Since arriving with us, Dougie has shown what a lovely little dog he is. He is a sweet boy with a real enthusiasm for life. Dougie enjoys life and loves to be out for his walks and play with his favourite toys.

Dougie has been great with staff, volunteers, and other dogs. He likes meeting new people and has settled well into kennel life. His friendly nature makes him a pleasure to spend time with.

He loves getting out for walks and exploring his surroundings. Recently, we noticed some signs of discomfort. He now receives daily paracetamol, which has helped him feel much more comfortable.

Dougie does have epilepsy. His condition is currently well controlled with two half tablets each day and he is also fed a specialist diet. This diet is not restrictive and he is allowed treats. We recently carried out blood tests and will repeat these in a few weeks to monitor his health, after which he will, we hope, be on routine yearly checks unless his condition changes.

His new family will need to continue his medication and specialist food. We will be happy to discuss his care in more detail.

Dougie cannot live with children under 10 years old. He will also need a home where he has company for much of the day. He enjoys being around people and would suit someone who is home often.

If you are looking for a friendly companion with plenty of character, Dougie could be the dog for you. He has so much love to give and will return his owners love enthusiastically.

The post Pomeranian for adoption – Dougie appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Jack has previously lived with another dog. He could be rehomed with a canine companion, subject to a successful introduction. He would also be happy as the only dog in the home.

An active home will suit Jack best. He needs plenty of exercise to keep both his body and mind busy. Walks are important, but he also enjoys training and activities that challenge him. A home that offers a mix of physical exercise and mental stimulation will help him thrive.

Jack can be strong on the lead at times. However, he is learning quickly and continues to make good progress. With consistent training and patience, he should become an even better walking companion.

He is a bright dog with lots of potential. His willingness to learn makes him a rewarding dog to spend time with. He is ready to build a strong bond with someone who can give him the time, exercise and guidance he needs.

The post Border Collie for Adoption – Jack. appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Senior Yorkshire Terrier Sam is a lovely boy who was born in January 2009. That makes him nearly 18 years old. He is a sweet old boy who knows exactly what he likes.

Most of all, Sam wants a quiet and comfortable life. He is not looking for a home with other dogs. It is not because he dislikes them. He simply cannot be bothered with all the fuss. At his age, he would rather enjoy his own space and take life at a gentler pace.

Despite his years, Sam still enjoys getting out for a walk. He still loves his walks. He takes everything in his stride and enjoys spending time outdoors.

Sam is happiest curled up beside you. He loves a cosy bed, a warm lap and plenty of snuggles. He is a wonderful companion for anyone who enjoys quiet evenings and relaxed days.

Sam is blind, but he manages remarkably well. He has adapted to life without sight and gets around with confidence once he knows his surroundings. He does not let blindness define him.

What Sam needs now is a calm home where he can enjoy his retirement years. A peaceful routine, plenty of affection and a comfortable place to rest would suit him perfectly.

He’s going to be a heartbreaker but deserves the best in his later years.

The post Senior Yorkshire Terrier Sam – on hold pending health check appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Minnie is15 years old and has spent the last 13 years with her owners. She arrived in their as a young cat of around 18 months old. She has become a much-loved member of the family. Due to a change in circumstances she is looking for a calm, understanding home where she can enjoy her senior years.

Minnie is very much a cat who likes life on her own terms. She enjoys attention and will happily curl up on a lap when she wants company, but she also values her personal space. Too much fuss can leave her feeling overwhelmed, especially when touched on her body or back. When she has had enough, she is honest about it with a hiss or the occasional gentle swat.

One thing Minnie never says no to is food. She is highly food motivated, and a tasty treat is often the quickest way to her heart. Building a bond with Minnie takes patience, understanding and a few snacks along the way.

Several years ago, Minnie developed stones in her urethra, which caused blood in her urine. Her vet placed her on a specialist Royal Canin diet and the problem improved over time. She currently takes no medication. Because Minnie prefers to do her business outdoors, it can be difficult to monitor whether this remains an issue.

Minnie has lived with other cats before, but she never really enjoyed sharing her home. She tolerated feline companions rather than sought them out, so we feel she would be happiest as the only pet.

A peaceful rural home would suit Minnie perfectly. She would love somewhere quiet where she can enjoy outdoor access, plenty of space and a predictable routine.

Minnie is not looking for a busy household. She is looking for a home where people understand her boundaries, appreciate her independence and welcome her affection when she chooses to share it.

If you are interested in rehoming Minnie please complete a form and we will forward this to Minnie’s current owner.

The post Senior Cat Minnie appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

This adorable group of kittens may share good looks and plenty of charm, but each one has their own personality. Some are confident , others prefer to take life at a gentler pace and enjoy a quiet cuddle once they know you. We also have a couple of kittens who will benefit from calm and understanding homes where they can build confidence and find their paws.

No matter their personality, every kitten in this group has lots of love to give. They enjoy playtime, companionship and all the fun that comes with kittenhood. Watching them explore, play and learn about the world never fails to make us smile.

As social young cats, these kittens will be rehomed in same sex pairs unless there is already a neutered cat under three years old in the home. Having a feline companion helps young cats develop important social skills and provides friendship, comfort and entertainment as they grow.

Welcoming a kitten into your home is a rewarding experience, but it is also a long-term commitment. Kittens need time, patience, training and plenty of enrichment to help them develop into happy adult cats.

Before submitting an application, please take a moment to read our “Things to Consider” section. It contains important information about kitten ownership and will help you decide whether now is the right time to welcome a new feline family member.

If you are ready for fun, affection and plenty of kitten mischief, these wonderful youngsters could be waiting for you.

The post Adorable kittens looking for homes – Cleo, Caesar, Zuko, Cole, Phoenix, Cinder, Flint, Gary, Paprika and David – No more applications at present – Thank you appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

When Thomas first arrived at B.A.R.K., he was slow to settle. Like many cats, he needed time to adjust to a new environment. He also needed time to get used to unfamiliar surroundings. We gave him the space and patience he needed. It has been wonderful to watch his confidence grow.

Now Thomas feels safe and secure, we are seeing what a lovely natured boy he is. He has become a lovely, friendly boy who enjoys human company. He also loves plenty of fuss and affection. Thomas likes to stay close to people he trusts. He will happily settle down for cuddles when the mood takes him.

Thomas needs an understanding home that recognises the upheaval he has experienced. His new family should let him settle at his own pace. They should also help him build confidence in his new surroundings. With patience and kindness, we are sure Thomas will become a devoted companion.

He is looking for a home where he can be the only pet. Thomas loves attention and would like it all for himself. He will also need access to a safe and secure garden. There he can explore, relax and enjoy the fresh air.

The post Youngster Thomas for adoption – No more applications – Thank you appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

His progress is impressive. He has already lost over 7 kilos, bringing him down to 29 kilos. He still has a journey ahead, but each bit of weight he drops allows us to increase his exercise safely. Any home will need to be committed to his weight loss. Alfie can not go to a home with another overweight dog, he will need both walks and restricted diet.

Alfie’s personality shines through even as he works on getting healthier. He is an easygoing boy who enjoys company and still has plenty of energy tucked away. His calm nature makes caring for him a pleasure, and he responds well to routine and gentle encouragement. As his mobility improves, his confidence grows, and he shows more of the bright, affectionate dog he has always been.

Alfie deserves a home that will continue his progress and celebrate his wins. He has shown real determination, and his future looks hopeful. With steady support, he will soon be ready to enjoy long walks, new adventures, and a family who appreciates his warm, loyal character.

The post Golden Oldie Spaniel Alfie appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Winston responded quickly to treatment and regular attention.  His skin improved and he soon began to look and feel much better. A major dental sorted his teeth issue. He is now in great condition and continues to do very well.  His progress shows just how much the right care can achieve and how unnecessary it was for him to be allowed to get in the condition he was.

This lovely boy brings plenty of personality to every day.  Winston loves going for walks and enjoys exploring.  He also adores people and welcomes affection whenever he can get it.  If you enjoy a cuddle, Winston will happily keep you company.

Winston has also behaved well around other dogs, which adds to his friendly appeal.   He has left his difficult start behind and now deserves a secure, loving future.

Winston will make an amazing addition to the right home.  His ideal family will value his affectionate nature, keep him active with enjoyable walks and give him the attention he loves.  He is likely to settle in most homes although we have no information on cats.   As with any Pug, his adopters should understand the breed and continue routine veterinary care, grooming and skin checks.  Most of all, they should welcome him as part of the family.

If Winston sounds like the companion you have been waiting for, please complete and return an application form below.

The post Winston, a charming Pug appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Like all hamsters, Molly thrives when she has plenty of space to express her natural behaviours. A suitable enclosure should provide a minimum floor space of around 100 cm x 50 cm, although larger is always better. Hamsters love to run, dig, climb, and explore, so generous space helps keep them happy and active.

Deep substrate is essential for Molly’s wellbeing. Hamsters naturally create tunnels and nesting chambers, so we recommend at least 20 cm of suitable bedding throughout the enclosure, with deeper areas wherever possible.

Enrichment plays a vital role in keeping Molly stimulated. She enjoys tunnels, cork logs, chew toys, hideaways, sand baths, and opportunities to forage for food. Rotating toys and enrichment items regularly helps keep her environment interesting and encourages natural behaviours.

A correctly sized exercise wheel is also important. The wheel should allow her to run with a straight back to prevent discomfort and support her long-term health. Wheels need to be much bigger than people expect. A minimum size of 12 inches and up.

Molly would suit a home that appreciates the unique charm of small pets and understands the importance of providing appropriate housing, enrichment, and daily care. In return, she will offer endless entertainment with her energetic explorations and impressive burrowing skills.

If you are looking for a fascinating little companion, Molly could be the perfect hamster for you.

The post An Inquisitive Hamster looking for a new home – Meet Molly appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Luna is a larger mixed breed dog, around eight years old, who has overcome enormous challenges since arriving with us. Although she is almost completely blind, she is full of life and enthusiasm. Every day, she continues to learn and adapt to her surroundings.

Luna has worked hard to navigate her environment and has made great strides in building confidence. Steps remain a challenge, and she tends to approach them with more enthusiasm than caution. For this reason, we are looking for a home with few or no steps to help keep her safe.

As Luna has emerged from her previously shut-down state, her affectionate and needy side has appeared. She loves human company and thrives on attention. However, she will need time, patience, and understanding to settle into a new home. We are seeking a committed adopter who will give her the time she needs and support her through the adjustment period.

Due to her limited vision, Luna can sometimes jump towards where she believes a person is and may try to grab at them. She is learning helpful cues and coping strategies, including recognising the word “step”, which she now associates with kerbs and changes in level.

Luna currently receives treatment for skin and ear conditions. She remains on steroids but we will gradually weaning her off them when she is ready. She also enjoys regular baths, orange mousse treatments, and weekly grooming sessions. In addition, she is receiving eye drops while her ongoing needs are assessed. Thankfully, Luna has an easy-to-use instruction manual: cream cheese. Whether it’s baths, medication, or eye drops, cream cheese makes everything easier for both Luna and her carers.

For the right person, Luna will be an incredibly rewarding companion. She simply needs someone willing to give her the chance she deserves.

The post A special home needed for our remarkable girl Luna appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

They currently share space with the kittens that arrived from the same home. They’ve coped well with the kennels and are certainly enjoying their new lives. We also know they lived with dogs before coming to us, so a friendly and steady dog may suit them well.

We want Gilda and Dotty to stay together if at all possible. Their bond is strong, and they rely on each other for comfort. Keeping them as a pair is the least they deserve after such a rough beginning. They have started their vaccinations and will be microchipped before rehoming. They are likely around six months old and ready for a home that will value their beautiful natures.

If you want loving companions who bring are ready for a stroke and a chat, Gilda and Dotty may be the perfect match. These black and white cats have overcome a tough start and now wait for someone who will give them the future they deserve.

The post Affectionate cats for rehoming – Gilda and Dotty appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

When they arrived, they were in poor condition, but they responded fast to good food and proper flea and worm treatments. They now race around the room, chase toys and climb anything they can reach. Their recovery has been remarkable, and they’re thriving.

We have four males and two females in total. Because they rely on each other for comfort and social development, we are looking to rehome them in pairs. Each kitten will benefit from having a companion to learn from, play with and snuggle up to when they’re tired.

They have started their vaccinations and will be microchipped before they leave us. All our cats are neutered before adoption, but these little ones are still too young. B.A.R.K. will cover the cost of neutering when they reach the right age, usually around five months old.

These youngsters are affectionate, curious and full of character. Anyone adopting them will gain two bright, playful companions who bring joy and plenty of mischief. If you’re searching for friendly, well‑socialised kittens for homing, any from this group will make a wonderful addition to the right home.

If you think you can offer a safe, loving environment with space to play and grow, have read our rehoming conditions (and qualify), we would be delighted if you would complete and return an application form below.

The post Kittens for homing – Oz, Toto, Em, Timmy, Grace and Daniel – No more applications at present – Thank you appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Darcy is eight years old and has had a hard time. Her skin was inflamed and painful. Her ears caused constant discomfort. She also carried the largest hernia we had ever seen. Even with all this, Darcy showed what a gentle nature she had from day one.

With treatment, care, and Cytopoint injections, Darcy improved quickly. Her skin calmed, her redness eased, and she now feels far more comfortable. She currently uses a steroid spray to support her skin. Her wiggly bottom and bright eyes show her progress. Darcy enjoys her walks, although she cab be very stubboard and will stop when she feels she has gone far enough. She loves fuss, bottom scratches, and gentle attention she lights up when she sees a child.

Darcy has a classic Bulldog personality. She is affectionate, stubborn, and full of charm. She may well need ongoing skin support, including regular checks and bathing. Cytopoint may continue if the vet advises it. Her ears need monitoring and cleaning to prevent flare‑ups. Stairs will be difficult for her, and she should not live in a home with regular stair use. Darcy thrives on routine, reassurance, and bottom scratches. She needs a loving home where she can enjoy comfort and affection.

Darcy will have tests in early August to investigate her ongoing urine issues. Once we have answers, she will be ready to find her new home.

The post Darcy – British Bulldog for adoption appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

He enjoys human company and doesn’t take long to warm up to new people. Ken is steady, friendly, and handles routine well. He is likely to be suitable for families with children over five who understand how to interact calmly with cats. He appreciates attention but also likes having space to watch the world go by.

Ken will need a home away from Spittal and the nearby Tweedmouth area. This is simply to prevent him from returning to the area he was found. Once he is settled, he will adapt quickly and enjoy the stability of a new environment.

He loves sitting at the window or on his shelf, keeping an eye on whatever is happening outside. One of his favourite activities is watching the dogs in the exercise area below. He often chirps or meows at them, clearly enjoying watching them try to work out where he is.

Ken did go out recently. He settled well for the first 48 hours but then became unpredictable. When he was returned to us he a nasty injury to his ear. This may have unsettled him, though we can’t be certain. His ear has now been cleaned regularly with hibiscrub. He he has been an absolute gentleman since. We hope this was an isolated incident, but time and caution will be important in any new home.

The post Ken – Adopt this Black Beauty – No more applications – Thank you appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Oreo is around five months old and is a male. He needs a home where he can be bonded with another guinea pig. He could also be paired with Cookie, but they are not housed together here, so all bonding would need to take place in their new home. Oreo is curious and enjoys gentle interaction.

Cookie is around five weeks old and is also male. He needs a home with an existing male guinea pig or could be adopted with Oreo. Cookie is young, confident, and still learning the basics.

All guinea pigs need at least a 6ft x 2ft enclosure. Indoor C&C grid setups work very well and give them space to move naturally. The adults are doing well with litter training, while Oreo and Cookie are still learning. With the right setup, they will settle quickly.

These guinea pigs for adoption are ready for homes that offer space, companionship, and patient care.

The post Guinea pigs for adoption appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

We do not have any history for Ralf, so we cannot say what his life looked like before he arrived. He may have been worked at some point, which means he might not be suitable around small dogs, cats or other furries. He’s probably some sort of lurcher cross type. Although we don’t have history with children we feel he would do ok with confident children as he can be really bouncy.

Ralf is also a very bouncy boy — and we truly mean bouncy. When he gets excited, he can spring straight up about 4 feet in the air. It is impossible not to smile when he does it. His joy is infectious, and he brings a bright, happy energy to every moment. He loves life, loves people and loves being part of whatever is happening.

An active home will suit him well. He thrives when he has something to do and someone to guide him. Training sessions, outdoor adventures and plenty of play will help him burn off energy and learn good habits. With clear boundaries and a steady routine, he will continue to grow into a confident, well‑mannered companion.

Ralf is ready for his new start. He has so much potential and so much love to give. With the right home, he is going to be an absolute smasher.

The post Young Rescue Dog for Adoption – Ralf appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

• Some animals are undergoing prolonged veterinary treatment and aren’t ready to be listed.
• Some animals are just to young or looking after young.
• New arrivals often need time to decompress before we introduce them to potential adopters.
• We take time to get to know our newbies properly as they settle their beautiful personalities come out.
• A small number of animals are with us for their own protection, and there are processes we must follow before they can be advertised.
• We do not hold waiting lists for particular animals or take applications in anticipation of animals coming in. We would ask you just keep a check on our website which is updated regularly.

The post Why We Have More Animals in Care Than Online appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

She’ll do best in a spacious, secure enclosure where she can choose how to spend her time (a minimum 100cm x 50cm x 50cm. A good amount of uninterrupted floor space helps her feel confident. Having a solid base means she can build proper burrows without anything collapsing on her. She likes having different “zones” — a cosy sleeping corner, a digging area, and a quieter spot for her wheel and food.

Jilly loves a deep bedding, paper-based is good as it is gentle on her breathing, easy to dig and warm. She needs at least 6–8 inches, but the more you give her, the happier she’ll be. Mixing in shredded paper or a little hay helps her build proper tunnels that stay put. All her tunnels and hideouts need to be fully chew‑safe. Cardboard tubes, paper tunnels, cork logs, and untreated wood are all brilliant for her. She’ll chew them, reshape them, and make them part of her little underground world. Plastic tubes aren’t suitable, she’ll chew them too, and they can break into sharp pieces. Chewable tunnels also help keep her teeth healthy and give her something constructive to do during her busy night-time hours.

She enjoys a good‑quality hamster pellets and fresh veg in tiny portions and will never turn down a sunflower seed. Scatter‑feeding works well for her and it encourages her to forage, explore, and use her space in a natural way.

Jilly isn’t a thrill‑seeker, but she does enjoy gentle enrichment that lets her be a hamster. A solid‑surface wheel (28cm or bigger) is essential for safe running. She also enjoys foraging toys filled with paper and seeds, cardboard to shred, dig boxes with different textures, and simple, chewable hideouts she can remodel.

Jilly would suit a calm, patient home where her people enjoy watching her go about her little routines. She doesn’t need constant handling but she does need a setup that lets her live like the lovely, gentle hamster she is.

The post Jilly – hamster for adoption appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

A snake’s habitat plays a huge role in their health and wellbeing. Getting the balance of heat, humidity and ventilation right makes all the difference, and Merlin will thrive in a home that can maintain those conditions consistently.   He’s a lovely lad who will do well with someone who understands the needs of his species and can continue supporting the improvements he’s already making.  Ball pythons are not a good first time reptile pet so we are looking for a home with the right experience and set up.

The post Iffy appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

Born in March 2013, Rosie shows all the spirit, loyalty and determination terriers are known for. She thrives on long walks, fresh air and having a person to share adventures with. Although she is slowing down now, she still runs, plays or snoozes the day away depending on what you offer. With patience and consistent training, Rosie has made remarkable progress and now behaves like a completely different dog from the one who first arrived at B.A.R.K. She shows resilience, adaptability and a huge heart every single day.

We wouldn’t place Rosie in a home with children, though she can be trusted in familiar settings. She has also had a couple of tricky encounters with men, so slow, steady introductions are important. Once she knows you, she is affectionate, people‑focused and eager to please.

Her biggest challenge comes from other dogs. Past attacks left her reactive and fearful, and in her early days even a distant dog overwhelmed her. Thanks to dedicated training, she can now pass dogs calmly at a safe distance, but she must stay on‑lead in public. Rosie needs a home without other animals, ideally in a rural location with limited views of neighbouring dogs or cats, and with walking routes that don’t force constant dog encounters.

Rosie also has a few unusual sensitivities. Mops, brushes and ironing boards can unsettle her, and she has been known to lunge at vehicles, though this rarely happens with people she trusts. She dislikes cats intensely. Even so, she has shown again and again how trainable she is. With time, treats and reassurance, she has learnt to cope with situations that once overwhelmed her. Continued training will be essential to keep her progressing.

Ask anyone at the kennels and they’ll tell you why Rosie is unforgettable. Her resilience. Her cuddles. The way she lights up when you pick up her lead. Her noisy toys, her beloved ball, her joy in the car, and the soft, loving look she gives when you talk to her. She truly shines in one‑to‑one time.

Rosie has developed some gastric issues which have been fully investigated and are now well managed with daily medication. We have tried reducing it, but she needs it to stay comfortable, so she is likely to remain on it long term. If needed, B.A.R.K. may be able to support her new family with these ongoing costs.

Rosie has worked so hard to improve, adapt and trust again. She simply does not deserve to spend her retirement years in kennels. What she needs is someone patient, empathetic and willing to go the extra mile — someone who can offer her a quiet, rural home where she isn’t stressed by the comings and goings of other animals.

She still loves her walks, though they are becoming shorter as her legs grow achier with age. If you think you might be the person who can give Rosie the peaceful, loving home she has waited so long for, we would love to hear from you. For the right home, we are even open to extending our rehoming area. Please complete the application form below.

What happens next? – Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels (b-a-r-k.co.uk)

The post Rosie Needs Quiet Home to Enjoy Her Retirement Years appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

We have added a page to our website for ways in which you can support Lily and BARK generally. Please follow this link. We can not express how much your kind words have meant to us.

The last piece of legislation has now been published and this allows for rescues to apply to exempt a perceived XL Bully from 31^st December until 14^th January.  After careful thought BARK has decided we are able to, at least try, to offer Lily a permanent place with us.  This is not ideal but we have had lots of calls were perceived XL Bullies have been placed, by other rescues, in homes and the placement has broken down.  These dogs now are unlikely to have a happy ending.  We do not want the chance of this happening to Lily, so after a year of trying to rehome her it does not seam sensible to now try to place her last minute, with no time to make introductions and with no option for her to return to us.

B.A.R.K. received Lily’s exemption and she is now our #BARKPetForLife

We have already a written plan for enrichment of all our dogs in kennels but Lilly will now have a super enhanced version.  She effectively became everyone who works or volunteers at kennels official pet.   

The judicial review the week commencing 15^th January 2023 of the legislation in place, the speed of placement etc. Sadly that review didn’t allow the restart of rehoming perceived XL Bullies, so nothing changed

Rescues were allowed to apply for exemption. As a rescue, we had two weeks from the 31st December to apply. This was our only option for Lily. We have had offers of support for Lily and we have set up a JustGiving Page that will support Lily and the other animals in our care

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ourlily

It is not what we wanted for Lily. It will mean big changes in the way we do things. We will of course continue to monitor what is best for Lily, her safety, security and physical and mental health has always been and will continue to be our priority.

We have the exemption papers and Lily is safe with us. Unlikely those exempted in homes that came apply for a £25 policy that covers up to 4 dogs including XL Bullies our insurance policy cost over £1,000 extra and we had to pay an additional £500 for the 2 months before our renewal.

In an ideal world, we would have found Lily her forever home. So many perceived XL Bullies have been rehomed in the weeks prior to the ban and sadly we have had so many calls where the placement had broken down and there is no back up in place. Under the rules these dogs did not get a happy ending. One of the rules of a rescue registering a perceived XL Bully is they must have been in rescue since the 31st October. Our heart breaks for all those souls. With the Scotland ban now in place that pain is being incurred all over again.

Our Lily’s future will now be with BARK and it is our responsibility to make that the best it can be.

The post Update on Lily appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.

So what can you do if a ‘stray’ cat comes to your house?  The first thing to look for is it’s condition.  Is it very thin, does it look like it has fleas, is it (if male) still entire, does it look injured, does it have a dull or matted coat? Being hungry does not class as very thin.  Are you encouraging it?  This includes saying hello and feeding it.  If so it will keep coming back.  The number of times we hear the cat is always at my house, only to find it’s also always at it’s owners house too.  If you do anything to encourage and nothing to discourage a cat it will keep coming back.  If having spoken to immediate neighbours (bearing in mind how far they do travel it is unlikely to be one of theirs anyway) you might find the cat is visiting everyone and some are feeding.  Try and present a united front, if the cat is not thin, don’t feed it.  If the cat is thin and you are concerned it is worth ringing your local vet and asking if they will scan it for you.  More frequently (although not enough) cats are being microchipped.  If you are just concerned take it to a vet to scan it for a chip, but be prepared to bring it back to its original location and please make sure you transport it securely in a cat box.  Can you imagine how you would feel if it escaped miles from where it might have been at home!

If no microchip is present it is worth putting a collar on with a note.  The Cat Protection have a printable version, just perfect for this use click here for their link Cat Protection Stray Collar Template    The Cat Protection also provide very useful posters that you can change.  Cat Protection Stray Poster

Sadly by encouraging a ‘stray’ cat you could be tempting it away from its owners, and then it becomes an unwanted cat as we hear time and time again the kind person who fed it doesnt actually want to keep it.  So please before you class a cat as a stray make sure it’s not just a chancer.

And if it does turn out your ‘stray’ cat is not a ‘stray’ please encourage the owner to microchip their cat and you too if yours isn’t done!

The post When is a stray cat not a stray cat? appeared first on Berwick Animal Rescue Kennels.