Confused.com reveals the most popular dog and cat names

Confused.com figures show that most cat and dog owners favour more human-style names over traditional pet names.

According to a new research which is based on cat and dog insurance quotes, people are no longer calling their prized pets Rover and Tiddles. Instead, human style names are becoming the norm with people preferring to name their prized pooches Alfie, and Bella, and their cute kittens Charlie and Millie.

Big risers in popularity have been Charlie, Max and Oscar for male dogs and Poppy, Molly and Bailey for female dogs.

Some of the most popular names for cats include Oscar, Alfie and Gizmo for males and Bella, Fluffy and Poppy for females.

Kate Rose, head of pet insurance at Confused.com, said: "This could suggest a tendency towards anthropomorphism. The increasing popularity of human-style names suggests that barriers are being broken down between pets and their owners. Pet owners no longer see themselves as having dominion over their furry pals, but instead see them as true friends and companions, people even, hence the shift towards more human names.

"Although it’s worth noting that humans have never really had dominion over cats."

To coincide with these findings, Confused.com has launched a pet name generator. If anyone is in any doubt as to what to call their new bundle of joy, they can have the perfect name generated based on whether their pet is a cat or a dog, its age, look and personality. The tool can be found at www.confused.com/pet-insurance/pet-name-generator.

In addition, proud owners can download and print out their own 'birth petificate' to make it official.

Kate added: "It's the perfect tool for anyone looking for inspiration as to what to name their new kitten or puppy. And it's a good bit of fun."

To find out more, the Confused.com pet insurance page contains plenty of information, including links to lots of useful articles and guides about pet insurance.

After The Parade Is Over, 5 Military Horses Formally Retired From Lifetime Of Service

5 Military Horses are Formally Retired

On Friday 3rd August The Horse Trust in Speen, Buckinghamshire, will welcomed five very special new residents all retiring from the Military after many years of service, and one of the busiest ceremonial seasons of recent years.

The oldest equine charity in the world, The Horse Trust has been caring for the needs of working horses for 126 years. CEO, Jeanette Allen said: “We are delighted to be offering a tranquil retirement to such long serving and hardworking horses. The Horse Trust has been taking in retiring army horses since the First World War and we are immensely proud of our long relationship with the armed forces.”

Remus, one of the oldest serving horses in the Army at 26 years old, and the longest serving military horse still alive today, is retiring from his duties. Remus started his military service originally as a Troop horse in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, and latterly as an officer’s charger of the Household Division.

Grey beauty Lochnagar comes from the Defence Animal Centre (DAC). “Lochy” comes with an illustrious show jumping career under his belt having, with his rider, former Riding Master Capt. Mark Avison, won the Services Cup at the London International Horse Show, Olympia three years in a row; most recently in 2011 where The Horse Trust were charity of the year.

Lt.Col. Richard Pope, Commanding Officer of the DAC in Melton Mowbray, where many of the animals who serve in the military are trained, will be at The Horse Trust’s Home of Rest to formally hand over the five old war horses for their retirement.

Three of the horses, Commando, Zulu and Union come from The Blues and Royals Squadron of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment in London. Stunning 15 year old Commando has served at every high profile parade since 2002. Notably he is one of only a few horses to have served on The Royal Wedding and both the Golden and Diamond Jubilee Parades. Commando has also been the bearer of Her Majesty’s Blues and Royals Standard. Capt. Simon Lukas describes Commando as having, “a particularly good stable disposition and apart from his dislike of horse boxes, he was an easy horse to work with. Very much liked by the members of 1 Troop, The Blues and Royals, overall he was a perfect Cavalry Black and will be missed.”

Commando will be coming to The Horse Trust with two stable mates. Union is a 23 year old named after the historic union of The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals to form the Household Cavalry Regiment. He served for 18 years and became a Squadron favourite, nick-named 'Onion' by the boys. He has served on State Escorts, Queen's Life Guard, and has also been used by Corporals Major as their Standard Horse because of his steadiness on parade.

18 year old Zulu joined the Household Cavalry at the tender age of 4. He has seen a succession of soldiers rise through the ranks and there are many “wizened war veterans” who will shed a tear to see Zulu retire.

Adjutant of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, Capt Roly Spiller said, “After one of the busiest ceremonial seasons of recent years, the Regiment wishes Zulu, Union and Commando a long and happy retirement at The Horse Trust”.

A high resolution photograph of the handover, including all the horses mentioned in this release, is available to download here

(PICTURED: 5 Military Horses are Formally Retired to The Horse Trust Horses, from left to right: Zulu, Union, Commando, Lochnagar, Remus People, from left to right: Trooper Speaight, 2nd Lt. Holliday, Jeanette Allen (CEO, The Horse Trust), Lt. Col. Richard Pope)

UK Pet Food Company Wins Conservation Award

Welsh pet food company, Burns Pet Nutrition, has won the RSPB Telegraph Nature of Farming Award for Wales 2012. This annual competition recognises the positive work of farmers who use sympathetic farming methods to create wildlife habitat.

John and Tegwen Burns purchased the land which makes up Penlan Farm six years ago to produce seasonal vegetables and free-range eggs for the company’s “Penlan Farm” moist dog food range. In 2009 the company started an ongoing programme of conservation work at the farm with the assistance and guidance of FWAG Cymru (Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group). Farm Secretary, Rowan Flindall said “The introduction of crops which are not common to Carmarthenshire farms long with the creation and restoration of wildlife habitat has encouraged a much more diverse wildlife population. The benefit of the farm team’s hard work has been clearly illustrated by the increasing numbers of overwintering farmland birds and raptors, a thriving and diverse insect population and the re-emergence of a number of unusual native plant species.”

As well as FWAG, Burns works with a number of conservation partners and advisors including RSPB Cymru, Butterfly Conservation, The Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Plantlife, and the Botanical Society of the British Isles.

The award was presented to Burns’ Managing Director and owner, John Burns, by Alun Davies, the Welsh Government Deputy Minister for Agriculture, and Katie-jo Luxton, Director of RSPB Cymru, at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show yesterday.

Head Office Address
Burns Pet Nutrition Ltd, Ferry Road, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, Wales, SA17 5EJ

Telephone: 01554 890482 (Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm)
Website: www.burnspet.co.uk

The Horse Trust Remembers Hyde Park Horses Sefton and Echo

Horse Trust Remembers Hyde Park Horses

This Friday 20th July 2012 The Horse Trust based in Speen, Buckinghamshire will be remembering the tragic victims of the Hyde Park bombing. It is 30 years since this horrific atrocity in Knightsbridge, a car bomb that killed four soldiers and seven horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Cavalry horses Sefton and Yeti and Metropolitan police horse, Echo, were retired from their duties to The Horse Trust's Home of Rest for Horses to live out the remainder of their days in the peace and tranquillity of the Chiltern Hills.

Probably the most remembered of these horses was Sefton. Born in Ireland and purchased by the army in 1967 for the Household Cavalry, this 16hh black gelding with a white blaze and four white socks was known for his bold and wilful character. Quite head-strong at times, Sefton was at his happiest grazing in the fields amongst his horsey friends.

One of these friends was stunning 16.1 hh, grey gelding, Echo, the Metropolitan Police horse who carried the marks of the infamous attack with a piece of shrapnel embedded in his side. Echo had made a good recovery from his wounds but was unable to continue with his duties as the explosion had made him nervous of traffic and crowds and was retired to The Horse Trust in 1983. He was the most sweet natured and amiable of horses and contentedly lived at the sanctuary for 20 years until his death from recurring colic in December 2003 at the age of 33.

Sefton did not return to regimental duties for some time but was a horse very much in demand by the public. One of his first appearances was at the Horse of the Year Show in October 1982 where he was joined by Echo which immediately brought the audience to a standing and emotional ovation. Sefton’s last ceremonial outing was at The Queen’s Birthday Parade in June 1984 and he was then retired to The Horse Trust at the age of 21.

At the time of the bomb blast Sefton had suffered 38 penetrating wounds in his body and a piece of metal had severed a main artery in his neck. It was a miracle of expert and prompt veterinary attention which saved Sefton’s life but he required further surgery and 3 weeks later was moved to the Veterinary Hospital of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) at the Defence Animal Centre (DAC) Melton Mowbray where more pieces of metal were removed.

After enjoying his retirement Sefton passed away in 1993 and it was only fitting that he should be buried at the DAC at Melton.

The last of the surviving horses at the charity was 16hh gelding Yeti and he was known as the little horse that everyone forgot. Yeti endeared himself to everyone and was the epitome of an old gentleman.

Shirley Abbott, Yard Manager at The Horse Trust recalls, “Yeti and Echo were inseparable and {{it was a joy to see such gentle animals enjoying the company of each other after such a horrific act of violence}}.” She continued, “With the care and expertise of our staff they were able to grow old together and live a long and peaceful life.”

Shirley added, “It was a privilege to be able to repay these horses, who had given a life of service, with the companionable peace of the Home of Rest for Horses.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the soldiers that lost their lives and were injured and our special thoughts are with the horses that ended their days peacefully with us, on this 30th anniversary.

Dog owners spend over £18 million on entertaining man’s best friend

Doggy day trips are costing drivers millions of pounds due to the costs of fuel

- 27% of people travel daily with their pets

- 27% of dog owners plan round trips for their dogs of up to 101 miles

- 66% of dog owners changed their vehicles for a more dog friendly mode of transport

Britain's dog owners plan to take full advantage of the summer weather and lighter evenings, by taking road trips with their dogs. However, these road trips are costing thousands of pounds, a new survey from Confused.com reveals.

New research of dog-lovers around the country commissioned by Confused.com has shown that we're paying a high price for being a nation of dog lovers, with doggy days out costing dog owners over £18 million in fuel bills.

The UK's lucky canines can expect to enjoy road trips averaging just over 75 miles a time to be taken to their favourite pet friendly place across the country and costing owners nearly £10 per trip.

In fact, almost a third (27%) of dog owners surveyed said they are planning to make round trips of up to 101 miles, with 26% to travel more than 201 miles.

Surprisingly, not only is man’s best friend increasing their owner’s yearly costs but they are also affecting the type of car they buy too. A huge 66% of dog owners admitted to changing their vehicles for a more pet friendly mode of transport with reliability for longer distances.

Forty-nine per cent of dog owners have considered the type of car they are going to buy with regards to the space it offers - and with 29% travelling almost every day with their dog, it is clear why this would be so important. If dog owners are thinking about space for their dogs they must also consider a dog’s safety.

The vehicle of choice must also offer some form of ventilation and the dog should also be supplied with water on a regular basis. A dog must be able to stand up, sit and lie down in comfort on their doggy day trip and if possible dog owners should feed their dog as far in advance of travel as they can.

With so many dog owners travelling hundreds of miles with their dogs they must ensure that their dog is looked after, and ensure they are healthy and clearly collared and tagged before they go on their road trips.

Kate Rose, Head of Pet Insurance at Confused.com, says: “With 1 in 2 households owning a pet and 22% of households now owning a dog, it's clear we're still a nation of animal lovers.

“It’s really encouraging to see dog owners wanting to care for their pets properly, by taking them out on a regular basis and understanding that pets need a vehicle that has room to move.”

“But it’s also important to be aware of the potential dangers when out and about with your dog on foot. Should your dog cause any incidents on its doggy day out, you as the owner are likely to be liable for the costs of any damage caused.”

“Purchasing a pet insurance policy that includes third party cover will protect owners should the incident result in any property damage or personal injury, and it will also cover any legal costs that may arise from the incident. Pet insurance is that essential safety net should anything go wrong, so shopping around on a price comparison site will ensure you get the right cover at a great price.”

FACTFILE:

K9 Magazine editor Ryan O'Meara offered his thoughts on the findings, include Brighton, Lake District, Cotswolds, Devon and Argyll & Bute as 5 recommended pet friendly places to visit.

Top Tips from Britain's Dog Owners Looking To Choose A Pet Friendly Vehicle

1) Think About How Your Dog Will Enter/Exit The Vehicle – for example, the height of the boot, how the door/s open, type flooring
2) Enough Rear Space For Your Dog & Any New Additions – for example, could you add to your canine family without needing to upgrade?
3) Comfort For Travelling (Short & Long Distances)

Paul Rodgers Donates Memorabilia to Willows Animal Sanctuary‏

Paul Rodgers, founding member and singer/songwriter with Free, Bad Company, The Firm, who resurrected Queen to tour and record with them from 2004 – 2008, and his wife, former Miss Canada, Cynthia Kereluk have become Patrons of Willows Animal Sanctuary in Aberdeen, Scotland, at a crucial time.

"If we can manage to get through the next year I believe we will have beaten the odds and Willows will be on more solid ground for a secure future. Please help if you can." - Paul Rodgers

Willows Animal Sanctuary, one of the only centres of its kind, will run out of funding by the end of July 2012 unless vital money is raised to ensure its survival. Rodgers & Kereluk are supporting the urgent appeal to save the 300 welfare animals that have been refused a home by other centres as they were either injured, old, handicapped or abused resulting in bad behaviour. Also at risk are vulnerable people who have been helped through there Animal Assisted Therapy Program.

It’s been a busy 12 months for Paul, one of the UK’s greatest songwriters and performers, and his wife Cynthia as, last year, they were also named Patrons of England’s premier Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre in West Sussex.

They were introduced to the sanctuary, and the plight of ex-racehorses, by close friends and fellow musicians Deborah Bonham and her husband Pete Bullick, who are Trustees.

Both The Racehorse Sanctuary and Willows Animal Sanctuary are self-funded charities that need the public’s help and financial support in order for them to continue their vital work with vulnerable animals and vulnerable people, as the Racehorse Sanctuary works with Autistic individuals.

Paul Rodgers has donated the following items to be raffled on August 28 at just £2 per ticket, for Willows Animal Sanctuary:

Paul Rodgers Autographed Acoustic Guitar
Personal Autographed Tambourine
Bad Company Autographed LP "Run With The Pack"
Autographed Limited Edition and Numbered Paul Rodgers Photo
2 Mystery envelopes potentially worth millions of pounds!
Cosmos Rocks Book
Plus, five other items to make a total of twelve prizes to celebrate Willows’ 12th Anniversary

You can purchase raffle tickets using PayPal by visiting: www.willowsanimals.com

Or Mail £2. per ticket to Willows Animals Willows Animal Sanctuary, Lambhill Farm, New Pitsligo, Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire, AB43 6NY

Rodgers has recently played two benefit concerts, in the UK, for the Racehorse Sanctuary, generating an incredible £80,000 to help with running costs.

His latest studio recording "With Our Love" was co-written and performed with his longtime friend, guitarist Perry Margouleff, with whom Rodgers has collaborated over the years.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of the single is earmarked for the charities The Racehorse Sanctuary & Rocking Horse Children's Charity and Seraphim 12 Foundation, (the latter which Margouleff is a Senior Board Member).

The song "With Our Love", is available now as a digital download or in CD format from the merchandise page on Paul Rodgers’ website for £5 (including shipping and handling): www.paulrodgers.com

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Over A Third Of Dogs Abandoned Last Year Still Looking For New Homes

Credit crunch, family break ups and increased volume of dogs in shelters cause dog re-homing concern.

A new research study of 300 rescue centres has raised alarming concerns about the prospects of abandoned dogs finding new, permanent homes. Over 35% of dogs abandoned in 2011 are still awaiting re-homing as economic conditions and the sheer volume of dogs in rescue shelters are taking their toll on Britain's over-burdened animal welfare sector.

Aside from financial reasons, relationship break-ups are the main reasons UK's dogs are being given up, but there is a glimmer of hope this year which has been sadly lacking in previous years.

Encouragingly, over half (56%) of 1,277 dog owners surveyed wouldn't consider a dog who's been in a rescue centre for six months or more a problem dog, according to the recent survey carried out on behalf of Churchill Pet Insurance by UK dog adoption site, DogsBlog.com. In the past dogs who've been in rescue homes for more than six months have remained there because would-be dog owners have had concerns about how they would fit into their home.

Pete Bishenden, spokeman for Churchill Pet Insurance, said: “It’s worrying that so many pets are being housed in rescue centres because owners are struggling to cope. However, it seems that more prospective dog owners are willing, and would even prefer, to take in a rescue dog. Over 90% of dog lovers know about the problems dogs in rescue centres face and are aware of how many dogs are currently waiting for new homes. As a result, more would-be dog owners than in previous years are investigating adopting a dog.”

DogsBlog.com co-founder Ryan O'Meara offered his thoughts on the findings:

“Sadly, the number of dogs seeking new, loving homes from Britain's rescue shelters is making it almost mission impossible for the UK's already over-stretched animal welfare organisations. Whilst donations and funding for the welfare sector are as important as ever, the only real, long-term solution to the problems are for more dog lovers to consider adopting a dog rather than buying from breeders. We are facing a tipping point. As more dogs are being bred every day, the consequences of Britain's dog population problem are being felt in rescue organisations and healthy, loving dogs are losing their chance at a happy life with a loving family.”

The Crowning Glory Of Any dog's Wardrobe

Pet pooches are also getting an opportunity to join in on the celebrations on 2nd to 5th June, when Her Royal Highness celebrates 60 years on the throne, thanks to the high fashion designs of specialist dog fashion retailer, UrbanPup, www.urbanpup.com.

The range includes eye catching t-shirts featuring not only the official emblem and also a range of bespoke designs including the date of Her Majesty’s reign and fun slogans like ‘Keep calm and reign on’ which are all available in a selection of colours and priced at only £12.95.

With the huge attention that last year’s Royal Wedding attracted this is sure to be another Royal knees up that the family canine can join in with a special limited edition UrbanPup t-shirt.

UrbanPup Managing Director Denis Kelly said, "The Queens Diamond Jubilee is a great celebration, particularly for fashion lovers. Over the years The Queen’s dresses and their makers have often been a hot topic. Make sure your dog looks the part too on the extended Bank Holiday weekend in Urban Pup’s own high fashion Jubilee range."

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Chickens become firm family favourite in time for National Pet Month

Vanessa's daughter cuddles Victoria

With National Pet Month approaching, which this year runs from 7 April to 7 May, it’s time to start celebrating the animals in our life.

But it isn’t just cats and dogs that are getting all the attention. As animal feed specialist Dodson & Horrell reveals, more people than ever before are turning to an alternative to our four legged friends.

Chickens and hens are wowing animal lovers across the UK this year, with the feathery friends increasingly proving their credentials as family pets.
In the lead up to National Pet Month animal feed specialist Dodson & Horrell has recorded a 25% increase in chicken feed sales across the UK in the last two years and a surge in demand for chicken feeders and accessories.

The popularity of chickens has been backed up by the NFU Poultry board, with an estimated three million hens now being kept in people’s back yards.

Chris Gordon, Technical Director and Dodson & Horrell’s resident chicken enthusiast says: “As well as demand for chicken feed and accessories increasing, we also hear lots of anecdotal evidence to suggest that chickens are fast becoming a viable option when people are choosing pets along with traditional choices like dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.

“We used to find that chickens were limited to farms or smallholdings and in the gardens of those living in the country but now it’s increasingly common for chickens to reside in backyards in our towns and cities.”

To help chicken lovers bringing these clucking friends into their lives, Dodson & Horrell has these top ten tips and facts.

Dodson & Horrell’s Top Tips

1. Scrupulous cleanliness is the key. Birds need regular worming and the house needs spraying against red mite.
2. Be sure to feed your chickens an appropriate food for laying hens but do not over feed. More feed does not equal more eggs and a fat bird readily succumbs to liver disease and can become too fat to lay.
3. Birds are thirsty animals so clean water must be continually available.
4. Shut your chickens in at night so they don’t get attacked by foxes.
5. To achieve good laying buy a ‘pullet’, a young domestic hen.
6. Birds should have good housing, one to four square feet per bird, and a fresh run area where they can peck and forage. Include a dust bath, sand, ash box or a half square foot pit per bird.
7. A good, well kept chicken will produce between 150 and 250 eggs per year.
8. Bantams are essentially scaled down versions of the hybrid hen, lay smaller eggs and can be a sound option if space is limited.
9. Egg laying takes place when there is no cock bird (a male over 12 months old) present. Traditional breeds lay in spasms, basically enough to sit on at any one time.
10. Modern, developed (hybrid) birds are bred to lay almost continuously.

CASE STUDY
For Vanessa Kimbell, who has one of the top UK food and lifestyle blogs (Goddess on a Budget), life without chickens would just be unthinkable. The mother of three, who lives in a village in Northamptonshire, considers her eight chickens an integral part of the family.

“Not only are they fabulous in terms of teaching the kids where food comes from," said Vanessa, "but they are also much loved pets, each with their own personality and traits. We first got the chickens for their fresh eggs, but now they are about far more than that. The children play with them, they are gentle and fun, and get along with our dog and three cats.

“As well as providing us all with hours of entertainment, they are hilarious with their antics, we also eat our own free range fresh eggs with pride - we just love them!"

Does a legacy guarantee that your pet lives after you die?

Leaving a legacy to your favourite animal charity is a kind and generous act. But the Pet Education Trust (PET) has recently been made aware of a number of pitfalls and so would urge anyone considering leaving a legacy to be very careful when writing their will, particularly with their wishes regarding a pet who outlives you.

If your will states that your pet is to be fostered or re-homed, unless carefully worded, this needn’t guarantee that this will actually be the outcome. PET issue this warning, since being made aware of a very sad incident whereupon an elderly lady had been found dead at her home, with her dog, Henry, laying faithfully by her side.

The lady was widowed and had lived on her own with no family for over 20 years. Henry (8) was the latest in a line of Golden Retrievers, who had kept this lady company over the years. He was a familiar sight to the neighbours as his owner took him out twice a day, happily padding alongside his owners mobility scooter. His owner’s greatest concern was what would happen to her beloved Henry in the event of her passing, so she had made arrangements in her will for him to be taken in by an Animal Shelter to be re-homed or fostered in return for them receiving her entire estate.

Henry was put to sleep 24 hours after being taken into the care of the Animal Shelter. Following a basic veterinary assessment on the day Henry arrived and without any further tests (blood, scans, x-rays) being undertaken, Henry’s medical condition was deemed to be such that it would be unfair to continue his life and therefore be rehomed. There had been no consultation with his regular vet other than the passing over of records and no communication regarding the circumstances under which Henry had been found.

Close neighbours and friends of the lady have been left reeling at this decision, describing an eight year old, happy dog who enjoyed his twice daily walks, who loved to play ball in the garden and who only weeks earlier had relished rolling in the snow ‘like a puppy’. The owner had recently spoken to her next door neighbour of 48 years at her joy of hearing that Henry’s anti-inflammatory medication - which had been prescribed for mild arthritis and hip dysplasia – could be reduced following a Medication Review appointment at his vets in mid January. An appointment which he’d walked the 4 mile round trip to and from.

Unfortunately, when Henry’s owner signed up to the Animal Shelter's Pet Promise Scheme, she had not supplied any other contact details which would have enabled them to contact someone to speak about the dog. It’s not clear whether Henry’s death would have been prevented by this but it would have given the charity the chance to know more about the Henry everyone else knew as opposed to the Henry described in their veterinary report – and some background information on his last few days which were clearly responsible for his ‘distressed’ state when he arrived at the charity’s site.

Anyone thinking of arranging legacies for their pets needs to be aware that there is no guarantee that their pet will not be put to sleep and that doing so does not invalidate a will.

PET are in no way suggesting that sick animals or those in a great deal of distress or pain should be kept alive in order to satisfy someone’s wishes in a will, but all animal charities should make a point of taking the time to access to as much information on the animal’s background as is possible before such a dramatic decision is made.

Finally, and because the law cannot guarantee your pet’s fate, it is worth considering very carefully who your legacy is left to. For further information on legacies please call the Pet Education Trust on 0845 257 2565.

Pamper Your Pet, And Your Home, With Sliderobes

The company has a team of expert designers who can create bespoke solutions for every room in your home and every household member - including your pet!

What's more, the finish of the sliding doors can reflect your love of animals. Choose from a stylish animal print effect design to add a wow factor to your room with options including irresistible faux fur, snappy moc-croc, Dalmatian dog design or a unique cow skin effect.

No matter where in your home you choose to have your new storage solution, no task is too tricky. Sliderobes can fit its luxurious designs around awkward features such as sloping ceilings, chimney breasts and low beams.

If it is not convenient for you to visit a store, a Sliderobes designer will visit your home, at a time to suit you, for a free, no-obligation design appointment to discuss requirements. For more information about Sliderobes, please call 0800 454 465 in the UK and 1800 352 352 in ROI or visit www.sliderobes.com. For interior design and home suggestions follow Sliderobes on Twitter and Facebook.

This is where Sliderobes, the storage solutions expert, can help you maximise space within your home. The company has a team of expert designers who can create bespoke solutions for every room in your home and every household member - including your pet! What's more, the finish of the sliding doors can reflect your love of animals. Choose from a stylish animal print effect design to add a wow factor to your room with options including irresistible faux fur, snappy moc-croc, Dalmatian dog design or a unique cow skin effect.

No matter where in your home you choose to have your new storage solution, no task is too tricky. Sliderobes can fit its luxurious designs around awkward features such as sloping ceilings, chimney breasts and low beams.

For interior design and home suggestions you can follow Sliderobes on Twitter and Facebook.

Badly injured duck put to sleep

RSPCA Cymru in north Wales recently attended an incident in which a duck was found by a member of the public bloodied and injured seemingly at the tail end of a battle (13.03.12).

The male mallard was found in a brook at the bottom of the caller's garden in Guilsfield near Welshpool in an agitated state and struggling to walk.

The caller was able to monitor and leave some bread for the duck until the RSPCA arrived.

Unfortunately due to serious open wounds on his breast area and the back of his neck, along with an injury to his leg, the duck was put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further.

RSPCA animal welfare officer Claire Davies said: "This is a sad incident and moreover it's impossible to tell exactly what had happened.

"In the world of nature, it could have been a wild predator such as a fox, it could have been another duck fighting his rival for a female's affections, but it might even have been a companion animal like a dog.

"Ultimately we are very grateful to the caller for phoning as it meant that the RSPCA could attend, assess the duck and make a decision in his best interest, which sadly this time, meant putting him to sleep to prevent further suffering.

"Similarly if you spot an animal in pain or distress, please call the RSPCA's 24-hour helpline on 0330 1234 999."

RSPCA Cymru News: Cats dumped in box with note

The RSPCA are appealing for information after two cats were found dumped in a box with a note by a telephone box at Moss Valley Fishing Lake and Park yesterday (13.03.12)

The domestic tabby and white cats were found by a member of public sellotaped into a box that had a written note inside saying "We are mother and daughter but our owner cannot keep us".

The caller was able to confine and monitor the cats until the RSPCA arrived. The cats were then checked by a vet and found to be in good bodily condition, but the mother cat suspected as carrying kittens.

No microchips were found and both will now be taken into RSPCA care.

RSPCA inspector Tim Jones said: "This is a cold-hearted thing for someone to do - despite them thinking it was possibly safer to sellotape the cats into a box they could have been subject to all kinds of dangers.

"Leaving a note as some form of anonymous confession and hoping that leaving them outside will mean someone else will rescue them really should never be a way of ridding the owner of his or her guilt.

"Essentially you have turned your back on your pets and thought should have been put into the responsibilities of caring for cats before actually getting them.

"People also still do not realise the importance of neutering their cats - if you have an unneutered female, this can quickly result in lots of little kitties and more mouths to feed and care for, which means more money from your pocket as an owner.

"There is never any excuse for abandoning an animal. If you really feel that you can no longer look after a pet, you can seek advice from an animal welfare organisation."

"If anyone in the area recognises the description of the incident or the cats, please call the RSPCA's help-line on 0300 1234 999."

Feel guilty when you have ice cream & your dog doesn't? New ice cream for dogs is launched!

Yes, it's true! From now on, your dog can have his or her own ice cream treat!

Billy+Margot™, a delicious and unique new ice cream treat for dogs, has won a listing in Dobbies, the garden centre chain owned by supermarket giant Tesco.

Manufactured by artisan ice cream supplier Taywell, Billy+Margot™ is to be sold in 27 Dobbies outlets across the UK from late March. The brand will be unveiled to the public for the first time on 8 March at the world's most famous dog show, Crufts.

Billy+Margot™, which is being made by Taywell at its kitchens in Kent, is available in two flavour varieties: Strawberry+Apple and Apple+Banana+Carrot. It contains no milk, which can be harmful to dogs, and the sugars in the product come only from the fructose found naturally in the fruit and vegetable ingredients that flavour the ice cream.

Billy+Margot™ was developed by nutritionist and dog lover Marie Sawle, who was inspired to create the concept after spotting a gap in the market for a refreshing but nutritious iced canine treat for hot days.

"Many dog owners know that giving a cooling drink to a dog in very hot weather helps them a lot, so why not give them a reward after a walk or exercise with a nutritious iced treat?" she said.

Billy+Margot™ is being targeted at a wide range of retailers, including specialist pet stores and garden centres. Alastair Jessel, managing director of Taywell, said: "We're delighted to be working with Marie to make Billy+Margot™ iced treats for dogs. Although a typical first reaction to Billy+Margot™ might be to chuckle, in fact we see this as a very serious business opportunity for retailers of all kinds. The brand is already gaining listings fast and we have very high hopes for it."

Alastair added: "Giving your much-loved pet a well-deserved treat is one of life's pleasures, and in the case of Billy+Margot™ you'll be giving them something wholesome and nutritious as well as delicious."

For further information please visit: www.taywell.com or: www.billyandmargot.com.

Lost Pets Will be Homeward Bound with New QR Code Pet Tags

Founder Peter Winkler and Family Pet Tia

The RSPCA Report that over 250,000 cats and dogs go missing annually.

Now a Rochdale-based company is hoping to help reduce this statistic with their new coded pet tags. Homeward Bound ID Tags, which utilise the latest ‘QR’ code technology, are linked to online pet profile pages that contain useful information about the pet and contact information for their owners.

The coded tags can be read using any smart phone or internet-enabled device making the reunion of lost pets and worried owners a faster and less stressful process.

Company Founder, Peter Winkler, explains: “Each tag is printed a unique 2D code linking it to a web page which contains information about the pet wearing it. The owner can manage and update their pets details as often as they like just by logging into the ‘Homeward Bound’ website. Any changes are shown instantly and there are no update charges like you have to pay with micro-chips. If your pet is ever lost the code can be read by whoever finds them in seconds, using any smart phone. The profile can still be accessed without a smart phone by simply entering the tag URL into any PC web browser.”

The idea is based on the increasingly popular ‘QR’ (short for ‘Quick Response’) code technology which is becoming more and more commonplace in our day-to-day lives, and the widespread use of web-enabled smart phones.

Peter added: “The real beauty of the system lies in the fact that it is instant and free to update and members of the public can get comprehensive, up-to-date contact information about a lost animal at any time without having to get it to a vet or an animal shelter with specialist chip-scanning equipment. This means less stress for the lost animal and a faster reunion with its owner.”

The idea came about following a holiday to the New Forest, where the family’s pet Labrador, Tia, went missing. Tia was quickly found safe and well, but it was during the search that it dawned on the family that all the records shown on her micro-chip and engraved tags were for an empty house back in Rochdale. Had she been found by someone else, how would they have known where to return her to?

The product is not intended as an alternative to micro-chipping but rather as an advanced tag which eliminates the need for a lost pet to be taken to the vets for its chip to be scanned.

The tags are available online by visiting www.homewardboundidtags.co.uk and the company are presently introducing the product to local and national retailers, vets and pet shelters to ensure that this simple and affordable product can become commonplace on the collars of our nations much-loved family pets.

That's Gardening: "The Grass is greener with Dog Rocks"

That's Gardening: "The Grass is greener with Dog Rocks": Dog Rocks are pleased to announce that the product is now available through Solus Garden & Leisure Ltd, the UK’s No 1 Garden Centre whole...

Over Half Of Britain's Dog Owners Lavish More Attention On Pets Than Partners On Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a day we take out of the year to show our loved ones how much we care and it seems Britain's dog owners are making no exception in showing their beloved pets how much they care as a new survey reveals.

Over half (56%) of the UK's dog owners have been accused of spending more time or lavishing more attention on their dogs, than partners.

According to the recent survey carried out on behalf of UrbanPup.com, of the 1,068 dog owners questioned, an astonishing 70% are planning to spend the day doing their pets favourite things – such as a trip to the beach or long walks in countryside, which is just aswell as 18% will receive a specially prepared meal on the day.

Denis Kelly, owner of pet fashion retailer UrbanPup.com offered his thoughts on the findings: "We've known for years that dog owners really do cherish their pets and these findings show just that. Over 61% of the owners spoken to said the best thing about owning a dog is the unconditional love and so owners might be taking a day out to show just how much their pet means to them but they feel it's reciprocated day after day by the love and companionship their pets show them."

23% of Britain's dogs will receive special gifts bought especially for them to celebrate Valentine's Day costing on average £10 GBP however a lucky 4% will have gifts worth more than £100 GBP waiting for them to open on the special day.

Collars and leads are the most favoured present, with pampering sessions as doggy spas and groomers followed by new beds topping the list of most bought presents.

K9 Magazine editor Ryan O'Meara offered his advice, “The fact that over half of all dog owners are prepared to be told they're 'spending too much time with the dog' on Valentine's day shows just what our pets mean to us.

"This may be a special day when we make an extra special effort to show our loved ones just how much they mean to us and this research shows that pets aren't excluded from our thinking. And as a fully fledged member of the family – why not!”

Confused.com guides pet owners through the minefield of pet insurance

Confused.com has launched its revamped pet (cat and dog) insurance comparison service. The service is more user-friendly, with a quicker quote process and with more insurers to choose from meaning pet owners are armed with all the information needed to make a more informed decision. Confused.com's comparison service makes it easy for customers to compare pet insurance.

Pet insurance can provide valuable peace of mind against unexpected and expensive vets bills; the cost of unexpected operations, expensive treatments and even help with the cost of searching for a missing pet. One simple form searches all Confused.com's pet insurers and will compare the best quotes for your pet.

Confused.com is not a broker, so the website will only offer clear and impartial quotes. With the increased choice of insurers on the panel dog insurance policies can cost as little as £6.29 a month and cat insurance policies can start at £3.13 a month.

Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity said: "Your dog is part of the family and deserves to get the best possible veterinary care when necessary. There is no National Health Service for pets, and veterinary fees continue to rise at a faster rate than general inflation. If you can afford it, we would certainly recommend taking out pet insurance.

"Pet insurance may seem expensive, but it really could mean the difference between life and death for your pet. It would be heart breaking to have your dog put to sleep just because you couldn't afford the necessary veterinary treatment. If your dog is lucky you may never have to claim any money back, but at the very least it really does give you peace of mind."

Kate Rose, Head of Pet Insurance at Confused.com continued: "Finding the right pet insurance policy can be a difficult and confusing task, you want to be able to find a policy that covers your pet for everything it needs but a policy that is also cost effective, that's where Confused.com's new webpage can help.

"With an easy and effective website and a number of pet insurers on its panels you can get the exact cover that you need for your pet. Also with policies starting as little as £3.13 why now compare now and get the cover your pet deserves."

To make it easy for customers to compare prices, Confused.com have put together a best buy table for pet insurance, allowing pet owners to see at a glance companies that provide the best deal for certain criteria. Users will be able to filter out cover for Accident only, Time limited, Maximum benefit and Lifetime cover types, and be presented with the best monthly price for their Dog or Cat.

Communication Bible for Pet Owners Débuts

"Secrets of a Pet Whisperer: Stop Telling Your Animals to Misbehave" offers a simple, effective approach to helping your pets be good instead of bad.

If your cat or dog is acting up, you may be the problem, according to animal communicator Terri Steuben. In her new book, "Secrets of a Pet Whisperer: Stop Telling Your Animals to Misbehave", Steuben describes how people typically give their pets mixed messages and actually encourage behaviour problems.

Steuben’s book, due to published on  Monday, January 9, is a how-to guide for pet owners who want to more effectively communicate with their dogs, cats, birds and other animals. It is full of tips on what to say and do to eliminate bad behaviours like jumping, scratching and barking.

Steuben also provides communication advice for both everyday situations, such as leaving for work or going for a walk, and special circumstances, like moving or taking your pets on vacation.

She describes communication concerns at the various stages of an animal’s life. Plus, Steuben gives specific instructions on how to prepare for an emergency and help your pets survive a disaster, important information she’s learned from her experiences working with animals in disaster situations like Hurricane Katrina and wildfires in California.

Steuben developed her successful animal communication technique, called “Talking Pictures,” consulting with thousands of clients around the world for more than two decades. Her approach involves saying the right words while picturing the right behaviour in your mind. Mental pictures are effective, she says, because animals are telepathic, they hear your words, but also discern what you are thinking.

Pre-release reviewers have commented on how easy Steuben’s book is to understand and apply. It includes a chart on the words and commands to avoid when talking to you pets, and exactly what to say and picture instead.

This book is currently available for purchase at www.TerriSteuben.com.

FACTFILE:
Terri Steuben is an animal communicator who has counseled thousands of pet owners around the world for the past two decades. Using her psychic abilities and practical experience, she helps people better understand their animals and solve behaviour problems. She also locates lost pets and regularly works with law enforcement officials in operations involving victimized animals.

Steuben volunteers with the Humane Society of the United States and other agencies, serving on disaster-response teams to keep animals safe in emergencies. She is a public speaker and teaches classes in Search and Rescue of Small Pets and How to Set Up a Temporary Animal Shelter. To learn more about Terri Steuben, go to her website at www.TerriSteuben.com.

Co-author Diana B. Eastman is a professional writer and editor with in excess of  30 years experience in the education, healthcare, insurance and industrial fields.

Price: $19.95; 90 pages; ISBN 978-0-9839297-8-9