Fat dog lands man in court

www.yahoo.com

Taz, the clinically obese Border Collie, can now start to enjoy running and playing like a dog should since Brighton and Hove City Council took him away from his owner (read the full story on Yahoo).

At a massive 88kg, Taz was almost four times his recommended weight. His owner had been warned repeatedly by the Council’s Animal Welfare Officer that he had to reduce his dog’s weight, or face prosecution.

However, having ignored their warnings, Taz’s owner Ronald West was subsequently banned from keeping any animal for 12 months and Taz was rehomed to a family who have already started his weight loss plan.  He is now 58kg, so a way to go but heading in the right direction.

Just like us, animals suffer serious health issues if they are overweight, for example diabetes, joint and heart problems. A balance of the correct diet and good exercise will ensure your pet avoids these diseases. Be careful in the hot weather though and avoid walking your dog in hot sunshine. Walking on the Downs or beach in the evening is a lovely relaxing way to end your day and will avoid your dog becoming unwell in hot weather.

If you have concerns about your pet’s weight, please contact your local branch of Grove Lodge to make an appointment to see one of our Veterinary Healthcare Advisers free of charge. They will weigh your pet, discuss diet and draw up a plan to keep your pet a healthy weight.

Make your house a home

If you are looking for a cat companion to cuddle, there will be a Worthing and District Cats Protection Homing Show at Durrington Community Centre from 2.15 pm to 4.15 pm on Sunday 14 June 2009.

You will be able to see some of the cats searching for a new start and the Homing Officers will be there to answer your queries.

There will be refreshments available.

D-Day (that’s Daneline Day!)

If you are a fan of dogs and Great Danes in particular, get yourself along to Clapham and Patching Village Hall on Saturday 20 June 2009 for a Companion Dog Show in aid of Daneline.

There will be a wide range of classes, including Best Rescue, Waggiest Tail, Best Child Handler and Dog the Judge Would Most Like to Take Home.

Classes are open to all breeds of dog and there will be food, cakes, tea and coffee available – and even something a little bit stronger!

Entry is £1 on the day – entries are taken from 12 noon and judging is at 1.30 pm.

Telephone Lissi on 0117 972 3343 for more details.