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Scheme to support pet owners in social housing launched
Recent research found that only 46 per cent of private landlords allowed pets.
Dogs Trust and housing association aim to make it easier for tenants to keep pets.

A new pilot scheme has been launched in Edinburgh to help people living in social housing to keep a pet.

The scheme, a collaboration between the charity Dogs Trust and Manor Estates Housing Association, will see the housing provider review its policies and procedures and implement pet-friendly changes.

A Pet Friendly Housing Toolkit will also be developed. This will provide a set of guidelines that other social landlords can follow to support pet owners and remove barriers to pet ownership.

A lack of pet-friendly rental accommodation is a significant contributor to people having to give up their pets. In July of this year, 15 per cent of people who contacted Dogs Trust about rehoming their pet cited issues with housing as a reason.

Research carried out by Dogs Trust and Cats Protection found that only 46 per cent of private landlords allowed pets, and just 30 per cent of tenants said that their private landlord would allow a dog.

Maxine, who rents a property from Manor Estates and lives with her two dogs, said: “My dogs are such a huge part of my life. They are my companions, play a big role in my daily routine and are great company.

“I have previously tried to find private rented accommodation but have found most landlords have a blanket ‘no dogs’ policy and weren’t willing to compromise, despite my dog being well behaved. This is such a shame, especially in this day and age when so many people live alone; dogs are a great source of companionship, and really good for your mental health.”

Jennifer Leonard, from Dogs Trust’s Pet-Friendly Housing Team, added: “For most owners, being separated from their pet is no different from being separated from a family member, so we are delighted to join forces with Manor Estates and, with the support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, pilot pet friendly policies which can be adapted and used by other landlords in the future, helping to keep more dogs and owners together.” 

Image © Dogs Trust

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.