by Yasmin | 9 Jun, 2023 | Blog, Rescue Stories
This is George. His owner was afraid of him. We were told he would try to bite her around food and had been taken to a vet to be put to sleep due to this.
Thankfully the vet refused and suggested they surrendered George to the PDWRA.
When he came into foster with us, it was obvious that he had never been socialised or even walked! He was naturally very nervous and anxious but never showed aggression in his fosterer’s care. As you can guess, he just needed some investment and care.
Thanks to the dedicated work of his fosterers, George is now transformed into a happy confident boy, ready for his forever home.
During that time a wonderful home was found for him though quite a long distance across the country which normally might have required the coordination of 4 or more volunteer transporters.
However, George’s devoted new adopters drove for nearly 10 hours to collect him and take him to his forever home.
Here is George fitting right in with his new siblings, PDWRA rescue 13 year-old Bobby, and rescue Yorkshire terrier Penny.
George’s new Dad says of him, “I think you can see he’s fairly relaxed. Doing wonderfully well at the moment. Good as gold around the house and great pals with Penny and Bobby. It’s a joy to have him with us”. 👌😁
Firmly settled in and one of the family. He’s a lovely lad, healthy as can be and he particularly loves his Mum. As you can see Bobby has a real purpose for him!
PDWRA couldn’t wish for better fosterers or adopters for our pugs in need!
If you would like to provide a forever home by adopting, please apply at:
If you would like to help a pug along its journey by fostering, please apply at:
by Yasmin | 8 Jun, 2023 | Blog, News, Pug Health
Written by Helen McKee (MRCVS), PDWRA Vet Advisor:
I thought I’d make my regular pug-health article a little different this time, partly in honour of both Lily and Missy whom we have lost in the last 2 months, but also to illustrate the number of (pug related/over represented) health issues of pugs.
From left to right: Lily, Missy (centre), Doug (back), Hugo, Suki (front).
To begin with, all 5 have had at least two dentals!
Doug came to us in September 2018. He had a large sub-dermal mast cell tumour, BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive airway Syndrome) and pigmentary keratitis (pigment on the cornea). He immediately had the tumour removed, along with BOAS surgery at Langford, Bristol Vet School’s Referral Hospital.
Since then, he has had surgery on both eyes to reduce exposure ( bilateral medial canthoplasty), and a further mast cell tumour removed.
Doug has also had chronic nasal infections (investigated with CT) as a result of a fistula between his mouth and and his nose.
Hugo we have had since young. In the 1st two years ,we used all of the £7,000 annual insurance premium on him, a total of £14,000! Something pug owners may be familiar with, or need to bear in mind when considering budgeting for potential medical cover and costs.
Hugo had seizures ( MRI), sudden onset wobbly back legs ( MRI- hemivertibrae revealed, along with malformations of his lumbosacral area) and a corneal graft to mention a few, all of which are pug related health issues.
He has had an overlong palate reduced ( BOAS) and unfortunately, in the last 2 years lost an eye when a foreign body penetrated his cornea.
Hugo has also recently developed a serious gut disease called PLE (protein losing enteropathy) , which is seen all too commonly in pugs. He is presently well controlled with immune suppressive medication but is unlikely to make it to the end of the year.
Missy and sister Lily only came to us in June last year, when their Mum knew she was dying and asked us to look after the pair for the rest of their days. We originally fostered Missy in 2019, who
then was adopted by the lady whom we became friends with, and who bequeathed us Missy and Lily.
Missy was almost completely blind due to pigmentary keratitis caused by (untreated) dry eye ( KCS-Keratoconjunctivitus Sicca). The thick pigment almost completely covered both her corneas but she managed very well and loved her walks despite very little vision.
In the last month her health deteriorated rapidly with swelling of her abdomen. Ultra sound revealed a tumour involving her stomach, bladder and spleen, and we put Missy to sleep at the beginning of May. This cancer was not to do with being a pug, but just very unfortunate.
Lily, however, came to us last June with significant ataxia ( wobbly back legs) and faecal incontinence due to spinal cord compression ( so called pug ‘myelopathy’) which many of you will have had the misfortune to have experienced. We knew she didn’t have too long and lasted until February this year, when Lily sadly could no longer walk and her bladder stopped working.
Finally, our dear Suki, whom we adopted in June 2018 at the age of 8 years. We thought she would have a very limited life span and here she is, still with us five years later at the grand age of 13!
When we picked up Suki, she had great difficulty breathing. She turned ‘blue’ just trying to walk.
Again, Suki was operated at Langford, and had BOAS surgery. Unfortunately, she had many secondary changes including grade 3 laryngeal collapse, which we manage with appropriate exercise.
Suki also had severe dental disease, so has had to have all her teeth removed, hence her lolling tongue, however she manages well with soft food.
In January 2022. Suki developed a non-healing eye ulcer, and because of the poor quality of her cornea, she had a conjunctival flap.
We count every day with this feisty character a blessing!
From left to right: 8 year old Doug,11 year old Hugo, 10 year old Missy ( black), 12 year old Lily and 13 year old (tongue out!) Suki.
RIP Missy (May ’23) and Lily (February ’23)
So in summary, the following are conditions that are seen in pugs due to their breeding/shape or are conditions we see over represented in pugs, and we have seen in all of our pugs:-
Dental Disease (February ’23 newsletter)
Seizures (April ’23 newsletter)
Mast Cell Tumours – over represented in pugs (December ’22 newsletter)
& for future newsletter articles:-
Eyes (exposed cornea, dry eye, corneal ulcers) and treatment
BOAS and treatment
PLE – over represented in pugs
Spinal conditions caused by malformations of the spine/compression of the spinal cord
What I wanted to highlight is the number of health issues pugs are prone to, which is worth considering before giving a forever home to a pug, as well as the importance of insurance or funds to be able to pay for, what can be, very expensive tests and treatment.
Helen (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet Advisor.
For other pug health articles please see:
Pug Health & Wellbeing | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
by Yasmin | 7 Jun, 2023 | Blog, Rescue Stories
In her past life Lucy had been used extensively for breeding. She was extremely underweight when she was surrendered to us late last year and we reported on her progress in the new year after some amazing care and attention by her fosterer Anne, overseeing her much needed medical treatment.
Lucy, was finally in good shape to go to her forever home!
This is a description of her happy ever after from her devoted dad, Chris. Lucy also has a new name, Molly!
“She arrived still underweight but had a great start with her fosterers. She was on 4 meals a day, so our other 2 also didn’t mind having 4 meals a day too! She must have had to fight for her food before she was handed over to the PDWRA, and was very guarding of her food, although she’s a lot better now.
She soon settled in with our other pugs, Arthur and Bunty who get on brilliantly with her.
She’s now 7.5kg, and on 3 meals a day and daily walks which she loves. Molly is great with other dogs and has made friends with other dogs in the village.
Arthur is 13 and can’t walk very well, so he has a buggy, Molly often jumps in if she gets tired or just wants to snuggle with Arthur (they adore each other).
Like any pug, she’s like Velcro and will follow me or my partner from room to room. She can easily climb the stairs, but has to be carried down as she’s unsure about that part! She also gets carried upstairs every night even though she can walk up, it’s just become her routine.
Molly often sleeps under the covers, loves to be warm, and I can’t imagine life without her.”
If you could provide a forever home by adopting a pug in need, please apply at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
If you would like to help a pug along its journey by fostering, please apply at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 5 Jun, 2023 | Blog, In Memoriam
Sheldon Pugglewin Passed away 03/06/2023.
Sheldon was the life and mischievous soul who would always make sure his presence was known at every PDWRA party, be it the Halloween parade or the Christmas pug parties.
He would make so many laugh with his antics 😂
Sadly, the day before his 10th birthday he started to develop seizures and we tried medications but sadly to no avail, and he passed away on Saturday 03/06/2023.
I knew his days were coming to an end so I took him to his favourite park, Woodbank Park, where we would meet other people from the pug groups and gave him his last bowl of ice cream whilst we watched the sun together.
I never knew how much Sheldon became my whole life or how much love one little pup could give to so many people just from the smile on his face.
Sweet dreams my little boy.
Sheldon Pugglewin 24/04/2013 – 03/06/2023
We send our sincere condolences to Jen and Sheldon’s family.
******
To pay tribute to your sadly lost and beloved PDWRA pug on our dedicated In Memoriam web page,
at: 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 | 3 Jun, 2023 | Blog, News, Volunteering
Interview with Jane, Voluntary Area Coordinator for Cornwall, Devon and Dorset in the South West.
Our Voluntary Area Coordinators (VACs) provide an essential service to the charity, coordinating and running the process around taking in surrendered pugs, home checking new adoptive families and matching pugs to their adoptive homes.
Jane with her partner, Jon.
Can you tell us how you got involved in the charity?
I have always had a passion for dogs. Alongside work, I have volunteered and fostered for a local dog rescue. I was asked to foster a pug and the rest as they say is history! I started with the PDWRA in 2013 and initially i was asked to help coordinate and organise a sponsored walk to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the charity. I was pleased but surprised how many people turned up to support such a great cause.
Who do you work with in the local area?
I work alongside Coordinator Cara, who looks after Somerset and Avon – we can chat about pugs for hours. I also work alongside Maureen in Devon. Maureen’s voluntary experience originated many years ago from the Wales and West Pug Rescue, and her pug knowledge and connections are always valued.
As a national charity, I work with all the area coordinators. We work together as a team to help each other find suitable foster or adoptive homes across the country. Sometimes I also cover other regions for VACs when they are away on leave.
I also couldn’t do the role without all the invaluable support offered by home checkers, transporters and fosterers in the region.
What does it take to be successful in the role?
I think you have to be a real ‘people and pug person’ -happy to communicate in a non-judgmental manner with a broad variety of people. Each family wanting to surrender a pug has a unique set of circumstances and some of them need a lot of support around the emotional stress of giving up a pug. On the plus side, it’s great to oversee the pugs on their journey into adoptive homes. Because many of our pugs have such longevity, you often stay in touch with families for a long time over the pug’s lifetime.
You need passion, patience and dedication for the role. It obviously takes time, so that is a factor, but it is incredibly rewarding.
Please tell us about your grumble?
I currently live with three elderly pugs, two original rescues, Poppy and Teddy, that were fosters for my local rescue, and Percy who is from the PDWRA.
I have fostered many dogs and pugs over the years, often those that are at the end of their lives or who have medical conditions that make them difficult to rehome – I call them the ‘wonkies’. I like to be able to give those dogs a happy home for their final years.
Would you like to add any other comments?
I’d like to thank all those supporters of the PDWRA, who help pugs, particularly those in the less visible roles such as our home checkers, and transport volunteers. Last but not least my very patient family!
Also, if you are thinking of volunteering for PDWRA but are not sure, then please do talk to the trustees or your local VACs about it. There are so many roles available including for VACs, and all volunteering helps save and rehome a pug in need.
Volunteering for PDWRA
Fostering
Volunteer Opportunities at PDWRA!
by Yasmin | 2 Jun, 2023 | Blog, News, Volunteering
Volunteers Week takes place 1-7 June every year. It’s a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make, and to say Thank You!
PDWRA is solely run by volunteers, therefore we wanted to take the time to thank each and every one of our fantastic volunteers, without whom we would not be able to do what we do for Pugs, often in desperate Need!
From those at the front-line facilitating pug surrenders, fostering and rehabilitating with expert care.
To those matching and transporting pugs to fully vetted forever homes.
To those spreading the word about the PDWRA’s work, at Events, on Social Media, our Website and Newsletters.
THANK YOU! From PDWRA and All the Pugs!
by Yasmin | 26 May, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
**JUNE UPDATE: GREAT NEWS, Freddie has found his Forever Home!**
Freddie is still patiently waiting for us to find a forever home for him. One where he will have his human/s all to himself!
10 year-old Freddie is being cared for very well in foster, where he isn’t the only canine which is why we’re confident that he really needs to be, to thrive comfortably, and enjoy the rest of his days. In return he will be the most loving and loyal companion to his human/s.
We recognise this situation is rare in our pug communities, but if your circumstances have changed or you know anyone who may be suited to Freddie’s needs, please apply for him.
You could also help Freddie by sharing this appeal to friends or local groups. He would be very grateful.
Thank you!
Please read more about Freddie, and how to apply, HERE!
Freddie is looking for a peaceful forever home!
by Yasmin | 20 May, 2023 | Blog, News, Fundraising
*UPDATED 22nd May, 8pm* NOW CLOSED for the Draw,
for a chance to win another Dog-friendly, Luxury Cornish Caravan Holiday, courtesy of a kind donator and PDWRA volunteer, Tara!
All to raise much needed funds for PDWRA.
Based on Trevella Park, Crantock, Cornwall, this very comfortable 2 bedroom caravan, with 2 toilets & a shower, private WiFi, TV in lounge & main bedroom, washing machine, double glazed with central heating. Secured decking & private parking, dog friendly (up to 2 medium size or 3 small sized dogs). Crantock beach (owned by the National Trust) is one of the best beaches in Cornwall & is dog friendly ALL YEAR
Go to PDWRA Mega Auction For Pugs In Need, https://www.facebook.com/groups/242845766241493 for full details and to purchase tickets!
Tickets are £2 each. The Winning ticket will be drawn Monday evening, 22nd May @8pm by an independent adjudicator using a random number generator.
A one-week holiday, to be taken from one of the following dates:-
2023: October 14th or 28th
or
2024: March 9th, 16th or 23rd
Crantock beach is one of the best beaches in Cornwall & is dog friendly all year round.
The Draw will take place at 8pm on Monday 22nd May.
The lucky winner will be picked by an independent person using the random.org number generator.
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!
by Yasmin | 17 May, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
**JUNE UPDATE: GREAT NEWS, Freddie has found his Forever Home!**
This is 10 year-old Freddie. He needs to be in a home as an only dog.
This is mainly due to his poor eyesight as he will snap when he’s frightened by sudden movements and feeling vulnerable. Freddie enjoys a warm lap to himself as he loves his trusted humans and to feel reassured and safe. He is a lovely Pug who adores being cuddled and purrs with contentment when being stroked!
Freddie has overcome a lot already, since he first came into the charity weighing under 5 kilos, now 7, and is enjoying a new lease of life in our excellent fosterer’s care. In his previous life he was kept in a very small crate for long periods of time so when he gets excited he will circle. He is also very food orientated!
He may be 10 years old but he is an energetic and loving companion. He loves his walks and is good on the lead also when visiting the vets. He likes to explore the garden but naturally needs to be in a securely fenced-in garden because of his eyesight.
Finding the right forever home is important for Freddie. He is comfortable being alone for short periods of time but will get upset for a few minutes when first left. He is a very sweet little pug who enjoys attention from humans. His favourite place is with you on your knee, or a soft bed with a furry blanket on it!
Freddie is a very loyal companion when he falls in love with a human. His perfect home will be a quiet one with no other dogs, cats or children.
If you can provide Freddie with this, or know someone who would be interested in giving Freddie his perfect forever home with all the love and attention he so deserves, please apply at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Quoting Reference: FREDDIE 23056 on your application form.
If you are already registered with us and are interested in adopting Freddie, please speak to your Area Coordinator directly.
Thank You!
by Yasmin | 6 May, 2023 | Blog, News, Events
To celebrate the coronation of King Charles III today, here are a number of our fabulous pugs joining into the spirit of events!
by Yasmin | 29 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Peppa is a very special pug, estimated to be around three years old when she came into our care with an irreversibly damaged eye. She had emergency surgery to remove it along with surgery on her remaining eye, to prevent the same happening to it.
She also has an abnormally shaped back leg which we believe was due to being crated for long periods, restricting her development. This can limit her walks to 20-30 minutes but despite all this, Peppa is an amazingly happy, energetic and loving pug, with a zest for life.
We have been reporting on her progress: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/peppas-progress/
Peppa has now had surgery on one of her legs, and is recovering well, so will be ready for her forever home when this is fully completed.
Although tiny (5kg!), Peppa can be very bossy, bark a lot and play a little too roughly with dogs her own size.
Download to view video: a3ec1d7a-c154-41ba-a91c-5edef7be3676
We are therefore looking for a very specific home for Peppa, ideally with a larger well-balanced dog, who she will enjoy playing with, and a human who has sound dog experience, able to deal with her dominant nature.
Download to view video: 10d8a7cb-5b57-48ca-b85d-a238f7e9b3b7
Peppa needs a home with someone who is around most of the time as she loves the attention, and better suited with older children only.
Peppa is sweet, funny and a joy, and it is hard not to fall in love with her!
If you feel you can give a home to Peppa where she can thrive, please apply at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Quoting Reference: PEPPA 23007 on your application form.
If you are already on our waiting list and are interested in adopting Peppa, please speak to your Area Coordinator directly.
More of Peppa’s story can be found at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/peppas-progress/
THE BEST NEWS is that Peppa has recovered fully and off to her forever home!
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/peppas-amazing-progress-ready-for-her-forever-home/
Thank you!
by Yasmin | 28 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Fantastic news: Bobby has found his special, forever home!
In the meantime, he has progressed really well in foster despite the overhead distractions of birds and planes there.
Many things have been tried to help him find a sense of calm and safety, including licky mats, scatter feeding, chews, quiet time with the curtains closed and without noise, plus rewarding him when he is relaxed, quiet and calm.
He likes to be involved, here with the gardening, plus his love of the car meant he wanted to go to the Tip too!
We wish Bobby all the best, and that his progress continues in his forever home, so very carefully selected for him by our VAC team.
We also can’t thank our devoted fosterer, who has helped Bobby so much towards getting the best out his his onward life’s journey!
Bobby urgently needs his forever home!
by Yasmin | 25 Apr, 2023 | In Memoriam
From Peppa’s Mum, Diana.
“Peppa passed away unexpectedly at the age of ten and we are all devastated at the loss.
She was full of love and totally devoted to her family. Every door you opened she appeared behind and followed us wherever we went.
She was loved as much as she loved us, and the gap she has left is immense. She really was the best little companion you could ever ask for.
We miss you so much little Peps.
Love from all your family, especially Mum, Dad, Florrie and Niamh.
Mac is wondering where you are and misses your cuddles. Love you so much little pup, you can rest now. xxx”
******
To pay tribute to your sadly lost and beloved PDWRA pug on this dedicated web page,
please email your story, or whatever you would like to say about them, with photos, to: yasmin.t.pdwra@nullgmail.com
by Yasmin | 21 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Fundraising
*** This Raffle has now closed ***
This Luxury Cornish Caravan Holiday has been WON, courtesy of a very kind donator!
****
Go to PDWRA Mega Auction For Pugs In Need, https://www.facebook.com/groups/242845766241493 to find out more, and purchase tickets!
Tickets are £2 each. Raffle closes at 8pm on Sunday 23rd April.
A one-week holiday, to be taken from one of the following dates:-
2023: October 7th, 14th or 28th
or
2024: March 9th, 16th or 23rd
Based on Trevella Park, Crantock, Cornwall, the comfortable 2 bedroom caravan, has 2 toilets & shower, private WiFi, TV in lounge & main bedroom, washing machine, double glazing & central heating.
Of course, the caravan is dog friendly, allowing up to 3 small dogs or 2 larger dogs!
With secured decking & private parking.
Crantock beach is one of the best beaches in Cornwall & is dog friendly all year round.
The Draw will take place at 8pm on Sunday 23rd April.
The lucky winner will be picked by an independent person using the random.org number generator.
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!
by Yasmin | 15 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
* Bobby has since found his forever home!* https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/bobby-has-found-his-forever-home/
Bobby is a very sweet 2 year-old boy who desperately needs to be settled into a forever home as soon as possible.
He lived as an only dog with a young family who unfortunately couldn’t cope with him, likely due to being unable to give him the attention and socialisation he needed, which has made him an anxious young boy.
Bobby is naturally an active, playful, inquisitive and affectionate pug who loves company and interaction. His misbehaviour when left alone in his original home meant he would tear at flooring or have accidents indoors.
He has had a few temporary moves, including to a fosterer who had a dog that didn’t get on with Bobby, so it was not his fault, just unfortunate, and why he urgently needs stability and security in a final move to someone who understands dog behaviour, is patient, and can provide suitable training so that he can enjoy his best life!
– He adores people and gets very excited with visitors, running to greet them as he does when people greet him in public.
– He doesn’t like to be left alone but will take himself off to a quiet spot for some down time when he knows people are around.
– His favourite thing is rolling over for tummy tickles. He’s often on the go, but does enjoy snuggle time too, especially in the evenings.
– He enjoys play and his toys, although sometimes he can get a little carried away with excitement.
– Bobby shows no signs of fear towards people or other dogs. He gets very excitable and interested, wanting to play with them.
– He loves to go for walks and is excellent on the lead.
– We are unsure of his tolerance of cats.
Bobby needs to be on a gluten free diet, no wheat. Changes in his food affected his gut badly and was immediately rectified once he returned to this.
He is fed wet tinned food, also poached chicken for training treats and in a Kong which keeps him busy for a while. He also really enjoys chews such as dried chicken feet.
There are no other health issues, just behavioural ones that require attention:
– Barking a lot when in the garden and when he can see into the garden from indoors. He barks and chases birds and planes and won’t come on command while doing that.
– He follows commands, but only if he sees a treat in your hand and will respond to his name. With treats he can sit, lie down, shake, leave it and take it!
– He resource-guards. Some things like toys are ok and sometimes he growls a bit, but he’s easily distracted with a treat, though can’t be used too much to be confused with rewarding that behaviour.
– He’s fine being stroked or examined by someone he trusts, though has tried nipping the vets hand when his head was held.
Bobby has recently been neutered which hopefully will help with a few of these issues including the indoor accidents, typically if he’s left alone, or by not getting him outside soon enough. He happily toilets while on walks.
The moves have stressed him, making him even more anxious and restless, so he will require patience and time to transition in a loving home where he can get the care and attention he needs, and so deserves.
To apply to adopt Bobby please go to: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Quoting Reference: BOBBY 23001 in your application form.
If you are already on our waiting list and are interested in adopting Bobby, please contact your PDWRA Area Coordinator directly.
Thank you!
by Yasmin | 12 Apr, 2023 | Blog
Over the last few years, the popularity of the pug breed seems to have grown enormously. Aside from the fact that they are such wonderful and happy dogs, their notoriety is due in part to more and more pugs being featured on TV and in films, as well as product advertising.
You’ve probably heard of Doug the Pug, based in the US, with several million followers on social media and his own line of pug merchandise! Well, the trend is catching on in the UK too, with the most famous pug on social media being the adorable Pangpang!
Pangpang has a social media following of over 665,000 people and has featured in ads for companies such as Virgin Media and NSPCC’s Letter From Santa and has appeared on the Jeremy Vine Show and ITV’s The Pet Show. Also featuring in The Mail Online, The Sun, My London and Take A Break Pets.
Pangpang in his Happy place!
We were wondering what it’s like to be a pug who’s so much in the limelight and also what it’s like to be the proud parent of such a well-loved pooch, so we spoke to Pangpang’s Dad, Dan to find out more…
- How did you end up being a pug owner and what attracted you to the breed?
I’ve been obsessed with pugs ever since I first saw Agent Frank (the pug agent) in Men In Black. I was struck by how adorable and funny they were and when I first encountered one face-to-face, I discovered that they were even cuter in real life. I liked their playful nature and wanted a dog that would be good around kids so a pug seemed like the perfect breed for me. On the day I moved into my first apartment in China, a friend got me a pug as a surprise and from there I was hooked.
- How did you decide on Pangpang to be your pug companion?
Having previously been a pug dad, I was sure I wanted to get another pug. At the time, I wanted to adopt a pug but wasn’t having any luck and eventually saw a few photos of Pangpang online and he reminded me of my first pug in terms of his personality and his facial features so knew he was the one for me. I called up to reserve him on the spot and ended up taking him to his forever home on 26 December so he’s my little Christmas miracle.
- What advice would you give to anyone considering adopting a pug?
I think adopting a pug should always be the preference over getting a pug from a breeder and the PDWRA is really helping to make this process easier, so definitely register with them to get put on the waiting list. Once you get notified that there is a pug needing a forever home, it’s always a good idea to learn about their specific circumstances (e.g. good with kids, can’t be around other pets etc.) just to ensure it’s a good match for your personal situation. And because pugs really need attention from their hoomans and can get separation anxiety, I would only recommend getting a pug if someone in the household is at home most of the time. If you work 9-5 in the office every day, a pug will get lonely and bored as they love to interact with people. If your situation allows, however, I’m sure adopting a pug will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
- What’s your favourite thing about having a pug in your life?
This could be a very long response…😂 To me, they’re just so loving and are determined to be your best friend at all times. They fill your home with happiness and I love their big personalities. Basically, Pangpang brings so much joy that I can’t imagine my life without him. I also love the way Pangpang has a calming influence on my life – if I’ve had a stressful day, he’s able to make me forget about it in 5 minutes as he’s always making me laugh.
- In what ways has your life changed since becoming a pug parent?
I eat less blueberries and cucumber as the Very Important Pug (VIP) in my life has first dibs 😂 But in all seriousness, he’s been a really positive addition to my life. Having Pangpang makes me more active as I always want to take him places and ensure he’s getting the right amount of exercise. I don’t spend time playing computer games anymore as all my free time goes to him. I think having a dog makes you a happier person all-round.
- How did it come about that Pangpang embarked on the celebrity route?
Initially, I started Pangpang’s Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Facebook accounts because I wanted my friends and family who met him as a puppy to be able to keep up to date with how he was doing. He was such a hit with everyone who met him that I was regularly being asked for his latest photos and videos so thought this would be a good way to share them. However, after posting, the feedback from pug lovers from around the world was amazing so I decided to keep going with it. For me it’s more about Pangpang having amazing experiences and doing cool stuff that he enjoys than being a celebrity – I just want him to have the best life possible.
- What’s it like being on set with Pangpang?
It’s a bit of a weird feeling to be honest. I found that I was the nervous one and that Pangpang was a natural born performer. The times we’ve been on set (like when we did commercials, The Pet Show, and The Jeremy Vine Show) he was absolutely buzzing. I was keen to see that he wasn’t anxious or scared by all the props and people and I needn’t have worried – he was so excited to be exploring new places and making new friends. The crew all made a big fuss over him and I was on dog treat duty so it was a lot of fun and definitely something I’d consider doing again in the future.
- How easy was it to train Pangpang to do tricks?
I was fairly new to training dogs when I got Pangpang but i decided that I was going to start from day one. I could never have imagined that he would learn so many tricks by the time he was just two months old. By this point, he knew sit down, turn around, high five, shake hands, speak, wait, give a pug kiss and – my personal favourite – play dead, among others. I found it really easy because Pangpang is so food-motivated that he focuses really hard as he’s determined to get the treat.Now and again, I’ll try to teach him something new as I think it’s a great way to form a really strong bond with your dog and keep them mentally stimulated. Most recently, he learned how to press buttons, bells and objects, jump up (when he wants picking up) and go to a set place. I’m still amazed by how quickly he learns tricks and commands when there’s a treat going!
- How well does Pangpang cope with his celebrity status, has it gone to his head at all?
He’s very modest about it really. I inform him when he receives lovely messages from his online friends. And I let him know when he’s going viral but he normally just looks as me blankly like “how many treats will that get me then?” I hope it will lead to more exciting opportunities for Pangpang in the future as I just want him to have an amazing life and all the experiences I could wish for him. For example, one of my little dreams for Pangpang is to experience life in Japan or the US so fingers crossed he lands a major movie role one day. It would also be cool if Pangpang could appear in a music video for one of my favourite artists.
- What’s your favourite thing about being a parent to a celebrity pug?
Haha I’m a bit shy about calling him a celebrity but as long as he’s making dog and pug lovers smile around the world that makes me really proud. I still find it a bit crazy that 38 million dog lovers saw one of his videos but it’s definitely a great achievement for him. Really though, it’s when you receive messages saying that he brightens people’s day and helps them through difficult times that we realise the positive impact he’s having. I like for him to get involved in interesting projects like the NSPCC Letter from Santa campaign and we’ve really enjoyed cooperating with the PDWRA to help raise awareness of the amazing work you do to help pugs in the UK. Ultimately, I hope that I can become a full-time stay at home dog dad and spread happiness through Pangpang’s content while spending all my time with him.
- How much of your time is involved in updating Pangpang’s various social media channels?
I try to keep a close eye on how much time I spend on social media as my focus must always be on keeping Pangpang happy, healthy and enjoying his best pug life. I love making content that captures the joy of being a pug pawrent and that he enjoys too – which is why lots of my content involves Pangpang eating dog treats! But over the years, I’ve definitely become more efficient with producing content so I find it’s not too time-consuming anymore.
- What do you think it is about the pug breed that makes people fall so head over heels in love with them?
They are so cute and funny that they capture your heart with ease. I think a lot of people are drawn to their faces as they look adorable. Then there’s the famous pug head tilts – I don’t think anyone can resist these, right? I sometimes get people approach me on walkies saying things like “I don’t really like dogs but your dog is so cute that I had to come and say hello”. I also think they have a reputation for being a friendly breed of dog which is important. This was definitely something I considered as I wanted a dog that would be welcoming of guests to the house and Pangpang is certainly that – pug kisses seem to be compulsory if you sit down on the sofa!
We’d like to give a huge thanks to Dan for making the time to talk to us and if you’d like to keep up to date with Pangpang’s adventures, check out his links below to find out more –
www.pangpangthepug.co.uk
www.youtube.com/c/pangpangthepug
www.instagram.com/pangpangthepug
www.tiktok.com/@pangpangthepug
www.facebook.com/itspangpangthepug
https://twitter.com/pangpangpug
