by PDWRA | 14 Apr, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
I have always had dogs over the years, a border collie, King Charles spaniel, German shepherd and 3 pugs. I couldn’t imagine life without a dog in it, they enrich our lives so much, and a pleasure to care for, a best friend!
My first encounter with a pug was about 12 years ago, a new neighbour had two who were siblings named Pickle and Onion. I loved them, such a unique breed…excitable, friendly and very cute!! I longed to own a pug so much, and then a miracle happened, Pickle fathered a litter from where I had my first gorgeous pug puppy called Charlie-Pickle.
I adored him, we were so bonded and everyone in our village knew him by name and nature. A few years later, I adopted a six-month-old pug from a woman who had a mastiff and Frenchie too, his name was Ollie. Charlie and Ollie were best friends apart from when food was involved… Ollie had challenging behaviours with food guarding, which I think came from competition living with two large dogs. He was quite an anxious dog but lovely.
After Charlie passed in January 2023, by now I knew about PDWRA through a close friend who had adopted Lenny and Meg, two adorable black pugs. I contacted PDWRA who came to visit me at home, to give me information about the Pug Welfare Association, and home check, to make sure any dog would be homed in a suitable environment. I was then put on an adoption waiting list… and waited!
A month later, I had a call from PDWRA to say there was a one-year-old dog called Leo in need of adoption that might be a suitable match. I was told he had some behavioural challenges, mainly that he was very reactive, that previous owners could not cope with. Poor Leo’s first owners lived in a flat and could not manage him, his second home was with a family who again could not manage his reactivity.
I adopted Leo on the 9th of May 2023. He was inquisitive, friendly and so beautiful, his personality ‘typical pug’ and I was besotted with him immediately. He gelled well with Ollie and as weeks passed, I was questioning why anyone would see him as a problem and being unmanageable. I came to the conclusion that many see pugs as lapdogs (which there are!) and not the feisty, funny and ‘stick to you like glue’ breed that they are, who also need good walks, social inclusion and enrichment.
Additionally, we lived in a rural area in North Wales, I think the peacefulness suited his personality as there were very little triggers for him. Yes, he barks at cars at times, at the postman, wants to jump on visitors… but people who are used to dogs of any breed are used to this. Leo has settled with us so well from the first day he came into our lives, he loves attention, Lenny and Meg, our cat Burrito and roast dinners. His favourite place is with me on the sofa or running in the nearby woodlands. He has the best food, best collars and coats… my husband does say that I spoil him… how could I not?
Pug-cafe is a must, a meet-up, pop-up event in various parts of the country where pug owners and their dogs have a great time. It is Pug heaven, so many pugs, and their little faces all look so different, although non- pug owners usually say they can’t tell the difference.
PDWRA have been amazing during the adoption process, and they are always available for guidance and any advice if needed. There are so many pugs needing homes, I would highly recommend adoption, and I will undoubtedly adopt again from this wonderful association… thank goodness for PDWRA!
Sian
by PDWRA | 14 Apr, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Alfie came into the care of PDWRA just before Christmas 2025. Sadly, Alfie’s long-term, elderly owner had passed away, leaving him in need of a very special home. Alfie was due to turn 15 years old in the January, and with old age comes many things, ill health being just one.
Alfie needed a home where he could be given a lot of love, attention and one to one care, a home where his many years could be celebrated and respected. Luckily for Alfie, one of our amazing volunteers, Arlene, jumped at the chance to foster him, and so Alfie spent Christmas 2025 with Arlene, her family and her 2 other PDWRA foster pugs Elsie and Ella.
Alfie visited the vets quite a lot to start with, as we needed to understand his medical and welfare needs. Arlene and the area coordinator overseeing Alfie’s care, worked closely with his vet to ensure Alfie could be as comfortable, healthy and as happy as possible. It was discovered he had allergies, meaning his skin and ears were very itchy and scally. He was found to be faecal incontinent; he also has Osteoarthritis and an old injury to his spine that caused some discomfort and weakness. He had very little muscle, all of which meant he was wobbly on his paws and unable to walk for long. He also needed assistance to get up and down steps or lifting onto the sofa. He has a very long tongue and at some point he’s had surgery on it, so it doesn’t always do what he needs it to do! But despite all of Alfie’s ailments, he was bright, alert, funny and full of life, mischief and love.
Alfie’s welfare and ailments are now all being managed and monitored. He has medication, which has drastically reduced his itchy skin and ear problems, and injections for his Osteoarthritis, enabling him to move comfortably around. Every now and then, he does a mini pug run (at the speed of a tortoise). He’s had lifestyle changes, new food, 2 daily massages from Arlene, he has his teeth brushed and face and ears washed.
Arlene has adapted her home to enable Alfie the ability to move freely and safely inside and out. He has several little jumpers, keeping his old bones warm and protecting him when he wobbles into things. Due to his tongue not always behaving itself, Arlene quite often needs to help him at mealtimes, something Alfie has grown to love. He sleeps in Arlene’s room so that he can be monitored during the night, as his breathing can be a little wheezy during the early hours. He has a pushchair, meaning he can walk until he’s tired, and then still be part of the adventure with Elsie and Ella. He’s even put some weight on, and we think a little muscle too! Having the company of 2 lovely girl pugs has also helped Alfie, he loves the girls and is always by the side of one of them, if not squashed in between both. Now that it’s spring, in between sunbathing Alfie has started sneaking over to Arlene’s veg patch, where he eats vegetables straight from the ground, something we know he loved to do with his previous owner.
Alfie is full of life, he’s happy, bright, charismatic, so funny and handsome. He’s a wonderful little chap and he is now living his best life with Arlene and the support of PDWRA.
Catherine
PDWRA Volunteer Area Coordinator
If you’d like to apply to be a PDWRA Volunteer Area Coordinator, click here to find out more.
Arlene’s Story of a Day with Alfie and his Foster Friends Elsie and Ella
Movement has been detected. The anticipation and excitement is starting to build. I take a deep breath and brace myself as I step out of bed and into the eye of the storm. A frantic foot circling hyper-pug (Ella), a bunny hopping finger-grabber (Elsie), and a cross between Keith Richards and the honey monster who is performing a wonky figure of 8 with his skinny little tail popping up and curling over itself, whilst wiggling his bottom and trying not to fall over. Everyone is very happy to see each other. With my hands above my head (to protect my fingers) I feel like I’m being taken hostage as I’m escorted directly to the kitchen, grabbing a poo bag on the way – the carefully orchestrated journey from the bedroom to the kitchen (just along the hallway) has become an award-winning accomplishment as I manage to pick up poos along the way without them being whipped up into the tornado of pugs. It’s always handy to keep some poo bags close by to collect Alfie droppings, as he’s unaware of what’s going on back there.
We somehow manage to reach our destination without any collisions, and breakfast is served. Immediately. Everyone has their own dining areas – to keep the peace and harmony. Alfie loves his food, although due to previous surgeries, his tongue doesn’t have much movement and he has very few teeth, so he struggles to eat. Alfie also has problems with his spine, due to an injury when he was younger, and he has Osteoarthritis, so he gets a little tired and achy when standing. I watch what looks like the Cookie Monster from Sesame Street eating and start hand feeding him when the kitchen floor begins to look like the end of a children’s dinner party. By this point, Elsie and Ella have already inhaled their breakfast and are peaking over the top of the partition in hope that they can help with the ‘clean up’. A little wipe around Alfie’s face and neck, then we proceed to the garden.
One step down onto the grass, Alfie has a helping hand and support. He enjoys a morning snuffle around the garden, mainly looking for fallen bird seed from the feeders. As Elsie and Ella are continuing with their toilet training, Alfie has learned that going to the toilet in the garden results in a reward, so he pretends to pee with the girls just to get a treat. He has responded really well to his daily toilet routine and has very few accidents indoors, unless they happen during the night when he’s asleep.
Prior to Alfie’s morning nap, it’s time for a pampering session. Alfie has medication for his skin allergies, so it’s really important to keep him clean and dry, especially after eating, drinking and going to the toilet. His face and neck are cleaned, ears and eyes are checked and wiped, his bottom is cleaned and all five of his teeth are brushed. Once freshened up, he has a relaxing massage as he drifts off to sleep.
Walk time. Alfie loves going out for a little walk. He will try putting his own harness on, along with everyone else’s too. He wears a padded jacket for protection in case he loses his balance, but I’m always there to prevent him from wobbling over. A local meadow is always a firm favourite, but it’s a little far for Alfie, so he watches the world from his pram and travels in comfort when he’s had enough of walking.
Helping in the garden. Now that spring has sprung and the days are getting warmer, Alfie likes to wander around the garden with me and especially enjoys helping to ‘maintain’ the vegetable patch. He has his daily brush in the garden, and when he allows me to stop brushing him, we watch the birds fly down and collect his donation of fur for their nests. Then it’s time for a sunbathe and snooze on his garden bed with Elsie and Ella.
Every four weeks we visit the vets to get Alfie’s Librela, which really helps improve his mobility and reduces any pain. He gets lots of fuss and attention from all the staff and likes to have a nap on the receptionist’s lap while we are waiting to be seen.
Cozying up on the sofa to watch a film in the evening, with a massage after a long day. It’s very tiring being a retired pug. There’s a particular kind of facial expression that Alfie puts on which works on me every time. Even though he has his own step to get up onto the sofa, he pretends he can’t quite manage it and pulls this face that just melts my heart. So, he gets a carry up and snuggles down ready for his evening massage.
Evening toilet shenanigans. As Alfie has cataracts in both eyes it’s difficult for him to see, especially in the dark, plus he has the added challenge of not being able to hear very well. With the light coming through the patio doors, I carry Alfie into the garden and down the step, I make sure he’s got his balance then point him in the direction of his favourite spot. Despite being a bit achy by the end of the day, he still tries his newly learned trick of ‘pretending to pee’ so he gets a treat, but eventually gets the message after a few gentle 180 degree turns pointing him back towards his favourite spot again.
We all have a drop of raw honey before bedtime as it helps soothe Alfie’s wheezy cough, and other ailments. He loves his honey, so I have to buy it in bulk. Then we head to bed. With a choice of four different beds, from orthopaedic to doughnuts, Alfie just loves to sleep on a bundle of pillows covered with a duvet and his special blanket from home. Elsie and I lay with Alfie until he’s found a comfy position and falls asleep, a few kisses on the head and we say goodnight. And I’m always close by to collect any bowel movements during the night.
What will tomorrow bring..? Although Alfie loves his retirement home comforts, he has enjoyed a few trips to the Suffolk countryside, where he gets spoiled by his new friends (my parents) and gets lots of attention in the local country pub. We are back there at Easter for more fun and adventures in the slow lane.
Arlene
PDWRA Fosterer
If you’d like to apply to be a PDWRA Fosterer, click here to find out more.
If you’d like to become a PDWRA Volunteer in another role, click here to find out more.
by PDWRA | 14 Apr, 2026 | Blog, News, Volunteering
Our Volunteer Area Coordinators are at the forefront of the charity and perform one if its most important roles. They are at the receiving end of calls from people looking to surrender their pugs, they guide and counsel them through the process and ultimately oversee the rehoming of their surrendered pug.
Pictured above is Jackie, one of our most experienced VACs. She not only manages the West Midlands and South East regions, but also regularly fosters pugs while they are looking for their new homes. She also helps out with training for new volunteers to help them develop the tools they’ll need to be a successful Vac!
We currently have vacancies in some of our areas throughout England and Wales and would welcome applications from anyone who thinks that they might have the relevant skills and experience to get involved. Being a Volunteer Area Controller is a demanding yet rewarding role, being an integral part of helping a pug in need to go on to live the life they deserve is a wonderful and fulfilling experience.
What’s it like to be a Volunteer Area Coordinator?
If your application is successful, you‘ll be assigned to a specified area of the country to work alongside some of our most experienced VACs. In most cases, the VAC role is performed remotely, so it doesn’t necessarily matter which particular area you live in. As part of our team, you’ll be helping to coordinate pug surrender and adoption activities, as well as other volunteers who are supporting the rehoming of surrendered pugs in your allocated area.
This could include:
- Being available to receive or return calls as a matter of urgency, to advise and reassure anybody looking to surrender their pugs
- Managing adoption, foster and volunteer applications for your region, providing support once new people come onboard
- Working with all other resources within PDWRA according to PDWRA guidelines and legal requirements
- Organising the demands of the role, with commitment, responsibility and flexibility
- Ensuring all necessary forms are completed
- Helping to promote the pug rescue work and achievements of the PDWRA
Find out more…
If you’d like to get more of an idea of what the Voluntary Area Coordinator role is like, why not have a look at a selection of interviews we’ve posted in the past from some of our wonderful VACs:
Interview with Jane, Voluntary Area Coordinator for the South West
Interview with Lisa, PDWRA VAC for East Region
An Interview with Voluntary Area Coordinator, Cara
To get more of an idea of what’s involved with the surrendering and fostering process, have a look at this lovely article that Jackie wrote:
Surrendering & Fostering YOUR Pug
If you think you might have the skills and the time to contribute to helping us rescue and rehome pugs in need, please click here to apply.
by PDWRA | 14 Apr, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
7 weeks and 4 days. I didn’t really know what to expect when we took on our first foster Pug. What I wasn’t prepared for was how strong I would feel about caring for this tough little guy, and how in less than 2 months he would have such an impact on us.
We got the call from PDWRA on 22nd December, and young Bertie’s situation was such that we knew we needed to go and collect him immediately. Despite being quite poorly, he was in OK spirits and settled in quite quickly with our 4-year-old female pug, Yoyo.
The first 4 weeks were all about getting him treated for a bad UTI and a swollen prostate, as well as a potential hip issue. The vet explained that neutering him would sort the prostate problem, so as soon as he was clear from the UTI he was straight back in for his op. Bertie had to wear a very fetching blue recovery suit for 2 weeks, but this was great as we found he loved dressing up. What quickly became evident once he felt better, was how energetic he was. Even just seeing me pick up his harness resulted in huge amounts of excitement to get out of the door. It didn’t matter what the weather was doing, he just needed to be out there.
I was nervous about how our existing pug, Yoyo, would take to him – and initially there was some jealousy, but they soon started to settle. The main game at night was they switched beds repeatedly, and one always wanted what the other one had. Sure enough, over the weeks they began to bond and would play well together. Bertie was very strong, but always the gentleman, with Yoyo ultimately calling the shots.
Bertie’s teeth weren’t in great condition, so we had to try a few different approaches with food to get him eating properly. Yoyo loves her blueberries and green beans, but at first Bertie would just spit them out. I got him eating again with wet food and as he improved, we moved him back to dry food and also some more vegetable treats. It was a huge win when he started to really enjoy his green beans, to the extent they are now his favourite treat!
Throughout this time, PDWRA were fantastic with support from our Area Co-ordinator. I kept a steady stream of photos and updates, and they were on hand with advice, guidance and reassurance. The first few weeks were full-on, but that was mainly due to getting Bertie’s various issues treated, and regular trips to the vet. One thing that really stood out was what a battler he was. He never showed any sign of holding back and was always keen to be a part of whatever was happening. We slowly built up to two walks per day, and he would always be out front, leading the way and loving life.
It was impossible not to feel uplifted by watching him power forwards each day. I should add that Bertie has hip dysplasia on his right hip, and had a distinctive hopping gait. We initially thought this would hold him back, but then started to see just how quick and nimble he could be. Nothing was going to stop Bertie.
One of the standout aspects of Fostering was seeing Bertie improve each day, bit by bit. I hadn’t anticipated the bond this would form, to the extent he would wait behind doors for me whenever I left the room and watch my every move when we were together. He quickly became a fixture in everything I did. The mornings were my favourite time. I would come into the kitchen to be greeted by two very excited pugs, both leaning hard into me for cuddles. It was incredible how quickly Bertie became part of the family – he just slotted in perfectly.
I lost many nights sleep wondering if we should adopt him and keep him permanently. I knew deep down he would be much better suited as a solo Pug. He just craves attention and would gladly walk two or 3 times a day. Yoyo is more genteel, and whilst she was very gracious in sharing her home, Bertie could take over at times and needed to be the centre of attention. Throughout this, PDWRA were hugely supportive, with wise advice and guidance, and plenty of practical support.
Handing over Bertie to his new family was a really emotional time. Fortunately, our close friends had also fostered Pugs before and reiterated how we have played our key part in helping him live his best life, and a key part in his journey. They were right, when I met his new adoptive parents, I could immediately see the joy he would bring to them, and there was no doubt he would be treated like the superstar that he is. He is just the perfect soul for a wonderful family who recently lost their long-term beloved Pug.
So yes, 7 weeks and 4 days with Bertie as our first foster was incredibly rewarding. His strong, determined and unbeatable spirit left an impression on those who got to know him. A close friend and fellow Pug fanatic who got to know him wisely suggested that maybe that we could all ‘Be more Bertie’.
If you’d like to apply to be a PDWRA Fosterer, click here to find out more.
by PDWRA | 11 Apr, 2026 | Pug Home Appeal
Meet Boots & Socks
A devoted bonded pair, both aged 8, searching for their happy ever after home 🏡
These two may not be littermates, but they’ve shared their whole lives side by side… and where one goes, the other follows 💞
They sleep curled up together, finding comfort in each other – their bond is truly unbreakable.
🌿 After a quiet and sheltered start in life, they are now discovering the world for the very first time…
And what a journey it’s been! From country walks to village strolls and vet visits, they are blossoming beautifully in foster care in rural Devon 🌼
What Makes Them Special?
🐶 Loving, gentle, and affectionate
🐶 A perfectly bonded pair
🐶 Enjoy exploring the countryside together
🐶 Full of quiet charm and loyalty
Boots & Socks Introduce Themselves!
‘Hello! My name is Boots and my best friend is Socks. We’ve been together since puppies and sleep cuddled up and go for walks together. I’m really enjoying the garden and my waistline is reducing! I’m quite the handsome chap. When I slim down a little more I need to have some dental work, the lovely people at the PDWRA will be covering the cost. I’ve pretty much remembered my housetraining now with only an occasional lapse when things are extra exciting. I’m very lovable and loving, but I can be shy with strange men until I get to know them. I’ve met children here and they’re ok! I like lots of attention and cuddles so would prefer to live with just Socks. My foster family think we are both adorable!’
‘Hello! I’m Socks and I’d be really pleased to meet you! I’ve led a bit of a sheltered life up until now but a few weeks ago I came into foster with my best friend Boots. I have 5 more new friends and a garden, which was a bit overwhelming to begin, with but now I’m blossoming! I’ve remembered my housetraining, lost a few pounds and learnt how to live with others. I quite like to be top dog really and prefer to only share the attention with Boots. I like my humans to be around mostly and sometimes I can be vocal but I’m getting better with that. I’m in good health, lively, enjoy walks with Boots and meeting new people! And I’m still only 8 yrs old! Could we both come and live with you?’
A Few Things To Know:
- They’d love a home with plenty of human company
- Socks is a chatty girl and may bark when left
- Boots can be a little unsure of men at first, but settles with time
- Best suited as the only dogs in the home
Boots will need a dental once he’s shed a couple of kilos – this will be fully covered by PDWRA 🩺
Could you give these two the loving home they’ve never truly had? 🏡 They’ve spent their lives side by side… now they just need someone to share it with.
by PDWRA | 31 Mar, 2026 | Pug Home Appeal, Rescue Stories
Meet Eric & Ernie – a beautiful bonded pair who share everything… from naps in the sunshine to quiet moments side by side.
These two aren’t just companions – they’re family. And after everything they’ve been through, they’re searching for a forever home together.
✨ Why they’re so special
🐶 Inseparable best friends
🐶 Gentle, loving, and loyal
🐶 Twice the cuddles, twice the joy
🐶 A ready-made duo to fill your home with warmth
💔 The hardest part?
Bonded pairs are often overlooked… but separating them isn’t an option. Their connection is their comfort, their confidence, their world.
🏡 Could you be their world now?
Eric & Ernie are litter brothers, born on the 1st April 2022. They are very energetic young pugs who would not suit a family with children under 10 years. They love to play with each other and are equally sociable with other dogs. When playtime is over they will snuggle up with each other and any handy human. House trained, and they have some basic training which they would benefit from building on. They have no health conditions and have recently been neutered. They are currently in foster on the London/Essex border.
If you have room in your heart and home for two devoted souls, Eric & Ernie will reward you with a lifetime of love, laughter, and companionship.
by Yasmin | 20 Mar, 2026 | Blog, News, Pug Health
Spring is officially here!
We’re all glad for the drier, warmer & brighter days, bringing with it NEW temptations for our furry friends indoors and out. So as usual we need to be vigilant, on their behalf!
Outdoor Hazards:
Keen to be outdoors with winter behind us, springtime activities such as gardening and picnicking can expose our pugs to potential hazards like pesticides, fertilizers, and sharp tools/objects.
So, keep a close eye on them when they’re out to ensure they’re not exploring things they shouldn’t be, and remain safe.
Toxic Bulbs & Plants:
Many different plants & bulbs commonly found in the home, gardens and outdoor areas can make your dog ill. Some of these are highly poisonous, such as lilies, tulips, and daffodils, if ingested. while others may only cause a mild tummy upset. Incidents of poisoning from spring bulbs are most likely to occur from dogs eating the bulbs in spring when they begin to flower and autumn when they are planted.
It’s best to keep your pugs away from these plants, to prevent accidental poisoning. Please see more examples of harmful and harmless plants the bottom of this webpage.
There’s a whole array of OTHER hazards, including: weed killer, pesticides including slug pellets, compost bins, even grass cuttings!
Allergens: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, grass, and other allergens that are more prevalent in the spring. Symptoms may include itching, scratching, sneezing, and watery eyes.
Please see: Atopic Dermatitis (Itchy skin!). | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
Ticks and fleas: Warmer weather means an increase in ticks and fleas, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and tapeworms. Pugs, with their wrinkled skin, can be particularly susceptible to flea infestations if proper preventive measures aren’t taken.
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Indoor Hazards:
Spring Cleaning.
If you are Spring-Cleaning, make sure that products are inaccessible to your dog and that they are kept away from areas while being cleaned, or have recently been cleaned.
For more information, please see: Poisons | Dog health | The Kennel Club
Easter.
It’s always worth reminding visitors or children who may not be as aware of the hazards, as we are, so everyone can enjoy this time of year, safely.
Chocolate poisoning: Easter often involves chocolate eggs & treats, which are toxic to dogs if ingested. Make sure to keep all chocolate out of reach of your pug and be cautious about where you hide Easter eggs if they contain chocolate.
Most of us know about keeping Easter chocolate away from temptation but our dogs will endeavour to seek things out with their highly sensitive sense of smell.
Theobromine found in chocolate is a stimulant. It may cause excitability or muscle twitching, tremors, even fitting, or they may have an increased heart rate. They may initially be sick, but you must never try to make them sick.
– If vomit is frothy and foamy it could get into their lungs, making matters worse.
– Other signs might include drinking a lot, drooling, not walking in a straight line and fast breathing. If enough is eaten then the effects can be severe or even fatal.
Some sugar-free chocolates contain Xylitol, also branded as Birch-sugar, which is an artificial sweetener especially poisonous to dogs. It can cause a dog’s blood sugar level to drop to dangerous levels, also possibly liver failure.
Also, while chocolate foil wrappers are not poisonous, they can cause an obstruction if eaten. This can be dangerous enough to require surgery.
Signs of an obstruction may include being sick, being tired, they may be be off their food, or finding it difficult to go to the toilet!
If you suspect your pet may have eaten chocolate, keep the packaging and call your vet immediately. Help them regarding the type of chocolate that’s been eaten (dark, plain, milk, white etc.) and how much has been consumed.
If you suspect your dog may have eaten chocolate, contact your vet immediately.
Keep the packaging to help them regarding the type of chocolate that’s been eaten (dark, plain, milk, white etc.) and estimate how much may have been consumed.
To learn more about chocolate toxicity and the signs and symptoms:https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/chocolate-poisoning?
Overeating Easter treats: With Easter celebrations often come feasts and treats, which can lead to overeating and digestive issues for pugs. Be mindful of the types and amounts of food your pug consumes to prevent obesity and gastrointestinal problems.
Food Hazards.
– Traditional roasts where cooked bones can easily splinter.
– Stuffing, gravy, anything which may contain onion, chives, garlic.
– Fruit or Simnel cake, Hot-Cross buns, anything with sultana’s and raisins (grape family).
– Other foods, such as certain nuts, blue cheese, fatty and salty foods.
For more on Easter dangers: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/easterdangers?
Plus, for a comprehensive list of poisonous plants: Poisons in your garden | Dog health | Kennel Club (thekennelclub.org.uk)
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On a sunnier note, here are some, from many, that are regarded to be safe for our dogs:
If you suspect your dog might have ingested anything that is appearing to make them ill, contact your vet immediately.
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Seasonal Hazards for Pugs
by Yasmin | 20 Feb, 2026 | Blog, News, Events
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If you are planning on attending Crufts this year, held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, do come along and say hello to us on:
Saturday 7th March – Toy & Utility Day.
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PDWRA will be at the ringside of the Pug show judging area – we look forward to meeting as many of our supporters as possible.
We’ll be happy to discuss anything Pug; their quirks, health & wellbeing as well as the charity’s work in rescue & rehoming.
Find out about opportunities for volunteering locally as transporters or home-checkers, as well as virtually, supporting various operations from wherever you’re located at home.
Pugs entering the show ring now need to comply with stricter health-based rules.
All pugs (bulldogs and French bulldogs) must have a valid Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) assessment, and only those with a grade 1 or less will be eligible to compete.
We appreciate the intentions of these rules and welcome discussing this with anyone who wishes to do so.
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Tickets are available from the now, Royal Kennel Club, at:
Crufts 2026 – Utility & Toy – Birmingham – The NEC – Sat, 7 Mar 2026, 08:15 – AXS UK
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For more information about Pug Health including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), the condition due to the anatomy of short-nosed breeds, which can lead to secondary problems, please see our webpage:
Pug Health & Wellbeing | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association
by Yasmin | 10 Feb, 2026 | Pug Home Appeal, Rescue Stories
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These two girls are unrelated but do have a special bond. Elsie is the older of the two at 10 years and Ella at 7 years. They have both undergone medical procedures and are now fit to be rehomed. Both have also been neutered.
They are looking for a home with or without other dogs. They have lived with another dog before.
They are tolerant of cats but shouldn’t live with young children under 10 years as they can jump up at them.
Elsie, is the ultimate lap dog and companion who loves a good tummy rub. Due to the circumstances of her previous life, she is inclined to scavenge when you’re not at home – bins need to be out of reach and cupboards secured!
They both love a cuddle and are very happy to be at home, but do like a couple of short walks a day, although Ella does lack confidence and stays close to you.
Ella suffers from separation anxiety and always likes to know there is someone around. She may also have the odd accident in the house if she gets over excited.
She is very affectionate though and loves meeting people but is of a nervous disposition so can get anxious around larger dogs. She generally loves her humans more than other dogs.
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It’s important to read our Guidelines & conditions for Adopting, at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Please note, the Adoption Fee is discounted for bonded pairs of pugs.
As we often have bonded pairs requiring new homes, if you are not successful with Elsie and Ella, please indicate on your application that you would like to be considered for other pairs. We will be pleased to hear from you.
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To see other uplifting Bonded-pug Rescue & Adoption Stories, please go to:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/perfect-pairs/
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, News
Some people may not be aware that it’s a legal requirement in England, Scotland and Wales for a dog to be microchipped by the age of 8 weeks.This became compulsory in April 2016.
It’s a criminal offence to transfer a dog that is not microchipped and so all breeders are required to have a puppy chipped and registered in their name prior to sale. The fines for not complying can be up to £500.
The microchip needs to be registered on a database which is compliant with set standards, and it must be registered in the name of the keeper (the person who the dog normally lives with). However, just because a dog’s microchip is registered in a particular person’s name on the database, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are going to be regarded in law as the owner.
A microchip is evidence of ownership, but not absolute proof of ownership.
Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure, which takes seconds to implant. The chip is inserted under the pet’s skin, usually around the scruff of the neck, and once the chip is implanted it should last for your pet’s lifetime. The chip is about the size of a grain of rice and contains a unique code that matches up to your pet’s details.
The microchip can be checked by an authorised person, usually a vet, dog warden or a rehoming charity, which is done by using a handheld scanner. The scanner reads the unique number and the authorised person then checks this with the database.
In the UK, there are around 15 different databases that can hold your dog’s details, so it’s useful to know which one your pet is registered with.
It’s very important to make sure your details are always up to date, dogs can get lost or stolen and it’s a permanent identification to help get your dog back to you.
If you sell or pass your dog onto someone else, the microchip details must be changed. Remember, it’s a criminal offence not to do this.
In accordance with the Control of Dogs Order 1992, although all dogs must now be microchipped, they will also still need to wear a collar and tag in a public place, which must have the owner’s full address. A phone number is advisable, as it will enable somebody to contact you straight away if your dog is lost and found by an authority or member of the public, but it’s not an absolute requirement for it to be on the tag.
As of the 10 June 2024, all owned cats in England must also be microchipped by the age of 20 weeks. At present, it’s not compulsory in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Anne McDonald
PDWRA Trustee & Local Authority Dog Warden
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Bella first came to me as a foster in July 2024, just after she turned 9 years old. She had been surrendered due to a child allergy.
She was a little timid at first, and unsure of her new surroundings and what she was and wasn’t allowed to do. For example, she wouldn’t go upstairs or jump onto the sofa without permission. She got on very well with my older pug-cross Peppa (then 15 years old) straight away, and soon felt more at home.
After about a month or so, Area Coordinator Dee contacted me to ask if I would consider adopting Bella, as there aren’t always as many adoption requests for older dogs. I knew that Bella wasn’t going anywhere! I had fallen for her and didn’t want her to be adopted by anyone else, so of course I said yes!
I must say, I’ve never come across a more well-behaved dog than Bella. In the first few months, I kept whispering to her “you can be a bit naughty you know”. As the months passed, she settled in well and started to play more with toys and jump up next to me on the sofa without being encouraged. I knew that she was slowly relaxing into her new home.
Since then, she has been on holiday with me to Glastonbury, Newmarket and Ipswich, and numerous times to Yorkshire to stay with my friends up there. She’s a great traveller and doesn’t seem to get stressed when I take her to different places with me. She’s a great companion and I love her so much now, I feel so blessed to have her in my life!
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
As a lifelong lover of the breed, I always knew I wanted pugs in my life. Their loving nature, their fun curly tails and their big bright eyes, not to mention their big personalities…
My first pug was a black boy renamed Taz from Battersea. When I flew the nest and moved out, my mum missed Taz (and me) so much that she decided it was time she started looking for a little pug of her own. After a lot of research on breed specific rescues, we landed on the PDWRA.
My mum was lucky enough to be matched with Luna, who settled in almost instantly and brought mum and the family so much joy! They are both enjoying growing old gracefully together! The whole process was easy, with brilliant communication, compassion for the foster family Luna came from and amazing aftercare from the PDWRA team.
I did foster briefly through the PDWRA in 2021, with a handsome little pug named Eddie. He was amazing on his own, however, after 12 weeks in my care it became apparent that the pairing between him and my pug Taz wasn’t compatible and I had to make the difficult decision for him to go back to the PDWRA. During this time, I had so much support and always had someone in the charity to speak to. I heard that he had been adopted by a family in London as the only dog in the home, and was very much loved, which made me very happy to hear. The way the PDWRA handled the case was professional and compassionate, with both pugs wellbeing at the centre of it all.
After I lost Taz in the summer of 2024 to age related complications, I was so lost. I felt like a part of me had gone and I didn’t have a purpose anymore. I knew I wanted another pug, but I didn’t know when I would be ready. Four months later in November, I received a call whilst I was at work from one of the Volunteer Area Coordinators, who asked if I was still interested in fostering and advised they had a little black boy in need of a home. I was nervous because of my experience with Eddie and was unsure if it was the right time for me, however, I asked for the details to be sent across for me to take a look at. Deep down, I had butterflies and I was excited! I’m a big believer in things happening for a reason, so I called my mum to let her know I had been contacted and she was just as excited as I was. I discussed the option of Foster to adopt due to my last attempt being unsuccessful with Eddie, which was agreed to.
I’ve always rescued, there are so many dogs who are in need of homes, and as much as I love the idea of a puppy, being able to give love to a dog in need will always be my first choice.
A date was set for volunteers to pick up Nacho and deliver him to my mum’s, where he could meet me and mum’s PDWRA rescue Luna. I was so excited to meet him but also knew I had to keep him busy to help him settle in, so as soon as he arrived we went for a walk around my mum’s garden. We then went for a walk along the river to our nearest pet store, where he got lots of attention. We picked up some treats and headed back, and he loved rolling in the grass (which he still loves to do now) and also to run!
There was an instant connection between us and the first week he came to the office with me to meet my work colleagues. Everyone couldn’t believe he had only been with me less than a week as he was off the lead and following me around like we had been together forever. He loves meeting new people and any opportunity I have to take him with me, I do! We have a local pug walking group where once a month we all meet up for a walk and he loves meeting his pug pals at the park for a run around! In January of this year. I officially adopted Nacho and it was the best decision I have made! He gives me a reason to get up in the morning, and we love to go on adventures together. We’ve been to the Lake District this year also, which he loved! We’ve just celebrated our first ‘gotcha’ day anniversary and will be celebrating Christmas with the family.
To anyone who is considering fostering/adopting, I would really recommend speaking to PDWRA as I can’t recommend them highly enough. Other charities we explored were nowhere near as experienced and professional as PDWRA and I still have contacts I can go to for support a year later with any questions I may have. Always consider rescuing a pug in need of love first. as they are capable of giving you 100 times more love back!
Wishing all the team at PDWRA a very happy new year! Thank you for all that you do and thank you for helping me and my mum find our perfect pug partners!
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Pumpkin first came to us as a foster in June of 2021. She was 3 years old and couldn’t walk very far due to breathing and BOAS problems, just 100metres would have her laid on the floor and struggling for a long time. Thanks to PDWRA, she quickly had BOAS surgery, which I called her nose job! There are never any guarantees that this kind of surgery will be successful in solving a pug’s breathing problems but we’re very happy to say that it’s been completely life changing for her.
We officially adopted Pumpkin in August of 2021and the past (almost) 5 years have really flown by. It’s hard to believe she’s 8 years old now. She has a big older Springer Spaniel brother, who she bosses around, and despite having to undergo another big operation for bladder stones shortly after adoption, she recovered from everything and has been enjoying lots of adventures over the years. She’s been on caravan holidays, beach and woodland walks and even hiking in the dales. It’s also hard to believe she can go from not being able to walk 100mtrs to comfortably walking 3 miles! As age creeps in she has a little rest in a pushchair, like the Princess she is.
Pumpkin makes everyone she meets smile and is such a funny character, who loves a body twerk. We can’t thank PDWRA enough for bringing her into our hearts and family!
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
We came across the PDWRA whilst looking for some Pug friends for our boys Milo and Vinnie who had recently lost their sister.
We’d seen that the PDWRA were looking for local transport volunteers and fosterers, so we put our application forward and our local Volunteer Area Controller, Dee, contacted us almost immediately. We were asked to foster a bonded Mum and Daughter pair, and we were so happy to help out. We picked them up 2 days later.
10-Year-old Ava and Violet, who is 8, melted our hearts almost immediately. The moment I laid eyes on them both I knew then that they had already found their forever home with us, and that we were ultimately going to be ‘failed fosterers’. Ava and Violet slipped straight into our busy Pug family and our duo became a family of 4. They’ve been loving their park walks, Sunday dinners, cheeky afternoons in the local pub, which of course comes with lots of attention and treats, nights cosied up on the sofa and of course, lots of holidays.
Ava and Violet came into our lives at one of the saddest times and brought a whole new lease of life to our family unit. We wouldn’t be without them!
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For further information about Adopting inseparable Bonded-Pairs, as well as more heart-warming stories like Ava & Violet’s, please see:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/perfect-pairs/
by PDWRA | 10 Feb, 2026 | Blog, In Memoriam
This is by far the hardest and saddest post I have ever had to write. How do you replace the irreplaceable Betty?
My precious girl passed away in my arms at 3.50pm on Tuesday 16 December, just 6 weeks away from her 16th birthday. She had been slowing down over the past few months, but it was so sudden at the end, the vet advised it was most probably a heart attack, my poor girl just couldn’t carry on any longer. The only consolation I have, is that she was at home, in her beloved garden, going about her business when she turned to make her way back to me when she just fell to the ground, I rushed to pick her up and held her in my arms, she looked at me and quietly passed away. Such a terrible shock, I just pray she had a peaceful and pain free journey over the rainbow bridge to meet all the other pugs that I have loved and lost over the past 40 years. We were two halves of a whole and my eyes ache to see her one last time.
We continue to be overwhelmed by all the flowers and sympathy cards with such heartfelt messages from people whose lives she had touched over the past 11 years I had Betty.
Betty was an independent little girl, she didn’t like to be fussed over, so stubborn and liked to do her own thing, a real home bird and loved nothing more than being curdled up on the sofa next to either myself or her human Dad knowing we were by her side.
I pray that Betty’s heart and spirit will live on in me and her body was just the lovely package she came in. My whole life centred around her, it was always Betty first and I sincerely hope we gave her the best life she could have wished for. Finally, I would like to thank PDWRA for choosing me to adopt and care for Betty over the last 11 years, she was such a beautiful gift inside and out, how I will ever move on without her by my side I do not know.
Precious Black Betty – 13 February 2010 to 16 December 2025
Valerie Stallard
by Yasmin | 5 Feb, 2026 | Blog, Pug Health, Rescue Stories, Fundraising
When Buddy was surrendered to PDWRA, his fosterer Christine was concerned about the conformation of Buddy’s front legs soon after his arrival.
She raised those concerns with her local Veterinary practice. It could have been dismissed as a case of bad breeding, but she was astute enough to realise that he was suffering some discomfort.
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Buddy is a lively 2 year-old, who loves agility, but seemed to suffer after bouts of exercise with his joints swelling.
You can see here just how much Buddy enjoys it!
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Our Vet recommended X-rays to investigate the cause, and sure enough, they revealed a congenital deformity which caused Buddy’s paws to turn outwards at right angles to the front legs. Many would put that down to what is known as “Queen Ann” legs, but the deformity was so severe it was causing him pain.
Buddy was then referred by the Vet to a specialist orthopaedic surgeon, who on examination of Buddy, confirmed that surgery to correct the abnormality was possible by way of inserting a rod in the leg to correct the misalignment.
The potential complications were explained which included infection, implant failure, or loosening or fracture of the joint.
Fosterer Christine was more concerned about the eight week cage rest than the surgery itself. Keeping a lively 2 year-old pug entertained where running, jumping, using the stairs or walking on slippery floors were all forbidden, is no easy task!
Then all to be repeated for the other front leg after the eight week rest period!
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Buddy is approaching the half way stage of recovery now and Christine, ably assisted by her daughters, has risen to the challenge. Nursing care of the highest order is required, with a constant watch over Buddy to ensure he does nothing to compromise the wound site.
So far everything has gone to plan, and the Vet is pleased with Buddy’s progress.
This is an example PDWRA’s care for pugs in need. Surgery of this nature is complicated and with risks, but weighing up Buddy’s age, his energy level and zest for life, the chance of a comfortable, full life for his future could not be denied to him.
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If you would like to Donate towards Buddy’s surgeries, please go to our Donating webpage where you can do so, directly:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/donating-to-pug-dog-welfare/
Please quote Reference: Buddy 25103
All donations are welcome and appreciated, large or small.
Thank You!
