Three lucky puppies will be spending their first Christmas in loving homes today, after being found wandering the streets when they were only a few weeks old.
The trio were brought to Battersea’s Old Windsor centre in urgent need of help, with staff at the leading animal welfare charity horrified by the condition the puppies were in when they arrived in late October.All three had lost almost all their fur and were covered in sores and dirt, as well as having problems with their ears.
After weeks of expert care from the charity’s vets, behaviourists, and foster carers, Abbie, Basil, and Josie began to develop into playful and loving puppies – each with a unique personality.This softens the kibble and makes the food much easier to chew.
Once their skin had healed and their fur was growing back, they were ready to find homes where they could put their bad experiences behind them and start a new chapter as much-loved pets.
Craig Perera, a Team Leader at Battersea’s Old Windsor centre, said: ‘When you look at these pups now, it’s hard to believe that only a few weeks ago they were roaming the streets, unwell and unloved.laidback pet breeds
Plan for When You’re Not There. Make sure your pets are provided for during those long hours when you’re away. Dr. Becker suggests technological options. “DOGTV has stimulation and relaxation channels, and there are apps that control contraptions that talk to your pet, or dispense treats. Pheromone sprays can also reduce anxiety, creating that kumbaya atmosphere.” And, of course, daycare and dog walkers are a great way to enrich your pet’s day. “Know someone who wants exercise? Maybe they’ll walk your dog.”
Lucy Farley, Basil’s new owner, added: ‘He’s the best puppy! We’ve found he loves watching telly, looking at his reflection and playing with other dogs. We are so thankful for him and feel so lucky!’Learn everything you can about your dog’s habits and behaviors. If you and I were having a conversation over coffee and I asked you to tell me about your significant other, or your kids, or any other special person in your life, chances are good that you could say quite a bit about them. In fact, you may know more about them than you think.
Now aged four months and safe and warm, everyone hopes all three puppies will celebrate many Christmases to come with families who love them.
Craig added: ‘We’ll never know exactly what led to this little family being left to fend for themselves at such a young age, but we know there’s a chance they were abandoned by an owner.
‘At Battersea we understand that people may have to face the incredibly difficult decision to give up a pet, and we would never judge anyone for doing so. We would just urge anyone no longer able to care for a pet to reach out for support from places like Battersea, rather than put a pet’s wellbeing at risk by abandoning them.’Be Diligent about Vet Visits. “Don’t wait for the signs,” Dr. Becker stresses. Focus on “prevention first.” Pets age fast, and when it comes to illness they are programmed to mask weakness, “they’re naturally secretive.” One to two visits a year is ideal, but if you suspect a problem, don’t hesitate, and don’t self-diagnose. “In the last two years I’ve seen four or five cases where people went to the internet for help, and by the time they get to the vet it’s too late,” says Dr. Becker.
Any owners struggling to cope with their pet should visit the Battersea website or speak to a local rescue or behaviourist for advice.
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