Sat 29th July: Poodle day at Ap Lei Chau

Alice Lau is one of our recommended Positive Trainers

The first in our new series of Workshops, "Puppy Basic Training" took place today at WOW Pet Shop, and everyone had a good time while learning the importance of good puppy manners and socialisation.  Thanks to Alice Lau for her time and expertise, and to our own HKDR trainer, Cactus, for arranging.

Next week's Workshop will be "Caring for Senior Dogs" and here's the link if you are interested in signing up (Cantonese language only) http://hongkongdogrescue.com/education-training/workshop/

The face that says it all: I'm adopted (Benedict)

It was a day for poodles at Ap Lei Chau today, with foster boy Benedict having his adoption confirmed, new girl Connie being adopted and another two year-old (female) surrender arriving.

Connie is a very lucky girl

This new poodle has the same skin problem as little Kit had when she first arrived, and despite the now ex-owners claiming they had spent a lot of money taking her to the vet for unsuccessful treatment, the words "pants on fire" sprung to mind as they refused to make any sort of donation towards their dog's ongoing care, treatment or desexing.  It also seems pretty clear that the knees will require surgery too, very typically of so many small dogs.

Just 2 years old and in need of a full makeover

Talking of terrible dog owners, the malamute arrived at our Tai Po Homing Centre in the afternoon, rather later than we had expected or hoped for, and very stressed. We really need a place for this poor dog to stay as it's far too hot for a malamute to be outside.  However, this is not a breed for beginners or children, and as we haven't had time to assess behaviour we will insist on experienced adopters or fosters only, and preferably with outside space.  I'm waiting to hear from AFCD with details of age and if there is any registered owner, but I can guarantee that there will be no prosecution for abandonment regardless.

An experienced home is urgently needed for this boy

There was another sad ending which could be classified as serious neglect, but may be because of the ex-owner's own serious illness.  This was the cocker spaniel that came to us from the same home as poodle Connie, adopted today, and peke cross Wally.   It had been clear that Claudia was very weak and thin, and she was kept in hospital for observation when I took her there for her initial check-up, having already decided against having her rabies vaccinated due to her condition.  Pancreatitis was suspected, but her condition deteriorated rather than improved after a day on fluids, and a scan showed a hugely enlarged gall bladder which was in danger of bursting at any moment.  With all of the various symptoms combined and her very weak condition, I agreed to let her go.

I had to let this poor girl go