PupAid and Marc Abraham has recently asked us all to sign an e-petition to ban the sale of puppies without the mother being present. As it has reached over 10,000 signatures, the Government has issued a response, but, unfortunately, it doesn’t address the issue that is raised.

If we can get it to 100,000 signatures it will be discussed by the Business Backbench Committee – so please share this with as many dog-lovers as possible, and ask them to sign the e-petition and show their support. Together, we can help make a difference to those poor pups and breeding bitches.

Actor Brian Blessed will be showing his support at the Wasperton to Stratford raft race, which takes place on Sunday 23 June 2013.

The race, which is run annually over seven miles and across two weirs along the River Avon, is organised by the Wellesbourne and Shakespeare Lions clubs.

Dogs for the Disabled has been chosen as this year’s beneficiary; it is hoped that the race will raise more than £18,000 for charity, which trains assistance dogs for people living with a disability.

Brian, Vice Patron of Dogs for the Disabled, says: “I’m hugely looking forward to the Raft Race and will roar on the teams from the banks of the Avon in support of Dogs for the Disabled, an amazing, life-changing charity that I’m proud to support. Come on, local businesses: enter your teams now and help raise money to train more dogs!”

Further information, entry and sponsorship forms are available at www.raftrace.org.uk

If you’re going to the Southend Robin Hood Country Show and All About Dogs event in Garon Park, Essex, on 6-7 July 2013, you could appear in a new TV programme!

The BBC wants to follow a dog-lover who is attending the event and entering the Beach Babe Parade with their dog on Sunday 7 July; to be considered you must be happy to be filmed getting ready and preparing for the big day.

The new BBC1 series will explore the colourful, passionate world of animal lovers; hosted by Ronnie Corbett it will introduce viewers to some of Britain’s most interesting animals and owners.

To apply, email maddie@aztecevents.co.uk with your name, your dog’s name and a little bit about why you should be chosen to star in the episode. Entries close Friday 21 June 2013.

A collie cross called Chi has been saluted, by Armitage Pet Care, for saving his owner’s life.

Chi’s owner, ex serviceman Phil Thomas, has with diabetes, arthritis, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and borderline anxiety disorder. One night, Phil’s blood sugar levels became low, and his condition was serious – but Chi pulled the emergency alarm, alerting an ambulance to come to Phil’s rescue.

Phil still struggles with his health on a daily basis, and he sees Chi as a genuine carer. He says: “I have tried to get Chi registered; he is with me almost 24/7 and being registered would make it much easier for him to get into buildings and other important places with me.”

The loyal pooch is tennis ball mad, so Armitage Pet Care has sent him a bucket full of tennis balls, along with a few other goodies, as a reward for his devotion.

A subscription to Dogs Monthly is the perfect Father’s Day gift and this weekend we’re giving you the chance to subscribe to Dogs Monthly’s digital editions for 12 months for just £24.99! That’s a huge saving of around 25% (usual price £32.99). You can use the subscription for yourself, or gift it to your dad, father in law, or anyone you choose!

This offer runs from Friday 7 June until 11.59pm Sunday 9 June.

Simply sign up for your subscription at PocketMags.com. Once you’ve created a PocketMags account, you will be able to read your magazines on your other devices – iPad, iPhone, Android device or Kindle Fire – simply download the free app and log in to your PocketMags account to sync your purchases. You can gift the subscription too, find out how here.

If you’re new to digital magazines, you can download our app for free and try a 20-page sample issue before you buy.

If you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact help@pocketmags.com and they will endeavour to respond to your enquiries as soon as possible.

We’re all looking forward to the glorious weekend ahead – here’s some top tips to help keep your dog cool and comfortable in the hot weather…

• Make sure your pet has access to plenty of shaded areas; some dogs may prefer to stay indoors.
• Ensure he always has a supply of cool, fresh water.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest time of day; it’s best to walk your dog in the early morning and evening.
• Ice cubes, a paddling pool and various other products – such as a cool coat or a cool pad – can help to keep dogs cool.
• If you have a barbecue, don’t forget to keep an eye on your pet. Kebab skewers, for example, can cause nasty injuries and some foods may result in an upset stomach.

Please do remember that you should NEVER leave a dog in a car – not even for a couple of minutes with the window ajar. Temperatures rise very quickly and this can be fatal. It’s just not worth the risk!

If you’re at all concerned about your dog, seek vet advice.

And finally, enjoy the sunshine with your four-legged friend!

Dogs Trust Snetterton is holding an Open Day & Fun Dog Show on Sunday 9 June 2013 from 12- 4pm.
There will be lots of attractions and activities including have- a-go agility, inflatable slide, giant dog tombola, snacks and refreshments and great games for all the family! The entry fee is the parking fee – £5 per car.
For more information tel. 01953 498377.