Animal Rescue with Marion Garnett
Dedicated animal expert Marion Garnett, founder of the Ealing Animal Charities Fair, continues her column
BEAR’S a big girl and any new owner who takes her on must be able to handle her strength and size (55kgs).
This gorgeous Akita cross Rottweiler came into the care of Dogs Trust after her owner became unwell and could no longer care for her. Since her arrival at the Harefield centre she has, understandably, been a little nervous as her world was turned upside down.
But she has built strong relationships with her regular canine carers and she loves toys, especially squeaky ones.
Although Bear plays happily on her own in the kennel. she loves human interaction too.
She’s also made lots of dog friends at the centre including a Mastiff called Tux (more of Tux later). Bear’s clever and already knows several commands. Hopefully, in her new home, she will learn more.
If you’re thinking of homing Bear, she will need a secure, private garden and an owner who will allow her time to settle. She could possibly live with another dog. If you’re interested, see details of how to apply at dogstrust.org.uk.
Now, back to Tux. Dogs Trust would like to thank all those who gave the centre gifts for Christmas. On Christmas Day each dog was taken to reception where they could choose for themselves what they wanted. Max chose a tennis ball, Badger picked a rope toy but Bear’s friend, Tux, chose, of course, a big fluffy bear.
After playing with it for a while, no doubt none of the dogs wanted to take their present back. Some people could learn a lesson from these dogs.
Many people got a new pet in a previous lockdown and, as rehoming centres feared, increasing numbers of these animals are already being sold online or being given to animal charities as they are no longer wanted. This has prompted the Dogs Trust slogan “A Dog is for life, not just for Christmas” to evolve into “A dog is for life, not just for lockdown”.
In order to help people decide if they are ready for dog ownership, Dogs Trust have devised a quiz. It includes questions such as “Are you ready to take a dog for a walk in all weathers?” and “Can you afford to spend money each month on dog food, insurance and canine essentials?”
If you are ready, they have specific advice on caring for a dog during lockdown. For example, how you can give your dog the amount of physical and mental exercise it needs. Visit dogstrust.org. uk for more information.