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Autumn 2013 battersea.org.uk
The magazine of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
RewardingrehomingDispelling the myths around rehoming a rescue animal
Also inside this issue:
Lost and found
Branching out
Stars of TV
Tales of heartbreak and joy
It’s Home from Home at our new Sydenham mini rehoming centre
Catching up with some of our canine stars of the small screen
Go online to find out more by typing in this special web address
Visit: haventouring.com/topaws
Quote: TO_PAWS
Calls cost 5p per minute plus network extras.
Our friendly UK holiday advisors are waiting for your call 7 days a week, 9am-9pm
Call: 0843 320 9734
A16
23 coastal parks
Dogs are welcome on holiday at Haven Save up to
50%*
on September and October holidays
We know that dogs are part of the family and a holiday wouldn’t be the same without them. So, on a Haven Touring and Camping holiday you can bring them along with you, after all, they deserve a holiday too. Dogs are welcomed at 22 of our touring and camping parks.
Terms and conditions: *Save up to 50% varies by park, pitch, date and duration – please call or go online for further details. Pitches from £7 are based on 6 sharing on electric grass pitch at Blue Dolphin for 4 nights commencing 23 September 2013. Bring your pets for free for any bookings made for 1 August – 4 November 2013, when quoting the quote code shown above. Maximum of up to 2 pets per booking and pets are not allowed at Burnham-on-Sea. Offers are subject to promotional availability and can be withdrawn at any time, apply to new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other offer, voucher or discount, unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply as shown in the current Haven Touring and Camping brochure and website. Bourne Leisure Limited is registered in England, no 04011660. 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead. HP2 4YL.
September pitches
from only
£7* per night
for the whole family
Plus, bring your pet for
free* on a 2013 escape
63285 TOUR [210x297] Paws.indd 1 12/07/2013 14:18
Go online to find out more by typing in this special web address
Visit: haventouring.com/topaws
Quote: TO_PAWS
Calls cost 5p per minute plus network extras.
Our friendly UK holiday advisors are waiting for your call 7 days a week, 9am-9pm
Call: 0843 320 9734
A16
23 coastal parks
Dogs are welcome on holiday at Haven Save up to
50%*
on September and October holidays
We know that dogs are part of the family and a holiday wouldn’t be the same without them. So, on a Haven Touring and Camping holiday you can bring them along with you, after all, they deserve a holiday too. Dogs are welcomed at 22 of our touring and camping parks.
Terms and conditions: *Save up to 50% varies by park, pitch, date and duration – please call or go online for further details. Pitches from £7 are based on 6 sharing on electric grass pitch at Blue Dolphin for 4 nights commencing 23 September 2013. Bring your pets for free for any bookings made for 1 August – 4 November 2013, when quoting the quote code shown above. Maximum of up to 2 pets per booking and pets are not allowed at Burnham-on-Sea. Offers are subject to promotional availability and can be withdrawn at any time, apply to new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other offer, voucher or discount, unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply as shown in the current Haven Touring and Camping brochure and website. Bourne Leisure Limited is registered in England, no 04011660. 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead. HP2 4YL.
September pitches
from only
£7* per night
for the whole family
Plus, bring your pet for
free* on a 2013 escape
63285 TOUR [210x297] Paws.indd 1 12/07/2013 14:18
Executive EditorDee McIntosh
EditorCaroline Stringer
ContributorsJude PeppisKate WinsallHelen StoneDiane JohnsonClint Singh
Contents
Please send your pictures and letters to:Paws magazine Battersea Dogs & Cats Home 4 Battersea Park Road London SW8 [email protected]
For more information and our opening hours, call 0843 509 4444 or visit our website battersea.org.uk
Old WindsorPriest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2JN
Brands HatchCrowhurst Lane, Ash, Kent TN15 7HH
PatronHer Majesty The Queen
PresidentHRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO
Paws is designed on behalf of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home by williamjoseph.co.uk
Advertising [email protected]
Note: Advertisements and advertising inserts appearing within or sent with Paws magazine have been included at the advertiser’s request only. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not verify the quality, condition, validity or standard of the offers, products or services advertised. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not in any way endorse any of the products or services offered.
Keep in touchPlease help us keep our records as up-to-date as possible and inform us of any changes in your details. You can write to the usual Battersea address or email [email protected]
If you no longer wish to receive Paws magazine and/or other correspondence from the Home, please write and let us know, including your name, address and postcode. You can write to the data protection officer at the address below or email [email protected]
Data Protection Officer Battersea Dogs & Cats Home 4 Battersea Park Road London SW8 4AA
10 Rehoming a rescue 16 Lost and found 22 Battersea branches out 24 Stars of TV
03 Welcome 04 News 19 Dog gallery 20 Paws letters 26 Take us home 28 Buy for Battersea 29 Cat gallery 30 Ask the expert Don’t leave me this way: Separation anxiety
32 Day in the life Diane Johnson, Old Windsor Receptionist
Features
Regulars
44,918 (Jan–Dec 2012)
Small screen starsHead to page 24 to find out what some of the stars of Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs Series 2 have been up to
Take us homeVisit our rehoming gallery on page 26 to give one of these furry fellows the second chance they deserve
24
26
01
Made in the U.K
Family is a really important word here at Battersea.
When we welcomed our 1,000th volunteer, James Moore, to the Battersea family, a very special guest came to the Home to offer his personal congratulations. This was Prime Minister David Cameron’s first visit to Battersea – see page 08.
People want to volunteer at Battersea as it’s a charity they know and love. They share a passion and a commitment for our animals and want to see them get a second chance in life. Some of our volunteers have supported us for almost thirty years and many, like James, have recently joined us. They’re now very much part of the Battersea family and we are very grateful for their support.
Our family has no geographical or historical limits and stretches back in time and around the world, even as far as Qatar (see page 06). Closer to home, we love hearing how our canine and feline family members are enjoying their new homes and people. So on page 24 we’ve been catching up with some of the wonderful characters our Battersea Ambassador Paul O’Grady met during his ITV summer series.
If you watched Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, you’ll know as well as I do that although some animals have incredible challenges to overcome as we work to give them a chance of a happy life, there is something very special indeed about a rescue dog or cat. If you have rehomed from Battersea, or you’re thinking hard about doing so, you’ll want to read our feature on page 10.
We believe in taking every opportunity to successfully find ways to rehome our animals, which is why we’re so excited about opening our very own rehoming mini-centre at Pets at Home in Sydenham, Kent, this autumn. You can find out all about this exciting new adventure for the Home on page 22.
Finally, the big reveal! Santa’s not due for another three months, but I know you’ll be eager to see all the lovely festive gifts we’ll be stocking online and in our three shops. Buy Battersea this Christmas, and you’ll be supporting the Home, so please enjoy our Christmas Goodies pages at the back of this issue.
Claire Horton, Chief Executive
Welcome
Claire with our cover star Phyllis the Mongrel
03
Battersea?More like Cattersea
Please help us care for our cats in need. Text CATS to 70800 to donate £5, or you could buy one of our cats a treat online at battersea.org.uk/shop. Visit battersea.org.uk/CatTakeover to find out more about our cat rehoming campaign, volunteering in our Cattery or how to rehome or foster a cat from Battersea.
Battersea has broken an unwanted record in 2013 – with the highest number of cat residents ever seen at our three centres.
We’re looking after more lost, neglected and unwanted cats than ever before, so we’ve launched an urgent appeal to cat lovers to give one of our great moggies a good home.
More than 3,000 cats, kittens and pregnant mums arrive at Battersea each year, and this autumn our London Cattery is within a whisker of bursting point with more than 150 cats looking for a new start, and more on waiting lists to come into the Home.
We have also had over 2,600 calls this year from owners wanting to bring in a cat, and we’re taking in an average of seven cats each day.
Cats like mum, dad and kitten Carmela, Flavio and Pino, who were discovered by delivery driver Alfonso Papa abandoned in a fruit box in New Covent Garden Market in London.
“This little family were so lucky they were spotted and brought to Battersea,” said our Head of Cattery, Lindsey Quinlan. “Like so many other cats they’re now looking for new homes. We’re incredibly busy in the Cattery with so many daily arrivals – we think the influx is partly due to the rise in litters during the summer months.”
Could you share your life with a Battersea cat or kitten? Cats can fit into busy lives and families so well, and give so much joy and companionship in return. To find out more about rehoming a Battersea cat, call 020 7627 9279 or email [email protected]
Over 500 cat lovers ‘purred’ into our London Cattery in July for the Home’s first ever Kitten Shower, a day of fun kitten petting, crafting, information and rehoming for all the family. Keep your cats’ eyes peeled for more special late-night events at the London Cattery this autumn.
Carmela and her kitten Pino 3,000 Cats, kittens and
pregnant mums arrive at Battersea each year
Autumn 201304
In 1862, a £500 legacy allowed Battersea’s founder Mrs Mary Tealby to buy a stable yard in Holloway as a permanent base for her Temporary Home for Lost & Starving Dogs.
We wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for a legacy, and they continue to help us carry on our work today. Mrs Joan Baxter of Weybridge, Surrey, appointed Battersea as her Executor, and when she died in 2012 we arranged her funeral, dealt with some important practicalities and made sure her wishes were carried out – including a gift to the Home in memory of her beloved dog Emma.
Reading, writing and Paws
Reading practice just got a whole lot furrier for the Year 1 Badger class at Carlisle Infant School in Hampton, Middlesex.
The six-year-olds are avid followers of Paws, and eagerly await each new issue so they can brush up on their literacy skills during storytime by reading all about Battersea and our cats and dogs.
Class teacher Rachel Sheldrake has her own Battersea dog, Staffie Cross Joey, and says her children love Paws and as a result of following the magazine also started watching our ITV series Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs.
The Battersea fans even wrote to Paws to say how much they love it. “Thankyou for all of the Paws,” said six-year-old Lyanna. “I like all of the cute dogs.”
Luciel, aged six, wrote: “Thankyou for giving Badger class the Paws – I love looking at the super cute puppys.” And Ola, also six, says: “I liked all the cute kitties.”
Harry, Lucie, Ola and Lyanna catch up with the latest news from Battersea
More awardsfor Paul?
A gift of love
Our ITV series, Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, has been shortlisted for two more awards.
Following our National Television Award and our BAFTA nomination, we’re now up for the TV Choice Best Factual Entertainment and Lifestyle Show and the Most Inspiring TV Show in the National Reality TV Awards.
It’s too late to vote, but the awards are handed out in September, so please keep your paws crossed for Battersea and Paul O’Grady.
If you’d like to know more about remembering us in your Will, please call 020 7627 9247 or email [email protected]
Mrs Baxter with her Battersea dog Emma
Will there be more success for Paul (and Twinkle)?
Thousands of pet friendly cottages…
Donation to Battersea with every booking!
Visit www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
05
From Samoyeds to Staffies, the canine turn-out for Old Windsor’s tenth annual get together, sponsored by Petlog, was awesome. More than 3,000 visitors (and their dogs) kept their cool on the hottest day of the year to make this the centre’s best-ever Fun Day.
Special guest actress Carley Stenson swapped the West End for Best in Show as she judged our fun dog classes, including the dog that looks most like his owner – won by seven year old Sammi Shapiro and her golden Cockapoo Charlie.
With so many smiling Staffies around, we took the chance to film proud owners talking about their favourite breed, and signing up to our ‘Staffies. They’re softer than you think’ campaign to change perceptions of Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Old Windsor Centre Manager Kaye Mughal said the day was a triumph. “It was amazing for everyone who watched and competed in the brilliant dog classes we held in the sunshine. We saw lots of old and new faces and raised over £18,000 for many more dogs still looking for a new home,” she said.
Hottest, busiest, softest, woofiest – we made all sorts of records at our 2013 Battersea Old Windsor Fun Day.
Is this Battersea’s furthest – and highest – ever dog?
Handsome Lurcher Clyde started off with his feet on the ground when he was rehomed by Julia and Tony Jones in 2011, but he’s now discovered a real head for heights in far away Qatar, as mum Julia explains.
“We moved to Qatar when my husband left the RAF after 23 years. Clyde was really distressed when I was packing up the house, he lost weight, had a bad tummy and used to cry. We still thought carefully before bringing him, but just could not bear to leave him. The whole process cost £2,500 and he was so happy to see us, it was worth it” says Julia.
“We live in a fab apartment 33 floors up and Clyde – who used to be too scared to go upstairs, loves looking out of the window.” Clyde also loves his four short walks a day on the beach, and chasing his ball – but not for too long, as it’s so hot in the sovereign Arab state. Julia says pets aren’t common in Qatar, but the locals love him and ask to take his picture.
So our Clyde, who was found straying in Oxfordshire, is loving life 4,031 miles from Battersea – and 33 floors up. We’d love to hear from more globetrotting dogs and cats, so please get in touch with Paws.
Battersea went to Belgravia this summer when local shops and restaurants chose us as their charity for the annual street carnival. The Elizabeth Street Party is organised by Belgravia Traders Association and sponsored by Amex. This year, revellers were treated to a special Battersea rehoming parade, and the ‘Have-a-go’ agility challenge.
We were also joint beneficiaries of Dog Day, sponsored by Burlington Arcade and Chelsea Harbour Design Centre. We raised a fantastic £9,500 and money is still coming in, so a huge thank you to everyone who came down to support dogs and cats who have nowhere else to turn.
Golden oldies relax in the sun
Raising a bucket for Battersea(Photo: Michael Horsley) Carley Stenson gets
face to face with our fun dog classes
High, wide and handsome
Carnival time
Sammi and golden Cockapoo Charlie
“ Look mum, top of the world”
Fun in the sun
Autumn 201306
Thousands of pet friendly cottages…
Donation to Battersea with every booking!
Visit www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
Fundraising Groups Information events Would you like to join our fundraising family? In September we have two info events where you can find out how to set up your own Fundraising Group to raise money for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. If you are interested in coming along to our Old Windsor centre on Saturday, 14 September or our London centre the following Saturday, 21 September (both from 10am–12.30pm) please contact Jenny Fraser on 0207 627 9311 or email [email protected]
Join our Battersea family of animals and humans for a packed programme of great events – and give all our dogs and cats a warm glow ready for winter.
Battersea autumn fun
Annual Reunion and Fun Day 2013How many canine stars of Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs will you spot at our legendary Annual Reunion, this year sponsored by Petplan and taking place on Sunday, 8 September in Battersea Park? In 2012, ITV favourite Sparkle was one of our Very Important Pooch guests. For 2013, we’re lining up an amazing day of games, show ring fun and our famous Rehoming Parade, and we’ll be welcoming many former Battersea residents. Do join us, and bring your own four-legged friends – all welcome, Battersea or not.For more information please contact [email protected], visit battersea.org.uk/annualreunion or call 020 7627 9339.
Royal Parks Half MarathonHave you bagged a place in the Royal Parks run on 6 October 2013? We’d love you to choose Battersea as your charity, and help us give hope to the thousands of dogs and cats who need our care every year. So please think about pulling on your trainers for Battersea.
Virgin London Marathon 2014Runners with their own place in the Virgin Money London Marathon, which comes under the starting pistol on 13 April, 2014, can make every step count by choosing Battersea Dogs & Cats Home as their race charity. This year, Team Battersea raised £26,000 in the London Marathon and Bupa London 10k run, so running for our Home really does make a difference.
Height of coolOur Arctic Circle dog sledding challenge will make you feel on top of the world. We’re teaming up with a pack of Huskies to sled 250 kilometres from Norway to Sweden from 12–19 April 2014.
Cheering on our marathon runners
Join us for an Arctic adventure
To find out more about our
events and challenges, please email
[email protected], visit
battersea.org.uk/get_involved
or call 020 7627 9339
Pirates and a superdog at the Annual Reunion
07
1,000th
volunteer gets a PM welcome
Prime Minister David Cameron made his first-ever visit to Battersea to help us celebrate our 1,000th volunteer.
He met James Moore, the 1,000th active volunteer working at our three centres. Together, they have already given us 50,000 hours of their time this year alone, walking dogs, socialising cats, fostering animals, welcoming thousands of visitors to the Home, giving talks in the community, gardening and even doing the laundry so our animals have clean, warm bedding.
The Prime Minister commented: “Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has been doing fantastic work for over 150 years and I’m delighted to congratulate the Home on its 1,000th volunteer. Not only do they carry out vital frontline work in animal welfare, but also inspire people to make a positive difference with their time. Today I’ve had the chance to see the volunteers in action and have been amazed by the commitment and enthusiasm of everybody here.”
Battersea has seen a huge rise in volunteering, with a 45% increase in applications from all across the UK in the past year. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, with many full-time professionals amongst those keen to offer up their leisure time to support Battersea’s vital animal welfare work. They include police officers, Chelsea Pensioners, business managers, nurses and those now retired from full time work. Their contribution to Battersea is worth almost £500,000 a year.
And James, who will help care for some of the Home’s 190 cats, making their stay as comfortable as possible, said: “As soon as I walked through the famous gate I knew there was something special about Battersea. We are all here because we hope we can make a difference to the animals in some way. There is a real community spirit too which makes it a wonderful place to be.”
AboveBattersea volunteers and David Cameron
The Prime Minister meets our 1,000th volunteer, James Moore
Autumn 201308
Dalswinton
B&B from £48.00 pppn, weekly rates available. SPECIAL OFFERS: Please visit our website.
Car parking and solar-heated outdoor pool (in season).
All rooms en-suite with tea/coffee, colour TV and free WiFi.
Dogs free of charge and allowed everywhere (except the dining room).
Licensed bar and restaurant serving 3 course dinner.
Proprietors: Stuart & Sal Hope Dalswinton House, St Mawgan-in-Pydar Cornwall TR8 4EZ
Self catering lodge sleeping 3 adults.
Easy access to Newquay airport and the Eden Project.
8 acres of private meadowland for dog exercise.
A Victorian stone-built house standing in 10 acres of gardens and meadowland in the glorious Vale of Lanherne, midway between Padstow and Newquay. Overlooking the village of St. Mawgan, with views to the sea at Mawgan Porth, our hotel offers a warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and great food prepared with fresh local produce.We are totally non-smoking, and are not suitable for children under 16 years old.
Telephone: 01637 860385 [email protected]
Wednesday 11 December 2013Doors open at 7pm
For further information and to book tickets visit battersea.org.uk/carolconcert or call 020 7627 9295
St Luke’s ChurchSydney StLondon SW3 6NH
Christmas Carol Concert
We’re decking the halls with bow wows of holly for our first-ever family Carol Concert. Join us to sing carols for Battersea – and give homeless dogs and cats a Christmas filled with love.
Registered charity No. 206394
Rehoming a rescue
With thousands of dogs and cats in need of our help coming through our gates every year, we rely on people like you to give them a second chance. Here, we aim to dispel the myths which surround rehoming a rescue animal and prove what a rewarding experience it can be.
Barney the Lurcher, who has now been rehomed
Autumn 201310
Last year we gave
of dogs and cats the safety and security that comes with having a permanent home.
Many of you may be reading this with your best friend from Battersea snuggled up next to you. If so, we need you to spread the word about how brilliant rehoming from Battersea is and encourage other people to do the same.
Tell your friends and your family or even the fellow animal lovers you chat to in the park about how you and your dog or cat came to meet. You could play a vital role in making sure our current residents have a happy ending of their very own, and for that we can’t thank you enough.
Already rehomed a Battersea dog or cat?
There is arguably no better pleasure in life than owning a pet. They bring companionship, unconditional love, and laughter into our lives. Not only does it change the life of an owner but, by rehoming a rescue dog or cat, you’re giving a new lease of life to a four-legged friend too. Rescue animals need someone to give them the safety and security that comes with having a permanent home. Last year, we made this happen for more than 5,200 dogs and cats – that’s an average of eight dogs and six cats every day finding new owners thanks to our dedicated team. But, we can only do this because those people looking for a new pet choose to visit a rescue centre rather than a breeder or a pet shop. Sadly, some people do have reservations about visiting a rescue centre to find a new pet. They may have concerns about behaviour, the animal’s history or the age of the animals available. But we know we’ve got lots of top dogs and purrfect pusscats who simply just need a fresh start. Rob Young, Battersea’s Head of Dog Rehoming says: “Rehoming a rescue animal provides the opportunity to enjoy the unique company of a dog or cat who is down on their luck. New owners of rescue animals are giving an animal a wholly-deserved second chance at a happy life.” By rehoming an animal from Battersea, your new pet will also be microchipped, treated for fleas and worms, have up-to-date vaccinations and, in most cases, be neutered. We also send new owners off with goodie bags containing a collar and identification tag, an introductory feeding pack and optional four weeks’ free pet insurance.
Last year, 45% of dogs and 46% of cats who came into one of our three centres arrived as strays. Sadly, this does mean that we have no way of knowing their full history. But, that’s where our team of expert Canine Welfare Trainers come in. They spend time with all of our animals to find out as much about them as possible. This means that we can match the animals’ needs with those of potential owners who are looking for a new furry friend. The team also regularly proves that you can teach an old dog new tricks. Through reward-based training, our dogs frequently master the basics such as sit, stay and paw and some even learn some special skills, such as how to close a door, during their time in our care. We also provide ongoing advice on training and behaviour if an owner finds they need a little more assistance when they have rehomed one of our animals. Many of our animals also come into Battersea when their owners can no longer look after them. The dog or cat is purely a victim of circumstance and it’s not their fault that they have found themselves in need of a new home. Some of the most common reasons animals are brought to us by their owners is because of a relationship breakdown, a change in working hours or the arrival of a new baby. This is why we are careful when picking new homes for our animals so that we reduce the chance of the dog or cat ending up in the same situation at our gates again.
On average that’s
finding new owners thanks to our dedicated team.
8 dogs and6 cats every day
1,000s
“ New owners of rescue animals are giving an animal a wholly deserved second chance at a happy life.”Rob Young Head of Dog Rehoming
11
4
The rehoming process
Page 24
Register your interest in rehoming either online at battersea.org.uk, in person at one of our three centres or by calling 0843 509 4444.
Head to page 24 to read more success stories of the animals rehomed through our ITV series Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs
This will be followed up by a possible home visit, reference checks and meeting other members of the family such as other pets or children.
Visit one of our three centres and make a rehoming appointment.
Take your new pet home and help him settle into the family and your routine.
Interview with our rehoming team to assess your personal circumstances and who may be your perfect match.
Battersea can offer support and advice to people who have rehomed a Battersea pet, and there’s help on the website too at battersea.org.uk
1 2
5
3
6
Animals of all ages find themselves in rescue centres like Battersea. In 2012, we looked after 263 dogs under three months old and 523 cats under three months old. Every summer, we’re overrun with kittens looking for homes and this year we looked after more than ever before. But, one of the most common reasons for a cat coming into Battersea is because an owner is moving and can’t take their pet with them – so we need to find families for our older felines too. Ros Davies, cat rehomer at our London cattery, said: “Our cats come to us for such a variety of reasons. For example, people may take on a kitten thinking they will be easier to settle in a new home than an older cat, when this often is not the case. Older cats can get used to a new home just as well as the youngsters. We’re here to make sure that our cats and potential owners find the perfect match so that owning a Battersea cat is a hugely rewarding experience.” Our three centres are based in the south of England – in south London, Brands Hatch in Kent and Old Windsor in Berkshire. However, former Battersea residents are making paw prints in new homes throughout the UK and even further afield. If you saw our ITV series Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs earlier this year, you will have seen Twinkle the Lurcher head off to a new home in France and our Staffie stars Bella and Missy are now enjoying life in Scotland. Rob Young continues: “People travel far and wide to rehome a Battersea dog or cat. Distance acts as no barrier to make sure our animals find the best new homes possible for them. Regardless of where they live, people who think they can give a good home to a new pet can come and visit one of our three centres and meet some brilliant Battersea current residents.”
“ We’re here to make sure that our cats and potential owners find the perfect match” Ros Davies, cat rehomer
Will that first encounter lead to a happy rehoming?
Autumn 201312
Jo Volinska and Alistair Green visited our Old Windsor centre in December 2010 where they met four-year-old Lurcher Pepsy.
Natasha Leech and Matt Richardson visited our London Cattery earlier this year and made feline friends with Mr Tom.
Pep talk
Mr Tom’s time
Hugo’s the boss
Brad and Michelle George made the 900-mile round trip from Kirkcaldy in Fife in response to a Facebook appeal last year to find homes for a six-month-old litter of English Bull Terriers. They took Hugo home with them.
“ We saw Mr Tom on Battersea’s website and just fell in love with his unique looks and the description of him was just what we wanted in a cat. When we met him, he jumped straight on our laps and purred away. I’d most definitely recommend rehoming from Battersea as the work they do is amazing. It’s lovely to see a rescue animal who may not have had the best start in life to get a happy and long lasting home.”
“ When we saw the pictures of Hugo and his littermates on the internet, we just knew that he was the dog for us. It’s just great that we had the opportunity to give him a new life.”
To find out more about the dogs and cats currently looking for homes, visit our website battersea.org.uk
These families found their perfect pets at Battersea and haven’t looked back since.
Pepsy
Mr Tom
Brad, Michelle and Hugo
“ Battersea is such a household name that it was the very first place we considered when we decided to give a home to a dog. Heart wrenching visits to the centre reaffirmed our decision. It’s been wonderful to have Pepsy, she is very much a part of the family. She’s so much fun – and keen to learn any trick to get a tasty morsel.”
13
“It really works! We had a week of fi reworks and thunder. Every time I put it on him within fi ve minutes he was asleep. I am so grateful!” Cath, Wu� Dog Training
Calming your dog with a T-Shirt or Body Wrap helps reduce:• Thunder and firework fright• Aggression towards dogs and people• Car and travel problems
Anxious behaviour T-Shirts & Body WrapsCalming your dog with a T-Shirt or Body Wrap helps reduce:
Excessive Barking Calming BandA Calming Band is a very gentle way to help reduce:• Barking, whining and licking• Discomfort in unfamiliar surroundings“I really didn’t expect this to work, but it has! Before, he would start barking at any dog as soon as he could see them now he greets them with his tail wagging.” Mrs J.C., Durham
Enjoy walking your dog!• Stops pulling on lead• Gentle, kind and really works!• Removes strain on dog’s neck
5 mins after
before
Stop Pulling Mekuti Balance Harness
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Anxiety & Behaviour Solutions
Anx-Pull Full PAWS 1206.indd 1 30/04/2012 01:57
With Johnson’s Veterinary strength flea and worm control it’s easy to care for your pets yourself.
Available from your local pet shop.
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Active Ingredient: Nitenpyram
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let sleeping dogs lie…
...treat them at home
50pAt all participating pet stores. No cash alternative. Only one voucher per pack.To the retailer: Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd. will redeem this voucher, providing it has been received in part payment forany Johnson’s 4fleas tablets or one dose easy wormers. Redeem by returning all vouchers to JOHNSON’S VETERINARYPRODUCTS LTD. FREEPOST (BM2565) SUTTON COLDFIELD, West Mids B75 7DF. (Please note there is a £2 minimumredemption value) Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd reserve the right to refuse the redemption of any vouchers. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer ends 31.12.13
OFFyour next purchase of Johnson’s 4fleas tablets or one dose easy wormer
Johnsons_London Pet Show Advert_April2013_220x140mm_Layout 1 15/03/2013 09:29 Page 1
Lost and foundIt’s June 2012 and in a small room behind the kennels at Battersea’s London centre, Lost Dogs & Cats Line team member Shirley is talking quietly on the phone to a distraught and desperate cat owner who hasn’t seen her much-loved moggy Purcival for several days.
Since July 2000, the Line has been fulfilling the ‘reunite’ promise we make to rescue, reunite and rehome abandoned, lost and unwanted animals. The service is one part of the team called Lost and Found which manages the arrival of dogs and cats at Battersea.
The tabby cat Joanna and her small son are missing so badly isn’t known for his wanderlust, and she is seriously concerned that he might be shut in a neighbour’s shed or, worse, have been run over and either injured or killed.
Amy offers reassurance and comfort while she checks Battersea’s database of cats who have been found in the part of Essex where Joanna lives. Unfortunately, there are no matches with this portly tabby – but Shirley enters all his details too, so that if one turns up, she can quickly call Joanna.
Unlike 90% of the cats and 67% of the dogs Battersea cares for each year, Purcival is microchipped, which will make reuniting him with Joanna a lot easier – if he’s found. Purcival is also neutered, so he’s not likely to be serial dating around Essex.
Purcival is now one of the 3,504 lost animals on the Battersea database – will he become a much happier statistic as one of the 6,377 found cats and dogs… ?
Purcival’s story
Last year, Battersea’s Lost Dogs & Cats Line logged 9,881 reports, averaging out at 27 animals every single day of the year. Our losts and finds will never completely dovetail. Many owners of abandoned pets don’t want to be found, and if there’s no ID tag or microchip we won’t even be able to trace them, or find out anything about the animal’s history, medical condition or personality – that will be a piece of detective work for the Home’s veterinary and behavioural experts, and must be done before we can start to find a new home.
Our Lost and Found Reception welcomed 2,372 strays and 2,416 cats and dogs who were being given up by their owners.
“There genuinely isn’t a typical day in our Lost and Found Team,” says the Team’s head, Liz McWalter.
“As well as being there for anxious owners, we also see just as many people who have found a cat or dog, and that can be nerve-wracking too. They may have come across a cat lying injured by the side of the road, or discovered a litter of newborn kittens in the garden. And we’re quite often, quite rightly, their first port of call in such a situation.”
Not every report of a lost or found animal, or its arrival at the Home, is dramatic, but with over 3,000 strays coming to our doors every year, some of the more weird and wonderful stories of animals we have cared for include:
Well spottedA spotted cat with round ears and stripes down his nose, brought in as a stray by a lady in Chiswick, that Cattery staff didn’t think looked ‘quite right’. Investigations with the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre, who we’ve worked with before, resulted in its identification as an Amur Leopard Cat, and subject to the Dangerous Wild Animal Act.
On foster, the cat had been happily eating Whiskas – her usual diet would have been live chickens. She’s now living in a wildlife rescue in Scotland.
Behind each call to Battersea’s Lost Dogs & Cats Line, and each visit to the Lost and Found Reception at our London centre, is a tale of potential heartbreak – or joyous reunion.
Autumn 201316
“Last year, a member of the public found a dog in a bag near Vauxhall Station and brought it straight to Battersea. We had to cut the dog out of the bag, and she was fearfully aggressive, terrible matted coat, long nails … and a lovely little Bichon, who recovered from her ordeal and was rehomed.”
“We see the best people in the world and, sadly, the worst,” says Liz. “One Christmas Day we had lovely folk arriving with donations, and then someone tied a dog up outside and ran off.
“Lost and Found is a very emotive place to work – everyone who comes in, or calls up, is feeling emotional in one way or another, and our job is to be helpful, stay calm, and be there for both animals and people.”
On the wrong trackWe named a tiny Yorkshire Terrier found distressed and ill, on a railway line in south London, Edwin – after the kindly Network Rail worker who rescued him and brought him to Lost & Found. His real name was Teddy, and we were able to reunite him with his owner.
Shocking stuffA Lurcher driven to Battersea all the way from West Dulwich by a family who found him wandering in the road. On his arrival, Lost and Found staff discovered he was wearing an electric shock collar.
Making a splashA Mongrel who was rescued (along with his worse-for-wear owner) from the lake in Battersea Park, and temporarily cared for as a stray because his owner couldn’t be either safely allowed into the Home, or reunited with his dog.
A very appealing fellowA terrified Staffie who ran away during the London riots of 2011, and was reunited with his owner after we broadcast an appeal on ITV London Tonight.
“Lost and Found is a very emotive place to work…
our job is to be helpful, stay calm, and be there for both
animals and people”
Liz McWalter
17
If you have lost your dog or cat please contact the Lost Dogs & Cats Line as soon as possible on 020 7627 9245. Lines are open from Monday to Sunday, 8am to 6pm.
If you have found a dog, you should contact your local council to report the animal. Once you have done this, and for all lost cats, call the Lost Dogs & Cats Line as soon as possible on 020 7627 9245.
Lost… …and found
Help and advice
962dogs81cats Successfully reunited with their owners by Battersea in 2012
What else can you do? These are some of the other things you can do if you have lost your dog or cat:
If you choose to keep the dog or cat in your home you should do the following:
• Report it to your local authority Animal Warden• Call Battersea's Lost & Found Line – if we do not find
an owner immediately we will keep your report on our database for 28 days and continue searching
• Call all local veterinary surgeries and any other animal rescue organisations in the area.
• Take the dog or cat to the local vet, animal hospital or rescue centre to be scanned for a microchip
• Download our found poster from our website, battersea.org.uk and put it up around the area where you found the lost animal.
• Report it to your local animal warden via your local authority (please note that very few animal wardens deal with stray cats)
• Make a report to your local animal rescue centre• Call your local veterinary surgery• Download one of our free missing poster templates
from our website, battersea.org.uk• Come down to the Home each week to see if your
dog or cat has been handed in – the Lost Dogs & Cats Line will search for your pet for 28 days using the Home's lost and found database and will notify you of any possible matches.
Home at lastJoanna, Stephane and Purcival
And Purcival? He disappeared on the day of HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Thames River Pageant in June 2012, while his family were watching the celebrations on TV. He was brought to Battersea by a lady who found him wandering around Romford almost a year later. Because he was chipped, we were able to scan him and call Joanna, who rushed to our London centre with her son Stephane for their very happy ending.
Purcival’s story (cont.)
Autumn 201318
Scruffy
Saba
3
1 Billy, from Tina Fiorini
2 Stella & Roo, from David Freeman
3 Saba, from Alana Bennett
4 Beans, from Catherine, Gavin, Jazzy and Daisy Hoare
5 Scruffy, from Barry Hill
6 Skye, from Lana Jeffers
7 Chica, from Tim Steel and family
Billy
Beans
Chica
1
7
Skye
6
2
4
Dog gallery A big woof out to everyone who sent in a photo of their Battersea graduate. We’d love to use them all but we just don't have the space! Visit battersea.org.uk/dogs/happy_endings to see more very special dogs.
Please send us your pictures by email at [email protected] can also write to the address on Page 1 If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE
5Stella & Roo
19
Dewey
Rocky
My family rehomed our lovely Sam from Battersea almost 18 years ago, who passed away a couple of years ago.
It took my dad a good six months to get back to ‘normal’ and he compared it to the death of a person. He told me a few days later he was going to sell Sam’s possessions and bring the money to Battersea. He did this and was met by such lovely people, they listened to what he had to say, understood, and told him to stay as long as he liked and that he could come back whenever he wanted. It sounds silly but it really meant a lot to him and of course to us.
This was a while ago now but I just wanted to say thank you to all the staff for helping him and understanding his grief. It really meant a lot. It is full credit to you and everyone there for realising the full impact these dogs (and cats!) can have on people’s lives. Wonderful animals who even if they have been badly treated have nothing but love to give.
We could all probably learn something from that!
Julie Grant, Ickenham
One of the Battersea family
Bungle in the jungle
Bath time
Golden oldieIt’s been almost four years since we adopted Dewey from Battersea, aged about nine. Being blind, he was timid and shy for the first year but settled in nicely with our two other dogs, Tess and Minnie. Dewey has since developed into an adventurous little fellow with lots of heart. We are amazed at how he copes with his blindness, bumping into things, shaking it off and carrying on gamely. Another Paws reader wrote about older dogs and how easy going they are. We couldn’t agree more – they take things in their stride and go with the flow. We are so grateful to Battersea for letting us have our great little dog.
Ken Barbour and Kerry Tromanhauser, Streatham, London
We adopted 15-year-old Bungle in April after visiting him at Old Windsor - we knew straight away he was coming home with us. He spent a few days in isolation (away from our other cat who's now 17) but soon became a regular on the sofa sitting in between my husband and I. He's a very chatty boy (when he wants to be) and doesn't like us to have much of a lie in at the weekends as he wants his breakfast! He enjoys lazing around in the garden soaking up the warm sun on his old bones and keeping an eye on the birds who visit our garden. We are so happy he has settled in with us, he's such an affectionate boy and we love him to bits!
Joanne & Keith, Flitwick, Bedfordshire
I brought Muttley home from Battersea in January 2005, he was about a year old then, making him ten-and-a-half now. He is so loving and loyal, he follows me everywhere. One night he even jumped in the bath with me – hilarious. I am so grateful to you all at Battersea for letting me have my Muttley.
Tricia Laye, Eltham, London
STAR LETTER
MuttleyBungle
Sam
Autumn 201320
Now Tia joins two Sams and JasperMy mum and dad have noticed that there have been three of my Christmas 2011 litter brothers in the last few editions of Paws, two Sams (Cupid and Dancer) and Jasper (Vixen). I was Comet at Battersea, and am now Tia. I’m having a wonderful time exploring all the Forestry Commission land near my home, love to bits my three feline companions and am especially considerate around elderly Jasmine who is 17 years old. Mum and dad had my DNA checked and it came back that my mum or dad was an Akita (50%) cross Foxhound (25%) and Staffie (25%). That was quite a surprise.
Tia (and Marilyn and Nick), Bognor Regis.
Rocky is a truly lovely pet, he is so very friendly, sweet natured and a great pleasure to have. He is our second Battersea dog, our previous one died last year aged 16. Our daughter collected us and took us to Battersea. She was concerned that without a dog I would not go out walking, and lose contact with my many dog walking friends that I meet in our local meadow. We arrived at Battersea and we saw the rehoming person to register our interest. We sat at the desk and from behind it came Rocky. He sat on my feet, turned his head and gazed lovingly into my eyes. The rest is history. People say he is a happy dog and he has made many friends, both doggie and human. He gives us a lot of pleasure and amusement, we love him dearly.
Peter Sullivan, Barton on Sea, Hampshire
Tia
My name is Kayleigh and I am 15. Since seeing Battersea’s ‘Staffies. They’re softer than you think’ campaign I am ecstatic that finally someone’s sticking up for this beautiful breed. So many Staffies end up in rescue homes each year, it’s just not fair. I would just like to thank you so much for all your dedicated staff and how much they impact the dogs’ futures, without them, Battersea wouldn’t be Battersea! We rescued our Staffie, Buddy (pictured here watching For the Love of Dogs), in January 2010 – aka the best day of my life. I don’t know what I would do without him.
Kayleigh Ayres, Reading
Edie, formally known as Sol, had been in Battersea since April 2010 and was welcomed into our family in September 2010. She was described as having a calm nature and never pushed herself forward. She instantly became one of the family and had a wonderful playful, cheeky and affectionate personality. In January 2013 we had to make the heartbreaking decision to put Edie to sleep. She will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Andy, Anne and Lisa, London
He’s our rock Max enjoyment
Our playful girl
Buddy’s my best Staffie
This is Max. You kindly looked after me from March to April 2012 for a few weeks, and I was rehomed on Good Friday 2012, so I thought I’d give you an update on how I have been doing in the past year. I now live in Balham and I am very fortunate to have a lovely garden at home, which allows me to be quite lazy. In fact, I love lazy mornings when I can digest my breakfast in my favourite spots of the house; there is nothing like snoozing! I have become an active member of the Tooting Bec Common community, and I am a regular visitor to Wimbledon Common as well. Running is my all-time favourite: I run after my friends, I run after the squirrels and foxes, I run after my balls, and I run after my friend’s balls too. I have also started to appreciate being in the water, although I am not yet a terribly good swimmer. I am now a seasoned and experienced car traveller, and I have been twice on holidays. Last June I experienced running on sandy beaches … such fun! I need to leave you now as I am getting ready for my walk.
Max (and Eric Morello),Tooting Bec, London
Buddy
Edie
Sapphi
SapphiShauna and Gwilym McAllister, London
In Loving Memory of…
Max
21
Battersea branches outBattersea’s Brands Hatch centre is branching out, in a first for the Home.
We’re just about to open a mini rehoming centre in the Pets at Home branch in Sydenham, Kent, called Battersea Dogs & Cats Home from Home – and the homeless animals who will be showcased there, as well as the staff and volunteers looking after them, will come from Battersea’s Brands Hatch centre.
Our Brands Hatch centre has been rehoming animals since it opened in 1999, and Battersea itself since 1860, but this is the first time we have set up a permanent rehoming spot away from the Home.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home from Home opens this autumn, and will be a daytime home for one dog and one cat every day, so we’re hoping to rehome over 100 Battersea dogs and cats from there each year.
As well as introducing visitors to the dogs and cats available for rehoming (who will spend the day chilling out in comfy kennels and pens, with lots of toys, treats and blankets before going home to Battersea Brands Hatch in the evening), our staff and volunteers will promote rehoming rescue animals and offer advice and information on everything from
housetraining to the importance of neutering your pet. We’ll also have a shop area so visitors can buy Battersea-branded souvenirs.
We will also be able to use our special space at Pets at Home for other, Battersea-related work – perhaps microchipping dogs, or giving talks to local groups about responsible ownership, and fundraising events.
“This is a really great way for Battersea to raise awareness of the work we do, and take our animals out into the community to meet their potential new families,” says Battersea’s Chief Executive Claire Horton. “We’re very excited, and confident that Battersea will build a close relationship with Pets at Home, Sydenham and the local community.
“I very much hope that this is the start of a long-term venture for the Home, and helps put us even more firmly at the heart of the communities we serve.”
Brands Hatch Manager Richard King believes this new way of rehoming Battersea dogs and cats will be very successful, and put the Home at the heart of the community in Kent.
Together with our Old Windsor centre Brands Hatch offers tranquillity and space to dogs who find London
rehomed to South London homes so far this year from our three centres so it will be great for local animal lovers who want to rehome from Battersea to have Pets at Home to visit.
One was two-day-old kitten Nibbler, found by schoolchildren in their playground in Lambeth, and hand-reared by a Battersea Veterinary Nurse until he was big and strong enough to go home.
Old Windsor
Battersea
Pets At HomeSydenham
Brands Hatch
AboveOur new centre at Sydenham is a first for Battersea, where our staff and volunteers will promote rehoming rescue animals and offer advice and information
+1 ,000cats & dogs
Nibbler
Autumn 201322
Visitors to our Brands Hatch home love the grassy paddocks, woodland walk and wildflower-covered meadows where our dogs walk, play and have training.
Three-month-old Springer Spaniel Bruno got all the help he needed after being taken to Brands Hatch because his owners couldn’t cope with him. Springers are classed as a working breed, and Bruno needed lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep him from being bored and destructive. After 18 days at Brands, Bruno was rehomed to rural Kent.
kennel life hard to cope with. Its grassy fields and paddocks, large kennels and country atmosphere, are especially good for the large dogs who come to Battersea, like Mastiffs and Rottweilers, those with behavioural issues that need tacklng before they can be rehomed, and dogs who would be happier in a working home than as a pet.
Brands Hatch, which has 45 dogs in residence at any one time, is rehoming 50% more dogs than last year, says Richard – around 35 a month. The average stay for a dog in one of the 55 kennels in 2012 was 42 days, a week less than in 2011.
“I’m very proud of what Battersea achieves here,” Richard said. “We give dogs one-to-one attention, get to know their characters, find out what makes them tick, and match them with great owners who enjoy a high level of customer service and aftercare. It’s what Battersea’s all about.”
Cats love being in the countryside too. Our Kent centre looked after 322 cats in 2012, and has 25 cats and kittens in its care at any one time. This year they included special kittens Pudding, Brenda and Niall, who each have an extra digit on all four paws. Cats normally have five toes on each front paw and four toes on each back paw, but some cats, known as Polydactyl cats or mitten cats, are born with a genetic mutation that gives them extra toes. Debbie Coker works in the cattery at Battersea Brands Hatch and says: “To get three kittens in a litter with extra toes on all four paws is quite unusual. They are very sweet and got lots of attention before they were rehomed.”
Pudding, Brenda and Niall
Manager Richard King is very proud of what Battersea achieves at Brands Hatch
Bruno
23
Very big high five to all my friends who saw me on ITV. I’ve made great
progress since joining my family. My poorly bald patches have grown over, my jagged nose has healed and my awful smell (what smell?) is completely under control now that I have regular baths with my medicated shampoo. It’s no easy task bathing a 12st dog but I am such a good boy and take it all in my stride. We have a new car now too, complete with a set of caravan steps to help me climb in. I’ve enjoyed some lovely days out with Mum, Dad, my boy Teddy and Cookie the Labrador, and I like nothing better afterwards than snoring the night away on my memory foam mattress.
The closing credits on Series 2 of Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs have rolled, but some of our canine stars have asked if they can update Paws’ readers on their fab new lives. Sounds like they’ve really landed on their paws…
Battersea’s biggest-ever boy on the block, at 75 kilos, Old English Mastiff King was in a sorry state when his owner gave him to Battersea because he couldn’t afford to care for him. After 42 days, King went home with the Petey family, of Dartford, Kent.
Little Lulu (Digit) was one of the pups hand-reared by Battersea staff after being rejected by their mum at just a day old. Quickly grown into a healthy, happy youngster, she was adopted by Shirley and Craig Corbett of Upminster, Essex.
We found Lurcher Twinkle tied to the gates of our Brands Hatch centre one morning, desperately emaciated and close to collapse. Six weeks of the very best medical care turned her life around, and Twinkle positively sparkled as she set off for a new life in north west France with Helen and Colin Page.
Twinkle
Digit
King
Meet Alfie, my very best pal. He’s a 16-month-old Bichon Frise/Westie cross. We enjoy walks over the
fields together and I am never far from Alfie’s side. Mum says we’re like an old married couple, we run around the garden together chasing each other, in fact the family says it’s like 'the Lu-fie Olympics' as we run around the trampoline, under the slide at the other end of the garden, through the plants and around the tree...and then start again! After tormenting each other with toys and chewing each other’s ears, we curl up in our bed together and have a nap. I am very happy.
I’m called Beryl now – it sounds
right beside my brothers, Berkely (8) and Barney (4). I’m such a happy girl and think all the time is playtime. I get on really well with our two cats Rosie and Daisy, although I did think they were playthings too … until they assured me they don’t like being chased or played with.
Autumn 201324
Mum and daughter Missy and Bella were inseparable at Battersea, and tugged at Paul’s heartstrings with their mutual devotion. They were cared for at the Home for 97 days before going home. Here’s Missy’s bulletin on life in Aberdeen.
Another of our hand-reared Staffie/Jack Russell Terrier puppies, Noah also found a special place in someone’s heart – this time, it was the Jackson family from Wallington in Surrey.
With one of the worst cases of painful, itchy demodectic mange our vets had ever seen, Minnie needed intensive care. When she was on the road to recovery – and growing a new coat – Minnie was given much-needed foster care by Battersea Receptionist Lorraine, and become a permanent part of the family.
Lurcher cross Archie’s owner gave him to Battersea as he had seriously underestimated the time and responsibility that goes with owning a dog, and just couldn’t cope. After 12 days, Archie was just the pup for the Low family from Essex.
Egg
Archie
Noah
Minnie
We love walks and all the attention we get – we’re recognised a lot.
My mum Bella walks at her own slow speed, toddling along in her own little world, while I run back and forth enjoying little bursts of energy. We sleep a lot, and love back garden sunbathing. Bella is deaf, so she’s learning some simple signs, and is now much more relaxed and doesn’t panic when me or the family are out of her sight. And I can enjoy life seeing Bella stress free. We still cuddle up during daytime naps but at bedtime she goes up to bed and I stay downstairs. I like to have my own space for an hour, then I come up to sleep beside mum.
Life is so much better now, thanks to mum and dad. They say I’ve really changed over the past four months.
My coat is thick and glossy, and I’ve put on 5 kilos and look really healthy now. I have a new name – Grady, in honour of awesome Mr Paul O’Grady, I’m loving my garden, and am so thankful that Battersea took care of me.
My dad Charles says I’m a real
star. I’ve settled in really well with the family, although I can’t decide if I’m a cat (laps and sofas) or a child (does naughty things then goes all doe-eyed and 'cries'). I have the build and stature of a Staffie but the characteristics and agility of a Jack Russell so, yes, I’m keeping them all very entertained.
My first owner told Battersea he
wanted me to grow up in the countryside, and his wish has come true. I live in a house with a big garden, surrounded by open fields, and I love it here. Me and the three boys are best friends and when they’re not at school, it’s full-on playtime. Oh, I can also do a hound trick – when I’m not playing I can fall asleep anywhere, on me back with me legs in the air.
I’m still having treatment for my poorly skin, but that isn’t stopping
me getting into mischief with my big bro Buster and the other dogs we meet in the park. Despite these freckled ears appearing out of nowhere, I’m recognised wherever I go, and everyone wants to say thankyou to my family for taking me home.
American Bulldog Egg was emaciated and ill when he was found tied to a lamp post in Tower Hamlets. Our Clinic team nursed him back to health and he found a new home with the Pace family from Wallington, Surrey after three weeks in our care.
Bella & Missy
25
Name: RufusAge: 10–13 yearsBreed: Domestic Long Hair
Behind that stern exterior and intense gaze lies a fluffball of a man who likes his own space – until he wants a stroke. 14-year-old Rufus is a cat person’s cat who likes company but values his independence, so he’s looking for someone who leads a calm life and knows how to use a grooming brush, to keep his coat comfortable and well-tended.
Name: VeraAge: 6 yearsBreed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Beautiful Vera began life in Lithuania, where she was bred to be a show dog and her ears were cropped. She has good manners, and a laidback attitude to life, is happy around dogs and loves people – an all-round champion, in fact. Vera’s also fluent in Lithuanian, and her English is coming on leaps and bounds.
Name: MouseAge: 6–12 monthsBreed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross
Mini Mouse has loads to offer – love, play and an intelligent curiosity to learn new things. Two highlights of his stay at Battersea were a day trip to the country where he met lots of doggy friends, and a photoshoot for Paws. You can see the stunning results of that here – what a looker Mouse is.
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected]
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected]
Call our Brands Hatch centre on 01474 875109 or email [email protected]
A house for Mouse
Vera’s a star
Lonely oldie Rufus
Autumn 201326
Could you give a second chance to
one of these great animals looking
for a good home?
Name: RizzlerAge: 4 yearsBreed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Rizzler is affectionate, friendly and clever, and wants to please. He’s also agile and enthusiastic, so he’d love to meet up with active owners who like to have fun. Rizzler’s having time out from kennels in a foster home, and his foster carer says: “Rizzler is a typical Staffie and loves being cuddled. He likes to rest his head on your lap and fall asleep. He has settled in wonderfully and is a very trusting dog.”
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected]
Name: DawnAge: 5–7 yearsBreed: Domestic Short Hair
Dawn would be perfect for owners who are out all day, as she prefers to do her own thing and isn’t a cuddle cat. She will approach for treats and likes to play, so once that bond is formed she could start showing her character and affection for her humans. Dawn’s previous owner was an older lady so she has led a quiet life.
Name: ShaneAge: 11 yearsBreed: Domestic Short Hair
Shane’s losing encounter with a fox has left him with this endearing one-eyed look, but he’s lost none of his chatty, interactive personality and is a great one for people, laps and cuddles. He’d like to live in an area with a lower cat population, as he can be territorial, and he hasn’t got much road sense either so fairly quiet roads too, please. In the past Shane’s lived happily with two large dogs so he could be part of a multi-pet family.
Name: KaceyAge: 1 yearBreed: American Bulldog
Our Old Windsor team say Kacey is one of the happiest, most endearing dogs they’ve ever cared for. Despite being deaf (she’s quickly learning hand signal training), young Kacey gets the most out of life and loves meeting other dogs and people. A natural comic, Kacey is always ready for a giggle or a game, and will be a wonderful companion.
Call our Old Windsor centre on 01784 494460 or email [email protected]
Call our Old Windsor centre on 01784 494460 or email [email protected]
A new Dawn
Kacey sunshine
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected]
Friendly Shane
Fun and trusting Rizzler
27
Don’t forget our friends at SockShop are also donating 12% of every order when the code BATTERSEA is entered in the gift voucher code box when shopping online.
PETfRiEndLy
hoLidAyS
Buy for Battersea
Help to raise valuable funds for Battersea by buying from our specially-selected partners.
We’ve teamed up with cottages4you to bring you a fantastic selection of pet friendly cottages. Discover properties in the UK, Ireland and overseas and enjoy a break where you have the freedom and flexibility to do what you want when you want.
For every holiday booked through the site Battersea Dogs & Cats Home receives a 10% donation of the holiday cost.
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Rylo the Pug from Rotherham has beaten off competition from top dogs across the country to be named as the UK’s leading Prize Pooch. Rylo and his owners Craig Howlett-Wright and David Birks have won an impressive array of doggy treats.
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Photographed by VentureSheffield
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Pawtrait experience voucher.
In association with
For more details visit venturephotography.co.uk/petpawtrait
10%donATion foREvERy booking
Visit
battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
Autumn 201328
1 Pumble, from Sarah Harrison
2 Casper, from Teresa Fulker
3 Archie, from David Lindsay
4 Pickle & Pee Wee, from Charlotte Birley
5 Mischka, from Susan Hards
6 Pixie, from Louise Hall
Pumble
Casper
ArchiePickle & Pee Wee
Mischka
1
2
43
5
Cat gallery What a striking line-up of Battersea cats in their new homes. Thankyou to everyone who sent us a photo of their special pal – we’re sorry we can’t publish them all. You can see more at battersea.org.uk/cats/happy_endings
Pixie
6
Please send us your pictures by email at [email protected] You can also write to the address on Page 1. If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE.
29
Don’t leave me this way
The upset a dog may experience when separated from you, known as separation anxiety is one of the most common causes of distress for pet owners – and their dogs.
Put simply, separation anxiety is the fear of being left. There are three main reasons why dogs suffer – they want people around them; they don’t like being shut in; they’re bored.
The way dogs cope with the stress will vary – from whining, chewing and going to the toilet to destroying the furniture.
Last year, I fostered a Shar Pei/Staffie Cross called Duchess, who came to Battersea in a very distressed state. She had been abandoned alone in a house, and was only freed when the police broke the door down.
Duchess was so upset we decided she wouldn’t be able to cope with kennel life, so I took her home. She followed me everywhere, and became severely stressed if I wasn’t close, so I built her confidence by following a programme which is a good basis for other dogs with separation anxiety.
I began by asking her to stay at the bottom of the stairs while I simply went up and came back down again straight away. When she was happy with that, I turned the lights off and on before coming down again. Then I started touching the front door, then going out and back again after 20 seconds, then a minute…
By building up the time she spent alone gradually, and taking tiny steps forward, within a couple of weeks Duchess was happy to be left alone while we did the shopping, or visited friends. She was then ready to be rehomed, and is having a very happy life.
We can offer advice to rehomers of Battersea dogs, and cats, so please get in touch or visit our website for help and advice.battersea.org.uk
Ask the expertWith Helen StoneCanine Welfare Trainer
Helen Stone is one of Battersea’s dog behaviourists, and fosters dogs who find it hard to cope with kennel life.
What to do What not to do
Duchess was suffering a severe case of separation anxiety when I fostered her
Build up time alone slowly. This is a gradual process and to be successful you may have to devote a lot of time to it, maybe even taking leave from work.
Leave the TV or radio on – we play music to our dogs at Battersea, and they find this soothing and calming, and good company too.
If your dog’s problem is boredom, leave food toys (toys stuffed with tasty treats) for him to find and empty. Or scatter dry food around before you leave, so he has to work for his treat.
Walk your dog before you leave, and do some simple training with him, so he’s tired mentally and physically.
Leave by different exits, and don’t make a big deal of going. Vary your leaving routine (don’t put your coat on, for instance, if this is what you normally do).
Herbal remedies specially made for dogs may help – ask your vet for advice.
Videocam the action after you’ve left, as this will help you work on a solution – if he gets stressed straight away, you should work on varying your leaving routine; if it’s after an hour, leave him stuffed toys to help with the boredom.
Never punish your dog for toileting or being destructive while you’re out. All this will do is make him panic about your return, and more likely to suffer stress-related behaviours, like going to the toilet or chewing the sofa.
Don’t just put your dog in a crate – he will need gradual crate training and to accept his crate as a secure and cosy haven where he can go to feel safe.
Autumn 201330
battersea.org.uk
They give you so much love and affection in your lifetime, and now you can look after them for the rest of their lives. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home can care for your beloved pet and find them a new home if you pass away first – simply make sure your Will clearly states your wishes.
You can also choose to remember Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in your Will and help us care for thousands of dogs and cats who have nowhere else to turn.
Who will look after them when you’re gone?
Registered Charity Number. 206394
For more information about how to word your Will and leave a gift to the Home, please contact:
The Legacy OfficeBattersea Dogs & Cats Home4 Battersea Park RoadLondon SW8 4AA
or call 020 7627 9247 Ref: LPAD1308
LV.com0800 085 0140For textphone fi rst dial 18001. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Calls may be recorded.
Up to £5,000 for vet fees per condition
No upper age limit
No extra cost to pay monthly
We can pay your vet directly
FS21336067
Bizarre requests Even having worked at Battersea for such a long time Diane is still amazed at some of the questions the public ask:
“ My dog’s too big; could I swap it for a smaller one?”
“ I’ve found a ferret, can I bring it to you?”
“ I’m not sure if I want a dog, can I borrow one for the weekend and see how it goes?”
“ Battersea Old Windsor is a community, we love the people and the animals – it’s like one big happy family”
Day in the life
My day starts by firing up the computers and updating myself on everything that’s been going on. The switchboard starts at 9am and the usual variety of phone calls soon start flooding in. Even having worked at Battersea for such a long time I’m still amazed at some of the questions we get asked. The most recent funny one was someone asking if they’d be able to track their dog if it had a microchip!
We open our doors at 10.30am every day to the public. The majority of customers come to meet the dogs and cats as they are thinking of rehoming an animal, others just to come and have a look around. Some visitors will have lost their pets and can get very emotional. They show me photos and we talk about them; I think people know that we’re one of the few places that truly know how hard it is when a pet dies.
I love the way I get to see prospective owners at every touch point of their journey. I meet them when they first arrive and register, and when they choose an animal and meet him or her for the first time. Then, if they’ve already got a pet at home, I see them when they return to introduce them to one another. If all goes well, they come back to Reception to complete their paperwork and I even make the disc for the animal’s ID tag before they get taken to their happy new home. I sometimes get updates and visits from past residents and really enjoy hearing how they’ve settled in. I feel so lucky to witness the whole process from beginning to end.
And because Windsor’s a relatively small centre compared to the main one in Battersea, I get to see a lot more of what goes on. We walk around the kennels, I see the strays being brought in, meet the kind knitters who donate blankets for the animals, take donations and sell products from the shop.
I’d say the most important aspect of my job is to show compassion and understanding and have a good memory. I love the part I play in the Battersea experience and like to think that I’m not only the face of the Home but also a port of call to offer help with pretty much anything – it’s much more than just a job, it’s a vocation.
Visit our Old Windsor centre at Priest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2JN.Opening times and more information at battersea.org.uk
Diane Johnson is a wife and mother to a son and a daughter, five cats, and an 8 year-old St. Bernard called Kyra. She’s also been working as a Receptionist at Battersea Old Windsor for over 14 years… but it’s much more than just a job.
Diane JohnsonReceptionist, Battersea Old Windsor
Another interesting enquiry
One big, happy family
Autumn 201332
C01£8.996 designs
C08£4.75
140x140mm
C16£4.99
198x102mm
C04£3.60
127x127mm
C03£4.75
140x140mm
C13£4.75
140x140mm
C15£3.60
127x127mm
C02£4.75
137x137mm
C12£4.75
137x137mm
C14£4.75
153x108mm
A very Merry Christmas to you allBattersea Dogs & Cats Home rescues, reunites and rehomes dogs and cats.
Since 1860, we have helped over 3.1m dogs and cats and we aim never to turn away an animal in need. Around 400 dogs and 190 cats will spend Christmas at Battersea this year, the purchase of these goodies will help us to care for them.
Order at battersea.org.uk or call 020 7627 9228
Christmas Goodies 2013
C07£4.99
198x102mm
C05£5.99
124x210mm
10Cards per
pack
24Boxedcards
Christmas cards
C11£4.75
140x140mm
C09£4.75
140x140mm
C10£5.99
210x124mm
C06£3.60
127x127mm
Seasonal offer:5 children’s books for £20
Books
Gifts for dogs and cats
Battersea storiesA selection of entertaining and educational tales based on true life stories from our Home.
A Home of Their OwnThe story of the Home from its beginnings in 1860 to the present day. Now in paperback.
Dog treat advent calendar
Cat treat advent calendar
Desmond Donkey
Snowman Rope Tug
Monty Mouse
Winter Snowman Cat Teaser
FourChristmas Cat Balls
G01£3.50
G03£2.99
18cm
Noodle Duck
G02£3.99
28cm
B01£7.99
G06£3.99
85cm
G07£5.99
39cm
G04£4.99
29cm
G05£3.50
B02
B08
B14
B20
B04
B10
B16
B22
B06
B12
B18
B24
B03
B09
B15
B21
B05
B11
B17
B23
B07
B13
B19
G08£3.50
Age 5+£4.99
each
Wrapping paper Gifts for Battersea dogs and cats
Wrapping paper and tags6 sheets of wrapping paper with matching tags. 500x700mm.
Show your support for the dogs and cats in our care over the festive period by buying a gift for them this Christmas.*
Dog ‘special meal’ £5.00 N01
Cat ‘special meal’ £5.00 N02
Dog toy £3.00 N03
Cat toy £3.00 N04
Dog blanket £9.99 N05
Cat blanket £9.99 N06
* The actual product given to a dog or cat will be at the discretion of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Delivery charges do not apply for these items.
Please make cheques payable to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
Or debit my:
Card No:
Start date:
Expiry date:
Thank you for supporting Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Order online at battersea.org.ukor alternatively please complete this form and together with a cheque or your card details return to: Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Christmas Retail,4 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4AA
Postage and packaging is charged at £3.00 for each order unless stated. All orders are delivered by Royal Mail 2ndClass. We will try to send all orders out within one week but please allow 28 days for delivery. Please note that Royal Mail 2nd Class last mailing date for Christmas 2013 is 16th December. Orders received after this date may not be received before 25th December. For deliveries outside the UK please email [email protected] or call us on 020 7627 9228.
Data protection: We like to keep supporters in touch with our work. If you do not wish to receive further communications from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, please write to Supporter Services, 4 Battersea Park Road, London, SW8 4AA or email us at [email protected] or call us on 0870 890 0000.
n Please tick this box if you do want other offers or information from our carefully selected partners. Please refer to www.battersea.org.uk for our full statement on the use of your data.By providing your email address you are agreeing to receive updates about Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, and those of our carefully selected partners, from time to time. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Gift Aid makes your gift go further! You can make your donation worth a quarter more, just by ticking the box below. So for every £1 you give, we receive an extra 25p from HMRC at no extra cost to you, provided you are a UK taxpayer.
n I am a UK tax payer and I wish all donations that I make today and in the future and have made in the last four tax years from the date of this declaration to be treated as Gift Aid donations until I notify you otherwise.***You must pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax in each tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax all the charities you donate to will reclaim on your gifts for that tax year (currently 25p for every £1 you donate). Please note that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify.
Order form Code (add colour if req’d) Price Quantity
Donation*
+ £3.00
Total
Total Cost
Name
Address
Postcode
Email**
Phone
Visa MasterCard
Security No:
Issue No:
Maestro
/
/
Maestro only
Maestro only
A postage and packing charge of £3.00 will be applied to every order:
If you would like your donations to inclue Gift Aid, please tick the box and sign below left.
**
EXAMPLE GO7 5.99 2 11.98
*
***
SignatureDate
Signature
W01£3.996 sheets
W02£3.996 sheets
W03£3.996 sheets
Registered Charity Number 206394
Why noT bUy A gifT foR A dog oR CAT in oUR CARE?
100 piece jigsaw
21cm
Happy Endings Calendar
Diary
Slim calendar
Traditional Advent Calendar
1000 piece jigsaw
Limited Edition Tote Bag
Front Back
Bookmark
Pin badge
Trolley key ring
Travel mug
Rocky the Rottweiler
Jazz the Black & White Cat
Max the Labrador Retriever
Oscar the Ginger Cat
Huey the Husky
Cosmo the Tortoiseshell Cat
Cherry the Fox Terrier
Angel the White Cat
Daisy the Border Collie
Bo the Boxer
S01£9.99
S03£5.99 S04
£5.99
S05£11.99
S06£7.99
S09£3.50
S12£1.50
S02£4.99
S13£5.00
400ml
S11£1.00
each
Cats£9.99
each
T08
T01
T02
T03
T04
T09
T10
T06
30cm
T07T05
Please note the diary and calendars will be available from October and will be sent separately from the rest of your order.
S07£4.00
S08£0.50
Gifts
Soft toys
Ceramic mug
Fridge magnet
S10£1.50
Dogs£14.99
each
