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
by Yasmin | 11 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News
Today is National Pet Day, April 11th. Although if you’re a pet owner, you know there’s not a day that goes by that you don’t celebrate your animal companion.
So perhaps hug your beloved pets just a little more, today (as if you need an excuse!).
We all know that apart from stealing our hearts, they also contribute to our overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels. Our pets help us to cope with every day, life stresses.
National Pet Day was founded in 2006, by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet and family lifestyle expert, to celebrate the joy pets can bring to us. But she also wanted to bring attention to the ongoing needs of many pets of all kinds waiting in shelters to be adopted.
She encouraged people who wanted purebred dogs and cats to contact rescue organisations instead of going to a breeder. “Don’t shop! Adopt!” became the holiday motto.
Though started in the US, it soon expanded internationally. Pet lovers now mark the day in many countries across the world and celebrities help to spread the cause from their highly visible platforms.
Here’s a small selection of our beloved companions who illustrate why they mean so much to us:
by Yasmin | 9 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
1 week since our Appeal for homes for puppies’ Alvin & Simon, they have found their forever homes.
Along with their siblings they will all be enjoying a very special EASTER with their new families!
We thank everyone for their interest in them, plus the applications we received. There are many pugs who still need homes, so please consider applying to us:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 7 Apr, 2023 | Blog, Rescue Stories
I first heard about the PDWRA when I went to a nail salon and we all got talking about our dogs! One of the members of staff mentioned her mum fosters pugs for the charity, and without a second thought I applied to adopt!
Having a 7 year old puggle at home I knew I would have to wait a while before finding the perfect pug to suit us, and a few months later I got a call from the PDWRA about a little lad named Teddy who was in need of his forever home.
Teddy was only 11 months old when I adopted him, but had already been moved from four different homes, with his 5th being with his wonderful foster mum Rebecca and her family. After two days of hearing about Teddy I was on my way to London to meet Rebecca and bring him to his new home.
Whilst waiting for Teddy, I started my research on the best ways to introduce another dog to Molly the puggle, and the PDWRA said that if I needed help or guidance, they would be there for me as Teddy settled in. Some of the best practices included:
- Introduce the dogs outside where they can sniff, play, and get to know each other on neutral ground
- Praise positive behaviours
- Make sure you enter the home first, don’t let the dogs go in first as they may become territorial
- Watch for signs of stress in the home, recognize when the dogs might need their own space
- Establish a safe space for the new dog
I was really lucky with Teddy that he was already crate trained so it didn’t take long for him to realise where his bed and safe space was, but the other advice really helped me get him settled in with his new grumble.
When he arrived, we went straight into the garden for him to see that was where he would go to the bathroom, amongst other things, although not unexpectedly we had a couple of rug poop mishaps in the first couple of days, which is to be expected when the dog is getting over the stress of settling into a new environment.
The introduction between him and my dog Molly went really well and I’m so pleased I looked into the best practices!
Molly certainly tells him who is boss when he gets too excitable, but has welcomed Teddy into our home brilliantly. He is definitely part goat, I often find him sat on my work desk, on the dining table and even sat on the toilet seat (yes there has been an open toilet incident…he was fine, and hasn’t learnt his lesson).
I can’t thank his foster mum Rebecca enough for getting my boy ready for his forever home and for doing such a great job taking care of him. He’s stolen my heart, and the hearts of my family and friends! He’s such a great character and keeps me entertained, on my toes, and full of joy!
3 months later, since Teddy came into our lives, it’s June and it’s like he’s been here forever!
He has discovered his love for the garden and has claimed the comfy chair as his own! Teddy loves to play with his big sister Molly, and he has brought back her puppy energy; they love chasing each other around the house (often when I am on a work call!) and they bolt around the common on our walks.
Teddy loves every dog and person he meets, and he’s made some friends in the local park. His recall is fantastic, and he is often by Molly’s side. Adopting Teddy was definitely one of the best things I have done and I couldn’t be happier with my little family!
by Yasmin | 6 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Pug Health
Written by Helen McKee (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet.
For this month’s health topic, I’m writing about seizures, which I suspect a significant number of you have had the misfortune of experiencing.
The conformation (shape) of a pug’s skull has been altered compared to non-brachycephalic dog breeds, such that it can alter brain function through both physiology (normal working of brain) and actual physical boundaries.
Since the brain is compromised because of these factors, it can result in a variety of brain conditions, the most common being seizures, which we see all too commonly in pugs.
A seizure can be a very frightening thing to observe, especially when it is your own dog. They can vary from what is known as a ‘Petit Mal’, when the signs are very mild, to a full blown ‘Grand Mal’ with severe signs such as shaking, rigidity, frothing of mouth and involuntary urination and/or defecations.
Pugs can have seizures for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause is ‘idiopathic epilepsy’, that is, epilepsy of an unknown cause, however it is important to rule out other conditions before coming to this diagnosis.
If your pug has a seizure, make a note of time, date, length of episode and severity (seizure diary). A video of the episode is really helpful for a vet, though easier said than done when witnessing your pug having a seizure which can be very distressing.
If the pug comes out of it quickly and appears normal after, it may be a one off. I have seen pugs have one off seizures as a result of some ‘stress’ on the body, such as a change in the environment (a new puppy!) or it’s body (an infection like cystitis).
It may be a one-off event, however if it happens again, you will need to take your dog to the vets to be examined. The vet will likely take blood to look for metabolic conditions that can cause seizures, such as liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). By far the majority of times, these blood tests come back as normal.
There are rare conditions of the brain such as Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME), Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE) or a brain tumour, but these conditions are progressive with other clinical signs including head pressing, circling and behavioural changes, and it will soon become apparent that it is not epilepsy. Unfortunately all three conditions tend to be terminal.
Your vet may suggest carrying out an MRI scan in these cases and where medication is not controlling the symptoms, however, if you can’t afford a scan, then MRI won’t alter the outcome; it will just give a diagnosis. GME can be confirmed by taking a sample of the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain (CSF).
However, the MAJORITY of cases of seizures in a pug, are caused by idiopathic epilepsy, a condition they have for life, but is normally able to be controlled through anti-seizure drugs such as Epiphen.
Depending on the frequency of your dog’s seizures, it may not need medication, for example, if they occur every 6 months it won’t warrant being on medication for a life time; It’s all about symptoms vs medication and its side effects.
Having been in contact with a specialist veterinary neurologist, who has a specific interest in idiopathic epilepsy in pugs, the drug of choice is Epiphen (phenobarbital). The dose is altered depending on therapeutic blood levels of the drug, so regular blood tests will be required initially.
Most pugs will respond to Epiphen only, however if the medication isn’t controlling the dog’s seizures, other anti-epileptic drugs can be added, such as Pexion.
Your vet can refer you to see a specialist neurologist at any stage, or if you’re concerned about the treatment.
This is by no means exhaustive, but merely an overview to enable some understanding of seizures and their potential causes.
I hope you find it helpful.
Helen.
PDWRA Vet.
by Yasmin | 6 Apr, 2023 | Blog, News, Pug Health
Why you should let your dog sniff as many lamp posts as they want?
While such behaviour may be frustrating for owners and dog-walkers, experts say you shouldn’t yank your curious pet away.
Article by Joe Pinkstone
SCIENCE CORRESPONDENT
26 March 2023
Dogs should be allowed to sniff as many lamp posts as they want when out on a walk and not be yanked onwards by bored owners, a canine expert has said.
Walks are often perceived by owners as being solely for exercise and to keep a dog physically fit but veterinarians say they also play a vital role in mental stimulation.
Some dogs, especially as they get older, walk with less vigour and for shorter periods of time, preferring to plod slowly and investigate the scents around them.
This should be embraced by owners, even if it is frustrating, counter-intuitive and boring for the walker, veterinarians believe.
In a talk on how to adapt to living with a geriatric dog at BSAVA Congress 2023, experts spoke about the value of ensuring a dog was still fulfilled, active and stimulated even as its body slows down or it develops age-related health issues, like osteoarthritis.
‘Sniffing is really, really important’
“I think you have to make a mental switch when you’ve got a dog with osteoarthritis; instead of it being you and your mate going out for a really nice walk wherever you want, there has to be some walks that are for the dog,” Zoe Belshaw, a veterinary surgeon working on the BSAVA Old Age Pets project, said.
“As most dogs age, they become increasingly motivated to sniff, irrespective of whether or not that’s what they wanted to do before. I think it’s a massively important part of their quality of life, being able to sniff.
“[Older] dogs don’t need to be marching for the whole ten minutes of a walk.
“If you have ten minutes and they go ten metres but spend nine and a half minutes sniffing a lamp post; for that dog that is probably so much better than you trying to drag it around a circular walk around the block.
“Sniffing is really, really important. You just have to reframe what the point of that walk is so that you don’t get driven berserk by the fact that you’ve been standing by a lamp post for nine and a half minutes.
“Vets should tell owners to get a podcast or do something that makes the time go by to make it not frustrating for them because you see so many dogs being yanked because the owner thinks either the walk is for the dog and it needs to move, or because they themselves are so fed up of the sniffing – but embracing the “sniffari” is really important.”
Other adaptations people can make to ensure life is as easy as possible for an ageing dog include putting down soft, grippy mats to stop them falling over; playing in different ways; feeding them in an innovative manner; and not changing their home environment.
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