No Strays In The Netherlands – How Do They Do It?

by Lori Ennis

Published: September 22nd, 2016

no strays in the netherlands how do they do it

While it may seem sort of incredible to imagine a country where there are no stray pets, believe it. The Netherlands have shared how they keep the streets free of strays and homes full of love.

It’s hard to think about, isn’t it?

A sweet, malnourished dog, wandering the streets, just wondering why he isn’t able to be cared for or to give the love he so abundantly has.

Or to imagine the torture that so many animals experience in the name of sport, food or plain old cruelty.

It hurts our hearts.

Which is why we are super thrilled with what life is like for strays (and pets, in general!) in the Netherlands. The country claims there are absolutely no stray dogs in the country.

Yes, you read that right. None.

How can this be? Surely, it can’t?

It is. And it’s thanks to a lot of amazing factors. First and foremost, there is country-mandated legislation that allows spaying and neutering services to be FREE for its citizens. Now, the cost of ensuring that overpopulation of stray pets doesn’t happen is not something that anyone has to worry about.

More, truly embracing the ‘adopt, don’t shop,’ mentality, there are laws that place high taxes (like, really high) on transactions where puppies are bought, rather than adopted from one of the 200 dog shelters in the Netherlands. Talk about working to clean out the shelters–which, obviously are no-kill as well. This also makes the tables more even for that poor old senior dog as that cute as a button puppy. Age of dog does not always dictate the love to give!

The Netherlands Animal Control is unparalleled as well. Whenever anyone sees a stray on the street, he or she can call animal control and they can be assured that the animal will be rescued (imagine that–rescued, for real, by animal control!) and taken care of until it is adopted.

Another huge piece of legislation the Netherlands government holds is penalty for animal abusers. We’re not talking just a slap on a wrist. Animal abusers and those who engage in cruelty (such as greyhound abuse and abandonment for racing) are given heavy, heavy penalties (ummm, like up to $18,ooo!) and can even be given prison sentences. Stiff sentences. Wouldn’t that be great? Those who mistreat innocent animals would get their just rewards!

And while all the laws and penalties and taxes and efforts that the government and animal-welfare groups have put forth are clearly needed and effective, perhaps the most important part of this revolution for animals all over the country is simply mentality. The Nederlanders view on animals has changed over the years and they overwhelmingly think of animals as innocent creatures who are living and can feel and suffer. Children are being taught from early on that it is our responsibility to be respectful and loving with all animals…and this mentality has become the norm now.

With the entire country benefiting, because as we all know…

A home is not a home without a pet.

[Source: New York Times]

Lori Ennis

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While visiting Greece last year, Valia Orfanidou came upon a stray dog who not only changed her life, but now changes the lives of others as a therapy dog! Valia Orfanidou of Athens, Greece, is an animal lover, not unfamiliar with helping rescue the many sad, stray dogs and cats she sees all over the Greek islands. Sadly, stray animals are an epidemic, and she said that she has to choose to help ones that she feels simply couldn’t survive on the streets–sick, hurt, pregnant, or newly born–while hoping for the best for the others. Last August, she was walking her dogs on the beach of a small tourist town by the sea when she saw a stray dog–a young pup who seemed healthy enough, but who made her feel that there was something more she needed to do. Orfanidou says that the dog just had a sense of vulnerability about her, and allowed Orfanidou to pet her–clearly, this dog seemed desperate for attention. Related: No Strays In The Netherlands – How Do They Do It? She watched the dog over the next few days as she played in the sand or chased families visiting the ocean. Orfanidou couldn’t sleep, as she was constantly worrying about this dog. That’s when she decided to foster her until she could find a forever home. Naming the dog ‘Blue’ for the sea, Orfanidou began searching for a forever family. At the same time in another country, a family in Holland was mourning the loss of one of their beloved dogs, Abbaio. Karin Folkerts, Abbaio’s mama, said that her loss left not only them and their remaining dog Rincewind brokenhearted, but the many patients of the nursing homes that the dogs visited to give therapy and comfort to felt a tremendous loss as well. The Folkerts family came across Blue when the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society’s posted her picture, and they immediately knew she was meant to be with their family.

Adorable Puppies Crash Bachelor Party In The Best Way Ever!

So… THIS is what goes down at a bachelor party! Taking a cue from “Bridesmaids” bridal shower, the groom and his buddies brought home a homeless pooch and her pups. These days couples are opting for some unusual ways to have bridal showers and bachelor parties. Some throw ‘Stock the Bar,’ Parties and others take elaborate diving trips. One bachelor bunch from Michigan ended up having a party they never planned on! Michael Craddock, the groom-to-be, took his groomsmen on a rough and tough ATV-riding trip in the woods of Tennessee. It started off in the typical way, riding around, hanging out and draining their beer fund. One morning, they were cooking bacon, and letting some fresh air in with the door open. Lo and behold, a stray dog, obviously malnourished and dehydrated, came to the door (as dogs tend to do when there’s food around!). She wouldn’t come inside, but clearly seemed interested on the goings-on in the cabin. The men jumped to give her some food and water, hoping to entice her in, and nicknamed her ‘Annie,’ after Little Orphan Annie. They couldn’t believe how quickly Annie lapped up the food and water, and felt like they just couldn’t turn their backs on her. Related: No Strays For The Netherlands; How Do They Do It? Every time they’d go into town, or go riding, they’d come back and see Annie sitting under one of their trucks or near their doorstep, and she seemed intent that the wedding party was her new tribe. As they got to know Annie more, they realized that she was producing milk, even as thin as she was, and realized she must have puppies nearby. They were not wrong. Not far from the cabin, they found seven puppies, all looking fat and happy. Craddock said that it was clear that she sacrificed all she’d had to keep her puppies healthy, and they were really proud of her. As the men checked the puppies, Annie also did, nuzzling them, but looking to the men as if to say she was okay with them helping a Mama out.

Indian Businessman Opens His Home to 700 Homeless Dogs

Stray dogs are a problem in all parts of the world, where facilities for homeless pets are simply not priority. India is one such country, and one man has decided he’s giving his life to the dogs of the streets. Rakesh Shukla is a well-educated, well-traveled man. He has worked successfully in many countries, and is a successful business owner in his home state Karnataka, India. He’s also a dog lover, and he’s recently committed his life to the over 700 dogs he cares for, mostly at his own expense, on his three-and-a-half acre dog sanctuary he bought specifically for dogs who have nowhere else to go. People call him, ‘The Dog Father,’ because he cares selflessly for the dogs, and without him and his resources, they would surely perish. Shukla says that he is the last opportunity for his dogs–as the ones he takes in are typically sick and all are no longer wanted. Not the cute and cuddly dogs that people actively seek out, they find solace in Shukla’s homestead, as it was created just for them–the unwanted. Related: No Strays In The Netherlands – How Do They Do It? Shukla said his life before his work with dogs was successful, but unfulfilling. He was a software engineer, and still owns the company he founded, but he just didn’t find life happiness in the expensive cars and watches and fancy life he lived. It was when he came across a beautiful golden retriever named Kavya that he found his calling. Kavya was nervous when he brought her home…timid and unsure, and as he lowered himself to her level and softly let her know she was okay and would never need again, he could feel his body tingle with purpose. After seeing what a difference he made in Kavya’s life, and she in his, he began bringing home any dog he felt had nowhere else to turn. His wife began feeling a tad bit crowded and encouraged Shukla to keep some of the ever-growing number of strays at his office. Related: Bride Rejects Marriage Proposal Because Groom Hates Dogs When room ran out there, Shukla knew it was time to do something more permanent for his, ‘babies,’ and he bought the sanctuary, which currently employs 10 people including medical staff to care for the dogs’ medical needs. He does this mostly at his own expense, which averages to be about $665 a day, but says that as their, ‘Papa,’ he wouldn’t have it any other way. Proving that money doesn’t buy happiness, but a dog is the definition of fulfillment.

New Legislation May Create “Dog Offenders” List

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New Research Shows Dogs In American Shelters At An All-Time Low

New research indicates that the occupancy of dog shelters is at an all-time low, and we applaud the efforts of animal welfare groups. Is there is a ‘dog shortage’ in America? New research from Mississippi State University is claiming that the availability of dogs at animal shelters in America is at an all-time low, and that demand for dogs as family pets is increasing to new, higher levels. The research was shared at the North American Veterinary Community Conference in Orlando, Florida, and gives some statistics that say of the 5.5 million dogs who enter American shelters, fewer than a fifth of those dogs end up being euthanized, while over 4/5ths are returned to their owners, adopted or transferred. Related: Dog Escapes Shelter To Find Woman Who Gave Him Bacon Treats While 776,000 dogs a year being euthanized is a sad number, that number is a far cry from the nearly 20 million dogs a year that were euthanized in the 1970s, and that is a testament to the efficacy of efforts from shelters and responsible pet industry leaders to save lives, according to Pet Leadership Council Chairman Bob Vetere. Former ASPCA president and current Pet Leadership Council Consultant Ed Sayres says that the data from MSU will help shelters to do even more specifically to reduce the number of dogs who are euthanized, as well as to reduce the homeless dog population. More, this data is important to the ensuring that the demand for responsibly bred dogs is met in this country. Vetere says that there is an ever-growing desire for dogs in America, and that Americans own approximately 89 million dogs. To maintain current levels of ownership when factoring in the average lifespan of dogs (about 11 years), approximately 8.1 million dogs a year are needed. With only a quarter of that number being adopted out of shelters, and even fewer being transferred or euthanized, the dogs must come from other places, meaning there is great need for breeders to continue to produce pets, but with the assurance that the health and well-being of their animals being priority, as breeders will obviously want to meet the ever-growing demand. Related: No Strays In The Netherlands – How Do They Do It? The PLC claims that a voluntary national certification program, Canine Care Certified, which conducts audits on breeders using science-based standards will go a long way in giving breeders important guidelines that impact the physical and behavioral well-being of bred puppies and dogs when looking to meet demand for dogs. So while this is good news for dogs, be sure to still check with your local shelter when looking to add to your family. We’d love to see a day where there is not a need for shelters, and looks like we may be well on our way!

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What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

Here Are the 10 Rarest Dog Breeds in America

Dogs are the most popular pets in America – deservingly, they are the most loved and affectionate furry friends, and their popularity as family companions never wanes. We all know what are the most popular dog breeds – and which evergreen breeds have been stealing hearts for decades back, but how about those lesser-known breeds? Which in particular are the rarest among them? Even if touting great qualities, some of these super rare breeds are simply hard to come by, and they are seldom seen. Thanks to a survey conducted by the American Kennel Club ( AKC), we can now find out which dog breeds are as obscure as can be. Out of a list of 199 registered and accepted breeds, the AKC revealed the 10 rarest dog breeds in America. 10.  Pyrenean Shepherd9.  Cesky Terrier8.  Sussex Spaniel7.  Harrier6.  Azawakh5.  Belgian Laekenois4.  American Foxhound3.  Sloughi2.  Norwegian Lundehund1.  English FoxhoundDon’t be surprised if you have never heard of some of these unique breeds. They are rare for a reason! On the other side of the spectrum, looking at the most recent trends, the French Bulldog holds the number one spot as the most popular pet dog breed in America, with the Labrador and Golden Retrievers following close by. That’s a bit of a change, as the Golden Retriever long held the number one spot. Generally speaking, most people tend to go for more known and traditional dog breeds when looking for a purebred dog, but the world of canines is much more diverse, with plenty of unusual and amazing breeds to choose from.Ultimately, the popularity of a certain breed should not be connected with their suitability as pets. After all, many factors contribute to that – a great deal of pet parents, myself included, are proud to share their lives with a mixed breed pooch and the fact that they’re not a certain breed doesn’t make them any less perfect. Your four-legged bestie might be a more popular dog breed, a rare purebred, a hybrid designer dog breed, or a cute mutt – they’ll steal your heart either way!

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How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

Can I Use Human Hair Shampoo to Wash My Dog?

Making sure your pet’s hygiene is up to standards is an important thing, but you have to be careful about how you go about it. There aren’t a lot of important rules to consider when doggo baths are considered, but you should pay special attention to the type of shampoo that you use. If you are all out of pet shampoo, and you are thinking that a little bit of human shampoo won’t make a difference – think again. Using human hair shampoo on your dog is not recommended, and the reasons for this are many, including negative effects on your pet’s overall health and the quality of their skin and coat. Here’s what you should know before you reach for your shampoo when bathing your pooch.Why You Shouldn’t Use Human Shampoo On DogsThe first and foremost thing you have to consider is pH balance. Human shampoos are formulated to match the pH level of human skin. However, that level is totally different for dogs. Because of this, human shampoo can greatly disrupt the natural pH levels of a dog’s skin, ultimately leading to rashes, irritation, and skin diseases. And the same goes for the ingredients in that shampoo.  Dog shampoos have totally different ingredients compared to human shampoos. The latter has many chemicals that are considered too harsh for dogs. Dogs are prone to skin allergies and sensitivities, and some of the ingredients in human shampoos could make these issues much worse. The allergies can also be triggered by the strong fragrances of human-grade shampoos, which dogs can’t really stand. You should also take into account that a dog’s coat and human hair are totally different. While human shampoos are meant to lather well on hair, they’ll be too soapy for dogs. Rinsing out human shampoo from a dog can be a challenge, and a lot of chemicals can stay trapped in the coat and absorbed through the skin. Ultimately, all of this can leave your dog’s coat damaged, their skin irritated, and their health vulnerable to viruses and skin-borne infections. 

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Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

A survey revealed that nearly half of Americans (43%) think their loved ones are more excited to see their pets on the holidays than they are to see them. This survey involved 2,000 cat and dog owners and was conducted by One Poll on behalf of Nulo. According to results, 32% of surveyed owners admit they are more delighted to see a friend’s or family member’s pet than they are to see them. Surprisingly, 20% of dog owners think their pets love the holiday season more than they do.What’s not so surprising, is that almost half of respondents (48%) do something special for their pet during the happiest time of year. This includes buying custom ornaments or decorations (64%), dressing their pets in holiday clothing or pajamas (60%), getting their pet their own Christmas tree (49%), and stocking (47%).Half of pet owners like to give their four-legged companions extra treats during the holiday season, and 45% admit they dole out more treats to their pets at Christmas than during any other time of the year. In addition to extra treats, more than two-thirds of pets are likely to be treated with a special holiday meal. This survey also found that the majority of pet parents believe that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of holidays and are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the holiday season. Begging for attention, welcoming guests, and playing with a new holiday toy are some of the ways owners know that their pets are in the festive mood.Nearly half of responders give their pets gifts for Christmas. Those owners, on average, spend more than $100 on three gifts for their pets.Most owners decide to gift their pet toys (61%), clothes (59%), and treats (56%).Interestingly, this survey also looked at which family members are the most likely to spoil the pet. The results showed that the owner’s brother is the most likely to buy a present for the pet, followed by the owner’s parents. Surprisingly, 36% of grandfathers buy gifts for their four-legged grandchildren, compared to 34% of grandmothers. “Healthy treats and special occasion meals are a great way to involve your dog or cat in fun holiday moments - and can add a nutritional boost as a bonus,” said Heather Mendoza, Nulo’s Director of Research & Development, according to New York Post. It’s great to see that pet owners are offering their pets special meals that mimic their own holiday feasts. The holiday season provides the opportunity for quality time and special experiences with our families, including finding more ways to show love and affection to our furballs, she added.In addition to gifts, more cuddles, and treats, pets are also spoiled more during the holiday season by having their special person at home with them. Nearly half of respondents admit to going on more walks and adventures with their pets during the holidays. Interestingly, 40% of owners report that their pets also get to sleep more.Considering that almost all American pet owners consider their pets a part of the family, it’s no surprise that pets partake in holiday traditions. The majority of owners bring their pets to celebrations at other people’s homes. Pets are also involved in “opening the presents” and even go to meet the Santa. “Results showed that 40% of respondents believe Christmas is their pet’s favorite holiday - far ahead of the second favorite (New Year’s Day) at 19%,” said Mendoza. And if you still haven’t found a perfect gift for your pet, don’t despair! Check out our detailed holiday gift guide for cats and dogs to find the best holiday present for your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Reveals the Most Expensive Locations for Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

Are you considering taking a trip to a dream destination in the United States with your best friend by your side? If so, you’re not alone! A growing number of animal lovers are taking steps to include the whole family in their travel plans, with Airbnb reporting that close to 50% of nights booked include pets. But have you ever stopped to consider how much your furry family member is increasing the budget?The team at MarketWatch recently released a guide to pet-friendly Airbnb travel in the US with some startling stats.Data was compiled about the cost of renting 11, 676 Airbnbs and 11,753 pet-friendly Airbnbs located in 46 of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. By comparing the average nightly cost for pet-friendly and pet-free locations, they determined the price premium or the added cost pet parents must pay to include their furry friends.While we’re not suggesting that the cost of accommodations should be the sole deciding factor for your next vacation, this could impact your top choices.According to the guide, the most expensive city is Honolulu, Hawaii, with an average night stay costing $511. This is also the destination where pet parents will face the highest price premium for booking a pet-friendly location at $345.50.If you’re an avid traveler, this likely comes as no surprise. Hawaii is one of the country's more popular destinations for luxury travel. Not only is the cost of living in the state one of the highest, but the state also charges a Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), further increasing costs.Of the 10 most expensive tourist destinations to book a pet-friendly Airbnb, 7 were in California. In addition to Honolulu, the list includes:Monterey, CA ($509)Sonoma, CA ($488)Napa Valley ($380)Santa Cruz, CA ($339)Palm Springs, CA ($329)Boston, MA ($238)Los Angeles, CA ($226)San Francisco, CA ($226)Yellowstone National Park, WY ($219)Don’t let these costs keep you from planning your next big pet-friendly getaway. Not only did they compile a list of the most expensive destinations, but they also identified the least expensive nightly rates in the US. This list is a great way to travel with your pet without worrying about your budget.They discovered that the least expensive city to book a pet-friendly Airbnb is Oklahoma City, OK, where the average nightly rate is only $110. Other locations that made this list include:St. Louis, MO ($111)Cleveland, OH ($114)Columbus, OH ($117)Houston, TX ($119)Salt Lake City, UT ($119)Detroit, MI ($124)Memphis, TN ($125)Indianapolis, IN ($129)San Antonio, TX ($130)Booking a lower-cost Airbnb is only one of many ways to keep the costs down when traveling with your pet. Pack all your pet’s travel essentials before your trip, including a leash, food/water dishes, grooming supplies, plastic waste bags, and a first aid kit. If you are driving to your destination, you can also pack your pet’s food to avoid shopping for it once you arrive. You can gather these items by shopping local sales rather than paying a premium to get what you need on short notice. Pet Insurance is another great budget-friendly travel tip. This may seem counterproductive, adding the monthly cost of your pet’s policy to your budget. But if disaster strikes, the insurance policy can help to significantly reduce emergency vet bills.Whatever your budget, we encourage all pet parents to get out and explore, making memories with their pets by their side. You won’t regret it!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Lost Dog Rescued After Surviving Six Years Alone in the Woods

A senior dog found living in the woods in the U.K. has been rescued and is now looking for a loving home.The dog, named Rose, was first spotted near Crawley Down in West Sussex, England. The Lost Dog Recovery UK South shared in a social media post that they’ve received a message from a concerned member of the public about a small black dog running in the road.The person who saw the dog “stopped the traffic” and let the pooch disappear into the woods, knowing it’s best not to follow. After visiting the nearest property, the person learned that locals were familiar with the dog and that drivers often stopped by saying that the pooch had been on the road. The locals explained that the dog was a stray fed by people.The individual who spotted the dog was troubled by the idea of a dog living in the woods and contacted the Lost Dog Recovery rescue organization with this information. Knowing that this could be a case of an “owned dog allowed to roam” the organization decided to investigate by setting out food for the pooch along with cameras to track its movements. The dog was caught on camera five times in two days and by the third day appeared to be waiting for meals.The organization also talked with residents in the area about the dog and were told that the dog was a stray who lived locally for about ten years. The residents also said that the dog should be left alone because was in good condition, fed, and cared for. After talking about this situation with another household, which has been leaving food for wildlife and were allegedly responsible for the dog’s care, the rescue decided to help the dog. Over the following week, the organization established a feeding schedule and confirmed that the pooch was indeed a senior dog. They set a trap for the dog by serving a warm roast chicken and managed to catch her.“Understandably she was shocked and scared, but very gentle, and was taken immediately to the warmth and safety of kennels,” the organization shared.  After taking her to the kennels, the organization made a shocking discovery - the dog was microchipped! Her name was Rose and she had gone missing from her owners less than 24 hours after they adopted her in 2017! A now 12-year-old Patterdale terrier, Rose, has gone missing from Ashurst Woods, located only six miles away from Crawley Down, where the organization found her. Unfortunately, there was no happy reunion for Rose. The organization managed to contact Rose’s registered owners, but they explained that they were in no position to take her back since their circumstances had changed dramatically and they had moved away. “After the initial shock, our absolute joy at finding a long-lost dog is tinged with sadness as there is no happy reunion for Rose; she never got the chance to know the love of her family,” the organization said in a post. They added that Rose is going to need time, patience, and rehabilitation, and being a senior dog she’ll likely need ongoing vet care and medication. Rose is going to be cared for by Last Chance Animal Rescue in Edenbridge, U.K. After sharing Rose’s story, the rescue received several inquiries about her from families willing to adopt her and give her a safe, warm, and loving home.“Please don’t leave a dog straying for longer than they have to be...not only for them and their wellbeing but also for the sake of humans who love them,” the organization added. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

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Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

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