East Kilbride MSP and dog owner Collette Stevenson got to meet some furry friends while hearing about the Dogs Trust's important work.
As well as meeting some of the dogs still awaiting their forever homes at the charity's Glasgow rehoming centre, the MSP chatted to assistant manager Claire Cairney about the charity’s ongoing work in Scotland and the work being done to improve legislation designed to stop puppy smuggling.
Staff explained that they had recently seen a rise in the number of dogs arriving at the centre, including many with behavioural problems, which they believe is a down to the increase in dog ownership over lockdown.
Ms Stevenson also spoke to staff about the Fireworks & Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill which, if passed, would restrict the supply and use of some types of fireworks.
Dogs Trust has seen the immense stress fireworks can cause dogs and the negative impact this has on their welfare.
As a current member of the Criminal Justice Committee at the Scottish Parliament, Collette has spoken recently on the Fireworks & Pyrotechnic Articles Bill in both the chamber and committee.
Collette Stevenson MSP commented: "It was a pleasure to visit Dogs Trust Glasgow to meet the incredible team who work hard to ensure all the dogs are well looked after while going above and beyond to match them with their ideal new families.
"I was also interested to hear more about what the charity thought about the proposals made in the Fireworks & Pyrotechnic Articles Bill. As a dog owner myself, I have seen first hand the stress caused to my dog by fireworks, and hope that this new Bill will lessen the impact fireworks have on our pets."
Dogs Trust has two Rehoming Centres in Scotland; Glasgow and West Calder. On average 700 dogs a year are rehomed in Scotland with over 430,000 supporters across the country.
Dogs Trust's Claire Cairney said: "We were delighted to welcome Collette to our rehoming centre to showcase the work we do with the dogs in our care. It was a pleasure to give an insight into the hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes to prepare our canine friends for their forever homes."
For more information about Dogs Trust Glasgow, call 0300 303 0292 or visit Dog Rescue Glasgow, Dog Rehoming & Adoption | Dogs Trust
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