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Scottish SPCA issues urgent appeal after record rescues
Several rescued dogs were found to be heavily pregnant.
The charity saved 216 dogs in just ten days.

The Scottish SPCA has launched an urgent appeal for donations after it rescued 216 dogs in just ten days – possibly the largest intake in its 184-year history.

These numbers compare to 45 dogs rescued this time last year, marking a 380 per cent increase in rescued dogs.

The charity’s latest statistics are the result of multiple rescues of notable intakes of dogs across Scotland. Most of the dogs had been kept in poor conditions and some required veterinary treatment for dental disease, infected ears and severely matted fur.

Several dogs were also found to be heavily pregnant, later giving birth to litters of puppies. One litter of puppies needed bottle-feeding by the Scottish SPCA’s team.

The rescued dogs have been receiving healthcare at Scottish SPCA centres across Scotland, with local veterinary practices providing emergency response.

However, the high number of rescued animals is still resulting in challenges for the charity as it works to cover the costs of treatment as well as finding foster and permanent homes for the dogs.

The Scottish SPCA estimates that the accommodation alone is costing them £20 a day per dog. The overall cost of a dog’s treatment, including a health check, vaccinations and time in their care, can reach an estimated £1,223.80.

Jennie Macdonald, head of rehoming and fostering, said: “Our priority now is giving these dogs the care they desperately need and then eventually finding them new homes – we need foster homes for as many of the dogs as possible to help in the short term while we work to find their forever homes.

“Our fostering team are going above and beyond to get puppies out of the centres and into family homes for important socialisation.

“We urgently need donations to help us give these dogs the care they need, every contribution will make a difference to their recovery and their future. Together we can give these animals the second chance they deserve.”

If you are considering adopting an animal, visit the Scottish SPCA website. Or find out more about fostering here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

Click here for more...
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FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."