the dedicated small teams for the PDWRA Facebook Mega Auction group’s Fundraising, plus Communications, managing PDWRA’s Website and Social Media, keeping everyone informed & updated.
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Here’s a recent, wonderful example of Volunteers going the extra mile to get pugs along their life’s journey to their Forever Homes. In this case, Wilfred & Michael reaching their respective Forever Homes.
Read the full story with more photographs, here: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/thank-you-pdwra-volunteers-transporters/
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Volunteers are welcome from all parts of the country.
We are grateful for the time freely given by our Volunteer Transporters, as well as Home-Checkers; Pugs could not join their respective Fosterers or Adopters without them!
To find out more about Volunteering to Transport or to Home-check or Foster, please see our webpage: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteering-for-pdwra/
For other dedicated Voluntary roles to consider. See our Vacancies at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteer-opportunities-at-pdwra/
by Yasmin | 2 Jun, 2025 | Pug Home Appeal, Blog, Rescue Stories
👏 * GREAT NEWS UPDATE: Ray & Carla have found their Perfect Forever Home, together of course! * 👏
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RAYMOND (RAY) & CARLA.
This Brother and Sister pair, are 8 years old and very devoted to each other. Ray more so than Carla. He’s a sensitive soul and uneasy if she’s not around.
Both were quite lively on first arrival with their fosterer but have calmed down now they are in a routine and regularly walked.
Carla is a cuddly affectionate pug and loves the company of humans. Happy and calm around other dogs and accepting of cats. She is friendly and inquisitive on meeting people, though not tested on children.
Carla is to undergo surgery to improve her breathing. Once recovered, she will be able to enjoy life to the full. Both are neutered.
Ray is a gentle pug who loves to be stroked, he can suffer from anxiety and is at his happiest in the company of humans and with Carla by his side. Almost totally blind in one eye, he has adapted extremely well and this does not hinder his ability to enjoy the world around him.
He needs regular application of eye drops to ensure the eye is properly lubricated. Ray’s very sociable and gentle with other dogs, he can be friendly but rather shy on first meeting new people.
He gets on well with cats but will try to steal their food!
Ray prefers to walk in more peaceful settings away from traffic noise.
Both will thrive in a peaceful and calm household with love and affection. They do suffer with separation anxiety which will need to be worked on. A home with children over 10 years is advised.
Please also ensure you have read PDWRA’s Guidelines & Conditions for Adopting, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
If you have any specific questions about Ray & Carla, or your application for them, please email Jackie at: se@nullpugwelfare-rescue.org.uk
Afterwards, do check your email spam/junk or deleted folders, in case any new mails from us aren’t recognised as safe-senders.
** We offer A £100 discount (£50 per pug), when adopting a Bonded-Pair of Pugs! **
Thank you!
******
To see the difference adoption can make to your life and theirs, see some of our heart-warming Rescue & Adoption Stories for Bonded-Pairs at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/perfect-pairs/
by Yasmin | 2 Jun, 2025 | Pug Home Appeal, Blog, Rescue Stories
👏 ** HAPPY NEWS UPDATE: Daphne & Vera have their Perfect Home Together! ** 👏
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DAPHNE & VERA
Five years old, and both spayed, Daphne and Vera are a devoted bonded-pair of pugs.
Vera is the more outgoing of the two, Daphne prefers to just chill out with her humans.
Both are in good health with Daphne recovering from recent dental surgery. She will be back to normal by the time they have their Forever Home to move to.
Daphne has a sweet, friendly nature, very well behaved on and off the lead. She is very calm when meeting children and is happy for them to stroke her gently. She can be startled by loud noises though, in and outside the home.
She loves her walks but you must allow for plenty of sniffing time, as she likes to take her time!
Vera is not so quick to trust people, she likes to get to know them. Give her time and space and she will make her own choices.
She is not happy being approached by strangers trying to pet her, and for this reason, care should be taken when out walking as she suffers from fear aggression and may nip the unwary. This may be partly due to a slight sight impairment as she can also be taken by surprise in dim light.
Toys are her absolute joy and she will play all day.
Both are happy living with other dogs and cats, but would be better suited with children over 10 years who can respect Vera’s boundaries.
Please also ensure you have read PDWRA’s Guidelines & Conditions for Adopting, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
If you have any specific questions about Daphne & Vera or your application, please email Jackie at: se@nullpugwelfare-rescue.org.uk
Afterwards, do check your email spam/junk or deleted folders, in case any new mails from us aren’t recognised as safe-senders.
** We offer A £100 discount (£50 per pug), when adopting a Bonded-Pair of Pugs! **
Thank you!
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To see the difference adoption can make to your life and theirs, see some of our heart-warming Rescue & Adoption Stories for Bonded-Pairs at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/perfect-pairs/
by Yasmin | 2 Jun, 2025 | Pug Home Appeal, Blog, Rescue Stories
👏 ** WONDERFUL NEWS UPDATE: Cleo & Elmo have already found their Perfect forever Home! ** 👏
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ORIGINAL APPEAL:
Cleo and Elmo are 8 year old siblings, super-bonded to each other.
They are used to living with other dogs but are just as happy in each other’s company. They are both neutered.
Cleo has one eye, the other must be kept lubricated to ensure it remains healthy. She is easy going and gets on with everyone, the more confident of the pair. She has had surgery on both hind legs for luxating patella but this does not hinder her mobility. Care should be taken however not to over walk her beyond her comfort zone.
Elmo is more dependant on Cleo and does not like to be parted from her. He’s easy going and very calm but is anxious if not within sight of Cleo.
Both love to sit with their humans and enjoy cuddles on the sofa. They mix well with other dogs and are used to children. Not tested on cats. An easy-going pair who should fit in with most households providing they have plenty of opportunities for cuddles, and are walked within their capabilities.
These charming siblings will bring a lot of love and devoted companionship to anyone’s home.
Please also ensure you have also read PDWRA’s Guidelines & Conditions for Adopting, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
** Don’t Forget – We offer A £100 discount (£50 per pug), when adopting a Bonded-Pair of Pugs! **
Thank you!
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To see the difference adoption can make to your life and theirs, see some of our heart-warming Rescue & Adoption Stories for Bonded-Pairs at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/perfect-pairs/
by Yasmin | 28 May, 2025 | Pug Home Appeal, Blog, Rescue Stories
👏 ** GREAT NEWS, Dec has his Forever Home lined up, following an amazing response in Applications for him, Lucky Boy! ** 👏
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APPEAL INFORMATION:
This is two year old Dec who’s looking for his adoptive home!
He’s an affectionate boy who enjoys a fuss being made of him, as well as companionship.
🐾 Dec is very active and enjoys long walks.
🐾 He can live with kind, respectful children of five plus years.
🐾 Dec can live as an only dog, or potentially with another compatible dog who will appreciate his youthful excitability.
🐾 He will need to be fed separately, as is very food-orientated.
🐾 Unfortunately, Dec does not like cats!
Dec is neutered, vaccinated and in good health.
His housetraining is work in progress. Walking regularly helps and he really loves his walks.
Patience and routine is a must for him.
Dec responds to basic commands though training to wait for treats for example will need work on! 😄
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Dec responds to basic commands though training to wait for treats for example, needs work on!
He can be nervous/scared if unsure, or hears loud noises or someone approaches suddenly though can be comfortably examined by a vet.
This delightful young boy will bring a lot of joy and life to any home!
Thank You!
If you have any specific questions about Dec, or your application, please email Jane & Cara at: central@nullpugwelfare-rescue.org.uk
Please ensure you have read PDWRA’s Guidelines & Conditions for Adopting, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
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Please also take a look at our sample of happy, successful Rescue & Adoption Stories, to see the mutual joy that adopting brings, at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/category/rescue-stories/
by Yasmin | 20 May, 2025 | Pug Home Appeal, Blog, Rescue Stories
👏 ** WONDERFUL NEWS UPDATE: Danny has been ADOPTED! ** 👏
THANK YOU for all your responses!
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APPEAL INFORMATION:
This is Danny, a 1 year old bundle of fun, recently neutered & up to date with all his jabs.
Danny loves other dogs. He just loves to play but gets frustrated & barky if other dogs don’t want to play as energetically as him.
So, Danny is looking for a young, fit playmate or two maybe, which would suit him best. He probably wouldn’t cope well as an only dog as he’s always looking for energetic stimulation & fun!
He’s unfortunately not a cat-person though!
He likes to carry objects around but he doesn’t chew them & he’s also tried agility which would be very good for developing his skills for this.
Because of the full and busy home where unfortunately Danny was crated a lot, he does have separation anxiety & shouldn’t be crated any more. What he needs is time & attention with adults at home a lot or working from home.
This also means he is very wary of children, therefore a home with no children, or calm, responsible older children (over 10yrs) would be better suited.
Likewise, Danny is initially nervous of men but will be fine once he learns to trust them. He does travel well in a car.
Danny is a lovely young boy who just needs a family to love him & give him all the attention and security he needs, with opportunities to release his boundless energy & just enjoy him!
It will be a win-win for whoever adopts our dynamic Danny!
If you have any specific questions about him, or your application please email Lisa at: east@nullpugwelfare-rescue.org.uk
Please read our Guidelines & conditions for Adopting, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
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Also, you can see a sample of happy, successful Rescue & Adoption Stories, that show the mutual joy that adopting a pug brings, at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/category/rescue-stories/
by Yasmin | 13 May, 2025 | Blog, News, Volunteering, Fundraising
Leona Black is fundraising for The PDWRA
On May 11th, Leona ran in the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run 10K in aid of the PDWRA!
Leona says ‘I’m running to raise money for this wonderful charity that I adopted our pug Bertie from.
They helped me daily whilst I got to know Bertie and paid for the operations he needed, which cost a lot!
They do this for every pug in their care that needs medical help. I also volunteer with them, helping to find new homes for pugs.
10km is a lot for me – I’m currently at 7km (with a couple of breathers 😆) and plan to up the distance a little bit each time I run along the Bristol Portway.’
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So a Very Well Done & Thanks to Leona from all at PDWRA including the pugs she will be able to help!
Leona finished with lots of support, saying, “It was so great, and I’ve raised £680 now! Thank you so much for all the love and support xx “
Looking at Leona’s Fundraising page on Tuesday 13th her Total had increased to: £800.14 + £177.25 Gift Aid!
Please continue to Donate!
Just click below to visit her Just Giving page here: Leona Black is fundraising for The PDWRA
Every little helps!
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For more information and examples of how to raise funds for PDWRA, please go to:
Fundraising & Events 2025 | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association
by Yasmin | 11 May, 2025 | Blog, Rescue Stories, In Memoriam
By Donna:
In March we had to say goodbye to our beloved 13.5yr old pug Frank.
Frank was adopted from PDWRA in 2014 when he was just 2.5yrs old and it was the single most best decision we ever made!
He slotted into our family life as if he’d always been a part of it.
Like any pug, his presence and personality were huge and in the village we lived in until our early retirement. Everyone knew and loved him, he was our superstar!
After we retired and relocated, Frank was becoming quite stiff on his hind legs and a trip to the vets down here confirmed osteoarthritis, prescribed Onsior and checked 6 monthly.
Frank improved greatly on this for a while, then later was diagnosed with dementia, loss of some sight and most of his hearing. At 13yrs old, he was still a happy little chap and coping well with his ageing.
Sadly though, 6 months later he went into respiratory distress, and along with our vets, who were wonderfully supportive, agreed it was the right time to say goodbye to our wonderful little man.
Frank went peacefully surrounded by his family and all the love in the world which he so richly deserved.
FRANK
You left owing us nothing but to you, we owe the world. 💔
The stained corners of furniture from the joy of rubbing your face into anything and everything, hair, goodness, the hair, it fell on and into anything and everything.
The cacophony of weird indescribable noises and incessant barking at Eastenders theme tune.
The constant tippy tapping nail noises on anything that wasn’t carpeted. I moaned, probably every day of the 11yrs we had you about it, but I would have all that back in a heartbeat Frank, rather than the silence we’re left with today.
R.I.P my wonderful, snuffly, funny, gentle little chicken nugget. You will be missed more than you will ever know….until we meet again my friend. 💔💔
Your Mum & Dad,
Donna & Brian.
I would also like to thank the PDWRA for their faith and trust in us as adoptive pug parents. It was an honour and a privilege to have known Frank for 11yrs, and to have cared for him. He was the link in our family, he made our family what it is today, so much so that my eldest daughter, her partner and my two young granddaughters are now the proud adoptive parents of a wonderful pug!
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To pay tribute to your sadly lost and beloved PDWRA pug on this, our dedicated In Memoriam web page:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/category/in-memoriam/
please email your story, or whatever you would like to say about them, with photos,
to: yasmin.t.pdwra@nullgmail.com
by Yasmin | 8 May, 2025 | Blog, News, Volunteering, Fundraising
🎉This is Daphne, the most sociable PDWRA pug, joining in VE 80th Anniversary celebrations wherever she can! 🎊
Daphne is one of our many happily adopted pugs who we appealed for a home for last year.
Ever since, Daphne’s Mum, artist Shirley, inspired by Daphne of course, has been generously using her talent to donate funds to PDWRA. Many pugs are drawn each month but not restricted to them, any breed, or animal included!
Shirley donated over £2,000 last year alone & she’s drawing every week from her order list!
Daphne!
If you would like to own a unique and personal portrait of any four-legged animal, please don’t hesitate to place an order.
Each portrait costs £15 only, where Shirley donates £10 directly to PDWRA, and £5 covers post, packaging & materials. All you need to do is provide the photo you wish her to use.
Please do so from within PDWRA’s Facebook Mega Auction Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/242845766241493/permalink/1899302960595757
You can private message Shirley from there.
We can’t thank Shirley enough for her generosity, as well as the joy she has brought to so many.
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/order-your-unique-pet-portraits-while-donating-to-pugs/
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To see why fundraising is so essential for our work in rehoming pugs plus other ways you may be able to raise funds to help, please see:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fundraising-events/
by Yasmin | 29 Apr, 2025 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
Speaking from one dog collar to another – The joy of being a long-term fosterer with PDWRA…
It was the run up to Christmas 2023, late evening and I needed a break from sermon writing, so started surfing the internet, and because of my interest in pugs came across the PDWRA, and their appeal for fosterers. I can do that – I thought. My work is based at home; the house is pug friendly with a third of an acre of secure garden. Most importantly was I needed to check with Horace and Doris, the resident pugs, and Big Trevor who I was looking after for a member of my congregation (who incidentally ended up staying). Permission granted and I completed the forms; a home check followed, and the rest as they say is history. My first foster pug came in early February, a lovely 9-year fawn pug. She settled in straight away and a home was already lined up for her. She stayed for a few days holiday before going to her forever home.
Julie’s full Grumble!
After speaking to my regional co-ordinator Dee, I shared my love of those pugs that had additional needs.
Having worked as a regional fundraiser for a national animal welfare charity for 15 years it saddened me when those that are elderly, not attractive to look at, or have medical or social needs are overlooked in favour of the younger dogs, when often all they need is someone to understand and love them for who they are. These are the pugs that I have a passion for, have experience of caring for and am happy to share my life and my home with.
I didn’t need to wait long. Dee rang to ask if I would take a bonded pair. Of course, was my reply. My first black pugs – Cissie and Ada, (mum and daughter) joined us. Cissie was 13 and Ada 11 and a half. Both were wonky on their back legs and continence was becoming an issue, but apart from that they were absolutely fine. They have been a joy to have around and can still get about. Howard and Hilda came a few weeks later. Howard was 14 and Hilda 11. Both settled in immediately. They still enjoy a toddle around the village.
Betty came in the summer, an 11-year-old who came from another region. After a dental she became one of the more lively pugs in the grumble, and last but definitely not least came Mr Godfrey, who arrived at the end of the summer. He was overweight and struggling to walk. A trip to the vet diagnosed Degenerative Myelopathy. A strict diet meant he has lost weight, has regular physio and hydrotherapy and started to get around on his wheels and a happier pug you couldn’t wish to meet. Feeding time is organised and everyone waits their turn.
Mr Godfrey, Big Trevor and Doris
As everyone who lives with a pug will tell you, they are unique characters, and you soon see past their age or condition. I don’t notice Horace’s one eye, liver shunt and his post clip alopecia, Big Trev’s Sudden Acute Retinal Degeneration, (He lost his eyesight totally in just over a week last month and is now learning to get around blind, but the rest of the grumble support him). They are a joy to come home to and always lift the spirit.
My job enables me to sometimes take them to work with me and visits to care homes for an afternoon of ‘Pugs and Mugs’ are always popular where the everyone gets to fuss a pug and share a mug of tea and a cake (the pugs ensure there are no crumbs on the floor!), and pet blessings are always fun to do, and mine get to take the service with me.
Of course, there is the sad side when they make the journey over the rainbow bridge. As I was writing this article I had to wave goodbye to Betty, as she had developed a suspected brain tumour and very suddenly went downhill. I stayed with her till the end, and she spent her final hours before and after crossing with her grumble family. As sad as it was, I am so grateful for the time she spent with all of us and the difference her life made to ours, and it makes me even more determined to give these older pugs the best quality of life they can possibly have for as long as they can.
Cissie & Ada, and the Grumble peering through the gate
Myself, like all other volunteers; fosterers, fundraisers, drivers, vets, trustees, co-ordinators are each a cog in the wheel that is PDWRA and a big thank you needs to go to those behind the scenes who by their own volunteering allow the charity to continue to do what it does best, caring for pugs. But this can only happen alongside a sustainable income, which is why I also advocate leaving a legacy, and / or regular giving to enable the charity to continue in the future.
I see my role as a long-term fosterer as a privilege and I keep in regular contact with Dee, my regional co-ordinator and send updates all of the time, the charity support their medical needs, and Abbey Vets have been an amazing support. Through PDWRA I have met some wonderful people and pugs, and this has become a holiday home for some of the fostered / adopted pugs with additional needs. It all adds to the grumble and variety.
Betty & Horace
To anyone considering fostering, I would say, don’t overlook the bonded pairs, those with additional needs, they are a joy, and the elderly – with age comes wisdom
The only thing is you might need to get is a bigger sofa, so that there is enough room for everyone!
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For more information about Fostering and to apply, please see:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
