Paula – Volunteer, Trustee & Lead Area Coordinator.

Article by Paula Parke.

I’m Paula and I’ve volunteered for Pug Dog Welfare (PDWRA) since 2018. I have always had an active interest in animal welfare and have volunteered for Dog rescue charities both in the UK and Africa.

I got Tia (my first Pug in 2009) she joined Max our Dalmatian, followed by Jessica my second Pug in 2012.  I joined PDWRA as a foster volunteer in 2018, following this I long term fostered Bonnie who could not be placed in adoption as she had spinal cysts, had been neglected and used to produce puppies. Sadly, we had to have Bonnie PTS this year as she had inoperable cancerous tumours. It’s thanks to the generosity of our supporters we were able to give Bonnie five good years of life.

In 2019 I became an Area Co-ordinator, and Josie joined my grumble, she had severe mental health issues and had been badly beaten. I remember life was put on hold for three months as Josie would scream and spin day and night. Thanks to support from Malcolm (PDWRA Vet advisor) we were able to get help from a specialist in behavioural medicine. Josie is now much improved and able to venture out for short walks where there are other people.

In 2021 I became a Trustee; my areas of responsibility are PDWRA’s operational processes and development including acting as the Lead for Area Co-ordinators across the country. I also have an active role within PDWRA’s core Communication group and social media support.

This year has seen a number of changes, with more elderly, disabled and very ill or at end of life Pugs being surrendered. In the earlier part of the year there was an increase in the number of Pugs surrendered and a reduction in adoption applications, in the last two months this situation has reversed. We have also seen an increase in other charities seeking our help with Pugs that have been surrendered to them. So far this year 218 Pugs have been surrendered to PDWRA and our veterinary costs are £209k (or over £200K) so far this year.

On behalf of PDWRA, We Wish you All and your Pugs, a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

If you would like to volunteer, please look at the options available:
Volunteering for PDWRA | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)
&
Vacancies | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

 

Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE).

Article by Helen McKee (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet Advisor.

This month I have decided to write about the condition of Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE), as there have been a number of PDWRA pugs with the condition that has not been diagnosed by their veterinary surgeon.

Unfortunately, like so many other diseases, PLE is over-represented in pugs; I have seen more cases in the last 5 years working (voluntarily) for the Charity, than I ever saw when in practice.

PLE is an umbrella term for a group of diseases that damage the gut to such an extent that it not only has difficulty absorbing nutrients but also leaks protein out of the body.

It is caused by a number of conditions, including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which is similar to Crohn’s Disease in people, Lymphoma, a tumour that infiltrates the gut, and Lyphangectasia, a swelling of the lymph vessels, which is often secondary to the first two diseases.

The disease I’ve most commonly seen in pugs that causes PLE is IBD, but I have also seen cases of lymphoma. However, both are treated the same way, so a definitive diagnosis is not necessarily needed. More on this later.

There are a few reasons a dog may develop IBD/PLE, including a food sensitivity and most commonly, overactive immune response (‘immune-mediated’).

The most common clinical signs associated with protein-losing enteropathy are primary gastrointestinal signs, like vomiting and diarrhoea. Chronic cases often result in excessive weight loss, dehydration and generalised weakness.

A chronic inflammatory response of the mucosal lining of the intestines leads to progressive damage, severe protein leakage, and improper nutrient absorption in dogs.

If your pug has had chronic (over 4 weeks) diarrhoea, that has not responded to normal protocols,  your vet may culture the faeces and look for bugs such as Giardia and Salmonella. Giardia and overgrowth of gut bacteria are treated with a drug called Metronidazole (Metrobactin). Your vet may also prescribe a pro-biotic such as Pro-Kolin.

A bland highly digestible diet is also often prescribed.

If the symptoms continue, your vet might advise X-rays/ultrasound of the abdomen.

However, the most important test is a complete haematology and biochemistry blood profile. I like to request that the bloods go to an external lab to ensure accuracy.

If, along with the clinical signs, the blood albumin is low, it is highly likely to be PLE. There may also be signs of anaemia, low folate/B12 and inflammation.

If the disease has been left untreated for a while, the albumin levels can drop so low that it is life threatening. A critical level to sustain life ifs 15g/L.

 

To make a definitive diagnosis, gut biopsies may be suggested, however, since the main causes of PLE in a pug are treated the same way, then this may not be necessarily needed especially if finances, or the welfare of the dog doesn’t allow it.

We treated our 11 year old pug Hugo without carrying out a biopsy and after 9 months of treatment he is now in remission.

PLE caused by IBD or lymphoma are treated with immune suppressive drugs. Ideally catch the disease early and hit hard with the medication, which can then gradually be reduced.

The most common drug is prednisolone, at initial doses of 10mg (even 15mg) once daily. Sometimes another drug is added if there’s an initial poor response, such as 2-4 weeks of Clorambucil.

Medication should be gradually reduced to minimum dose that is beneficial.

Cobaplex should also be given, which is a vitamin B supplement, as the condition causes a loss of this very important vitamin.

Finally, diet is very important. Hypoallergenic diets are often prescribed, made by companies like Royal Canin and Purina. Other diets that can work well with the condition are highly digestible low fat diets; I like Hill’s tinned low fat ID or Hill’s turkey ID, small amounts fed frequently to allow absorption by the damaged gut.

There are different levels of severity of IBD/PLE, so unfortunately some dogs deteriorate despite treatment, however others can go on to live for some time with the condition.

Wayne, who was surrendered into our care because of his condition (which was diagnosed by gut biopsy) and adopted by Barrie and Chris Jasper, survived 3 years, though I have seen other pugs die within a few months of diagnosis.

It is a condition that is managed and not cured, and dogs can have flare-ups.

My take home message from this is, if you have a pug that has had diarrhoea for more than 4 weeks that has not responded well to diet change and metronidazole, request a full blood profile (haematology and biochemistry) from an external lab. If the blood albumin is low, discuss with your vet the option of treating for PLE/IBD. The earlier it is treated, the more likely it will respond.

This article is dedicated to Fudge Wilkinson, pictured above, a PDWRA pug owned by Kerry and Pete, who sadly recently died of PLE.

Helen McKee (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet Advisor.

Pug Health & Wellbeing | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

 

Winter Tips for Outdoors!

Winter is definitely here! ❄️

Here are some tips to help your pug brave the cold! Not only will this help your Pug to stay safe & happy during the wet & cold months, it’s also a fun and enjoyable way to spend time with your best friend.

– Salted roads & paths can burn their paw pads.
– If it snows, ice and snow can stick to the fur between their pads and build up. This will be uncomfortable for your dog and increases their risk of frostbite. If they raise their paws, stop walking or whine it could be a sign that their paws are too cold.
– When cold, a dog’s body will limit blood flow to their extremities (paws, tail, ears etc.), in order to keep their vital organs functioning safely. This puts extremities at risk of being damaged by the cold.
– If you’re spending time outdoors, it’s a good idea to get a coat for them. Ensure it fits well so that it doesn’t prevent them moving normally, either from being too tight or too loose.
– If your dog starts shivering, or appears very tired (lethargic), then get them home as soon as possible. If they continue to seem unwell, contact your vet immediately.

 

– Take care when using antifreeze. It tastes sweet so is tempting for dogs but can be lethal if ingested.
– Watch for dogs drinking out of puddles too as they may be tainted with antifreeze chemicals from spills or leaks.
– Additionally, some snow globes contain ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) and if broken are a serious danger to your dogs.

 

For more information on Seasonal Hazards, please see: https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/seasonal-hazards-for-pugs/

Christmas Close to New Adoption Applications

PUGS are for life, NOT just for Christmas!

As Pugs are for life, not just for Christmas, PDWRA will be closing as usual, to new Adoption Applications in the lead-up to Christmas, until the New Year.

This will be from Thurs 7th Dec 8pm to Tues 2nd Jan midday.

We would like to reassure anyone needing to surrender a pug during this period that our doors remain OPEN for taking pugs into our care.
Surrendering | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

Foster homes are always needed, especially for emergencies during this period so if you can offer a suitable temporary home to a pug, short or long-term, please see our Fostering section where you can also apply.
Fostering | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

To find out more about all the considerations to be made regarding adopting, please go to this section and Apply in the New Year!
Adoption | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

When Shirley met Daphne!

Nothing brings us more happiness than seeing our adopted pugs in their new forever homes!

We love to hear and share stories from our adopters on why they chose to adopt from PDWRA. It’s these heart-warming forever-afters that make our work so rewarding.

Here’s Shirley’s story:

“In May, I lost my beloved little Poodle and I was then diagnosed with breast cancer, which made me uncertain about getting another dog. As I am disabled, I’ve always adopted older dogs, which can be challenging as they don’t live as long, but they are so loving and grateful. Despite the trauma they may have endured, they always find a way to show appreciation for everything.

After my surgery and treatment, I knew it was time to love again. While browsing Facebook, I stumbled upon the adorable face of Daphne, who, like me, would also be in a wheelchair one day. I felt an instant connection and was determined to do everything in my power to help her. The adoption process was made easy by the wonderful team of volunteers at PDWRA, they even arranged for Daphne to be brought to me.

 

After some video calls, I knew she was meant to be mine. Daphne is a wonderful little soul, and I didn’t even know I was missing her until she came into my life. She follows me everywhere, even leaving a trail of hair in her wake! She is everything to me, and I am everything to her. I’m committed to ensuring that she lives the rest of her life to the fullest.

I can’t thank the PDWRA enough for their incredible support. They helped me find Daphne and have made a positive impact on so many lovely pugs’ lives.
You are all amazing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Xxxxx”

Here’s the beginning of Daphne’s journey with PDWRA:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/daphne-adopted-completely-at-home/

It’s Getting Cold Outside!!

With the arrival of the colder months, our pugs are also impacted by the change in temperature.

We’ll bundle up with coats, hats, and gloves, so don’t forget to consider these valuable tips to keep your beloved pugs safe and comfortable!

Please also see: Winter Tips for Outdoors! | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

And: Winter Walking Hazards including the Wind! | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)


Check out other seasonal hazards & pug health info here:

https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/seasonal-hazards-for-pugs

https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/pug-health

 

Onelittlepug Christmas cards to support PDWRA!

Jayne is a supporter of PDWRA, who creates handmade cards and illustrations. She very kindly raised £150 this summer for PDWRA in a fundraiser to mark the 15th birthday of her gorgeous pug Henry, seen below.

Henry pug was her inspiration for her business Onelittlepug. Very sadly Henry has recently passed away, having lived life to the full, with a personality ten times his size.

He loved having his photo taken, so was often the model for so many card designs, so his legacy remains.

Jayne has created Christmas Cards with designs for both fawn and black pug varieties. Profits on these will be donated to PDWRA and are available from her Etsy shop, at: www.etsy.com/uk/shop/onelittlepug

They can be specifically found at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1569417534/

We are so very grateful for Jayne’s kind support and raising awareness for PDWRA too.
Please support us both by purchasing and sending these unique and delightful cards this Christmas!!

For more information about fundraising, please see: Fundraising & Events 2023 | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

Buddy & Belle on the Isle of Man

Buddy and Belle, arrived on the Isle of Man four years ago after a long journey from the mainland. Despite the trip, they remained calm and settled, sleeping in the cabin with their owners and family pug, Winston. Upon arriving home, they were met by our Labrador and eagerly explored the house and garden, adapting quickly to their new home.

As it turned out, Buddy and Belle were no strangers to seaside living. They enjoy exercising on the quiet beaches and nearby glens. Although Buddy wasn’t initially fond of paddling, he has since grown accustomed to it, while Belle can’t get enough of the water and loves rolling in it at any opportunity!

Next year, they will have even more space to play, as we are taking over some family fields. Once a pug-friendly canter strip is mown to keep the grass short, Buddy and Belle can enjoy running around and playing to their heart’s content.

Belle has taken a liking to Winston and likes to wash him frequently, while Buddy is more people-oriented. During a particularly hot holiday last year, they all enjoyed splashing around in the sea and racing over the sands, with Buddy’s favourite activity being chasing birds. They were soon joined by another rehomed pug and now all three curl up together at night near the kitchen range.

Buddy and Belle’s adopters, Sue and Alan say, “Buddy and Belle are real characters and dear, much-loved pugs, a great addition to our family.

Thank you to the PDWRA for making this possible”.

Sue and Alan

To see when Buddy and Belle first arrived, go to:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/buddy-and-belle/

 

 

Black Friday Bargains with Easyfundraising!

What if we told you that you could take advantage of Black Friday sales while supporting your favourite brands and PDWRA at the same time?

Here’s How – and it won’t cost you a penny!

With over 8,100 retailers – including Tesco, Pets at Home and Amazon – you can easily join the PDWRA supporters who have already helped us receive over £3,300 through Easyfundraising.

All you have to do is sign up for Easyfundraising, select The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association, create your profile and start shopping!

https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/create-an-account

https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/pdwra/

For other ways to help PDWRA via shopping or recycling, please see:
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fundraising-events/donate-while-you-shop-or-recycle/

Donate while you Shop or Recycle!

#pdwra #pugcharity #pugadoption #pugs #pug #pugwelfare #easyfundraising

 

In memory of Zingaro!

 

Zingaro 13/3/09 – 31/10/23.

I had Zingaro on 29/9/18 following his owner’s passing.

He has given us 5 years of happiness.

RIP our little boy”.

Your Mum,
Hilary.

******

To pay tribute to your sadly lost and beloved PDWRA pug on our dedicated In Memoriam web page,
at: 
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/category/in-memoriam/
please email your story, or whatever you would like to say about them, with photos,
to: yasmin.t.pdwra@nullgmail.com

Lest we forget

We will remember them.
Men, Women and Loyal Animals who sacrificed and served together.

Lest we forget …..
They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/lest-we-forget/

Halloween fun and safety!

Here’s Petey pug, having his first visit to the pumpkin patch in preparation for some Halloween fun!

You may be going to themed pug events or simply joining in the spirit of Halloween at home, so here are some tips to ensure everyone has a safe and fun time:

  • Keep all sweet treats and chocolate out of paws reach
  • There may be littered sweets or wrappers to look out for which are also a choking hazard
  • Walk them early before children may be out and about in numbers and in fancy dress which may scare them
  • Avoid dressing them in costumes that they’re uncomfortable with, or restricting
  • Keep any Halloween decorations out of harm’s way
  • Ensure any lit candles are well away from animals. Battery lit ones are hazardous too.
  • Create a cosy, quiet space away from potentially frequent doorbell ringing causing them extra stress!
  • You may wish to put a polite sign on your door for trick or treaters not to ring your doorbell if it frightens your dogs

For more detailed information, please see: 

Halloween dangers to dogs | Dog health | Kennel Club (thekennelclub.org.uk)

 

Some gorgeous pugs posted on our Facebook page:


Ralph

 


Betty

Fireworks & Precautions for our pet safety & comfort!

It’s that time of year again when we can anticipate and prepare for, fireworks during the winter months, not only on bonfire night. It may be the first time you’ll be experiencing how this affects a new pug in your home.

In advance, you may consider:

  • Desensitising your pets to noise: Playing fireworks noises quietly using sound CDs, while rewarding calm behaviour, can help them become accustomed to the noise. Play them in the run up to firework season, to help them see they need not be afraid.
  • Anxiety relief products: Anxiety relieving products containing pheromones are an effective way to help your pet stay calm, also comforting jackets are like a big hug! There are so many products around so do research them.
When it’s expected:
  • Walk them before it’s dark.
  • Watch out for spent fireworks when walking your dogs. Diwali celebrations start before bonfire night.
  • Feed your dogs before fireworks are expected to begin, as they may be too stressed to eat.
  • Make sure your house or garden is escape-proof, as they can bolt or go missing. (Check their microchip registration is up-to-date!)
  • Keep windows and curtains closed, the lights on and turn the TV on to play music to help drown out the noise.
  • Create a safe, cosy place for your dog to settle before it gets dark. Dogs enjoy cosy dens.
  • Keep them entertained to take their mind off the noise.
  • Comfort and reassure them.
In previous years, on Bonfire night, 5th November, there have been special sessions on Classic FM for example, playing soothing classical music for all pets and animals who might feel anxious and scared with the loud noises outside. Keep an eye out if they are broadcasting again, this year!
Further Advice & tips can be found at:

Multi-Role Volunteering, by Yasmin

My involvement with PDWRA started in 2017 as a first-time adopter. We were willing to take on a pair of pugs, who turned out to be the beautiful, 7 ½  year-old litter sisters, Tasmin (Taz) & Millie.

With the name of Tasmin (on the left), I knew she was meant for me!?

Having taken a serious break from my career managing international recruitment programs for a global tech company, it made it possible for me to devote the time needed for our new additions, and due to this, along with the following volunteering developments, I never returned to my career!

The following year, I was approached by the trustees and asked if I would join the core team as a Voluntary Area Coordinator (VAC) for the busiest, South region. It was full-on, learning on the go, in practical, policy and process terms, as well as accelerating my understanding about this most special breed. Before I knew it, I had matched and rehomed 50 gorgeous pugs and another volunteer, Natalie, was brought onboard to help me.

I oversaw every step of the often emotional and difficult journey for those handing over their pugs, managing the enthusiastic waiting list of adopters until pugs were successfully matched to them, also providing advice and support to foster carers across the 10 counties particularly over pug health and welfare matters. Also, organising volunteer transport generally at short-notice, I soon became an expert at using the AA route planner and the very important motorway service station locations, one of which we collected our precious girls from!

Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before I discovered a sinister lump developing on Taz which was discovered to be an aggressive Mast Cell Tumour. She went through surgeries and chemo as she deserved to live longer than that terrible disease had originally planned for her. It was a demanding time while still looking after the South region’s rehoming, nursing Taz and making many vital decisions for her though with the confidence of her specialists at Fitzpatrick Referrals Oncology, where I felt we were living for a while due to the frequent appointments & emergency trips in between. We couldn’t praise or thank them enough for all their expertise and personal support throughout it.

We decided to adopt another beautiful soul, Dottie, so that Millie would have a familiar companion, and sister, in the future, as she’d always known that.

Sadly, we lost Taz 6 months later, after she’d been with us for just under 2 years. At this difficult time I had to take a break from the ‘on-call’ role of a VAC, though it remained joyful and satisfying to see how the pugs I had placed, got on in their forever homes through our internal Facebook group for PDWRA adopters and fosterers, with parents I had known as names on an application form!

We were asked to foster short-term on a few urgent occasions, for bonded-pairs as there are generally fewer homes able to accommodate two, also Millie doesn’t generally welcome new pugs to our home! However, we overcame that, and ‘failed’ as fosterers twice, by adopting 2 pairs of boys, Percy and Benny in 2020 (above) then Bob and Frank (below) 2 years later, after we sadly lost Percy to lymphoma.

They were only supposed to be with us as an emergency for a few nights but before we knew it they were so settled and we couldn’t bear for them to go through another move.

During these years we’ve experienced dentals for all, numerous eye-ulcers, 2 types of cancer, seizures, a heart-murmur, arthritis, pug myelopathy and a little biter who looks like butter-wouldn’t-melt, and is 95% transformed!!
Whether adoptees or foster pugs, they were all overweight when they arrived, 2 of the boys were obese, so weight-loss management became a familiar experience too. We learn so much from what this exceptional breed throws at us! 

After the break as a VAC, I was asked if I’d consider returning to help a few others with PDWRA’s Social Media, most importantly Facebook which I’ve managed it since, mostly on my own, for 4 years. It’s a 7 day/week commitment, gathering and producing content relating to the charity’s work and achievements, as well as covering only a sample of the many heart-warming pug rescue and adoption stories that our followers and supporters enjoy to hear about, so much.

Our following has increased considerably, from 23,000 to 36,000 and queries and comments from the public need to be responded to whenever they arise, so it’s been really useful having gained the knowledge I have from my roles in the charity.

Managing the Website publishing side too, alongside Facebook, I’m able to draw on our invaluable technical expert Steve, whenever needed, and also work closely with PDWRA’s digital marketing agency’s owner, Robin, a pug owner and supporter, who volunteers the agency’s services to produce our bi-monthly newsletters.

I was also invited to serve as a Trustee (2021 – 2022), on top of these daily operational roles, though I had to step back after a year to re-balance my volunteering workload against my home-life especially due to our expanded and ageing grumble.

My husband, Ian, also volunteers whenever needed, as a regular Transporter at the weekends, so he meets many other wonderful volunteers and adopters across the country. Often I do too when our home near to the infamous M25 is a handover point, so I get to meet a fair number of the newer pugs on their journeys, which I also follow their progress and adventures for our published success stories.

It’s meant long hours, juggling plates and learning never stops, but has been so worthwhile and satisfying, for all the pugs that desperately need us!

 

This article is dedicated to our beloved Taz & Percy.
Both with us for too short a time, only 2 years, respectively!


For latest vacancy information for specific volunteer roles, please go to:
Vacancies | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

If you would like to volunteer locally to you, please see details of the 3 options; transporting, home-checking or fundraising, and to apply at:
Volunteering for PDWRA | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

If you’re considering fostering, please see more details and apply at:
Fostering | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

 

It’s International PUG Day!

It’s International Pug Day (Pugtober 15th)! Created to help pugs in need and encourage people to help take them out of shelters and into loving homes. 

This is exactly what PDWRA do, throughout the UK. So, on this day of celebrating this wonderful and adorable breed, apart from spoiling them in your usual way, you can help us do what we do, in various ways. Please see the website links, below:

Here’s a lovely selection of our Facebook followers’ pugs that were shared with us for National Pug Day, all gorgeous and gratefully received!
You can see more on our page – https://www.facebook.com/PDWRA/

We rely solely on the help of volunteers and kind donations from people like you. Thank You!

https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/adopting-a-pug/
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fostering-a-pug/
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/volunteering-for-pdwra/

https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/donating-to-pug-dog-welfare/
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/friends-of-welfare/
https://pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk/fundraising-events/

#pwdwa #pugcharity #pugwelfare #pugadoption #pug #pugs #pugsofinstagram #internationalpugday

PDWRA’s vet advice on Pet Insurance

By Helen McKee. (MRCVS)
PDWRA Vet Advisor.

I have been asked to write about pet insurance as it can be quite a minefield out there, as with any insurance.

We ask that all people who adopt a PDWRA pug take out insurance on their pug. The reason for this, as no doubt you have picked up from the previous articles, is that pugs are prone to a large number of health conditions, most of which can be very expensive to investigate and treat.

It can cost at least £3,000 for corneal graft surgery, an MRI, or a work up for a metabolic problem, not to mention BOAS surgery, hence the need for insurance.

For example, our daughter noticed that her (white) PDWRA pug had suddenly slowed down having always been fit despite being 10 years of age. Blood tests by local vet revealed some significant abnormalities and we asked that he was immediately referred.

He was seen by the referral practice the next day, and through investigations, including a CT scan and needle guided biopsy, was found to have abdominal tumours that had spread to his lungs (metastases). The total cost of both the primary and referral vet fees was £3,500.

Whilst our daughter is devastated, she was able to find out quickly, (and with little expense as she was covered by Petplan), exactly what was wrong with Prince and whether he could be treated (he had palliative care).

This is the value of good insurance.

And there’s the rub!

What is good insurance? As with any insurance, it’s important to read the small print. I have recently heard of someone being caught out; there was a cap on the amount per condition (£500- useless for a pug) rather than a total that can be claimed annually not based on a condition, which left the person with a very large bill to pay!

The type of insurance that best suits pugs and the conditions they are prone to (that may need ongoing life treatment) is cover for life (rather than 12 month).

Watch out for insurance companies that dictate where a dog is referred (normally cheaper practices that may not be the best option for your pug), one of which is ‘Animal Friends’ insurance, and remember cheaper might not be the best option.

Our previous insurance company of choice was Petplan; they have good lifelong cover with a range per annum (we chose the mid range cover  of £7000) with no cap per condition and they pay out promptly. However, recent experience has shown that they are not always the best choice for rescue dogs with a history of medical issues (good for puppies with no previous medical records); they now put blanket exclusions on any condition mentioned.

One adopter mentioned that their adoptive dog had previously been overweight and Petplan excluded all respiratory and cardiovascular conditions! And Petplan can make it really difficult to lift these exclusions; it normally needs your veterinary practice to write to the Underwriters (which takes forever!) who finally make a decision. They don’t automatically lift exclusions; you have to be pro-active and contact them after the length of time they decide the exclusion can be lifted.

As a result we have insured our most recent PDWRA pug with ‘Many Pets’. They have had good write ups recently, and with their top cover of £12,000 per annum, all pre-existing conditions are covered. Their other life cover policies automatically lift any exclusions after 2 years as long the medical records show no veterinary treatment for that condition during that period.

Another pet insurance that has been recommended to me is ‘More Than’ though I have had no personal experience using this company.

In summary:-

  • Take out a ‘Life Cover’ policy.
  • Use a company that doesn’t have a limit on amount per condition, but has an annual cap.
  • Make a considered decision on how much cover you would like per annum (we chose £7,000 per annum; our first  pug used the whole premium for 2 years running up to the age of two which Petplan paid without any issues).
  • And finally, read the small print!


This article is dedicated to the very special and beautiful boy Prince, 23-3-13 to 29-8-23.

For other pug health information and articles please see:
Pug Health & Wellbeing | The Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (pugwelfare-rescue.org.uk)

Subscribe to our Newsletters

Would you like to join our mailing list to receive regular newsletters by email, with latest news and updates?

Please submit your details below.

You have successfully subscribed!