To commemorate His Majesty’s Coronation weekend, animal shelters across the UK from The Adoption Mission programme championed by PEDIGREE and WHISKAS, have been kick-starting the bank holiday celebrations by hosting dog-friendly tea parties for their residents.
While Queen Elizabeth II chose Corgis, King Charles III is the proud owner of two adorable Jack Russell Terrier rescue dogs – Beth and Bluebell, and The Adoption Mission hopes to inspire more people to follow King Charles III’s suit and consider adoption.
With tasty treats galore and dozens of happy wagging tails, the furry residents at The Rescue Dog Hotel in Cardiff have been having a blast to honour the former Prince of Wales, in the hopes they’ll be treated to loving new homes following the Coronation weekend.
Toria Acreman, Director and Trustee from The Rescue Dog Hotel in Cardiff, commented: “It’s amazing that King Charles III has made history by welcoming the first shelter dogs to live in Buckingham Palace and we hope this inspires more prospective pet owners to consider adoption themselves.
“We’re so thankful for the ongoing support of The Adoption Mission, championed by Pedigree and Whiskas, who continue to help us raise awareness of the misconceptions surrounding adoption and help get the animals in our care ready for their forever homes, with valuable training and much-needed food grants.”
To ensure furry friends up and down the country can get involved with the festivities, Dr Tammie King, Pet Behaviourist from the PEDIGREE and WHISKAS Adoption Mission programme, shares her 5 top tips for pet owners to help them celebrate the King’s Coronation safely with their dogs:
Royal Pawties
The King’s Coronation will see many people host parties and family gatherings to commemorate the special occasion. It’s important to consider that not all pets appreciate lots of people around them. However, if your pet is a social butterfly, why not involve your cuddly companions in the festivities by holding your very own royal-themed puppy party and inviting their favourite friends? As well as being a great way for dogs to develop their social skills with others, it’s also a great chance for owners to come together and have a fun-filled day.
Regal Games
Games can be a great way to involve all of the family, including your pets!
Why not try setting up an obstacle course? A couple of jumps, perhaps a few poles to weave in and out of, some ramps and maybe a tunnel – making it enjoyable for kids and pets alike.
Although, you should remember that running and jumping, along with commotion, can be stressful for some pups physically and emotionally – so ensure your pet is fit and healthy and keep an eye on their body language during these activities.
Treat them to a pup-cake
Some human foods can be very harmful to pets, especially those found on a party spread; onions, grapes, garlic, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, avocados, and many nuts are toxic to them too. As the temptation for many pets can be too much, try and keep human food well out of their reach. Why not bake your pup something extra-special instead so they can still join in? Alternatively, a Pedigree chew like Dentastix is a great option to keep them occupied. Whatever you choose, let them enjoy in their own safe area away from others, but don’t let them overindulge!
Create a safe space
During a celebration like this when you may be around more people than usual, ensure your pet always has access to a safe and comfortable space, like their bed or crate, away from the excitement and noise. This way they have a place to hide out if the party atmosphere gets too much for them. Respect their wishes and don’t allow people or other animals in their safe area.
Watch the weather
Although the UK may not be blessed with tropical temperatures, May is a time when the weather can start to warm up. If you’re celebrating outside, make sure you keep an eye on the temperature for your four-legged pals and provide them with the necessary shade and fresh water to keep them cool. Make sure you also check the pavement isn’t too hot!
