Latest news with #BorderCollie
Axios
10 hours ago
- General
- Axios
Dog surrenders are soaring at Denver Animal Shelter
If you've been thinking about adding a four-legged friend to your family, now's the time. Why it matters: Denver Animal Shelter is overwhelmed and needs help from the community. The big picture: Dog surrenders at the shelter are up 237% compared to the same period in 2019, Westword reports. Meanwhile, the shelter said Wednesday it's seeing a "disturbing increase" in "extremely emaciated" animals, especially dogs. It's "difficult to determine" what's driving the trend, staff veterinarian Claire Vaiden tells us. By the numbers: As of Wednesday afternoon, roughly 50 dogs were available for adoption at the shelter. Zoom in: Here are five cuties who stole our hearts (and dozens more are waiting to steal yours): Sneffles, age 3 (70 pounds) This gentle English Setter mix adores being near her people and finds comfort in quiet companionship. She's not a fan of felines, so she'll do best in a cat-free home. Crestone, age 5 (30.4 pounds) This French bulldog may be considered a senior by shelter standards, but her heart is "as young as a pup's." She loves exploring and is looking for a companion who "shares her zest for life." Sashay, age 1 (54 pounds) If her smile isn't enough to sell you, her loving spirit will do the trick. This standard Poodle mix is "the kind of dog who quietly steals your heart and never lets go." Azul, age 6 (64 pounds) This Cane Corso mix thrives on gentle affection. Win his trust, and he'll blossom into a loyal companion. He's looking for a calm home with kids ages 10 and up who respect his boundaries. Loki, age 3 (52.8 pounds) This Border Collie mix is a handsome ball of energy who loves fetch and long walks. He's best suited for a home with older kids who can keep up with his zest for life.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- General
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a dog trainer - do these 3 things if your pet behaves badly'
Will Atherton, a canine expert from Derbyshire, boasts years of experience in this field, having trained countless pups with various behavioural issues A canine behaviourist has outlined three key things you must do with your pet if you want them to be a 'dream' in the home. Will Atherton, a canine expert from Derbyshire, boasts years of experience in this field, having trained countless pups with various behavioural issues, including aggression and biting problems. In a recent TikTok, he issued crucial advice to anyone whose pup is a nightmare to live with. Whether they tear up your beloved possessions or jump up at any guest who enters the home, three key tips may help. He said: "If you want to have a dog that is perfect in your home, that isn't destroying all your hard-earned items, isn't a nightmare to live with, isn't embarrassing to invite people over to your home, these are the three things that you need to make sure you are doing with your dog." First and foremost, Will drew to crate training - a 'mandatory' skill for any dog he ever works with. This involves teaching a dog to view a crate or kennel as their retreat where they can sleep or relax whenever they need downtime. Although some owners may assume it's 'cruel' to leave a dog in a crate, Will actually said it's a good way for a pet to learn boundaries while understanding how to be independent. "It prevents and resolves 99% of problems within the home," Will continued. "Second is then place training. That's an evolution on, for me, for crate training where we can start having a similar level of control and boundary, but we place it on something where the dog can be with us more. "So, we can have guests over but the dog knows they have to stay on the place board so they are not jumping up them or being obnoxious and annoying. And, last but not least, I'm then working on my sit, stay, break drill. "[This] helps the dog understand that if they want anything good in life, to get it, they have to sit calmly, relaxed with good manners, looking up to me for guidance and direction and to wait. Those few things combined mean that your dog will just be a dream within the home." Beyond this, it's also worth noting that some canines more commonly experience specific issues. In a separate video, Will said that while all pets have the potential to be well-managed and safe, certain breeds are especially 'riddled with extreme behaviour problems'. He said: "As a clinical canine behaviourist, I see the breeds that come through here to my centre that are riddled with extreme behaviour problems, and the reality is that for the vast majority of dog owners, they just shouldn't bother having that kind of dog." Interestingly, the Border Collie was among the dogs that topped his list. His views echo those of other experts, including Niki French at PupTalk, who recently told the Mirror that their inherent sheep herding skills may carry over into the home environment. "Genetics plays a huge role in how a dog will behave in any home in the future," she said previously. "If both of a puppy's parents are calm and relaxed around children, there is a much greater likelihood, in a lovely home, that the puppy will grow up to be the same. "People need to be aware of certain breeds' traits, like a Working Collie may want to try and herd and nip at the heels of people in the home. This may be harder to manage with an excitable toddler compared to when your nan comes over to visit."
Daily Mail
17-05-2025
- General
- Daily Mail
Vet reveals the 10 signs your dog really loves you (or if they're just after more treats!)
While owners fawn over their pooches, meeting all their needs and pandering to their every whim, dogs also have distinct ways of showing their humans that they love them. If you've ever wondered whether your beloved Border Collie or gorgeous Golden Retriever has genuine affection for you - and not simply the delicious treats that are on tap - a vet has highlighted 10 behaviours that indicate your dog really loves you. Natasha Watson, a vet at Vetfone - a company which provides round the clock support for pet owners via telephone or video call - explained: 'Dogs have a unique way of expressing their love and affection. 'From wagging their tails to giving you gentle cuddles, their actions speak volumes. They are very social animals who are great at understanding human emotions and will often learn to mirror them. 'By recognising the signs your dog shows to let you know just how much they adore you, you can deepen your bond with your furry companion.' Read below for the 10 signs that show your dog loves you: 1. A waggy tail greeting While dogs use their tail to communicate many different emotions, a slightly upright side-to-side slow wag may indicate happiness and contentment, according to Natasha. If your dog greets you when you walk in the room with this kind of happy tail wag, that's a clear sign that they love you and are happy to see you. And if you get a 'helicopter' tail - where a dog's tail moves in a rapid, circular motion - then they are more than a little excited to see you. 2. Eye contact Dogs that feel trust and affection toward their owners often make prolonged eye contact. Research has found that when a dog looks at you, it can trigger the release of oxytocin, the 'love hormone,' in both the dog and the owner. So, when your dog looks at you with gentle eyes, it's a clear sign of their love. 3. They present you with toys According to research carried out by Tesco Insurance, 31 per cent of dog owners report that their pup shares their toys with them. Most dogs are good judges of character so if your furry companion brings you a toy to play with, then it is a sign that you have reached an unconditional level of trust and love with them. 4. Being close Dogs will cuddle in and lean on people they feel comfortable with. In fact, 39 per cent of dog owners report that their pup will shower them with cuddles and kisses - and this rises to 41 per cent when owners are upset. This is because cuddles bring back feelings of maternal closeness and release pheromones that soothe the dog. 5. They follow you If your dog follows you from room to room, they're likely showing affection. This behaviour signifies that they want to be near you and, since dogs are naturally pack animals, it's a sign of attachment or loyalty. Whilst this can be cute, your dog should still be able to have some alone time. 6. Protectiveness Dogs are naturally protective of those they love. Natasha explains that if your dog shows signs of guarding you or their home, it can be a sign of affection. They want to keep you safe and are demonstrating loyalty and love. 7. 'Talking' to you Dogs communicate with their owners in various ways, and vocalisations are one of them, according to vet Natasha Watson. While some breeds are more vocal than others, many dogs will 'talk' to their owners with barks or whines to get attention or express emotions. If your dog barks or makes sounds when they see you or during moments of excitement, it could be a sign of love and attachment. 8. Jumping up While jumping up can sometimes be seen as a sign of excitement or a way to get attention, it's also a common way dogs show affection. When your dog jumps on you, they may simply be expressing their joy at seeing you or seeking closeness. Similarly, almost half (45 per cent) of dog owners say their furry companion sits on them when they want attention. 9. Recall and training Natasha says that dogs that respond well to recall and commands are often eager to please their owners. Their willingness to obey shows trust and a desire to make you happy. Training strengthens your bond as dogs enjoy the positive reinforcement and the satisfaction of making you proud. Your dog wants to please you as well as receive their reward so next time they come back when called, give them an extra special ear rub. 10. Mirroring your emotions Dogs are remarkably empathetic creatures. If your dog mirrors your emotions, it's a sign they love you. Natasha points out that they may sense when you're upset or happy and adjust their behaviour accordingly. For instance, if you're feeling down, your dog might come and sit by you or offer comfort.
Scottish Sun
15-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Horror as bodies of 37 dogs found in major police raid on ‘rescue centre' with two men arrested
UNIMAGINABLE CRUELTY Horror as bodies of 37 dogs found in major police raid on 'rescue centre' with two men arrested Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TWO MEN have been arrested after the bodies of 37 dogs were discovered when police raided a controversial animal rescue centre. Essex Police officers uncovered the dead animals, alongside 20 living ones, in a shocking joint raid with the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council on Tuesday in Billericay, Essex. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Hayley Lucas had her dog Frank homed at the centre but fears he is no longer alive Credit: SWNS The crews were responding to a number of reports in relation to an address in the town. Two men have now been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals. One dog owner, Hayley Lucas, had homed her beloved pooch Frank at the centre, but now fears he is no longer alive. Hayley, 43, had driven all the way to Essex from Scotland after believing she had found "the perfect" home for Frank, and has now expressed her guilt at having handed him over. She said Frank, a Border Collie and Perro de Presa Canario mix, had developed behavioural issues after moving homes. As a result, she drove him to the new home in Essex to try and find people to take care of him. However, she began to get suspicious when the person who "rescued" her dog failed to provide updates that had previously been promised. Hayley added: "It's been horrendous. "I couldn't sleep last night and feel truly sick to my stomach - I trusted him to do the best for my Frank and this is what was happening. "I never went inside as he was taken from us into the building and I didn't get out the car because I was in bits. "I no longer believe he is alive." Inspector Steve Parry, of the Basildon neighbourhood policing team, said: "As a result of a number of reports relating to dogs which were made through the Action Fraud system, officers from our neighbourhood team have worked alongside colleagues in the RSPCA and Basildon Council to piece together actionable information. "That work resulted in yesterday's joint visit. "At this stage, we believe we have found the remains of 37 dogs and about 20 live dogs which are now being cared for. The priority for all our partners is to locate their last-known owners. "This is likely to be a complex and potentially far-reaching investigation, and we don't plan on giving a running commentary on it – but we will endeavour to keep the public informed on this investigation when it is appropriate to do so." A spokesperson for the cops added: "Essex Police officers working alongside colleagues from the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council in response to a number of reports in relation to an address in Billericay have uncovered the remains of 37 dogs and seized a number of others to ensure they are safe. "The partners carried out a joint visit to the property, in the Crays Hill area, yesterday, Tuesday 13 May. "Two men have been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals. They remain in custody. "As part of the response, a police presence continued in the area overnight. "All three organisations are aware of – and entirely understand – discussion of this investigation on a number of social media platforms. "At this stage, we would urge the public to please refrain from speculation whilst our enquiries progress." More to follow... For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.
The Irish Sun
15-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Horror as bodies of 37 dogs found in major police raid on ‘rescue centre' with two men arrested
TWO MEN have been arrested after the bodies of 37 dogs were discovered when police raided a controversial animal rescue centre. Essex Police officers uncovered the dead animals, alongside 20 living ones, in a shocking joint raid with the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council on Tuesday in Billericay, Essex. Advertisement 2 Hayley Lucas had her dog Frank homed at the centre but fears he is no longer alive Credit: SWNS The crews were responding to a number of reports in relation to an address in the town. Two men have now been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals. One dog owner, Hayley Lucas, had homed her beloved pooch Frank at the centre, but now fears he is no longer alive. Hayley, 43, had driven all the way to Essex from Scotland after believing she had found "the perfect" home for Frank, and has now expressed her guilt at having handed him over. Advertisement She said Frank, a Border Collie and Perro de Presa Canario mix, had developed behavioural issues after moving homes. As a result, she drove him to the new home in Essex to try and find people to take care of him. However, she began to get suspicious when the person who "rescued" her dog failed to provide updates that had previously been promised. Hayley added: "It's been horrendous. Advertisement Most read in The Sun "I couldn't sleep last night and feel truly sick to my stomach - I trusted him to do the best for my Frank and this is what was happening. "I never went inside as he was taken from us into the building and I didn't get out the car because I was in bits. "I no longer believe he is alive." Inspector Steve Parry, of the Basildon neighbourhood policing team, said: "As a result of a number of reports relating to dogs which were made through the Action Fraud system, officers from our neighbourhood team have worked alongside colleagues in the RSPCA and Basildon Council to piece together actionable information. Advertisement "That work resulted in yesterday's joint visit. "At this stage, we believe we have found the remains of 37 dogs and about 20 live dogs which are now being cared for. The priority for all our partners is to locate their last-known owners. "This is likely to be a complex and potentially far-reaching investigation, and we don't plan on giving a running commentary on it – but we will endeavour to keep the public informed on this investigation when it is appropriate to do so." A spokesperson for the cops added: "Essex Police officers working alongside colleagues from the RSPCA and Basildon Borough Council in response to a number of reports in relation to an address in Billericay have uncovered the remains of 37 dogs and seized a number of others to ensure they are safe. Advertisement "The partners carried out a joint visit to the property, in the Crays Hill area, yesterday, Tuesday 13 May. "Two men have been arrested on suspicion of fraud and failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to animals. They remain in custody. "As part of the response, a police presence continued in the area overnight. "All three organisations are aware of – and entirely understand – discussion of this investigation on a number of social media platforms. Advertisement "At this stage, we would urge the public to please refrain from speculation whilst our enquiries progress." More to follow... For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Read more on the Irish Sun is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at Advertisement 2 Police discovered the 37 dead animals after raiding the rescue centre Credit: Facebook / Essex Poilice
