All you need is love... and a Lurcher

THE team at Dogs Trust Merseyside is urging anyone with a dog shaped hole in their life to consider adopting 1 of the Lurchers in their care. Lurchers are sighthounds (such as a:- Greyhound, Whippet or Saluki) crossed with another breed and therefore differ in size, with variable hair lengths, and are found in a wide variety of colours. They are known for their long, graceful frames, deep chests and loyalty as a companion. However, despite their loving natures, Lurchers can often spend longer in the charity's care than other breeds, and so the charity is now asking people to consider giving a forever home to 1 of its long legged residents. Lurchers were the 3rd most popular breed of dog re-homed by Dogs Trust last year, with 524 finding loving new homes in 2022. So far this year, over 350 have come into Dogs Trust care across the UK.

Dogs Trust Merseyside currently has 7 long legged lovelies ready to find new homes, including:- beautiful Fern who is 2 and youngster Bodger who is 10 months old. Fern arrived at the centre back in June due to a change in her owners' circumstances and although Bodger's owners adored this playful youngster, they felt they couldn't give him everything he needed to reach his full potential. Both can live with children and will make great family pets, but both would like to be the only pet in the home.

Georgina Lowery, Manager at Dogs Trust Merseyside, said:- "Lurchers tend to spend longer in our care than other breeds and are often overlooked. So, it's important for us to try and dispel any misconceptions that may exist about the breed and urge people not to rule out a Lurcher as their perfect pet. Lurchers are loyal dogs that form very strong bonds with their owners. They are trustworthy and gentle, renowned for being affectionate so will bring a lot of love to their owner's lives. It is a myth that they need a huge amount of exercise and long walks, they do need regular exercise like every dog, but they also very much relish lounging on the sofa. Lurchers really are at their happiest when they are with their owner, the 1 they love. We currently have 7 Lurchers that are ready to head to new homes, desperate to build that special bond with an owner and find a sofa to call their own. Each is unique with different personalities and colourings. All have so much love to offer and await their second chance in life."

Dogs Trust Merseyside's loveable Lurchers in needs of new homes are:-

1 year old Carter who is a very friendly young man who greets every day with enthusiasm. He is looking for a loving family who will help him understand that he sometimes needs to curb his enthusiasm a little so he can join in the fun. He loves a cuddle and for now would be best as the only dog in the home.

Opie was found as a stray and is loving life in a foster home where he has proved to be the perfect houseguest. He loves a cuddle on the sofa and when it comes to learning new things, he's a quick learner, with a tasty treat a huge incentive as he loves his food.

Chase is a beautiful boy looking for owners who will let him take his time to settle in as he can be a little wary of new places and people. However, once he is confident with people the team have seen his playful side and if there's a ball to be played with, Chase is the 1st 1 there.

Ned loves his walks and enjoys a trip in the car, but equally he can often be found snoozing on his bed. He would love to lap up all the love in his new home so he is looking for an adult home where he is the only pet. He has a high chase drive so wears a muzzle which he is perfectly comfortable with. Ned only has 1 eye but that doesn't stop him loving life.

Sweet Toby is a giddy boy who loves a run and to play with his toys. He likes to take his time to get to know people, so he'd like to meet his new owners a few times before heading home but once he knows them, they'll have a loyal friend for life as he adores people.

To find out more about the breed or to see the Lurchers currently at Dogs Trust Merseyside waiting to be adopted go to:- DogsTrust.Org.UK.

"I'm a vet, and here's how to keep your pets safe in a heatwave"

WITH the Met Office predicting new global temperature records and parts of the UK reaching 32 degrees this September, vets are warning pet owners in the UK to take precautions against an already dangerous time for pets.

"During heatwaves, it is of great importance that your pets are summer ready too. Make sure they are up to date with their health checks and vaccinations to ensure they stay safe and can enjoy the sunshine with you" says veterinarian Dr Lily Richards, BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS.

Pet sitting company TrustedHousesitters worked with veterinarians to create a warm weather checklist owners should complete to ensure their pet's safety.

Here are 5 crucial safety steps every pet parent should cover during warm weather:-

• Offer wetter foods... It's easier for pets to become dehydrated during heat spikes, so offering treats with a high water content, such as cucumber and watermelon, will keep your pets cool and hydrated. Frozen, smaller pet safe treats such as berries will also act as a mental stimulant and are handy to keep in mind for hot days. To offer more stimulation and entertain your pets indoors, summer pupsicles are a great way to make your pet work for their treats! Simply add some water and their favourite treats into a bowl and freeze overnight; this will add hours of entertainment without over exerting your pet.
   

• Brush off their shedding coat... You wouldn't want to spend time outside with a winter coat on; and neither does your pet. While spring shedding occurs naturally, a speedier process will ensure your pet is far more comfortable as the temperatures quickly rise. Dr Lily Richards explains:- "Brushing our pets and keeping their fur trimmed in the summertime helps them shed their thicker undercoat, ensuring they don't overheat in the sun while enjoying time with the family." Do not shave your pet, as this can result in an uncomfortable coat; brushing only!

Stock up on pet friendly suncream... Like humans, pets get sunburned too. Dr Lily Richards suggests:- "Pets with white fur, especially over their noses or ear tips, and furless pets are especially prone to sunburn and risk developing sun related cancers if exposed for long periods without protection. Pet friendly suncream is great for ensuring your pet stays safe and can enjoy the sun with all the family. Don't be tempted to use human suncream; some of them contain zinc, salicylates, and propylene glycol, which are toxic to pets, and can cause problems if ingested."

Map out a safe walking route... Be sure your usual walking route is still safe for your pet during hotter temperatures, and if not, prepare to map out a new one. With pets much lower to the ground, their bodies absorb heat from asphalt and other hot surfaces more easily. This, combined with fur layers and increased heart rates, greatly increases your pet's chances of overheating. Walk your pet on a shaded route to prevent paw burning. If possible, opt for a grassy walk where routine summer pesticide spraying is unlikely. Remember, cars can reach extreme temperatures in warm weather, so leave pets at home if you're heading for a drive and stick to walks closer to home.

Dr Lily Richards recommends you:- "Walk dogs in the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or evening, to prevent overheating. You should take extra care with those that are prone to overheating, like flat faced dogs, older dogs or younger pups."

Check for new insect nests... Wasps, bees and other stinging insects grow in numbers during the warmer weather, and they may find your garden, balcony, or patio a perfect place to nest. These insect stings can cause your pet to have an allergic reaction, and they might even develop life threatening anaphylactic reactions. Sweep your outdoor areas for the development of any nests and remove them with help from a professional.

Before taking off on your warm weather travel plans, plan for your pet too. Find qualified, background checked pet sitters with access to a 24/7 vet hotline on TrustedHousesitters today.