LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY - MIRACLE AS EDWARD SURVIVES CAR ACCIDENT BROKEN HEARTS CRUEL CRIME PET THEFT IS ON THE RISE - Blue Cross
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PAW P R I N T Changing the story for pets in need SPRING 2016 LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY MIRACLE AS EDWARD SURVIVES CAR ACCIDENT BROKEN HEARTS CRUEL CRIME PET THEFT IS ON THE RISE OLD PETS NEVER TOO LATE FOR A GOOD HOME www.bluecross.org.uk
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11 Silver lining
Chinchilla Sheila
Welcome to Pawprint magazine, which once again is packed full is fighting fit.
of our pets with tales to tell. Over the last few months we’ve been busy 18 A day at the
putting the finishing touches to our TV advert, starring brave dog mobile clinic
Baxter who we told you about in the last issue. So many of you have Meeting pets in
told us that you love the ad, which we’re thrilled to hear. the community.
22 Hope against hope
There really is no better feeling than seeing happy and healthy pets Boyd is back
with their loving owners. Whatever their age, every pet deserves a on his hooves.
ON THE COVER good home, and we’re here to find the unwanted and abandoned 25 Paws for Tea
4 Safe and sound pets that come through our doors the one that’s right for them. Meet Our annual fundraising
Abandoned at older lady Charcoal on page 16, a cat who found herself homeless tea party.
the roadside, but at the age of 18. There’s a happy ending for Charlie too, a dog 26 Visiting time
Edward’s safe now. who needed a job to do. Read his story on page 30. Bromsgrove’s better
12 Cruellest crime after refurb.
Pet theft is on the rise. Rachael Millar, Editor 28 People power
16 Golden oldies Meet the volunteer
Don’t write off campaigning for change.
an older pet.
16
REGULARS
10 Take me home
These Blue Cross pets
need a loving family.
Editorial 15 Ask the expert
Editors
Rachael Millar Helping pets with loss.
Aimee Brannen 21 What happened to...?
Photo library
Tracey Cooper
Catching up with some
Design familiar faces.
Sunday 24 What’s on?
Art Director
Catherine Hopkinson Get involved in a
Photographers Blue Cross event.
Martin Phelps, Steve Bardens,
Helen Yates, Mark Bassett, 29 Pet postbag
SWNS, Ross Parry/Harry Your letters.
Whitehead, Anthea Bevan,
Nick Ridley, Jean Morrison,
30 Bitesize
Phil Hall, Cat Prior-Holt All the latest news
from Blue Cross.
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www.bluecross.org.uk 3
SURVIVAL STORY
SAFE
AND
SOUND
Find out how Edward’s unlucky accident
brought him into our care and then the
loving arms of Roz and her dad Tony
L
ooking at Edward now, from an art exhibition one Sunday:
with his head rested on his “There was a queue of traffic ahead,
owner’s lap as he enjoys and I realised there was a dog in the
a good chin scratch, it’s road and no one knew what to do.
hard to believe this is the same dog “The lady who hit him was very upset.
we first met abandoned and injured He had just run into the road out of
by the roadside several months before. nowhere and was staggering around
Edward is lucky to be alive after he as if he had been hit once already.”
was hit by at least two cars.
Dazed and confused after being hit Emergency treatment
once, the young dog crossed the path Julie sprang into action and, with help
of another car, causing the driver to from other motorists, lifted the limp dog
slam on her brakes. Though she tried into her car. Edward had been injured
to avoid him, Edward was disorientated not too far from our Burford rehoming
from his first encounter with a car, and centre, so Julie knew the local area
the second clipped his body. and location of an emergency vet.
Luckily for Edward, a member of The journey there, while not far,
the Blue Cross team was driving seemed like an age. She phoned
Words by Rachael Millar
home on a day off and came upon ahead to the veterinary surgery to
the incident as it unfolded. make sure Edward would receive
Julie Stone, Operations Manager, emergency treatment on arrival.
told of the horrific situation she She said: “I thought he was going
encountered as she made her way to die in the back of my car. He just lay
www.bluecross.org.uk 5
SURVIVAL STORY
“I thought, ‘look at that little face’. I’d always
wanted a scruffy mutt”
there motionless, his gums were pale much-deserved TLC. Lydia Sawyer, an
and he was frothing at the mouth.” Animal Welfare Supervisor at Burford
Julie explained to the vet that she rehoming centre, said: “His foster carer
worked for Blue Cross and – if he watched him closely but did not notice
survived – would help the stray dog any further circling, which was an
if his owner could not be found. excellent sign he was on the mend.
As she had been on her way back “He came on in leaps and bounds.
from a display of artwork by Edward When he first came into Blue Cross care,
Lear when she came across the Edward didn’t know how to play, but
Edward’s story accident, it seemed appropriate to with help from his fosterer’s resident
“There were zooms Julie to name the dog after the poet puppy, he soon began to pick it up.”
and brums in every and illustrator, who often drew
direction. I really didn’t inspiration from animals. New best friend
know which way to Thankfully, Edward pulled through After a period of recovery in his foster
turn, so I just ran for and X-rays revealed his bones were home, Edward was given the all clear
it – I just wanted to still fully intact. For a short time he to find a new family. Being a lovely
get away from the was walking around in circles, so we long-haired lurcher, it didn’t take long
busy road. I didn’t get monitored him extremely carefully for him to find one.
very far, but luckily under veterinary supervision. Roz Jacobs and her dad Tony were
Blue Cross was there. keen to find a companion for their
I know I’m safe and Abandoned at roadside staffie, Nigel. Wanting to give an
sound with Roz and Edward was not wearing a collar unwanted dog a chance, they checked
Tony, and I’ll never and tag when he was discovered, the websites of rehoming centres daily.
be abandoned again.” and a microchip could not be detected Roz explained: “I checked one
either, so there was no way of finding morning and couldn’t see any available
his owner. We suspect he was to rehome. Half an hour later I just
abandoned at the roadside and just thought, ‘I’ll look again’, and up Edward
left to fend for himself against the busy popped. I thought, ‘look at that little
traffic of the dual carriageway. face’. I’d always wanted a scruffy mutt.
When Edward was well enough to I phoned and booked to come and see
leave the vet’s, one of our foster carers him. After the first meet we came back
looked after him and gave him some for the second, and that was it!”
6 www.bluecross.org.uk 7
SURVIVAL STORY
THANKS
to you all for your ongoing
generous support – we
How to help couldn’t look after
a stray dog all the pets that we
do without you
If you’ve found a stray
dog, check to see if
they’re wearing a tag
with the owner’s
details on. If they are,
and you’re happy to
do this, contact the
owner and arrange
to give the dog back.
Otherwise, contact
the dog warden via
your local council. They
are legally responsible
for stray dogs and
will collect the dog
from you and take it
to holding kennels.
If the dog is poorly,
the dog warden will
get veterinary help.
Register the dog
as ‘found’ on
www.doglost.co.uk,
a national website.
Although it might be Roz and Tony brought Nigel to our Roz says: “He’s so sweet. If you’re
tempting to keep the centre to meet Edward and check the fussing him when he’s lying down,
dog, you’re legally pair would be happy together. We don’t you get the ‘more paw’ and the look!
required to let the local think Edward had been particularly well He’s coming on leaps and bounds.”
authority know about socialised with other dogs but the two Tony agrees: “With more help and
any strays. If you don’t, raced around our doggie play area as time, he’ll get there.”
you could be accused if they had been best friends for years. Several months on from his accident,
of theft. If the dog is Edward now lives an idyllic life on the Edward has shown no sign of ongoing
microchipped, it could family barge. The boat is moored in a injury. Though he’s been through so
be easy to find their marina, and many other households much in his young life, clouds do have
loving owner. have dogs, so there are always friends silver linings and he’s found the best
If you do want to to meet and sniff. While he is taunted of all of them – a loving home.
keep the dog, let the by swans, he takes no notice of them
local authority know and plays it safe around the water. “This week he decided
and they may be able
to arrange for you to
Roz and Tony have discovered that
Edward is a very good thief and has
to try a book for the first
rehome the dog if a taste for everything. “This week he time. Thankfully one I’ve
no one claims them. decided to try a book for the first time. already read!” says Roz.
If a lost dog isn’t Thankfully one I’ve already read!” says
claimed after seven Roz. “He steals all sorts. We’ve had to “He steals all sorts. We’ve
days, the dog warden turn everything upside down.” had to turn everything
may contact a charity
like Blue Cross to see
Edward has good recall and enjoys
retrieving a ball, and his besotted new
upside down”
if we can find them owners are working on his socialisation
a loving new home. by exposing him to new situations little
and often. The family have visited small
friendly dog shows with people and
dogs they know well, and Edward
has even won rosettes.
8 www.bluecross.org.uk 9
NEW OWNER WANTED SAFE NEW HOME
OU
H O
C O
M
U L D
E
Y
? SILVER
TAKE ME pets a place in your heart and your home? LININGS
ss
e se Blue Cro
er any of th
Can you off Sheila’s been bashed and bruised
but she’s safe now. We helped
nurse her back to health and
found her a happy new home
GRA CIE ets arrive in our care for all
I was a stray when I had my
kittens. They’ve got loving homes
P sorts of reasons, and it’s not
uncommon for owners to part
now but I’m still waiting. I’m told with their pets when they’re not getting
I’m lovely and affectionate, and on with others in the household.
I would love a home where Poor Sheila is one such pet. She’d
I’d get lots of fuss. Hope to been picked on by her cagemates and
meet you soon. SIMON was in a very sorry state. In fact, we’re
Solihull 0300 777 1935 I am a confident chap who amazed she survived.
would love to follow you around Chinchillas are social animals and
the house and garden to see get the best out of life when they’re
what you are up to. I’m also together in pairs or small groups.
looking for Mrs Right. Could However, if the number of chinchillas
you introduce me to a is too large for the amount of space
neutered lady friend? they have, it doesn’t take long for things
Burford 0300 777 1570 to turn sour.
RUBY Four-year-old Sheila got into a few
My perfect owner would have a great scraps with the others she lived with.
sense of humour and fun, as I love As you can see from her photo, she
to play and I’m full of mischief. I do now sports holes in her ears, and she
love a cosy lap to curl up on too. only has one eye.
Are you my special someone?
Cambridge 0300 777 1470 Nutrients round the clock
As soon as Sheila arrived at our Burford
centre we knew something was wrong. Finally, the little chinchilla built up
She needed urgent vet help, so we the strength she needed. The surgery
rushed her in for treatment. was successful and she adapted All about chinchillas
Hannah Bryan, Animal Welfare quickly to life with one eye. Due to her Origin: South America
Supervisor, said: “Sheila’s eye was ordeal we’ve found Sheila a home on Age: Can live for up to 15 years
very swollen, weeping and very badly her own, but new owner Olly Baldry is Favourite food: Grass and bark
infected when she arrived. We needed monitoring her progress and may find in the wild. Pellets and hay for pets.
SWEENEY to remove her eye as quickly as her a friend in the future. Raisins as a tasty treat.
I know my battered visage is not possible, but she was so weak that For now, she’s having a great time Home: Minimum cage size for a pair is
as lovely as many other cats’, but she stopped eating and drinking.” spending her days sleeping and her around 1m x 1.5m floor space, by 1.3m
LA DY PENELOPE it’s because I’ve been a street cat Sheila was dehydrated and it wasn’t evenings exploring her huge tall, with shelves at different heights.
Do you like toys? I do – we could EVIE for most of my life and I’ve been safe to operate until she was strong multi-levelled cage, as well as playing Favourite pastime: Dust baths.
be playmates. I also love to sit I am a gentle giant who loves beaten up a lot. I’d like to live enough to undergo the procedure. with lots of toys. Olly and his wife Jane Chinchillas roll in dust every day to keep
Hannah added: “We fed her fluids make sure she’s getting the exercise their coats clean.
Words by Rachael Millar
on comfy laps. Being on your to stroll through the countryside. After indoors from now on, with you.
own is boring and can be scary a walk, I love nothing more than to curl Cumbria 0300 777 1920 and a recovery diet through a syringe and human company she needs by Personality: These nocturnal critters
when you’re as little as me. I need up and have a snooze. Hey, maybe every hour for four days. Our Centre getting her out for an hour each night love to explore and need supervised
someone to make sure I’m okay. we could do this together? Manager Jenna took her home with her to explore and enjoy cuddles. exercise every day. With time and
Burford 0300 777 1570 Lewknor 0300 777 1500 each night so Sheila could get the vital “She’s settled in really well,” says Olly. training, they can become very tame.
nutrients she needed round the clock.” “She’s part of our family now.” They like to live with other chinchillas.
www.bluecross.org.uk 11
10
PET THEFT
Cruellest
crime
“My son cries himself to sleep at
night because he misses her so much
and my disabled daughter can’t
understand why Lola has gone”
ola, a then 15-month-old theft with us, and were saddened to
L miniature schnauzer, went
missing while staying with
Protect your
pet from theft
discover that the crime is on the rise.
Figures for 2014 showed 1,567 cats
relatives in August last year. Neighbours • Never leave your and dogs were reported stolen
saw two men and a woman snatch pet alone in the car, across the UK, compared with 1,150
her from a nearby doorstep and she garden, or tied up in 2012; an increase of almost 40
hasn’t been seen since. outside a shop per cent in two years.
To say Gemma Atkin-Brown • Take photographs Our survey found a discrepancy in
and her family miss their pet is an of your pet from the way pet theft is recorded across
understatement. Gemma said: “We’re different angles forces. According to current law, ‘pet
devastated by the loss of Lola and to help prove theft’ and ‘petnapping’ are not specific
are desperate to get her back.” ownership crimes in their own right, and pets are
The heartache caused to owners • Train your dog to considered ‘property’. This means it’s
by the theft of a pet shouldn’t be come back to you impossible to get consistent recording
underestimated. when called of pet theft across the country because
• Beware of strangers police forces are not given specific
Grief and worry asking questions requirements about how to note down
Tracie McGrory manages our Pet about your pet details of the crime. The true number
Bereavement Support Service and her • Make sure your pet of pet thefts is likely to be higher than
team often receives calls and emails is microchipped our figures suggest.
from owners whose pets have been and don’t forget to We’re calling on the government
taken from them. update your contact to make sure ‘petnapping’ is taken
She says the emotional toll can be details if you move seriously so police forces nationwide
hard for owners to bear, and those • If your pet is stolen, can investigate thefts consistently.
whose pets are missing experience report the crime
a feeling of grief and worry. to the police and Emotional suffering
“A pet is an integral part of so many ask for a crime Pets are part of the family, and current
families who are absolutely devastated reference number legislation does not recognise the
if they are stolen,” explained Tracie. • Contact local dog emotional suffering owners face if
Words by Rachael Millar
“Not only are they missing their pet, wardens and rescue their pet is pinched. The law also fails
they are also desperately worried about centres in case to recognise the welfare impact on
what is happening to them.” your pet escapes the stolen pets which, unlike other
We asked every police force in the or is dumped often-stolen items such as TVs and
country to share their records of pet laptops, are living creatures.
12 www.bluecross.org.uk 13
PET THEFT ADVICE
T H E
A SK S
R T
Are you wor
P E
ried
E X
about pet th
eft?
Write to us
Gemma’s son Liam at the usua
address to te l
with Lola before she ll us what
was stolen. If you have you think, or
you
seen Lola, please let can email ed
itor@ companion, but don’t rush
us know immediately. bluecross.or
Her family just wants g.uk into this. Remember, each pet
her back at home is an individual and different
where she belongs species bond with each other
in different ways.
“The effect of having Dogs are sociable animals
your pet stolen can be who live in family groups, so
your surviving dog is likely to
absolutely devastating for adapt well to a new canine if
owners. This is why we Diane James
the pair are a good match.
Cats have a very different
want the government to Pet Bereavement social structure to dogs and
do more to deal with this Support Training by their nature don’t always
increasing problem” Officer bond with other cats, even if
they have lived alongside them
Our Pet Bereavement peacefully for many years. Give
As well as contacting police forces, Support Service is your surviving cat time to adapt
we asked owners for their thoughts there to provide a to life without their companion
on pet theft. free and confidential and avoid getting a new cat
Unsurprisingly, over a third of those emotional support for or kitten straight away. If, after
we spoke to said they are worried a few months, you think your
all types of pet loss,
SAYING
their pet could fall prey to thieves. cat would be happy with a
Two thirds of those questioned
including theft, illness, new friend, get in touch with
thought that if tougher sentencing accident, death and your local rehoming centre.
was introduced for perpetrators,
fewer pets and their owners would
rehoming, and also
prior to loss. If you
GOODBYE Rabbits are extremely
sociable animals and may
become victims. need somebody to react badly to the death of a
Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross Public Losing a beloved friend affects us all, companion. The best thing to
talk to, please call us
Affairs Manager, said: “Penalties need to
on 0800 096 6606 writes Diane James, Pet Bereavement do is find your bunny a new
be tougher for those committing these partner quickly. Introductions
crimes to act as a deterrent to others. or email pbssmail@ Support Training Officer should be carried out slowly.
We also believe that police forces need bluecross.org.uk. Only get a new pet if you feel
to ensure they deal with these cases in You can also find help it is the right thing for you, your
a sensitive manner and highlight where and advice leaflets family, and your pets.
owners can go for further support.” on our website. Have you ever wondered what But you should also note you
happens to a pet when they may not witness any of these How to help your pet
Tougher sentences needed Written with support from lose their human or animal changes. Many anecdotes Keep your surviving pet’s
Bereft owners of stolen pets, Claire Stallard, Blue Cross companion? We humans suggest that animals do feel routine as similar as you can.
including Gemma and her family, Animal Behaviourist have the Pet Bereavement what humans call ‘grief’, Pets thrive on routine, so any
Back together are backing our calls for tougher Support Service to turn to, but including an understanding event that disrupts this can be
Boo, a ragdoll breed cat, sentences for those who commit the how do animals cope? They that the deceased is not upsetting. Make sure they are
was stolen from St Katherine’s crime, and hope this will stop other too show signs that could be coming back, but there is little eating, drinking and toileting
dock in London. She was later families going through the nightmare interpreted as grief. scientific evidence to back this properly. Pheromones may
found inside a carrier bag in they are currently living. up. What we do know is that help to calm dogs and cats
Greenwich. It is believed the You can help make a change in When an owner or fellow many species are affected by that are stressed. Ask your
thieves panicked and dumped the law a reality by asking your housemate passes away, loss and experience feelings vet about these.
her. She was reunited with her MP to back our campaign. Visit pets may experience: of sadness and loneliness. Give your pet lots of love and
owner thanks to a microchip. www.bluecross.org.uk/pettheft to • loss of appetite When a pet passes away attention, and take the time to
download a letter template today. • change in sleep patterns it can be tempting to get focus on your bond with your
• crying or searching another quickly, not only for pet. Human or animal, loss
• a need for extra attention your own benefit, but so your affects us all, but we cope best
• a generally sad demeanour surviving pet will have another when we care for each other.
14 www.bluecross.org.uk 15
MATURE PETS
GOLDEN C
harcoal is lying on owner
OLDIES
Elaine’s bed when we pop
round to see her in her new
home. She’s tucking into a lunchtime
snack and is enjoying it so much that
she doesn’t notice the strangers that
have come to take her photo.
Don’t write them off – there’s life in the old At the grand old age of 18, Charcoal
suddenly needed us to find her a new
pets yet. In fact, they could be just what you’re home. She had lived with the same
owner since she was a kitten, but
looking for in a new companion sadly they could no longer care for
her and called on us to make sure
she had the best chance of finding
a loving new home.
Charcoal is 19 years old now and
we’re catching up with her just over
a year after she went to live with
Elaine Willingham.
Elaine said: “When I read the story
about how she’d lived with the same
person her whole life, I thought ‘poor
little thing’. All she knows is this one
place, one home, and she must
have been so bewildered to
leave. It just broke my heart
and I knew I couldn’t lder pet?
Got an o r
leave her like that.” a ge 34 fo
Turn to p to w in
nce
your cha
Senior kit-izen plements
joint sup s
Elaine says it was love at age pain Lisa Kent, an Animal
first sight between her and
to ease
Welfare Assistant who “I reached in to give
Charcoal, despite the senior cared for Charcoal at our her a fuss, and she
kit-izen’s years. “I reached in to
give her a fuss, and she just erupted
Lewknor rehoming centre
in Oxfordshire, said: “Rehoming
just erupted into the
into the loudest purr. She is so little an older pet is often much easier loudest purr. She is
bother; she doesn’t create mess, she’s than taking on a youngster. Their so little bother; she
so, so clean, and I don’t have to worry personalities are already developed so
about her going out near the road you know exactly who you are getting doesn’t create mess
because she likes to stay inside.” and they are generally much calmer.” and she’s so, so clean”
Charcoal is one of the lucky ones.
She was only in our care for 26 days No regrets
before Elaine gave her the precious So would Elaine encourage others
gift of a home, but on average older to take a chance on an elderly pet?
pets take much longer to rehome. “I thought if I give her a home and
While it takes just days to find she only lives for six months, its six
a new home for a kitten, adult cats tend months of love and affection, and after
to wait well over a month on average 18 years of being with one person,
Words by Rachael Millar
for a new owner to come along. she deserves another shot. I would
It’s a similar story for dogs too. recommend taking on an older cat.
While we have waiting lists for pups, If you’re looking for a pet that’s going
adult dogs stay with us for 33 days, to be happy to let you love them, then
and even longer if they’re senior. you want a Charky. I don’t regret a day.”
16 www.bluecross.org.uk 17
EXPERT ADVICE
To rea
d mo
abou re
featu t the pets
re d h
other e re a
s, p nd
www lease visit
.blue
cr
org.u oss.
k
Top Staffie Lady waits
to be seen by our vets
Left Vet Mark Bossley
and Ginger Biscuit’s
owner Nicola Henry
A DAY
ogs sit beside cats as they line help, and she had to have her ear canal “We can help so I would do otherwise, as I’m a
D up with their owners before
their appointments at the Blue
removed at our Victoria animal hospital.
“She has dirty, gunky, painful ears. many more people
pensioner, so I’m very thankful
to Blue Cross.”
Cross Mobile Clinic. The van is parked Even just brushing past your leg, she who may struggle to To help reassure nervous Lil, her
AT THE
up beside a busy green in Islington screams in pain. It was time to get the best friend and Blue Cross regular
– one of four London boroughs that first one done,” said Jimmy. bring their pets down Buster – a nine-year-old Staffordshire
the service, which has been bringing As Jimmy has mobility issues, to the hospital” bull terrier – tagged along for a
treatment to pets that need it for more we scheduled Lady’s check-up general check-up with his owner
than 10 years, stops off at each week. appointments at our mobile clinic, well as microchipping, flea medication, Lee Whittington.
MOBILE
Our first patient is 10-year-old which is nearer his home. Once Lady worming and advice on neutering, However, after being examined,
Staffordshire bull terrier Lady, who has was given the all clear, she was booked formed a large proportion of the mobile Buster is booked in for major surgery
come along for a check-up following in to have the same operation in the clinic’s day-to-day work, although to fix a painful condition which causes
surgery at our Victoria animal hospital other ear. While her hearing will be they also deal with sick animals and his kneecaps to pop out of place.
three weeks ago. She has suffered limited, she won’t be totally deaf, and emergencies, which are referred Although concerned about Buster’s
CLINIC
from poorly ears since before owner she knows she will always have Jimmy straight to our Victoria animal hospital. operation, it’s life-changing treatment
Jimmy Morrice took her in eight years by her side to take care of her. Next up was Lil, a bouncy two-year- that would be hard for Lee to access
ago, when Lady was two and no longer It was a more standard check-up for old boxer cross American bulldog, were it not for Blue Cross.
wanted by her previous owner. 12-week-old kitten Ginger Biscuit, who whose sore paws are getting her down. Mark added: “It is great to get
Chronic ear problems are often arrived at our clinic with his besotted When the problem flares, the skin in Blue Cross out into the community like
caused after allergies are left untreated, owner Nicola Henry. between her toes goes red raw and it’s this. We can help so many more people
Parks are normally for walkies, and can be very uncomfortable. The cute cat needed a vaccination to causing her lots of discomfort. who may struggle to bring their pets
but today one bustling London Jimmy has taken Lady to the vet to protect him against several diseases, Our clinic vet suspects the cause down to the hospital.
Words by Aimee Brannen
get help with her ears a number of including the potentially fatal cat flu and of the irritation is an allergy to grass. “It also gets us noticed, so we can
green has transformed into a times, but her problems began when feline leukaemia virus, which can also But she’s given medication to treat fox improve the welfare of pets by providing
veterinary waiting room for she was a young dog and, now she is
10, are irreversible. Lady had reached
cause severe illness and death.
Chief Vet Mark Bossley explained
mange to rule that out first.
Owner Roger Meek, a disabled
basic veterinary care to eligible people
who may not have been using our
pets of all shapes and sizes the stage where only surgery would that preventative treatments like this, as pensioner, said: “I’m not sure what services previously.”
18 www.bluecross.org.uk 19Friday
CATCH UP
. . . ?
13 May WHAT HAPPENE D T O
don e d a n d u n w anted pets.
m e s fo r th o u sands of aban they’re doing now
o ow
e Cross finds h r faces to see h
Every year Blu ght up with some familia
We’ve cau
Zak
You may recognise Zak from
our festive letter that arrived on
doorsteps a few months ago.
When we wrote to you, the four-
year-old terrier cross was facing
spending the festive season
at Blue Cross after his elderly
owner could no longer give him
the care he needed.
We’re thrilled to tell you that
Zak’s Christmas wish came true,
and he didn’t have to spend
Kenny 25 December in a kennel
Eight-year-old Kenny arrived because he had a loving
at Blue Cross in February 2014 family to enjoy the day with.
when his owners had to move
away. During Kenny’s 17 months
at the charity over 3,000 dogs
found happy new homes and he
was overlooked by over 13,000
potential new owners who
enquired about rehoming a dog.
But the Staffordshire bull
terrier-collie cross landed on his
paws in August last year when
David Broadfield and his family
ure d and homele heard about Kenny’s plight.
j ss p
David explained: “We’d
k, in ets
recently lost our beautiful
c
17-year-old collie cross, Murray,
si and were absolutely devastated.
Babybell
p
A friend emailed me a link to
el Kenny’s story and although it When four-week-old kitten Babybell got one of her
h For a free Tea Party host pack
was so soon after losing Murray, front legs caught in a mousetrap, the kindest thing
we knew that we couldn’t walk to do was amputate it. Vet Cristina Buil said: “The
.. .to away from him. Kenny’s a
wonderful little dog. We all love
him to bits. He’s got a ‘forever
trap had caused irreversible neurological damage
and the wound was infected. She was lucky she was
found; she wouldn’t have survived much longer.” After
call 08444 993 663 or visit home’ now, and is settling into
the routine of being the ‘apple
of everyone’s eye’ very well!”
she recovered from surgery, we found her a loving home.
New owner Tasha Henderson said: “She is totally fearless”.
www.bluecross.org.uk/teaparty
www.bluecross.org.uk 21
Blue Cross is a charity registered in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154)REHOMING SUCCESS
HOPE
AGAINST
fraid of people and neglected,
A poor Boyd must have been
terrified when he first came to
Blue Cross. The 18-month-old pony had
HOPE
never known human kindness, and he
didn’t know what it was to trust.
Boyd had been living in squalor; left
to roam in a cement yard without any
proper food, shelter or veterinary care.
We took him in with two other ponies,
Boyd was living in squalor without Spencer and Young, in 2011. They were
in a bad way too but it was Boyd’s
food, shelter or care and he was terrified condition that was the most shocking.
of people. Today, he’s unrecognisable He was malnourished, weak and
infested with lice. His muscles were
in his new home with owner Jane severely wasted and he was riddled
with worms. The young pony’s condition
was so critical that it was going to be a
battle to keep him alive.
Tamzin Boyd, from the Rolleston
rehoming centre team that cared
for Boyd, said: “It was clear from the
onset that these horses had never
been handled as they were extremely
nervous around people.”
Time, space and encouragement
We kept Boyd comfortable for a few
weeks and monitored him closely,
without getting too close. Too much
attention too soon can have a seriously
detrimental impact on the recovery of
“His two companions As you can probably tell from Boyd’s
wavy mane in the photographs, it had
horses who, like Boyd, are terrified of progressed quickly been raining when we caught up with
people. We tread carefully around these and were rehomed him, but that doesn’t faze him. He and
ponies, giving them the time and space his new best friend horse Boris (who
they need to get used to us, along with
together, but poor was also in need when Jane spotted
plenty of encouragement. Boyd really struggled” him) have been racing around their
Tamzin said: “His two companions nine-acre paddock and rolling in the
progressed quickly and were got used to a consistent routine and met mud. It’s a joy to watch this once timid
rehomed together, where they grew many people, including children, and chap galloping around carefree.
in confidence, but poor Boyd really adapted well to the busy atmosphere. Aware of Boyd’s confidence issues,
struggled for a long while.” The team It did him the world of good and he Jane has been taking her time to
spent many months working with Boyd started to take life in his stride.” introduce him to new items. She gives
to bring him out of his shell. We discovered that Boyd would Boyd a brush and says: “I definitely
In spring 2014, Boyd was ready benefit from a very special home with couldn’t have done this with him when
to go to a foster home. Fostering is someone who was truly understanding he first arrived.”
an important stage of a Blue Cross of his nervous nature and character. When an animal arrives in such a
horse’s rehabilitation as it allows us They would need to spend plenty of shockingly bad state, our rehoming
to monitor their behaviour away from time with him and give him lots of love. team faces an emotional battle to get
Words by Rachael Millar
the rehoming centre environment, and We’re delighted to tell you that in them ready for a home but seeing
gives us a good idea of the type of the summer of last year, Boyd found them loved makes it all so worthwhile,
home that will best suit them. that perfect home and has bonded and we couldn’t be happier for Boyd.
Tamzin said: “Boyd went to live in a beautifully with his new owner We couldn’t have got him back on his
livery yard with a variety of horses. He Jane Wight. hooves without your support. Thank you.
22 www.bluecross.org.uk 23WHAT’S ON? FUNDRAISING
E A N D FRIENDS
COM
JO I N I N ! DAYS
We hold Friends Days
Victoria sponge and
chocolate brownies are
perfect choices to tempt
e,
si n g e ve n t for everyon throughout the year at
our rehoming centres and your mates to join you
rai ets.
e’s a Blu e Cross fund jured and homeless p hospitals to thank our for this year’s Tea Party –
The r , in
e helps sick ks, get set, go…
supporters and give them
d e a c h o n a unique, behind-the-scenes but why not add some
an ar
On your m look at our work. They’re
a great chance to see first- pet friendly cakes into
hand how we’re helping pets the mix too?
Big Blue Bungee Hadrian’s Wall Trek Hadlow College thanks to your generous
Saturday 14 May 9 – 11 September Saturday 30 April support. We’re hosting the
Combine the thrill of a lifetime One wall, one epic adventure, Join us for Hadlow College’s following events for the year
with raising vital funds towards one weekend. This fantastic open day in south London. at these centres:
our Burford rehoming centre 25-mile route takes you along You’ll get the chance to meet n 2016, we would love to
refurbishment by bungee
jumping in Carterton, Oxon.
the most remarkable Roman
monument in the country,
our cats in need of a home
who may be the right match
Lewknor – 6 April
Torbay – 28 April
I see your pets join your tea
party. We’re not suggesting
from Chollerford to Gisland. for you. Call 0300 777 1937 you undermine any carefully trained
London 10,000 to find out more. Rolleston – 13 May good habits, but pets are part of the
Monday 30 May Wolf Run Thirsk – 15 June family and we think they should be
Pound the streets of one Various dates Burford Cambridge – 14 July able to join in the fun!
of the world’s greatest cities You’ll tackle a series of tough Friday 6 May Suffolk – 21 September Of course human food is a no-no, as
and raise pounds for pets obstacles designed to test Rehoming evening and tack Victoria – 7 December many of our favourite tasty treats can
as you run the 10km course your mental and physical sale. Come along to look at Paws for me! be harmful to pets. So to help you
past Buckingham Palace. strength, skill and stamina on our lovely horses available “My skin was terribly out, we’ve put some top notch
this exhilarating 10km wild run. for rehoming while grabbing If you’d like to find out Put Frid recipes in our fundraising
itchy. No matter how
13 Ma a y
Trekfest: The Beacons yourself some bargain tack. more about our Friends much I scratched at it, y in yo pack that are specially
diary a ur
4 – 6 June To find out more about any Call 0300 777 1570 for Days, please call our Legacy I just couldn’t make the nd inv designed for your pets and
friends ite you
Hike the stunning range of of these events, please visit more information. Team on 0300 777 1757 pain go away. People
to Paw r are easy as pie to make.
hills in this beautiful part of www.bluecross.org.uk/ terrified me so I didn’t
for Tea s In fact, the biscuits you see
Wales, including the peaks of activechallenges Tiverton want them to help me, . here on Boo the cat’s plate
Pen y Fan and Fan y Big. We Saturday 25 June even though they are safe for his consumption.
guarantee a spectacular trek! Come along to our summer seemed kind. I needn’t Hosting a Paws for Tea party is
LOCAL CENTRE EVENTS fun day and dog show at have worried. I feel so a piece of cake and it is a great way to
Nightrider There’s lots to do throughout Willand Village Hall. Bring much better now. My catch up with your friends and family
London 4 – 5 June, the spring and summer at our your dog along too and skin is soothed and I’m over a cuppa, or get everyone in your
Bristol 25 – 26 June, rehoming centres. Do give you might just win a prize! so happy to be loved!” office or school together. Every penny
Liverpool 16 – 17 July your local one a call to see Call 0300 777 1560 for Blossom the dog. you raise, however you choose to host
A one day charity ride with a how you can get involved in more information. your event, will help us help animals.
difference...it’s at night! Taking the fun, which ranges from
in all the key sights in each open days to dog shows and Order your free pack today. Simply fill
city, this is a unique way to much more. We’re waiting to in the form in the back of Pawprint or
explore the iconic landmarks. hear from you! visit www.bluecross.org.uk/teaparty
24 www.bluecross.org.uk 25CENTRE REBUILD
VISITING TIME
Our refurbished Bromsgrove rehoming centre is officially open!
We now have the facilities to help double the number of homeless and
abandoned dogs and cats in the region – and it’s all thanks to you
ur revamped rehoming centre Other new facilities that we’re
O now boasts spacious kennels
and a cattery, maternity units
really pleased to offer pets include
admissions areas for newly arrived
for puppies and kittens, a veterinary pets, and isolation units for pets who
clinic, housing for new arrivals and a may have infectious diseases.
dedicated behaviour assessment area. Admissions areas allow us to give
Before the refurbishment, we cared each pet that is brought to us a full
for around 600 dogs and cats every health check and assess their behaviour
year at Bromsgrove, but are now able so we can tailor care to their individual
to help twice as many. Neil Edwards, “We were born in needs. Isolation areas mean we can
Bromsgrove Centre Manager, said: “We Bromsgrove’s new keep sick animals away from others
are so grateful for all the donations.” kitten maternity unit, so they don’t pass on diseases, such
Five terrier cross puppies and their which had everything as cat flu and kennel cough, while
mum, Minnie, were the first canine we needed.” they are recovering.
family to benefit from the specially Charmander, Squirtle When pets are healthy enough to
designed puppy unit. Born in our new and Jigglypuff go to their new homes, we can now
mum and pup area, which is right next move them to the rehoming wing,
to the centre’s team room, separated “I settled into my new where they wait in comfortable
by large sliding windows, this meant home easily because I kennels to meet their new families.
mum Minnie could care for her pups learnt about household
while we kept a close eye sounds and smells in Emergency treatment
on the new family. Before the puppy unit.” We’re thrilled with our brand new
the refurbishment was Beau veterinary suite, too. Rather than poorly
THANKS
complete, we had to animals having to travel, now the vet
transfer pregnant bitches comes to us. Demand for our veterinary
one
n’t have d to other Blue Cross help in the region remains high, and
we could you
it without centres as we couldn’t the new clinic means we can continue
provide the specialist care to care for local pets whose owners
they needed, but now – can’t afford private vet care.
thanks to the generosity of our We don’t receive any government
supporters – we can help those in need. funding and are totally reliant on
The closeness of the maternity unit public support. You helped us raise
to the team room means that pups over £1.9 million to fund our new
can get used to the many sounds facilities and, as you read this, ill and
and smells of everyday life, including injured pets are getting better, and
the vacuum cleaner, which is perfect unwanted abandoned pets are finding
preparation for life as a family pet. loving homes because of it. Thank you.
26 www.bluecross.org.uk 27VOLUNTEERING YOUR LETTERS
PET
POSTBA
Praise
for Baxter
We lo v
G
please seendto hear from you
–
Ed’s note: picturesuos fyour news and
We’ve been your pets
overwhelmed by your
support of our TV
advert, starring Baxter.
Thank you so much
for your good wishes.
Here’s a selection of the
wonderful messages
we’ve had. And
remember, if you’d like
to let us know what you
PEOPLE
think of our ad, do drop
us a line as we’d love to
hear from you.
Oh what a brilliant advert
POWER
for the charity. I have
two dogs but if I
could I would home STAR R
E
LE T T OUR
lots and lots more.
Caroline, by email
How our volunteers can make a Beautiful, stunning,
SCOOBY DO! LITTLE
FAMILY
real difference to animal welfare and the right side of
emotional. Well done
Just been looking at your latest Blue Cross
publication and wanted to share a picture of our
Blue Cross, I’m proud gorgeous Scooby, a 21-month-old black labrador. We’d like to introduce you to
to be a tiny part of this We think he is lovely, and we love it that so many Twiglet, our lab cross who joined
o is a Blue Cross Campaign
“If you’ve had a long day Data collected by Jo and more than superb organisation. people agree with us! He’s kind, gentle, friendly and our family last year. She’s our first
J Volunteer motivated by helping
pets in need. While this role is at work you don’t always
80 other campaign volunteers was
collated and used to moderate a set
Anonymous supporter loves nothing more than learning, along with
a nice cuddle and cup of tea.
dog as a married couple and she
has made our family complete.
not one that is hands-on with animals, feel like switching on the of industry standards for selling pets I just wanted to say that Ellie Andrews, by email Over the past few months
the positive change she and her online. This was backed by Defra, the it’s an amazing TV ad. we’ve taken her to the beach,
colleagues are making is easy to see. computer, but knowing government department responsible So enjoyable to watch, As writer of the star letter, Ellie has won £100 of swimming, on lots of country
Our volunteers are using the power that what you’re doing for animal welfare and some major and the main protagonist Love2shop vouchers for her family, provided by walks, and to the pub!
of the internet to research problems
pets face, and lobby for change. Led
is making a significant websites signed up to it too.
Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross Public
is perfect!
Roma, by email
Petplan, the UK’s no 1 pet insurance provider.
For more information on Petplan,
Now we’re expecting our first
baby. We’ve read your dog and
by our Public Affairs Team, campaign difference to animal Affairs Manager, says: “Our campaign visit www.petplan.co.uk/bluecross baby advice leaflet online and
volunteers investigate crucial topics that welfare makes it all volunteers are directly helping to can’t wait to introduce our son or
may have a negative impact on pet influence government policy concerning daughter to Twiglet, very slowly
welfare, like the unscrupulous sale of worthwhile” animal welfare. Being able to present and with your advice.
exotic pets and dangerous dog laws. law makers with well-researched Mr and Mrs Gilling,
Tasks are varied and depend on the within 20 miles of my home. It was reports has a real impact on policy, Would you like to see by email
topic. You could be asked to write to a great idea to focus locally because and we simply couldn’t do this without your pet on this page?
your MP or to look through particular volunteers across the country could committed volunteers like Jo.”
websites to find trends. get involved. If you have basic computer skills, We love to hear how your Blue Cross pets Ed’s note:
Jo says: “My first task was “I’m now writing to my MP to a home internet connection and want are getting on. Please email your letters and See our website for
researching the breeding and sale ask him to look at the regulations to make a real difference to the nation’s photos to editor@bluecross.org.uk or write lots of tips on everything
of cats and kittens. There were three surrounding the welfare of racing pets, we’d love to hear from you. Visit to Pawprint Editor, Blue Cross, Shilton to do with owning a pet
main websites that I looked at to find greyhounds, and asking for www.bluecross.org.uk/volunteering or Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4PF.
the number of cats advertised for sale more transparency.” call 0300 790 9903 to find out more.
28 www.bluecross.org.uk 29BITESIZE
B I T E S I ZSE
STOR ST I E
TE
ALL THE LRAOM MAKING
NE W S F
S THE GRADE
BLUE CROS NEW LIFELINE
FOR PETS
IN CRISIS Thousands more young
people are set to learn about
A new Blue Cross grant is dog safety thanks to the Blue
offering a lifeline to pets Cross Education Team.
in a crisis whose owners We’ve partnered up with
can’t afford vet bills. several organisations so we
Our Veterinary Grant can spread the word across the
Scheme gives financial country, including at Safeside
support for some health in Birmingham. Safeside
conditions to pet owners
on means-tested benefits
teaches children about all
aspects of safety, from fire BOBBY’S BACK
who don’t live near our
hospitals or clinics.
to ‘stranger danger’, using
actors. Since November, these ON HIS FEET
Caroline Reay, Clinical workshops have included dog A dramatic rescue has saved the
Compliance Manager, safety messages and 10,000 life of a tiny kitten who became
said: “We’re trying to young people each year are set trapped beneath a building at the
avoid the tragedy of an to benefit. In Staffordshire, busy Felixstowe docks. Bobby the
otherwise healthy pet
with a curable condition FROM HOMELESS we’ve educated 50 Police
Community Support Officers
on how to talk to youngsters
kitten’s pitiful cries were heard by
office workers from Mitie Security at
HOUND TO
being put to sleep Felixstowe Port in Suffolk, and, after
because the owner about canine safety. If you realising the young cat’s calls were
can’t afford the surgery.” represent local government, coming from underneath their feet,
We hope our grant will
POLICE POOCH children’s charities or the they called the dock police.
WORK BEGINS AT BURFORD give sick and injured pets
all over the UK the best
shot at a healthy life.
An unwanted pet has
gone to the top of the
that train working dogs
and after passing some
police and are interested in
working with us, please email
education@bluecross.org.uk
Police officer Carly Wicks, who
helped rescue Bobby, said: “We
don’t know how he became trapped
e’ve welcomed in the mother was killed by a car. Luckily accommodation and outside runs, Visit our website class after becoming tests, Charlie secured a underneath the building but he couldn’t
w builders at Burford as
our rehoming centre
they were adopted by a feline mum
who was raising one of her kittens
separate dog and cat units for
new arrivals and poorly pets,
www.bluecross.org.uk
or give us a call to find
a qualified police dog.
Charlie the springer
place with Bedfordshire,
Cambridgeshire and
find his way out. It must have been
terrifying for him as he was under there
refurbishment begins to take in our cattery. All six grew healthy dedicated puppy and kitten out more. spaniel arrived at our Hertfordshire Police. for a few days with no food or water.”
shape. When the doors of our new and strong, and we found the areas, new veterinary facilities Tiverton centre in Devon He embarked on a The dock police ripped open the
facilities open to pets later this year, whole feline family loving homes. and a relaxed reception area. when his owner was no training course to learn floor to free the distraught kitten and
we’ll be able to double the number Centre Manager Jenna Martyn To get involved with our longer able to care for how to sniff out large took him to our Blue Cross Felixstowe
of dogs and cats we can help, like said: “Kittens like this adorable Go Blue for Burford fundraising him. We quickly realised amounts of cash and rehoming centre, where we named
cute kittens Jude, Johnny, Pepper, bunch will really benefit from the challenges, or to make that he had what it takes a range of illegal him ‘Bobby’ in honour of his rescuers.
Rita and Penny. new facilities once they are built.” a donation, visit: to be a working dog. substances and proved We treated him for fleas and worms,
The five-week-old siblings Once complete, our Burford www.bluecross.org.uk/ Jay Cruikshanks, to be a natural. and gave him some much needed
needed our help when they were centre will boast new kennels, burfordappeal or call Tiverton Centre Manager, Charlie’s trainer, PC food and water. Once he was old
just a few days old after their with bigger, comfier 0300 790 9903. said: “As soon as Charlie Jason Keir of the Beds, and well enough, Bobby went off to
arrived he had his nose Cambs and Herts Dog a loving new home.
to the ground sniffing or Unit, said: “Charlie
80%
he would be staring at us picked up everything
Pets can suffer as if he was desperate to we taught him so quickly.
fatal heatstroke be given a job. We tried We’re really lucky to have CHIPPING’S IN
some simple searching him on the team.” Don’t forget to get your dog microchipped by April.
of British gardens after just 15 games with him and he Charlie now works Owners who don’t will face a fine of up to £500.
contain plants that minutes in the took to them like a duck alongside his human Contact your nearest Blue Cross to get your
are poisonous to to water – it was obvious colleagues in drug and dog, cat or rabbit chipped for free
cats and dogs heat. Never that with his drive and money laundering cases
leave your pet energy levels, Charlie Jay added: “Charlie’s
alone in a car. needed more than the
average family home.”
a great ambassador for
rescue dogs and has
We got in touch with a shown how amazing
number of organisations they can be.”
30 www.bluecross.org.uk 31BITESIZE
THANKS FOR YOUR #SUPPAWT
DEAR Did you spot Baxter and his
FINDER…
A giant rabbit is now in
safe hands after being
88%
of people think
friends on your TV screens?
As you know from the sneaky
peak we gave you in the last edition
of Pawprint magazine, we launched
abandoned in a box our awareness and fundraising
with a note from owners
getting a pet campaign just before Christmas
saying they couldn’t
before having – and we’re so pleased at the
afford his vet bill.
children is a support we’ve received.
The bunny, nicknamed
good idea Our advert was designed to
Nivens McTwisp after the
white rabbit in a recent
make us better known and better
funded so we can give more pets DONATIONS
film adaptation of Alice in happier and healthier futures. FLOOD IN
Wonderland, had a
suspected broken leg
PLEDGE Millions of people across the
UK have watched Baxter’s tale
and was dumped in a FOR and many were inspired to show Despite being devastated by
flash flooding, our Cambridge
CHANGE
box on somebody’s us how they and their pets were
doorstep, before being supporting Blue Cross. rehoming centre is now up
handed into our Grimsby We’ve joined with and running again thanks to
ZERO
animal hospital. animal welfare the generosity and kindness
X-rays have revealed organisations from of supporters.
his wonky leg is either an across the European Storms brought dirty water
TO HERO
abnormality he was born Union to call for an into the cat pens and ruined
with or a very old injury end to puppy smuggling nearly all their scratching
he has adapted to over and commercial pet posts, toys and bedding.
time, and cannot be breeding. At the first Most had to be thrown
fixed. But despite this A young cob rescued from a Unrecognisable as the shabby EU Dog and Cat Alliance away because of the risk
and his whopping 6kg miserable life of neglect has waif he once was, he is Margaret’s event there were over of contamination, leaving
weight, Nivens is content landed on his hooves in his pride and joy. 30 MEPs and 11 pet the cats without the vital
enough to hop about new home. An experienced horse handler welfare organisations enrichment and mental
and isn’t in any pain. Rafiki was found fly grazing in who has, among other things, lobbying the EU for stimulation they need as
Nivens isn’t a field with several other horses. worked with semi-feral young better welfare legislation they wait for new homes.
a big fan of carrots but Sadly, three were already dead and New Forest ponies, Margaret was for dogs and cats. Thankfully our cats and
he does like kale, swede, a further two had to be euthanased determined not to let her wheelchair Becky Thwaites, Public Here’s a selection of our favourite ‘paw bumps’ kittens stayed safe and weren’t
apples and grass. as nothing could be done to save curtail her lifestyle: “Once I had got Affairs Officer, said: “We Black and white kitten Mr Grumpy was just two weeks old when he showed too traumatised by the ordeal.
them. At just 18 months old, Rafiki used to the wheelchair I was bored, hope that by working in his #suppawt for the team at our Southampton rehoming centre. With the “We’d like to thank everyone
needed urgent veterinary help to getting fat, and really missed fresh partnership with animal increase in support from the Great British public, thanks to Baxter and his for the generous gifts and
stop him from suffering the same air and equine company. welfare organisations chums, we’ll be able to change the story for many more pets like Mr Grumpy. kind thoughts at our time
fate. We nursed him back to health “I looked at the Blue Cross from across the EU we’ll of need – it’s been amazing,”
at our Burford rehoming centre and website and there he was. We went be able to make a real said Claire Thomas, an
began to get him used to being
handled and groomed.
to see him and he was perfect. He
was not the slightest bit bothered
difference to pets.”
STEPS Animal Welfare Assistant.
“We raised a lot of money
Rafiki is now living like a king in
his new home with Margaret.
by the wheelchair and quite happily
sniffed me all over.” VOTES ARE IN FOR PETS and received wonderful
presents from people all over
She suffers with severe arthritis Margaret handles Rafiki every Postman Pat Pet lovers laced up their boots and the world. The cats are loving
and, following surgery last year, is day and she plans to introduce and Jess the cat walked over 10 million steps to kick their new toys!”
now unable to walk and needs him to as much as she can in time, are the nation’s start our first ever Steps for Pets An appeal for donations and
a power wheelchair. Rafiki has including a saddle, bridle, rugs favourite owner fundraising challenge. We were chuffed gifts raised nearly £11,000,
turned her life around. “He gives and a trailer. With the help of her and pet to get celebrity backing from singer Ed and hundreds of toys,
me a reason to get up in the daughter, she hopes to be able to partnership. Sheeran and Olympic cycling champion scratching posts, treats and
morning,” she says. take him for walks soon. Victoria Pendleton, who donated their other goods. Thanks to your
autographed footwear to be auctioned. incredible support, the centre
“I couldn’t have asked for a better home” A huge thank you to everyone
who took part and helped ill and
is now back to normal and
busy rehoming needy cats.
unwanted pets.
32 www.bluecross.org.uk 33You can also read
