South Korea are set to make a ground breaking law banning the slaughter and sale of dogs for meat, reflecting a major shift in cultural attitudes. The law, effective by 2027, comes after a declining popularity of dog meat consumption, particularly among younger generations.

• The legislation targets the dog meat industry rather than the consumption itself.
• Approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 farms are affected, with government support promised for transitioning.

The ban highlights a generational shift in South Korea, where younger people increasingly view dogs as pets rather than food, while older generations see it as a loss of traditional cuisine.

Some within the dog meat industry argue for a natural decline instead of a legislative ban, citing challenges in changing established livelihoods.

This historic move marks a significant step in South Korea’s journey towards aligning culinary practices with evolving ethical standards and attitudes towards animal welfare.

Read BBC’s Article Here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-67920167

This harsh Winter is threatening the lives of countless animals. For many, it’s a desperate struggle between life and death.

Our efforts to rescue & protect as many animals as we can from the cruel clutches of Winter have led to huge heating costs. Our December electric bill alone was a staggering £1564.67! But we cannot let these vulnerable creatures suffer in the biting cold.

Betty & Bertie’s story is heart breaking. We rescued them trembling, huddled under a pile of rubbish, barely surviving in the freezing temperatures.

Now, they are under our care, warming up on a heated pad, sheltered from the relentless cold & rain. But stories like theirs are far too common, and our resources are stretched so thin! We are in urgent need of your support to keep our heating running and continue saving lives like Betty & Bertie’s.

Will you be their warmth in this cold world?

Here’s how you can make a life-saving difference:

• Consider a one-time or recurring donation at https://rainrescue.co.uk/donate/
• Text WARM to 70470 followed by your donation amount (2-10) to give that amount (Texts cost your donation amount plus one standard rate message.)

Rain Rescue are looking for volunteers to help with cattery cleaning & feeding the cats, but you’ll also have time for some cat cuddling & socialising too!

We are looking for cat enthusiastic volunteers to join us – https://rainrescue.co.uk/volunteer/

The shifts available are 1pm to 5pm, on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday!

You must be:-

• Able to commit to a minimum of a 4 hour shift each week (rota so we can be flexible)
• Physically fit – this can be tiring and involves lots of bending, lifting & cleaning
• Commit to be available for at least 3 months
• Know your cats! – At the moment, we can only take on people who are comfortable being around cats of all temperaments. Can follow instructions, know who to leave alone, and who to have a snuggle with as a reward in the day
• You will need to have your own access to the site as public transport isn’t great
• 18 Years & older for insurance purposes

If you’re ready to make a difference, please apply via the link above.

Our 4 Poorly Kittens Have Recovered!!

Luna (Calico), Moon (Tabby), Midnight (Black) & Sabrina (Tortoiseshell) have been on the kitten ward since mid-October fighting to get better. At times it was touch and go, but the welfare team kept fighting and did everything they could to help these fragile babies!

We are so happy to announce that they are finally clear of the parasite that made them so poorly. For the first time in their short lives, they can spend their days playing with each other and exploring the outdoors in their brilliant outdoor pen!

The team was quite emotional when we got the news after spending 14 long weeks caring for the kittens, providing for their every need, rigorously deep cleaning their pens and wearing strict PPE. Our dedicated vet team, Joanna & Emma, have also carried out countless tests and examinations and provided the best care. This great outcome would not have been possible without great team work!

THANK YOU so much to everyone who has donated & contributed to their care, you have helped us to carry on doing everything we could. This result wouldn’t have been possible without our caring supporters & amazing team!

As it is Wishlist Wednesday, the kittens would love some Dreamies or toys to play with now they are free to live like normal 5-month-old kittens. Will you order some from our Wishlist for them? https://rainrescue.co.uk/wishlist/

If you are interested in adopting a kitten, please apply here – https://rainrescue.co.uk/animals/kittens/

The deadline for exemption applications is approaching. As of 31st December 2023, XL Bully dogs are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Breeding, selling, or giving away is a criminal offence.

Apply for a certificate of exemption before the 31st January 2024 to prevent any criminal convictions, fines or your dog from being seized!

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-certificate-of-exemption-to-keep-an-xl-bully-dog

Please share and spread the word!

We’re looking for compassionate people to open their hearts & homes to foster kittens in need. By becoming a kitten fosterer, you play a crucial role in providing a safe, loving environment for these little ones to thrive.

All fosterers must:

• Live within a 20 minute drive of the centre (S66 1DZ)
• Have a quiet & clean enclosed area for the kittens to live (Potentially along with mum too. Each case will vary)
• Be flexible & able to bring them into the centre for vet visits
• Already be competent or willing to be trained on hand feeding & giving medication
• Be able to weigh the kittens regularly and update the team
• Provide photos and videos for us to promote the kittens
• Able to foster the kittens for a longer period, for example up to 10 weeks

If you would be interested or willing to do bottle feeding for neonatal kittens, then that’s EVEN BETTER!

If you’re ready for the rewarding journey of nurturing kittens on their way to forever homes, visit our foster page to learn more & apply here.

(*Please note – the kitten pictured may be different to the ones that need foster homes)

Happy New Year!

We have a New Year message from our Welfare Manager, Gina –

“I thought it’d be nice to share with you the final figures for 2023 and a reflection on the year we’ve had.

Cat adoptions: 137 adults & 93 kittens
Dog adoptions: 64 dogs & 1 puppy

Some of the exciting new developments this year have been:

• Opening our fabulous onsite veterinary facility in June and starting our cat neutering scheme with Cats Protection
• The creation of our new Catio and rehoming room, which enhances the rehoming experience for both the adopters and the cats
• 2 new cat pens, which are larger than our usual pens and are ideal for paired cats to stay together or Mum & Kittens (ideal for kitten season coming up)
• New reception unit which allows visitors a clear location to arrive and receive a warm greeting
• Development of the kennel block, including a new rehoming room, and hatches with outside areas for each kennel so dogs have more space
• Renting our fields and agility area to the public. This has been a great success with you all
• Onboarding new staff, including Sophie (Welfare Coordinator) and Jessie (Senior Animal Carer), plus our locum vet Joanna and vet nurse Emma – All have been valuable additions to the team
• We’re currently recruiting new volunteers in our cattery too (More details here)

Our CEO Jacquie has recently been awarded an MBE to round the year off – a huge personal achievement that’s so well deserved, and also an incredible accolade for Rain’s work as a whole.

I am extremely proud of our team, both staff and volunteers, for sticking together when times are tough and keeping going, no matter what! We are here for the pets that simply have nowhere else to turn, and with the current cost of living crisis and post-COVID, our mission matters now more than ever.

So thank you for coming on this journey with us – we couldn’t do what we do without the community of friends and supporters around us and all of your generous contributions to the cause.

I wish you all a wonderful 2024 and hope you stick around to see what 2024 has in store!!”

Gina Penk
Welfare Manager

Our dedication to animal welfare extends to every breed and every furry friend in need, so we would like to address the upcoming ban on XL Bullies imposed by the UK Government.

XL Bullies are important members of countless families across the nation. However, recent government plans threaten to disrupt the lives of both these beloved pets and their owners.

The Dogs Trust are giving support to people with dogs that may come under this classificaiton.  We urge you to follow their guidance and keep up to date with all information and what they advise you to do.  Insurance is mandatory for these dogs, and you will probably NOT get insurance once this is in force, and urge all owners to insure their dogs.

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/american-bully-xl

This is the Govt. definition

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog

The abruptness of this decision has left many pet owners in a state of unease and uncertainty. With little time for preparation and crucial details about exemptions yet to be disclosed, many owners are understandably distressed.

We urge every pet lover, supporter, and concerned citizen to take action. Contact your local MP, voice your concerns, and stand with us to safeguard the welfare of XL Bullies and their families.

Use this link to contact your MP.

At Rain Rescue, we believe in informed decisions that prioritise the well-being of animals. Let’s work together to ensure a fair and compassionate approach for XL Bullies, allowing them to continue being the cherished companions they are.

See RSPCA’s article with more information about the XL Bully Ban – https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/endcruelty/changingthelaw/bsl/xlbullies

In a world that often feels like a whirlwind of news and updates, we could all use a little more positivity and happiness in our lives. That’s why we’re thrilled to share our latest newsletter, packed with an assortment of heart-warming stories that will brighten your day. If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to sign up to receive a regular dose of smiles, inspiration, and uplifting tales.

https://mailchi.mp/rainrescue/from-struggles-to-smiles

We are deeply concerned about the recent surge in animal cruelty cases, particularly those involving cats!

The RSPCA has recently issued a warning, highlighting the increase in incidents of intentional harm towards animals. One distressing example is Benny, a cat who endured multiple surgeries after suffering from the unimaginable cruelty of having boiling water poured on his head. Despite the immense suffering, Benny showed incredible resilience and survived after undergoing six operations!

The statistics for 2022 are alarming, with a 25% increase in intentional harm incidents against cats, resulting in five cats being intentionally harmed every day in the UK. Sadly, the violence is not limited to cats alone; there has been a dramatic overall increase in cruelty cases, as evident from the reported figures:

• Reports of beatings rose by 22%, from 7,857 in 2021 to a staggering 9,658 in 2022.
• During the summer months, incidents reached a peak, with August of 2022 recording 1,081 cases of animal cruelty in a single month!
• Animals killed under suspicious circumstances also saw an increase, with the number rising from 775 in 2021 to 891 in 2022.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons for the increase, several factors may be contributing to it. One possible cause is the rise in pet ownership during the pandemic. Additionally, the ongoing cost of living crisis and a lack of regulations surrounding pet ownership requirements, such as mandatory training, may also be contributing factors.

However, none of these reasons can justify or excuse animal cruelty. Hurting an animal for fun, out of stress, or for any other reason is a criminal act and deserves severe punishment.

The increase in animal cruelty also poses significant challenges for animal rescues like us too, as more animals are left in our care. The rising number of unwanted pets and the increasing cost of their care put a huge strain on our resources and capabilities.

We encourage everyone who can to support and donate to animal charities. By doing so, you can help us and other organisations continue our efforts to provide a safe haven and loving care for animals in need.

If you wish to learn more about the RSPCA report, you can click HERE.

To report any instances of cruelty or neglect, please click HERE.

Together, we can make a difference and work towards a more compassionate and caring world for all animals.

Times are very worrying for our rescue, and for pets looking for homes – Covid and the Cost of Living Crisis are crippling our charity and the troubles are spiralling out of control.  There are more animals being given up than there are good homes that want them.   There are also thousands of unwanted cats on the streets – breeding and constantly increasing in number at an alarming rate.

Never in our 21 years of helping cats and dogs have things been this bad.  It’s so bad, Rain Rescue have had to stop taking in any more pets until we get back on our feet.

Between 1st January and 30th June we have taken in 182 cats and dogs into our care 

South Yorkshire Police is raising awareness about responsible dog adoption, to ensure that anyone considering bringing a new pet into their home understands the importance of rehoming from reputable rescue centres and avoiding purchasing dogs from social media without thorough checks.

This crucial warning from specialized officers comes in response to recent incidents where two young children suffered dog bites after their families acquired dogs through social media platforms or rehoming processes lacking proper assessments.

Dog Liaison Officer Rachael Attwell provides valuable insights into the rise of incidents involving dogs obtained through social media. She explains, “We are witnessing an alarming increase in dangerous dogs and incidents of dogs behaving aggressively in our communities, causing fear and harm.”

Attwell continues, “We have observed a growing trend where dogs recently purchased or acquired through social media are involved in such incidents. Sellers often conceal a dog’s behavioural issues in their advertisements, irresponsibly passing the problem onto unsuspecting new owners.”

In light of these concerns, we urge anyone considering adding a new dog to their family to prioritize rehoming from reputable animal shelters or purchasing from trustworthy and genuine sellers.

Dogs rehomed through rescues have undergone extensive behavioural assessments to determine their compatibility with children, including young ones. On the other hand, sellers on social media platforms are primarily focused on selling dogs and may not have your family’s best interests at heart, potentially leading to devastating consequences.

Although kittens are adored, for charities, they represent more than just a cute and cuddly bundle of fur. They come with huge costs and countless hours of labour.

This time of year is when cats are in full swing for mating, which can last from Spring all the way to late autumn! Tiny kittens are born outside – under hedges, in work yards and even in people’s gardens. Just abandoned and all alone.

We already have 9 kittens in foster care and we know there will be many more to come. Our newest arrival, Betty, just gave birth to 5 precious kittens this week and we are anxiously awaiting for Sweetpea & Bonnie to give birth too. They are both due any day now.

We need help to care for these innocent little kittens and vulnerable mums.

Did you know Mums are in our care for around 83 days and kittens for around 68 days before they can be adopted?

The cost of caring for the Mums & Kittens currently in our care is a staggering £3200!!

Sabrina gave birth to Apple, Crumble, Rhubarb & Custard in January

Biscuit gave birth to Cheese & Pickle in February

Betty gave birth to Ethel, Ivy, Rupert, Theodore & Winnie in March

And Sweetpea and Bonnie are due to give birth in April!

If 640 generous people could each donate just £5, it would help us cover this cost and ensure that these precious cats receive the attention and care they need.

With every £50 we receive, we can also help neuter a cat, preventing the birth of unwanted kittens who may be left to fend for themselves.

Your contribution can reduce the number of cats in need and improve their quality of life.

 

You can help by donating to these kitties directly through our website www.rainrescue.co.uk/donate or by donating to our Facebook Kitten Season fundraiser – www.facebook.com/donate/2295011410680988

Yesterday, new legislation was introduced in Parliament making it compulsory for all owned cats to be microchipped. This will help reunite lost or stray cats with their owners. Currently, around 2.3 million pet cats in England are unchipped, making it difficult to identify their owners if they go missing.

Owners have until 10 June 2024 to have their cat microchipped. If they fail to do so, they may face a fine of up to £500. The microchip, which is the size of a grain of rice, will be inserted under the cat’s skin before they reach 20 weeks of age. The registered owner’s contact details will be stored and kept up to date in a pet microchipping database.

The new rules follow a Government consultation in which 99% of respondents expressed support for the measure. The introduction of compulsory cat microchipping was a manifesto commitment and an Action Plan for Animal Welfare pledge.

The Chief Veterinary Officer has praised microchipping as the most effective and quickest way of identifying lost pets. By getting their cat microchipped, owners can increase the likelihood that they will be reunited with their beloved pet in the event of it going missing.

It is important for owners with cats that are already microchipped to ensure their details are up to date. The new legislation will not apply to free-living cats that live with little or no human interaction or dependency, such as farm, feral, or community cats.

Credit to Gov.uk
You will find there original article here.