Latest news with #CavalierKingCharlesSpaniel
Daily Record
19 hours ago
- Daily Record
Victims of illegal puppy trader open up on heartbreak of desperate attempt to save dogs
New owners fell in love with defenceless pups and were immediately faced with a desperate fight for life - and huge vet bills. Victims of illegal puppy trader Julie Taylor have told how they battled to save the lives of their tiny dogs. The dog owners have spoken out after the SSPCA's Special Investigations Unit busted Taylor, who was running an unlicensed 'puppy shop' from a filthy home in Ayrshire. The Daily Record told yesterday how Taylor was branded 'cruel and abhorrent' and banned from keeping animals for ten years as she was nailed in court. We told how one dog died, leading the new owner - an off duty police officer - to call in the animal charity's SIU to bring Taylor to justice. Another dog lover to have a nightmare ordeal due to the appalling conditions Taylor was subjecting pups to was Gillian Linton, 35, from Clydebank. The civil servant told how she instantly fell in love with a tiny Spaniel she called Primrose. She ended up paying more than £2,000 in vet bills after forming a powerful bond with the tiny pup, which almost died but eventually pulled through. Gillian, who bought Primrose at Taylor's home in Stewarton on Christmas Eve, 2023, said: 'We were meant to be getting a Blenheim Spaniel but the pup turned out to be a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 'When she was presented to us she was stinking and her tummy was distended. She was in a bad way. Julie said she had just been fed but alarm bells were ringing loudly. 'The wee dog dropped flat on the floor and started crawling along in a strange way. She was lost and distressed. 'I picked her up and she snuggled into my neck and I was probably committed to her from that point, with no way of going back because I just couldn't leave her there. 'I had to rescue her - and I can't help but wonder how many other dog lovers felt the same way with other pups. Gillian transferred £795 to Taylor on the spot. She said: 'I asked to use the bathroom upstairs and I could see the house wasn't normal, with big piles of stuff in rooms and flooring had been ripped up. I guessed it had just been transformed by the puppy farm trade that was going on. 'As soon as we got Primrose home she started to cough and she would stop breathing for a but then produce a hacking cough that was awful to watch. 'She was really ill and we thought she was going to die.' Gillian said she had to take Primrose to the vet on New Year's Day because she thought the pup would die otherwise. She said: 'She was full of worms and her ears were infected and foul smelling. She was a poor wee soul. ' Gillian added: 'Primrose is 18 months old and really good now - but that's a miracle after the start she had in life. 'To think that people have been mistreating defenceless pups so badly for quick cash makes me feel very sad and it's good that the SSPCA shut these people down.' Eleanor Sullivan, 66, also said she immediately felt a duty to rescue the Cavapoo pup - which she called Jax - due to its pitiful condition when shown it. Former school worker Eleanor, from Cumbernauld, said: 'Jax was a bit of a sorry state, with terrible ear mites and a cough but I had to rescue this defenceless animal. 'I had a dog cage at the bottom of my bed but when I locked the door the pup went mad, throwing himself at the cage door.' Eleanor said the dog looked 'lost' and behaved like it had never interacted with humans before. She said: 'It was shaking and looked terrified. It was obvious from the start that the pups weren't right and Jax looked a lot younger than the eight weeks Julie said she was. 'I also discovered that different adverts were appearing online, supposedly selling the same dogs but with different phone numbers. I think it was just a conveyor belt of pups. 'These people rely on people like me forming an instant attachment. They shouldn't be allowed to have anything to do with animals.' The Record told yesterday how PC Elaine McArthur's cockapoo pup Marley fought for life then died of deadly parvo virus, three days after leaving Taylor's home. Distraught mum Elaine turned the tables on Taylor by calling in SSPCA investigators, who raided the trader's home and shut the operation down. Taylor, 41, was caught red handed with 16 terrified dogs, of various breeds, being held in a filthy toilet and covered in dog waste. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Taylor admitted cruelty and operating without a licence, which saw her banned from keeping dogs for 10 years at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court. Taylor's defence lawyer Graeme Cunningham said he could not deny that she was the front of an 'abhorrent' puppy farm operation, where dogs were badly treated then sold on for large amounts of cash. Taylor was also given a Community Payback Order to include unpaid work of 240 hours. She will also face a Proceeds of Crime investigation and could have thousands of pounds clawed back.
Daily Mail
11-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Trendy designer Cavapoos are most at risk of embarrassing health problem, vets warn
With their adorable teddy bear-esque coats and affectionate nature, it's no wonder Cavapoos have become all the rage. But they're the breed most likely to suffer from a troublesome health condition – and it's bad news for owners who have cream carpets. Researchers have discovered that the designer crossbreed – a mix between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and either the Toy or Miniature Poodle – is most likely to experience diarrhoea. In fact, they're more than three times more likely to be diagnosed with condition each year compared to Chihuahuas, a study found. A team from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London analysed the health records of more than two million dogs brought to the vet in the UK in 2019. They found around one in every 12 dogs in the UK will be diagnosed with diarrhoea every year, with some breeds more susceptible than others. Overall the Cavapoo was most likely to suffer from the runs, with an annual incidence risk of 14.95 per cent. Coming in close second was the Maltese, followed by the Miniature Poodle and German Shepherd. At the other end of the scale the Jack Russell Terrier and the Chihuahua were the least likely to experience the runs, the study showed. It follows recent reports that, despite their Instagram-perfect curls, trendy Cavapoos can be far from an ideal companion. Speaking to MailOnline, owners have shared how they've spent thousands on the 'expensive' pets only to be floored by extortionate vet bills as a result of recurring health issues. And far from being perfectly behaved, owners have ended up being forced to deal with ultra-clingy 'velcro' dogs who show displays of aggression towards others and display 'food-avoidant' habits, necessitating expensive alternatives. 'Poodle crosses were meant to be the answer to everything - hypoallergenic, versatile size, easy to train and absolutely heart-meltingly cute ,especially as teddy-like puppies,' Francesca Verney, veterinary director of Pet People told MailOnline. 'But in many cases - a poorly bred, insufficiently socialised dog in the dedicated but often naive owner's hands can be a recipe for difficulty with high prevalence of disc disease, allergy, immune-mediated disease, separation anxiety and reactivity. 'A crying shame that the context has affected the original stamp of a lovely cross.' Mark Graham, from Sage Vets in Loughton, said they do see particular traits among the poodle breed and its crosses. While the Cavapoo, Maltese and Miniature Poodle topped the list for the highest risk of diarrhoea, the Chihuahua and Patterdale Terrier were the least likely breed to suffer from the condition He said: 'We do find certain breeds and their crosses, such as Cockapoos and Cavapoos, are prone to particular behavioural traits, clinginess and anxiety among them. There is growing evidence that some of these may have a genetic basis. 'These dogs surged in popularity during the lockdown, when reduced opportunities for training and socialisation meant many became accustomed to constant human company, making separation anxiety increasingly common.' Cavapoos are also susceptible to health conditions such as patellar luxation – when the kneecap slips and causes discomfort – and dental issues like bad breath, tooth decay and cavities. Results of the new study also showed that dogs aged three and under, as well as dogs aged nine and older, were more likely to suffer from diarrhoea than dogs aged four to five. Young dogs were more likely to eat things they shouldn't, giving them digestive issues, while older dogs may experience the issue from the complications of ageing, the researchers said. Thankfully, most dogs appeared to recover quicker from the condition – with more than 80 per cent needing just one visit to the vets. Dr. Dan O'Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC and co-author of the paper, said: 'Experiencing the dreaded 'poonami' with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears. 'This new study shows that diarrhoea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic – no matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment.' The researchers said it's possible that different breeds have higher and lower dispositions to diarrhoea. It could also be that the findings are down to different diets and exercise habits – or even differences in the likelihood of dog owners taking their pet to the vet in the first place. Diarrhoea in dogs can be dangerous due to the risk of dehydration, especially in puppies, older dogs and those with underlying health conditions. If the issue is severe or prolonged it can lead to a loss of electrolytes and other important nutrients, potentially causing organ damage or even death. The findings of the new study were published in the journal Plos One. IS DOG INTELLIGENCE AKIN TO HUMAN INTELLIGENCE? Dogs' abilities to learn are varied, much like humans' abilities, according to WebMD. Dogs that were bred in order to hunt, retrieve or herd are faster learners because they are inherently quicker on their feet. Similarly, dogs bred to guard livestock or track scents are usually slower. The key in training your dog, WebMD says, comes down to knowing what your dog was bred to accomplish. However, all dogs can be trained to follow simple commands, according to trainers. WebMD reports that the following are the most naturally intelligent dog breeds: Border Collie Poodle German Shepherd Golden Retriever Doberman Pinscher Shetland Sheepdog Labrador Retriever Papillon Rottweiler Australian Cattle Dog
Irish Independent
08-06-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
‘With two dogs and three cats, plus four children, my house is total chaos, but I wouldn't have it any other way' – Jennifer Whitmore on her rescue pets
The Social Democrats TD wouldn't part with her rescue dogs and cats, but highlights the need for better animal welfare Today at 21:30 With two dogs and three cats in residence – not to mention four children – my house is total chaos, but I wouldn't have it any other way. It's wonderful for children to have pets around; each of our kids has their own go-to pet and that's lovely. You can learn a great deal from being close to animals and our lot definitely bring so much to our lives. Our oldest dog Bobby is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. We don't really know his backstory because he was a rescue dog, but we think he's 17 years old now. It's a great age, alright, but he has always been a very relaxed dog – when he first arrived with us when he was young, he was only in the house a few days before he was very well acquainted with the sofa. He totally took over! We also have Daisy now. She was three when we got her from Wicklow Animal Welfare. She's a lovely Llewellin Setter – like an English Setter – and she is such a baby. She didn't have a good start in life because she was kept outside in a horsebox all the time and used purely for breeding purposes. I'll never forget how she looked when we first saw her – she was so sad. Poor Daisy; she'd never had a puppyhood. Well, she may be five years old at this stage, but she's having it now! As if the two dogs aren't enough to deal with, we also have the cats. Teddy Blue was rehomed with us from the North, and then we also got George and Lizzie. They're all great cats but George in particular seems to get loads of attention – my husband adores George and even Daisy the dog is besotted with him. Daisy just sits there, staring at him; you'd love to know what she's thinking. We have a house full of pets but I didn't have any at all when I was growing up in Wexford. When I lived in Australia for 10 years or so, my husband and I did have two indoor cats but, to be honest, owning and looking after pets has been a great new experience for me. There's sadness too, of course. We had a Golden Retriever called Holly and she died about three years ago; it is so heart-breaking when you lose a pet. There are some very serious issues around animal welfare in this country. It's a big problem and we need to introduce proper reform. There are far too many dogs being bred here. Just look at the rescue centres – all of them are full of beautiful dogs that have just been dumped. As a society, we really need to get our act together. When it comes to my own pets, I'm lucky; they bring so much to my life. I just love just sitting quietly at times and snuggling with them. It's actually quite meditative. Bobby is happy enough these days with a short walk along our road but Daisy loves going to the beach for a run. Yes, my house is certainly chaos with the dogs and cats all mooching around, but I wouldn't be without a single one of them. As told to Roslyn Dee
Scotsman
07-06-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
First Dogs 2025: Here are the 15 best breeds of adorable dog for inexperienced first time owners
We're a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend . By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that's a scientific fact. The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds . Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don't have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies. There's also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust . One thing to take into consideration is whether you are an experienced or new dog owner, with certain breeds far more challenging than others for newcomers to the canine club. Of course, depending on your lifestyle and circumstances there's no one size fits all approach – but first time owners should consider breeds that tend to be easy to train, eager to please, and friendly. Here are 16 of the best breeds for first-time dog owners. 1 . Labrador Retriever The most popular dog in the Britain is also a pretty good choice for a first time owner. The Labrador Retriever has the perfect combination of brains, beauty and friendliness. It should be noted though that they need regular exercise and don't like being left alone for long periods of time. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 2 . Shih Tzu A perfect first pet for somebody looking for a house dog, the Shih Tzu is a friendly breed that needs little in the way of space or exercise. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 3 . Bernese Mountain Dog If you are a first time owner keen to go 'extra large' then the Berenese Mountain Dog is probably your best option. Easy-going, eager-to-please and gentle, their intelligence makles them relatively easy to train. They are good with kids too, and surprisingly lazy. Their hair is the only part of thme that's fairly high maintenance - there's a lot of it and they need regular brushing (while your carpet will need regular hoovering). | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 4 . Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Small, affectionate, and adaptable, Cavaliers are easygoing lap dogs. They're great with kids, enjoy cuddling, and don't require intense exercise, making them perfect for first-time or flat dwellers. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales
Daily Record
03-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Warning to small dog owners as health issues common in certain breeds- see list
Certain small pooches are more susceptible to health issues and require extra care. Small dogs have been in fashion in recent years, with little breeds such as the Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle) and the iconic Dachshund spiking in popularity. But a dog or puppy is more than a cute face or a fashion statement, and small dog owners are often unaware of the health issues associated with littler pups. Dog nutrition experts at Green Pantry have partnered with vet Dr. Suzanne Moyes to warn existing or aspiring small dog owners of the health problems they often face, so that all pet parents will be well-educated on how to look after their furry friends. Dr Moyes said: 'Smaller dogs are popular for many reasons. They require less space, typically need less rigorous exercise compared to larger breeds, and are more affordable to feed (though other expenses remain comparable). Plus, their undeniable cuteness makes them even more appealing." But we should remain aware that many small dog breeds are vulnerable to health problems, and pet parents should do their research before taking one home. With this in mind, the pet pros have made a list of the most popular small dogs, and offer some tips on how to meet their specific health needs. Here is their advice. The most popular small dog breeds and how to care for them Cockapoo Dr Moyes explains: 'One of the main health issues Cockapoos suffer from is obesity. This is easily remedied with a healthy and balanced diet and ensuring everybody is aligned on what the dog should and should not be fed. "As tempting as it can be to slip your pet some food from your plate, this is one of the leading causes of obesity in dogs, and it can, in turn, lead to other health issues such as joint issues and diabetes." The expert explains that hip dysplasia is also a common problem with Cockapoos, which is an issue that can be exacerbated by obesity. To ease joint issues, make sure your pooch gets regular exercise, and you could also consider complementary therapeutic regimes such as hydrotherapy or laser therapy, shared the vet. Cavapoo Dr. Moyes continues: 'Like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation is a common health issue amongst smaller dogs. It can often affect Cavapoos, causing their kneecaps to slip and cause discomfort, sometimes leading to osteoarthritis. "A key giveaway sign can be your dog giving a little skip on one of their hind legs when walking or running. If you notice this, it is best to get them rechecked by your vet." Keeping your Cavapoo at a healthy weight, with the correct nutrition, is one way to help this issue. This breed of small dog also often have dental issues, which can include problems such as bad breath, tooth decay, gingivitis, cavities, and even tooth loss. To maintain your dog's oral hygiene, focus on a balanced diet, and regular brushing, or give them natural dental supplements like mint, seaweed, or parsley. Chihuahua 'Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, which is why they often suffer from Periodontal Disease", explains Dr Moyes. This condition occurs when the dog's teeth become overcrowded in their small mouths, so it's vital to look after their dental hygiene. Dachshund Dr Moyes adds: 'Dachshunds are adored for their distinctive, sausage-like shape and have rapidly increased in popularity. However, there are some things you should be aware of with their unique physique. "Dachshunds are particularly susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)." IVDD is a spinal condition caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs, often associated with ageing. While this condition cannot always be prevented, its symptoms can be significantly reduced and managed by taking proactive steps. Anti-inflammatory supplements, making sure they're a healthy weight and even getting in touch with a doggy physiotherapist can help. Obesity is another issue for dachshunds, due to their unique build, so again, it's vital to maintain their weight. Dr Moyes concludes: 'While it is good to be aware of these conditions, they are by no means guaranteed. "As with humans, all dogs are unique, and though some may suffer from these conditions, with the correct care and management, these dogs will go on to lead happy lives." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
