International Declaration of Responsibility to Cats

While most people are aware that cats are sentient beings who are able to experience pain and pleasure, there are still many felines experiencing unnecessary suffering, whether they’re classed as ‘pets’ or ‘street cats.’

With the aim to persuade governments, non-government organisations and charities, breeders, owners and veterinary professionals to play their part in helping to increase welfare standards for cats; International Cat Care have developed an ‘International Declaration of Responsibility to Cats’.

One of the goals that they’ve addressed in the declaration, is for governments to take responsibility by developing and providing a legal framework for good feline welfare, as well as to encourage and enforce it. They believe that this, in partnership with their other detailed responsibilities, is a step in the right direction for the welfare of our feline friends.

If, like International Cat Care, you believe that the quality of life of every single cat matters, regardless of whether it lives in a home or on the streets, you can sign their petition to show your support in helping raise welfare standards.

To find out more about the details of the declaration and to sign the petition, click here.

One of the good things about owning a pet is that you always have someone to take care of and spend time with. Studies show that owning a pet can lower stress hormones, heart rate and anxiety levels!

As a thank you for all that out pets do for us, why not treat them this Love Your Pet Day

Some ways in which you can show your pet you love them 

1. Do something they enjoy – One of the best ways to show your pet you love them is by spending time with them doing something they enjoy. It could be taking your dog on a long walk or to their favourite park, or cuddling up on the sofa with your cat, or even going for a hack on your horse – time is priceless.
2. Buy them a new toy – Depending on your pet of course, but buying them a brand new toy for them to play with can make them very happy – even better if it’s one you can play with together!
3. Take them on a photoshoot – Document the time you’ve spent with your pet by going on a professional photoshoot. Or, if you don’t want to spend money on a professional shoot, simply get snapping with your phone or camera and capture those every day memories.

Don’t have a pet to spoil?

If you don’t have a pet you can spoil with attention this Love Your Pet Day, why not consider volunteering at a local animal rescue centre or donating some money or food/toys to the animals in their care.

See what volunteering opportunities are available in your area at https://do-it.org/.

The Kennel Club has welcomed a consultation by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) about a ban on the practice of selling puppies via third parties as a crucial step forward to tackle the cruel puppy farming industry. However, concerns have been raised about how the licensing regulations will be enforced and whether or not they will be enforced efficiently.

The Kennel club have regulations which ban the sale of puppies to third parties and have waited a long time for an end to the sale of puppies in pet shops and by third party retailers. Often, people who buy dogs from puppy farmers are completely unaware of the poor conditions in which they were raised, making it even harder to identify.

Kennel Club Secretary, Caroline Kisko said: “The Kennel Club has long supported and campaigned for a ban on third party sales and we are glad that other organisations are now coming on board, which will help to send a strong message of support to Defra during the consultation period.”

The measures, which were laid before parliament yesterday under the Animal Establishment Licensing Regulations, include:

• Banning licensed sellers from dealing in puppies and kittens under the age of eight weeks
• Ensuring that licensed dog breeders show the puppies alongside their mother before a sale is made
• Preventing online sales in which the buyer hasn’t seen the puppy first.

Whilst this is a step in the right direction, the Kennel Club have a few concerns about how local authorities are going to enforce the new licensing regime, now that anyone who breeds three or more litters will require a license. The Animal Licensing Establishment Regulations were laid before parliament on Thursday 8 February and will start being enforced in October.

Caroline Kisko continued: “All the regulations in the world will not improve dog welfare unless they can be effectively enforced and we question how already over stretched local authorities can enforce all of these changes, which are so critical to improving dog welfare, now that many more breeders will require inspection.

Further information on the Kennel Club’s view on puppy sales can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/our-resources/kennel-club-campaigns/puppy-farming/.

As a leader or manager you get the opportunity to have a direct influence on those around you, so why not get inspired this World Leadership Day and see how you can make a difference in your workplace.

Five ways to motivate your team

• Do something you’re passionate about – In order to make a positive impact, you have to be passionate about your work. Showing your colleagues that you enjoy coming to work every morning can help to motivate them to feel the same way.
• Work with your team – Communication in the workplace is key, working closely with your team will allow you to build stronger working relationships with them and therefore create a better working environment.
• Leave room for contributions – Part of being a well-respected leader is allowing others to have a say. Asking your colleagues if they have any ideas that they would like to contribute can allow them to feel more involved in any decisions that are made.
• Set achievable goals – Whilst you may have high standards of your colleagues, the targets you set them should be achievable. Having unrealistic standards of your colleagues can make them overwhelmed and potentially create a negative working environment.
• Reward all victories – While some achievements may seem small, recognising them can help to motivate your team.

If you’re interested in learning more about leadership and management, why not check out our the ILM courses we have to offer, at https://goo.gl/jBX1GX.

It’s good news for all workers earning NMW rates  this April, but especially for those under the age of 25 who will see the ‘largest increase in a decade in their statutory minimum wage’ according to the UK government website. See below how much it’s set to increase:

• National living wage – from £7.50 to £7.83
• 21-24 year old rate – from £7.05 to £7.38
• 18-20 year old rate – from £5.60 to £5.90
• 16-17 year old rate – from £4.05 to £4.20
• Apprenticeship rate – from £3.50 to £3.70

The increase in the national living wage will lead to workers who are paid minimum wage, earning an extra £50 a month and £600 a year. Hammond’s announcement that the national minimum wage will be increasing is said to be linked with the Conservative’s promise of a national living wage of £9 by 2025, according to the daily mirror.