Dog owners are being urged to think ahead when it comes to making sure their faithful four-legged friend is loved and looked after if something happens to them.
Dogs Trust runs the free Canine Care Card service which means a dog is automatically cared for by them if their owner passes away, moves into a care home, or receives a life-changing diagnosis which means they can no longer look after their much-loved canine companion.
Angela Wetherall, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Wales says:
“The Canine Care Card gives dog owners peace of mind that their dog will be loved for a lifetime.
“We know that the bond between an owner and their dog is entirely unique and it’s hard to imagine that anyone could love and care for their dog as much as they do. But we promise we will.
“We will look after them either at the centre or in one of our wonderful foster homes and when the time is right, we will find them a new home.”
Zena, an eight-year-old Jack Russell Terrier, registered on the Canine Care Card, arrived at Dogs Trust Cardiff after her owner’s passing. She is in search of a quiet, adult-only home where she can settle, preferably as the sole pet due to her unease around other dogs and limited socialisation. Prospective adopters should be dedicated to ongoing lead training, as she tends to bark at nearby dogs.
Zena is affectionate and would make a wonderful addition to any family. Despite her yearning for home comforts, she has formed friendships and adores people. She’s already house-trained, and while she isn’t familiar with cars, gradual introductions by new owners can help her feel at ease.
Angela says:
“A Canine Care Card makes things so much easier for owners, their families, and their dogs. Dog owners spend their lives caring for and protecting their four-legged friends; having a Canine Care Card means that that can continue, even in difficult circumstances.
“If an owner expresses their wishes by having a Canine Care Card, it removes the uncertainty for owners and families and relieves some of the stress they will be experiencing at an emotional time. Also, all the information we get from the owner helps us make the transition to a new family as stress-free as possible for the dog.
“None of us know what’s around the corner so we would urge all dog owners to think ahead, like Zena’s owner did, so their dog doesn’t miss out on a minute of the love and care they deserve.”
