The RSPCA has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to help with the costs to care for a very special dog with a ‘severe back deformity’.

Eleven-month-old crossbreed Herbert arrived at Martlesham Animal Centre, in Suffolk, last week after being rescued by RSPCA officers. Now the team at Martlesham - run by the RSPCA Suffolk Central branch* - is trying to raise money for the expensive scans and tests he needs to begin the road to recovery.

The vet charity for pets in need is calling on kind-hearted animal lovers to join #TeamPDSA at next year’s London Marathon.

“Running fever has well and truly gripped the nation after the TCS London Marathon took place over the weekend,” explains PDSA Fundraising Manager Faye Waters.

PDSA Vet Nurse Chloe Mackintosh with her London Marathon 2024 medal
“And with the ballot now open for 2025 entries, we’re urging animal-lovers across the country to get their running shoes on and run for pets in need next year.”

In celebration of our canine companions on National Pet Day, a poll of 1,265 UK dog owners commissioned by Purina has revealed that owning a dog is not only good for your physical health, but can also be great for making new friends and striking up conversations with new people.

Nearly half (44 per cent) of those surveyed revealed that they have made at least one new friend when out on a dog walk. While 66 per cent of said that owning a dog and going out for regular walks together, encouraged them to be more social with new people.