by Yasmin | 8 Jun, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
Naomi’s is another story of wanting to help out the Charity by fostering, and then falling in love with her charge in the process!
Always keen to share photos of her beloveds with us, here are Naomi’s responses to questions we put to her about her experience with PDWRA and Petey pug.
Q. How did you first hear about the PDWRA?
Since owning my first pug Romeo and realising how special the breed is, I have always had a desire to help pugs in need. I’ve been an animal lover since I can remember and had various pets. I think I get it from my Mum!
Q. How did you come to make the decision to adopt through the PDWRA?
My pug Romeo was 10 years old and my Chihuahua 9 years old and I wanted a companion that could walk a little further (although the seniors got pushed round in their doggy pram also). I had bought my home now with a good garden, and knew I had the space and with great work life balance it was something I could finally commit to.
I applied and passed the checks with PDWRA VAC, Ronnie, who now I consider a dear friend through meeting from the charity. Ronnie contacted me and said can you help… I got back to her later that day and said yes. One day later I set off to pick Petey up and his sister also…. I didn’t intend to adopt him at this point just wanted to help and give something back. We still keep in touch with Petey’s sister and send her gifts and chat to her mum online.
Q. When did you adopt Petey?
When Petey came to me, he needed to be neutered before rehoming, so we developed a bond and when he returned from the vets and needed help to recover from his operation I started to think, OMG, can I let this handsome chap go to a new home?
I put this to the back of my mind for a short while but after my precious pug Romeo passed away on Petey’s 2nd Birthday, I just knew that this was a sign to keep him. So, we made the arrangements with the helpful and caring Ronnie, and he has been a valued part of my life and family since then. He is my soul dog and best friend.
Q. What made you decide to adopt?
Handsome boy, big brown puppy dog eyes and the pug head tilt, true to type characteristics. His happy demeanour, loving personality, needy pug personality and the fact that he follows me around all day every day!
Q. Can you tell us a little bit about Petey?
Petey was a misunderstood Pug, he is 100 miles an hour and a bit of a crazy loon but he is such a happy pup and loves his walkies, paddling pool and naps with me.
Q. How did you find the adoption process?
The process was straight forward and I cannot thank Ronnie and the PDWRA enough for lining me up with my best friend <3
Q. Is there anything you think prospective adoptive or foster parents should know?
I feel people need to give it time. Dogs can take different time frames to settle and some have been through more than others… time and love go a long way.
Q. What has life been like since adopting Petey?
Honestly, he makes me so happy and I take him everywhere with me… this year alone he’s been to Northumberland, Scotland, Newquay, Newbury, Newark and more … I love taking him on days out, new walks and adventures with me.
I haven’t looked back at all. He really helped get me through a tough time of losing my senior pug, whilst he hasn’t replaced Romeo he has become a vital part of my life and I hope to foster and maybe adopt again in the future.
He’s become quite the celebrity and is a brand ambassador for ‘All About Dogs Shows’, ‘Dogfest’ events and so much more and is regularly treated from brands alike to; new dog beds, toys, harnesses and much more!
Thank you, for Petey!
Naomi.
Naomi has occasionally volunteered in other areas for the charity when she can. Last year she took Petey to Crufts, to help man our stand at the world-famous event!
You can also follow Naomi’s Petey, and his fur sibling’s adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exploreypaws/ , Facebook and TikTok: @Exploreypaws.
by Yasmin | 6 Jun, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories, Volunteering, Fundraising
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week, where the first week of June, each year, is a period for celebrating the invaluable contribution volunteers make to their causes, and society, every single day!
The PDWRA could not do what they do for Pugs in Need, without OUR DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS.
Enormous THANKS goes out to each and every one!
Our Volunteer contributors include:
Regional Volunteer Area Coordinators, who manage the whole rehoming process for each surrendered pug, from counselling those giving them up to ensuring they are thriving wherever they’re placed.
In-house Vets, providing highly experienced, breed-expert, supervision of the healthcare needs for pugs in our care.
Fosterers, who provide immediate, caring homes for each surrendered pug during their transition or rehabilitation.
Approved & trained Home-checkers who visit & assess all potential homes for our precious pugs.
Approved Transporters country-wide, provide the generous & trusted network for our pugs to reach their new homes, safely.
All year round, PDWRA’s Facebook Mega-Auction group raises thousands of ££s to help with pug vet bills. Managed by a trio of dedicated volunteers, presenting an amazing array of unique, donated, auction lots or special raffles prizes, to be won. All safely wrapped & dispatched to you!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/242845766241493/
Across the country, Local Fundraisers, through crafts & hobbies or small businesses or events, raise awareness of our charity & provide essential donations for PDWRA.
PDWRA’s small Comms team manages its website & social media daily, emailing regular newsletters to engage with supporters, ensuring they are kept informed about the charity’s work, requirements & achievements. All of our appeals for pug homes have reached new applicants so that ALL of those pugs in need, have found their forever homes.
Every single person that kindly & generously volunteers their time, at Events or behind the scenes, whether it’s administering microchips or paying vet bills, is invaluable in helping our cause: PUGS, that need our help for safe, stable & healthy futures.
Without ALL of YOU we could not do what we do!
If you would like to volunteer, please look at these webpages:
Locally: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteering-for-pdwra/
or
Centrally: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteer-opportunities-at-pdwra/
by Yasmin | 4 Jun, 2024 | Blog, Rescue Stories
Written by PDWRA VAC, Jackie.
How heartbreaking a decision it is, to let go of your pug, and then face the difficult task of finding a good home where it can be loved and cared for. PDWRA Volunteers understand how difficult and traumatic an experience it can be, which is why we help surrenderers through it compassionately and without judgement, to minimise the impact of that painful parting. Reassuring them also, that they will go to the best home possible from our vetted waiting list.
We can provide initial feedback on how their pug is progressing in the first few days and assure them they’re in trusted hands, thereafter our focus is fully geared towards the pug’s needs, and forever placement, or any rehabilitation requirements if needed.
When a surrender call is received we take as much information as possible about the pug; whether they’re compatible with children, cats, other dogs, what their diet is, their sleeping arrangements and walk routine. Whether there are any medical or behavioural issues which need to be addressed. All this information is collated to form a picture of the pug so that we may find exactly the right foster placement.
The foster period varies depending upon the pugs needs – some may be ready to move on to their forever home within following a satisfactory Vet Health Check and Fosterer’s Assessment. Others with more complex issues will remain in foster care for longer until they’re pronounced ready to move on to a waiting home. A relatively small proportion will remain in Long-Term foster care, for their lifetime due to ongoing, multiple medical needs which the charity will support.
Foster pugs are treated as part of the family and participate fully in family life, taking into account any special needs they may have. A trip to the beach – the foster pug goes too. Movie night with the children – the foster pug has a front row seat. Just chilling out with the family – definitely. Chicken Nuggets on the menu – no chance!
This is one of our fosters on his way to a tennis lesson with the daughter of the house – Anyone for tennis ?
Hoping you enjoyed these few photos which illustrate well how surrendered pugs are taken great care of!
By Jackie.
Anyone that wishes to discuss the surrendering of their pug, in confidence, please contact the Volunteer Are Coordinator for your area at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/surrendering-your-pug/
If you would like to foster, short or long-term please read more & apply at:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 2 Jun, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
You may remember the special appeal for Luna, the young pug looking for her forever home with no other dogs.
Well, she found one with Faye, and didn’t have to wait too long!
As soon as Faye saw our post, she applied. She has adopted from us before, is an experienced dog owner and was looking for a challenge!
This little lady has been as good as gold (well mostly), and loves being the centre of attention as we knew she would.
Special thanks go to her foster carer Tina, for taking such good care of Luna whilst in foster and preparing her for her forever home.
Luna has been renamed Sandra by Faye, and she says this about her:
” Our beautiful Sandra has been a part of our family for 2 months now & has settled right in. We utterly adore her. She’s our perfect pug princess, pocket rocket!
She is doing really well, still a bit reactive on walks but nothing we can’t handle. She has settled right in & very much ‘rules the roost’ even barking at my eldest son in the morning until he gets out of bed & gives her cuddles.
She spends a lot more time with my Mum who sadly lost her dog and asked if Sandra could be her therapy pet, a role Sandra takes very seriously! ”
Young Luna needs a No-Dog Forever Home!
by Yasmin | 30 May, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Bruno and Pixie are 7 year-old siblings, and we’re still looking for the right home for them.
Changes at home affecting working hours made it difficult for them to be looked after as well as they had been used to.
Both are neutered and are fully housetrained.
Brother Bruno (fawn) is the more reticent of the pair, and can take a while to trust new people. He’s a sensitive (responsible) soul, who enjoys attention once he’s used to you.
He responds well to exercise, enjoying longer walks than his sister and gets very excited when allowed to run around on the beach or in the woods.
Bruno is particularly loving and also protective of Pixie.
Pixie (black) is a very tiny bundle of joy. No amount of fuss and attention is too much for her, and she gives little regard to personal space!
Pixie’s also a little less interested than Bruno in walks and exercise!
Rehoming requirements:
As bonded siblings, we’re naturally looking for their forever home together.
They have good tolerance for other dogs, and would probably prefer a home where they are the only dogs, although they should be ok to live with the right resident dog, a relaxed, sociable one.
They are compatible with cats and would suit a home with children of eight years and over.
The pair are used to sleeping together in a dog bed downstairs.
If you feel you have the right home for this pair, please reference ‘Bruno 24071 and Pixie 24072’ on your adoption application form.
Please apply at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Thank you!
by Yasmin | 27 May, 2024 | Blog, Rescue Stories
After losing her first pug a year and a half ago due to spinal issues, Lisa’s heart was broken.
A few months passed, and Lisa decided it was time for a new pug to enter her life. After doing some research Lisa discovered the PDWRA, not long after she saw ‘Reggie’s appeal and reached out to our volunteer Area-Coordinator, looking after his case, expressing her interest in adopting Reggie. Lisa’s application was a success and almost a year later it’s like Reggie, who is now 8, has been there since he was a puppy!
When Reggie first arrived, he didn’t even know how to play properly and would tear toys apart. He was cautious around other dogs, likely because he was attacked by a bigger dog in his previous home.
Reggie was also not used to being on furniture, having been kept in a cage overnight. So, with the help of Lisa’s love and patience, Reggie gradually learned to trust and enjoy his new life.
Now, Reggie is a gentle, happy soul who loves getting on the bed and sofa. He’s also become a local celebrity at Cafe Nero and around town. Lisa has done wonders to help Reggie feel safe, especially around other dogs, using treats from his daily food allowance, to reinforce positive behaviour in him.
Lisa feels incredibly supported by the charity and loves the sense of community among adopters and fosters. She says their lives have been so much nicer with Reggie in the house and wouldn’t change a thing. Lisa is grateful for the group and would definitely adopt another pug from the charity in the future.
Here’s to another celebration of “Happily Ever After!” with Lisa and Reggie finding each other in this way.
If you too would like to adopt a pug, please find out how to, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
You can read other pug rescue stories here: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/category/rescue-stories/
by Yasmin | 24 May, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories, Fundraising
Would YOU like to own a UNIQUE drawing of any of your furry friends with a generous donation towards PDWRA pugs in Need?
For the £15 charge for each drawing, which includes post & packaging, Shirley generously donates £10 to PDWRA! Such beautiful bargains!
Talented artist Shirley, who adopted from us late last year has kept herself busy since January taking orders from our supporters.
So far this year Shirley has donated over * £1,060 * from the proceeds of her skill-full pencil drawings. She’s still going strong every week with a running total of over £200 for the month of May.
Coming to the end of her Order list, Shirley would welcome as many as she can handle to keep her busy after her early morning exercise each day with her pug Daphne!
We cannot thank Shirley enough! 👏 Recipients of drawings are so happy with their personal artwork of their beloved subjects, unsurprisingly!
To find out more about Shirley and her inspirational drawings, please read:
by Yasmin | 21 May, 2024 | Blog, News
Calling all pug lovers in Scotland and the North of England!
We are always in need of more adoptive & foster homes across the country as we are receiving an increasing number of pugs being surrendered for rehoming.
However, as we receive more applications from some regions over others, we are currently short in Scotland & the North of England to meet the needs of pugs in our care, which naturally vary considerably.
Our amazing volunteer transport network will take them safely to wherever they need to be, though it becomes more difficult when the best matched home when needed, is too far away for a realistic and comfortable journey for the pugs.
Their welfare is always paramount! 😊
So, whether you’re able to offer a loving forever home, add a companion to your grumble or have room for a bonded-pair where others haven’t, or offer the time & care to those with medical or special-needs, short or long-term, we welcome all!
Please read further details on our webpages and apply online here:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
or
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
or, for transporting, or maybe home-checking:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteering-for-pdwra/
Thank you!
by Yasmin | 14 May, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Meet 7 year-old siblings, Bruno and Pixie.
They have come to us following changes at home regarding working hours, making it difficult for them to be looked after as well as they had been, and deserve to be.
Both are neutered and are fully housetrained.
Bruno (fawn) is the more reticent of the pair, and can take a while to trust new people. He’s a sensitive soul, who likes attention once he becomes familiar with you.
He responds well to exercise, enjoying longer walks and gets very excited when allowed to run around on the beach or at the woods.
Bruno is particularly loving and also protective of his sibling Pixie.
Pixie (black) is a very tiny bundle of joy. No amount of fuss and attention is too much for her, and she gives little regard to personal space!
She’s also a little less interested than Bruno in walks and is sometimes reluctant.
Rehoming requirements:
We’re looking for their forever home together.
Bruno and Pixie have good tolerance for other dogs, and would probably prefer a home where they are the only dogs, although they should be ok to live with the right resident dog, a relaxed, sociable one.
They are compatible with cats and would suit a home with children of eight years and over.
This lovable pair are used to sleeping together in a dog bed downstairs.
If you feel you have the right home for them, please reference ‘Bruno 24071 and Pixie 24072’ on your adoption application form.
This can be found at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Thank you!
by Yasmin | 11 May, 2024 | Blog, News, Pug Health
The weather is warming up (at last!), and it’s surprising how soon it can affect our pug’s daily lives, long before summer officially arrives! So it’s a good idea to be prepared for it, replacing cool mats, purchasing cool jackets, changing schedules to supervise them or shifting walking or exercise times.
As a brachycephalic breed, pugs are particularly prone to heat sensitivity as they can’t cool down effectively when they pant due to the reduced space in their noses (narrower airways and shorter muzzle).
It has been found that up to three-quarters of heat-related illness in dogs seen by vets is caused by exercise in high temperatures, so please don’t take risks!
Also, if they are overweight, try to get them trimmer before it gets even warmer as they will struggle more, and likely exacerbate any other health issues they have.
Please see advice & tips on this at: FIT not FAT! | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
So, here’s a reminder of our Top Tips to keeping our pugs cool in warm/hot weather enabling us to enjoy the good weather when we have it!
- Make sure your pug has constant access to fresh water – day and night.
- replenish water bowls often so that it is cool, and ice cubes can be added to help.
- frozen fruit is a good natural source too.
- paddling pools will help to cool them down and are fun too!
- Make sure your pug has consistent access to shade and cool surfaces.
- Remember to move sources of shade as the sun moves around gardens.
- Provide cooling jackets and shallow paddling pools to enable your pug to cool down, and remember that carpets do not help pugs cool down, so provide cooling mats to help your pug cool down indoors and swap them for a spare cool mat regularly to ensure they are cool.
- DO NOT rely on fans alone to cool your pugs down as they are not as effective on pets as they are on us.
- Plan your walks.
- Walk your pug in the early morning or late in the evening if the temperatures are cool enough and try to stick to shaded areas.
- If the mornings/evenings are still warm – DO NOT walk your pug!
Remember, no dog has ever died from missing a walk, but dogs die from being walked when it is too warm, particularly if overweight, elderly or very young.
- The Seven Second Test
- Tarmac can get very hot in the sun – hold your hand against the tarmac for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand DO NOT walk your pug as they could burn their paws.
- Avoid travelling with your dog in a car when it’s hot
- If a journey is absolutely necessary, make sure they are in the shade, have air flowing around them and can access drinking water.
- Cooling mats are useful also when travelling on warm days.
- Make regular stops to check on them.
NEVER leave your pug in a car on a hot day – even if it’s just for a couple of minutes, or even if you have left the windows open. Pugs can die in hot cars in minutes if conditions are against them!!!
HEATSTROKE
This is an extremely dangerous condition that can develop if a dog gets too hot. Normal body temperature tends to be between 38-39°C (100.4-102.2°F), this can rise a bit if they are unwell with a fever.
If your dog’s body temperature goes above 40°C (104°F) they are at risk of heatstroke, which can cause seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and even death. Heatstroke is more dangerous the longer it lasts, so the quicker your dog is cooled down and treated by a vet, the better their chance of a full recovery.
It’s important to be aware of the SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE, which include:
- Excessive panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Drooling
- Foaming at the mouth
- Bright red or very pale gums
- Bloody Diarrhoea
- Mild weakness/Lethargy
- Stupor
- Collapse & Seizures
- Vomiting, bloody also
- Drowsy and uncoordinated
If your pug experiences any of these symptoms, please seek the advice of your vet immediately.
Further information can be found at these useful sites:
Heatstroke in dogs – PDSA
Heatstroke in dogs | Dog health | The Kennel Club
Pug Health & Wellbeing | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
Pug Health & Wellbeing
by Yasmin | 10 May, 2024 | Blog, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
Dot’s journey began with a unique challenge—she was fully blind. But to Tracey, this was not a barrier just an opportunity to make a difference in Dot’s life. Being the only person willing and able at the time, to take in Dot due to her condition, Tracey welcomed her into her home, not knowing the profound impact Dot would soon have on her family.
For Dot, life hadn’t been easy. Previously in a home with larger dogs, she had faced injuries and trauma to both her eyes causing her sight loss. Despite her challenges, Dot exuded resilience and a zest for life. Described as a “fantastic tough and a sassy bundle of fun,” Dot’s personality captured Tracey’s heart from the start.
Initially intended as a short-term foster, Dot’s presence in Tracey’s home soon became permanent. She settled in quickly, becoming the first long-term foster pug for Tracey. This means PDWRA will always be there for support whenever needed, especially for Dot’s healthcare costs.
Despite her blindness, Dot navigates the world with remarkable independence. She understands commands like “step up” and “step down” and stops on cue to avoid obstacles. Her ability to adapt and thrive in her environment is inspiring.
Dot’s impact extends beyond Tracey’s family. With all of Tracey’s children having autism, Dot has become more than just a pet—she’s a source of comfort and joy. Particularly for Tracey’s son who struggles with his emotions, Dot has been a calming presence helping him regulate his emotions. He is also first one up in the morning to make sure Dot is cared for. She has also helped Tracey’s other son overcome his fear of dogs.
She’s a spirited bundle of joy, independent, resilient and is partial to pulling the washing out of the washing machine when Tracey is trying to load it!
Dot’s resilience isn’t just limited to her physical challenges. Having lost 24 teeth, she fearlessly tackles life head-on, always picking up the biggest bones from the shop. So, from pulling out laundry from the washing machine to snuggling up on blankets, Dot’s playful antics bring laughter and warmth to her home.
With patience and understanding, Dot has flourished, proving that every dog deserves a chance at a happy, fulfilling life.
As Tracey aptly puts it, “fostering a dog like Dot requires time, patience, and love—but the rewards are immeasurable!”.
If you would like to offer a pug like Dot a loving home, by fostering short or long-term, please apply at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 7 May, 2024 | Blog, Pug Health, Rescue Stories, Volunteering
Eight year old Tilly came into the PDWRA’S care a few months ago due to her owner’s illness. She was described as a nervous dog who would only allow her owner to touch her, without attempting to bite!
When Tilly came to us, it was immediately apparent she was severely visually impaired due to pigment covering her cornea in both eyes. This was a result of the (untreated) condition ‘dry eye’.
Tilly was very scared initially and difficult to handle, which we suspected was due to her near blindness and very little social exposure.
Tilly’s skin was also in poor condition due to allergies, and unfortunately she had four masses on her skin. We had them removed and they were found to be varying grades of mast cell tumours.
Our foster carer worked hard on Tilly’s nervousness and with treatment, her skin and eyes became more comfortable, but unfortunately Tilly developed two further mast cell tumours.
Thankfully, since then, Tilly has had no further reoccurrence of her tumours, and she is unrecognisable compared to how she was when she came into the Charity’s care. She is happy, well adjusted, sociable, and loving life.
A wonderful outcome for Tilly, and for her foster carers who love her dearly!
If you would like to foster pugs in need like Tilly please see: Fostering | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
To find out more about mast cell tumours, please read: Mast Cell Tumours – by PDWRA Vet Advisor, Helen. | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
by Yasmin | 29 Apr, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Rupert (fawn) and Algy (black) are a bonded pair of brothers who are looking for their forever home.
They are 3 years old, neutered, healthy with no medical issues, fully house trained and tolerant of cats!
A key reason for their surrender was friction between Rupert predominantly and the remaining male dog in the household. There was a lot of marking and humping, which has not been a problem whilst in our foster carer’s home suggesting that a no-dog household, or one with a female would be better-suited.
The other reason for their surrender was an increase in working hours in the home. Rupert & Algy respond best to a routine and are fairly calm and relaxed pugs apart from when the harnesses appear for their walks – then they go mad! Once out of the door they calm down and get on happily with their walk.
Being boisterous when excited, they need to be fed separately, so also a home with children over 5 years old would be recommended.
Rupert
Rupert is the more confident of the two, outgoing and inquisitive, also the more sociable around dogs, while Algy tends to stand back and let Rupert take the lead. Rupert likes to kick a ball around the garden and loves walks away from the roadside.
Algy
Algy is definitely the more laid back, but where Rupert leads, Algy will often follow.
Any resident dog would preferably need to be female as Rupert is likely to show dominance tendencies as described, when confronted with another male in the household, other than his brother Algy.
So, if you could take this contrasting & compatible pair into your hearts & home, please apply! Go to: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
Reference: Rupert 24037 & Algy 24038
If you are already registered to adopt with us, please speak to your local PDWRA Area Coordinator directly.
Thank You!
by Yasmin | 24 Apr, 2024 | Blog, News, Pug Health
It’s Allergy Awareness Week, and we want to shed light on a common struggle for our pugs – Atopic Dermatitis.
This condition causes intense itching due to allergic reactions to substances like pollen and household dust. Understanding its signs and treatments can make a huge difference! Keep an eye out for:
– excessive scratching and head-shaking,
– red, sore or flaky skin, around the eyes, ears, in between the paws and on their tummies,
– irritated ears
– rubbing their ears or muzzle
These could all be signs of Atopic Dermatitis.
Left untreated, it can lead to more severe symptoms like hair loss and ear infections. Before jumping to conclusions, it’s essential to rule out parasites like fleas or mites. Once confirmed, treatment involves managing secondary infections and providing relief from itching. Medicated shampoos and ear treatments play a crucial role in this process.
Food allergies can also contribute to Atopic Dermatitis. Exclusive hypoallergenic diets can help pinpoint food-related triggers. Though pricey, it’s an investment in your pup’s health.
Medications prescribed by your vet may offer relief with fewer side effects to traditional steroids, but if symptoms persist you may need a referral to a specialist.
This summary only touches the surface of Atopic Dermatitis, but we hope it provides insight into this common canine condition.
For more details, please read the full article by PDWRA’s volunteer vet advisor, Helen, at: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/?s=allergy
by Yasmin | 22 Apr, 2024 | Blog, News, Volunteering
Calling all pug lovers in Wales!
We are always in need of more foster homes all over the country though currently we are particularly short of new fosterers in Wales.
Whether it be simply offering room for a bonded-pair of pugs or for those with medical and special-needs, short or long-term, is welcome.
We have an ever-increasing number of pugs being surrendered to PDWRA and need to find their care, often at short-notice, and at a reasonable distance to organise volunteer transport.
Could YOU provide that invaluable dedication & care to pugs desperately in need of it?
If you think you could, find out more here, as well how to apply: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
by Yasmin | 16 Apr, 2024 | Blog, News, Rescue Stories
Eddie’s Story
Lynda is a seasoned dog trainer with a passion for providing animals with purposeful lives. Her journey into dog training began over seven years ago when she acquired qualifications in the field and established her own business. Lynda’s dedication extends beyond her professional life as she shares her home with a diverse pack of seven dogs, including pugs, a rescue bulldog, a Spanish Podenco and a Dogue De Bordeaux. Her love for dogs and her belief in their robustness and longevity are evident, with her eldest pug being 16 years old. Furthermore, Lynda’s involvement in rescuing animals has seen her foster and adopt numerous pets, totalling 36 rescues, ranging from dogs and cats to chickens and birds. Today, she operates from her own home with her own 4-acre field, offering training classes and private hire services.
Eddie, a 5-year-old pug with a remarkable story of resilience and the waggiest of tails, entered Lynda’s life last May under challenging circumstances. Facing the threat of being put to sleep due to being deemed unpredictable and erratic, (though it was more likely fear or nervousness due to his blindness), Eddie was surrendered to the PDWRA and connected with Lynda as an emergency foster. Lynda drove halfway to meet another volunteer who had collected Eddie and then their journey home began. Despite his challenges, including having only one eye, Lynda immediately saw potential in Eddie’s calm demeanour, a trait she says is uncommon in pugs. Within a few days, Lynda decided his forever home would be with her. Overcoming his limited vision and separation anxiety, Eddie began to thrive under Lynda’s care. Deciding to put him to the test, Lynda enrolled him in one of her kennel club puppy foundation classes, where he quickly excelled alongside a young handler.
Eddie’s training progress was remarkable, showcasing obedience skills uncommon in pugs, such as “sitting without the need for treats,” according to Lynda. Too old for the puppy Kennel Club classes, Lynda looked into the possibility of him becoming a Pets as Therapy dog, and so his journey to becoming one began. In order to qualify, Eddie needed to be calm when groomed, petted, fed, and walk nicely on a lead, a job Lynda was sure “Ready Eddie Go” could take on. The assessment took place at the local veterinary clinic and was a challenging experience for Lynda, accustomed to assessing other people’s dogs, not the other way around!
As a newly qualified Pets as Therapy dog, Eddie’s job will entail visiting schools, adult learning disability centres, and even prisons to provide comfort and emotional support to those in need. Despite his unique circumstances, Eddie’s presence is expected to inspire and uplift individuals. “People will be able to see that even though he only has one eye, he is still able to live his life to the fullest,” says Lynda. “Children might not want to read to an adult but will read to a dog as dogs aren’t judgemental and won’t tell them off, it helps them to get their emotions out and ultimately learn”.
Lynda’s typical day with Eddie as a Pets as Therapy dog involves putting on his uniform, consisting of a bandana, little jacket, and a label on his lead, complete with a registration key fob with his picture on his collar (how cute!). With treats in hand, such as raspberries, blueberries, and carrot stick, provided by Lynda herself, they set off for their scheduled appointments. Lynda emphasises the importance of using low value treats for Eddie whilst he is working as she does not want him becoming obsessed with the treats and wants him to take them gently from visitors’ hands. It is also good for his waistline!
Upon arrival, individuals they are visiting are asked who would like to interact with Eddie. Some may be initially apprehensive about meeting a therapy dog, but through gentle interaction and observation of others engaging with Eddie, those who were initially hesitant might want to become involved. The duration of their visits is at Lynda’s discretion, typically starting with shorter sessions of around 30 minutes and gradually extending as Eddie becomes more familiar with the role. Thanks to his status as a therapy dog, Eddie is welcomed in various settings, including shops.
Lynda’s experience with Eddie has been transformative for her, offering her new training opportunities and unexpected personal growth. His calm demeanour, has not only brought joy to her life but also serves as a source of comfort and inspiration to those he encounters. Eddie’s habit of throwing himself onto his back for tummy rubs adds to his charm for everyone who has the pleasure of meeting him.
For those considering adopting a dog and training them as a therapy dog, Lynda advises thorough research, a commitment to routine and training as well as force-free training methods. She emphasises the unconditional love and rewarding companionship that dogs like Eddie offer in return for dedicated care and effort.
Yesterday saw his first visit to a local adults with learning disabilities centre in his role as a Pets as Therapy dog. The visit was a tremendous success with lots of happy smiley students and lots of treats and cuddles for Eddie. It was also his 1 year Gotcha day so lots for Eddie to celebrate.
Eddie’s journey from almost being put to sleep to becoming a valued member of society is a testament to Lynda and the work done by the PDWRA. Thanks to the intervention of the PDWRA, Eddie was given a second chance at life. Under Lynda’s guidance and training, Eddie has found his purpose as a Pets as Therapy dog. His story is a reminder of the importance of volunteers such as Lynda and charities like the PDWRA and the vital role they play in rescuing and rehabilitating pugs like Eddie. Without the continued support of donations to the PDWRA, Eddie’s journey might have taken a very different turn.
Ready Eddie Go!
