SPRING 2012 blueprint - Blue Cross · Blueprint and find out how dog Rosie’s wish came true. 12 HOMES WANTED Meet some of the animals looking for a new home. 13 HAPPY ENDING Tillie

blueprint

ourlittlemiracle BoBBy survives against the oddsvetting your vetread our advice BeFore you decide Which vet to choose

paWs For teaceleBrate the juBilee With a Blue cross Fundraising party

SPRING 2012

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Spring 2012 www.bluecross.org.uk 3

REGULARS 4 NEWS Meet some of the animals we’ve

helped since your last edition of Blueprint and find out how dog Rosie’s wish came true.

12 HOMES WANTED Meet some of the animals looking

for a new home. 13 HAPPY ENDING Tillie started life alone – now she

has a big family looking out for her. 18 EXPERT ADVICE Our team of experts are here to

help with your problems.

welcomeWelcome to the Spring 2012 edition of Blueprint. As you can see, Blue Cross has had a bit of a makeover and we’re so excited to be able to share our new look with you for the first time. We decided we wanted to refresh our brand because we’ve been helping animals for 115 years and, apart from a name change in the 1950s, which you can read about on page 14, we haven’t really changed our visual identity since.

We’re just as committed and passionate as we’ve ever been about caring for pets in need but we felt that we needed to embrace the changing times and gain an insight into what

CONTENTS & EDITOR’S NOTE

fEATURES 8 ON TOP Of THE WORLD Alvin learns to trust again thanks to

our pet behaviour team. 10 GOING fOR GOLD Meet some of our star horses that

are making names for themselves. 14 THE REAL WAR HORSES Read about the bravery of animals

in World War One, and of one soldier’s determination to help an injured horse.

16 A LITTLE MIRACLE Bobby needed lifesaving surgery

after being attacked by another dog. 20 VETTING YOUR VET Our top tips will help you find the

right vet practice. 21 CANINE CRIME fIGHTER Blue Cross rescue dog Sam

is helping to fight crime at the UK border.

22 WE’RE THERE fOR YOUR PET Find out about our Pets into Care

scheme and how it could help you.

OVER TO YOU 23 PET POST Your letters. 24 EVENTS AND DIARY DATES Paws for a cup of tea and find out

how you can support Blue Cross. 26 COMPETITION Win a fabulous limited edition

Merrythought bear.

Blue Cross (Incorporating Our Dumb Friends League) is a charity registered in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154).

No part of Blueprint may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without prior written permission from Blue Cross.

Blueprint is printed by Southernprint Ltd (a Wyndeham Group company) on UPM Finesse, a PEFC-certified paper, meaning it comes from a well-managed forest.

Blue Cross feeds Hill’s™ Science Plan™, generously donated by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, to ensure optimum nutrition for the dogs and cats in our care.

M6576/0112

EDITORIAL Editor Natasha Kleanthous Production Andrea Fraser and Karen HedgesPhoto library Tracey HawkinsCommunications development manager Debbie CurtisDesign Think

people think of us and why they support us. So last year we asked existing and potential new supporters, rehomers, staff, volunteers and clients what they thought of our name, logo and the language and imagery we use to describe our charity.

As a result we’ve refreshed our vision, mission and values to emphasise that Blue Cross is all about pets and making sure they lead happy and healthy lives. Our ultimate goal is to let as many people know what we do and raise as much money as we can

so we can help as many pets as possible.

This edition of Blueprint is a true celebration of our work,

from our Blue Cross Fund which helped sick and injured animals in World

War One (page 14) to the lifesaving work our vets are doing for animals today (page 16). I’m so proud to be a part of this amazing organisation and I hope you are too.

Happy reading,

Natasha Kleanthous Editor

13

14

Our vision: every pet will enjoy a healthy life in a happy home. Our mission: we find happy homes for abandoned or unwanted pets and we keep pets healthy by promoting welfare and providing treatment.

8

your news updateFrom giant rabbits to diminutive dogs, here are some recent highlights from the work your donations have made possible

everyone who met her was touched by her gentle and affectionate nature. The mastiff crossbreed was brought to our Burford rehoming centre and given the love and veterinary care that she so desperately needed. Her treatment cost us more than £500, which was paid for entirely by donations from pet lovers like you.

Everyone was absolutely delighted when gentle giant Hettie was reserved and she’s now been rehomed.

A dog found abandoned in a shocking condition has made a fantastic recovery.

Poor Hettie was spotted wandering the street covered in sores and missing large patches of fur. She was underweight, her muscles had wasted and she was suffering from benign tumours and an eye disease that had been left untreated.

The dog warden who found her said she had never seen a dog in such a bad state but, despite her horrific ordeal,

www.bluecross.org.uk Spring 2012 4

Neglected Hettie back on top

A mum and foal who were left alone fighting to survive have been given a fresh start.

Pony Poppy was found in a field with no grazing or water, surrounded by rubbish and scrap metal. Any nutrients she managed to get were passed on to the foal she was carrying and she was severely malnourished. She gave birth to her foal, Prince, and miraculously they were still alive when they were found and rescued.

Both mum and foal were treated for worms and a lice infestation and Prince also needed antibiotics for a nasty cough. Thanks to the care they received at our Burford rehoming centre they’re both flourishing and are now virtually

New start for abandoned mum and foal

unrecognisable as the sorry pair they were when they arrived. They have now been rehomed to a new family where Poppy will make a riding pony and Prince will be a companion until he’s older, when he’ll be reassessed to see if he’s suitable to be ridden.

£8K GIfT TO “bELOVED bLUE CROSS” We were touched to hear that a Blue Cross supporter who took part in our first overseas fundraising challenge, despite suffering a stroke a year before, has left us a generous legacy.

Mike McGuinn started supporting us in the 1990s and, during a visit to one of our centres, he fell in love with and later rehomed two cats, Lickul and Buster.

In 2000 he suffered a stroke but recovered and celebrated by joining our Tuscany Trail, walking for five days despite tendonitis. He raised nearly £4,000, which went towards our refurbished Victoria animal hospital. His wife Jane says: “Mike was delighted to be invited to see the hospital and was pleased to keep in touch with several of the others on the trip.”

Sadly, Mike died in September 2011, but we were honoured to learn that, in addition to the generous amounts given to and raised for us during his lifetime, he left us a gift of £8,000 in his Will to help us continue our work helping sick, injured and homeless pets.

For more about leaving a legacy to Blue Cross call us on 0300 777 8240 or visit www.bluecross.org.uk/legacy

AbOVE: Poppy today, glossy and proud LEfT: Poppy and her foal, Prince, downcast in their former home

AbOVE: Mike McGuinn (right) on a visit to Blue Cross

NEWS

RESCUE DOG COMPETES AT CRUfTS A Blue Cross rescue dog will be competing at one of the most famous dog shows in the world.

Border collie Lulu beat off stiff competition to win a prestigious place in the Novice Cup agility class at this year’s Crufts. Her owner, Anne Arbon, who rehomed Lulu six years ago from our Southampton centre, says she couldn’t be prouder.

Lulu came to us when she was just a pup because her owner could no longer look after her. Under Anne’s loving care she proved to have a special talent at agility and, after two years of training, she started competing. Since then she’s gone from strength to strength, culminating in her qualification for Crufts.

Anne says: “The best thing about it is how much Lulu enjoys it – she’s amazing. But whatever happens, even if she goes completely wrong, I really don’t care. The fact that she has qualified is more than enough for me.”

Lulu is also a member of the Blue Cross rescue agility team.

NEW CHARITY SHOPS OPEN Three new Blue Cross charity shops are open for business and helping to raise money for the animals in our care.

We now have shops in Cheltenham, Witney and Chippenham. All three are doing well and attracting lots of shoppers looking for bargains. If you’d like to visit one of our shops, donate unwanted items or find out more about volunteering please visit www.bluecross.org.uk/shops to find your nearest one or call us on 01993 825595.

Rosie’s wish comes trueA 13-year-old dog who became homeless after 12 happy years with her family because her owner was ill has been given a second chance.

Jack Russell terrier Rosie was very distressed when her owner had to go into a care home and she came to Blue Cross. She’s a kind dog with a lot of love to give, but we feared her age might put off potential new owners.

Some of you might recognise Rosie because she appeared on our Christmas mailing, where her wish was to find a new home in time for the festive season.

We’re delighted to report that Rosie’s wish came true and not only has she been rehomed, she also got to spend Christmas with her new family.

Community dog training is a hit Our new dog training programme in London has been given the paws up by the local community.

The classes, which are held in a local park, have been organised by the nurse manager of our Merton animal hospital, Tamsin Durston. She teaches owners life skills to help them control their dog in a positive way that is rewarding for their pet and lots of fun for everyone. Topics covered include responding to name, recall, good food manners and how to meet and greet a stranger.

The training is split into four weekly two-hour sessions and Tamsin has already run two courses, which were both fully booked, with more planned in 2012.

“Training classes are rewarding

and lots of fun”



Long-stay dog Kiera finds a homeA dog who was repeatedly overlooked because she was too “ordinary” has now found a loving home.

Kiera was one of the longest-staying dogs at Blue Cross and, despite having a lovely, friendly and vivacious nature, kept getting

overlooked in favour of the cuter, younger or more unusual looking pooches.

Kiera appeared in one of our Blue Cross appeals last year and we were delighted when she was rehomed to a loving family, where she’s doing really well.

RAffLE WINNERSCongratulations to the winners of our 2011 Christmas Paw Draw raffle and prize draw. The top winners were: Raffle 1) J Rosier, Essex – ford fiesta or £10,0002) E Hamilton, Middlesex – £1,0003) M Heissl, London – £5004) V Hathway, Warwickshire – £500

COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to all the winners of the Pampered Pooch competition from the Autumn 2011 edition of Blueprint:first prize: A Pearce, Shropshire.Second prize: Emma Walters, Stoke-on-Trent. Third prize: Duane Wilkinson, Leeds. fourth prize: Danielle Frowde, Cornwall. fifth prize: Cathrine Barbosa, Brechin. Sixth prize: A McGahern, Smethwick

bLUE CROSS TALKS POLITICS Blue Cross joined forces with the RSPCA and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to host a fringe event at all three of the main party political conferences.

The lively event, called ‘Can we afford to be a nation of dog lovers in the age of austerity?’, attracted a high-profile audience of politicians, journalists, delegates and others.

Steve Goody, our director of external affairs, spoke about the hardships some pet owners face in the current financial conditions and described how Blue Cross works to support animals and their owners by providing free veterinary care and education.

The three organisations also urged the government to address the stray dog problem through microchipping and the promotion of neutering, and also to ensure that local authorities have the funds they need to fulfil their animal welfare responsibilities.

Prize Draw 5) Miss Roberts, Nottinghamshire – £1,500 For the full set of results, including a list of runners-up, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk/raffle or send a stamped addressed envelope to Paw Draw raffle, Blue Cross, 7 Hugh Street, London SW1V 1QG.

Home Direct helps first small petsOur Burford rehoming centre is celebrating after successfully using our Home Direct scheme to help small pets for the first time.

Degus Ty, Hugh and Archie found themselves looking for a new home when their owner moved and was told by the new landlord that she couldn’t have pets. We advertised for homes for them and a lady in Devon got in touch to say she would love to have them. All three degus are now settling well into their new home.

Home Direct is our rehoming service which allows pets to stay in their home while a new one is found through us, and it’s now having great success with all species.

RIGHT: Steve Goody

LEfT: Three more degus rehomed

NEWS

THERAPY DOG TRAINING Our partner charity, the Society for Companion Animal Studies, is inviting people to apply for a place on its Practical Training for Therapy Dogs class.

The course provides a solid foundation for owners who want to take their dogs into a therapy situation or visiting programme. It’s made up of two fun and interactive practical training days, as well as some online theory work to help you get the most from your sessions.

Two sessions will take place in 2012. To find out more and to register your interest, visit www.scas.org.uk

Happy ending for kittenA little kitten who had to have three operations in a month is now looking forward to a happy and healthy future.

Betsy came to our Thirsk rehoming centre with her brother Leroy after they were found abandoned on a local farm. It soon became clear that Betsy had a problem where her third eyelids were fused closed.

Betsy had an operation but while one eye healed well, the other started to fuse again and she needed more surgery. This time the eye began to heal at first, but a fortnight later she needed yet another operation.

After a long course of eye drops her eyes have fully healed and she has successfully been rehomed along with her brother Leroy. Their new owner, Thomas Hudson, says: “Betsy and Leroy have settled in very well and are keeping us entertained playing around our home. It’s a privilege to be able to give these two charismatic kittens a home and a happy future.”

Blue Cross chief executive Kim Hamilton and her executive team were so inspired by our amazing fundraisers that they decided to step into their shoes.

They all took part in our gruelling Hadrian’s Wall challenge, trekking 25 miles over one weekend and raising more than £5,500 for Blue Cross.

Kim says: “It was extremely tough and it really showed us the incredible effort people go to on our active challenges to raise money for us.”

Find out more about how you can fundraise for Blue Cross on pages 24 and 25.

Many organisations pick a worthy cause to raise money for each year. If your company has a charity of the year scheme, have you considered nominating Blue Cross as your charity partner?

We have a proven track record of successfully establishing, managing and developing relationships with businesses. We work with our

When it comes to these rabbits, big definitely is beautiful. Our Burford rehoming centre took in 17 needy bunnies of all shapes and sizes after they were rescued from their old home, where they had sadly been neglected.

Among them were seven giant rabbits – both continental giants and giant papillons – which can weigh a hefty 8kg, or even more when they’re fully mature.

This gang were around nine months old when we took them in. They are all really friendly and affectionate and have now been rehomed, but we have lots more rabbits that need loving homes. You can find out more at www.bluecross.org.uk

Blue Cross and the seven giant rabbits

ONE STOP SHOP AT bURfORD Our Burford rehoming centre, which finds homes for horses, dogs, cats and small pets, now operates one reception for all animal species. You can contact them by calling 0300 777 1570 or emailing [email protected]

Gruelling challenge for blue Cross executive team

Make us your charity of the year for 2012! corporate partners to raise funds for our work, helping us to care for sick, injured and homeless pets, while also delivering outstanding benefits to our partners.

For more information, please contact our corporate development officer, Caroline Holden-Coulman, on 01993 825622 or at [email protected]



A lvin is a fun-loving, happy dog who loves nothing more than playing with his toys and going for long walks.

But just a few months ago the Shetland sheepdog was in a bit of a state. Alvin was frightened of being groomed and became fearful if anyone tried to handle him. The eight-year-old had been a much-loved family pet, but towards the end his owners didn’t have much time for him any more. As a result they didn’t groom him as much, so his coat was in a bad condition.

The situation took a turn for the worse when Alvin had a bad experience at the vet, and when he was restrained, he panicked and tried to bite in self-defence. This, together with losing his home, shattered his confidence, leaving him wary and mistrustful of people.

That’s when the Blue Cross behaviour team stepped in. Alvin was staying at one of our rehoming centres, but animal behaviourist Ryan Neile

Running carefree with his dog friends and showing off his long, glossy coat, picture perfect Alvin looks like he just stepped out of a shampoo advert

on topof the world

bEHAVIOUR

took him home so he could work with him more closely.

Ryan says: “The knots in Alvin’s coat would have made it very unpleasant for him to receive even a stroke, let alone any grooming. This issue alone would have had a very negative impact on the way Alvin perceived human touch.”

ALVIN’S JOURNEYBefore any training could begin, the pair had to get to know each other. Ryan says: “I couldn’t expect Alvin to do anything for me until he learned that I was trustworthy. Likewise, I also had to study Alvin’s body language so that I could fully understand him. If we were going to address his problems, we had to work together.”

In the beginning, Alvin’s reaction to even seeing a grooming brush was panic. Ryan says: “We did some desensitising work with Alvin. For example, we’d get different brushes out so he could get used to the fact they were there and we helped him to associate grooming with something good by using a Kong toy stuffed with food. We also began to refamiliarise him with the things he’d experience at the vet because sooner or later he’d have to cope with this type of handling again.”

Gradually, Alvin grew accustomed to being handled as his relationship with Ryan developed. Ryan says: “His confidence grew and he began to trust me, which is such a huge thing when it comes to working with fearful dogs. It was a huge leap of faith for him to take.

“During our sessions I responded immediately to the tiny changes in his behaviour, rewarding him for being brave and slowing down or stopping when he couldn’t cope. He started to let me do more and more with him and the transformation was incredible – his coat was in tip-top condition.”

Alvin began to really enjoy the pleasures of life again and had a great time going on fun trips with Ryan, such as climbing to the peak of Mount Snowdon. It soon became clear that Alvin loved adventures.

Alvin was now ready to find a new home, but he’d need a very special place with someone who would understand him. That’s when Julie Brown stepped in. Julie, from Oxfordshire, already had two shelties, Chester and Harry, and a West Highland terrier, Basil, but she couldn’t resist looking on the Blue Cross website to see the dogs needing new homes.

LIfE AT THE TOPJulie says: “I always like to look, but I don’t normally do anything about it. When I saw Alvin though, I couldn’t resist getting in touch with Blue

Cross to find out more about him.” Julie met Alvin and spent lots

of time with him before introducing her dogs to him. She says: “He was a lovely dog who just needed

some love and affection. I really wanted to give him a nice, loving home.”

Alvin soon settled in and is well and truly a member of the family. Julie says: “He’s very playful and enjoys cuddles – he’s a happy and calm dog. He likes going for walks, and he loves food, which helps with his training. The dogs are very comfortable together.”

Julie admits she still likes to go online to look at the dogs needing homes, but says: “This time, I’m definitely just looking!”

Ryan adds: “Julie is far too modest. She has worked really hard with Alvin. Her understanding and patience have enabled his personality to blossom.”

Ryan and Alvin remain good friends. Ryan says: “I visit Alvin and give him a good groom while I’m there. Alvin would never admit it, but I think he’s beginning to enjoy being brushed!”

Alvin is one of the many pets helped by our team of animal behaviourists. Not only do they work with the new arrivals, they’re also on hand to help anyone who gives a home to a Blue Cross animal. The team have helped hundreds of people and pets have a happy future together.

ALVIN HAD A GREAT TIME GOING ON fUN TRIPS, SUCH AS CLIMbING TO THE PEAK Of MOUNT SNOWDON

of the world


“Alvin began to trust me, which was a huge leap

of faith for him to take”


STORM AND KATE“Your horse is beautiful! What breed is he?” This is the kind of question Kate Marks gets asked all the time by fellow competitors when they see her horse, Storm. They are convinced this classy chap must have come from a top breeder and probably cost megabucks. Little do they know that Storm was an “ordinary” black cob from Blue Cross.

Storm came to our Burford rehoming centre when he was three years old because he was showing

aggression towards children when he was tied up. Our staff spent a lot of time working with him so he became used to being handled, but no one could predict that he would blossom

into such an elegant horse and come fourth in the prestigious Dressage

Championships of Great Britain, missing a bronze place by just 0.1 per cent.

For Kate, who has learned dressage alongside Storm, it’s a dream come true. Kate rehomed Storm on the Blue Cross loan scheme back in 2003 when he was a youngster. She was working at a stable yard at the time so she was in the perfect position to spend lots of time with Storm and provide the knowledge and training he needed.

COMPETITION TIME Kate says: “I was looking for a second horse and I had been to see a few in private homes but none of them were right. During an internet search I came across the Blue Cross website. I adored Storm right from the start.”

Kate and Storm started dressage in 2009 and they both had to learn as they went along. She says: “I was quite intimidated by dressage. I’d never done it before and I felt a bit out of place, but people were really encouraging and it wasn’t long before we realised that Storm had something that the judges liked because he was getting good scores. He stood out, too, because cobs are very stocky and there aren’t many

of them in the dressage world.” Soon Kate and Storm were

climbing the ranks, and they now compete in elementary classes – a high standard of dressage. Kate says: “I never thought I’d be competing at this level. To be a part of an event like the Dressage Championships was incredible.”

Meet the Blue Cross horses making a name for themselves in equestrian competitions and proving that rescue animals are not only a joy to have, but also a force to be reckoned with Ph

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going for gold

AbOVE: Angel in the paddock after her impressive recovery

Would you like to give a home to a blue Cross horse? find out more at www.bluecross.org.uk/horses

Charlie and ThunderA passer-by spotted Charlie and Thunder in a bad condition, and the ponies soon came to Blue Cross for veterinary care. Both were very underweight and had to be treated for lice. It was clear no one had cared for them properly for some time.

After just a few months at Burford, Charlie and Thunder have improved dramatically. Dengie Horse Feeds is proud to support Blue Cross by supplying the Burford and Rolleston rehoming centres with feed and supplements. After consulting Dengie’s senior nutritionist, Burford staff started Charlie and Thunder on a small amount of Dengie Alfa-A Original. Alfa-Beet was gradually added to the ration, as it is a highly digestible source of fibre, ideal for digestive systems that have been under stress.

Now Charlie and Thunder are fit and well they, like many ponies, risk becoming overweight. Blue Cross staff have now switched their feed to Dengie Good Do-er, a special low-calorie feed for those who only have to look at grass to put on weight. It also contains all the vitamins and minerals the ponies need for healthy hooves and a shiny coat – a simple way to provide a balanced diet.

Charlie and Thunder are now ready to be loaned to homes, where handling and training will help keep their weight down and health good.

REHOMING


DARIUS AND bECKYDarius was just a year old when he came to Blue Cross after being in an accident. His owners couldn’t afford his veterinary treatment and were advised to put him down but they desperately wanted to give Darius a chance.

They contacted our Burford rehoming centre and we took him in. We gave Darius the veterinary treatment he needed and he made a full recovery. Darius blossomed into a fantastic riding pony and was rehomed on our loan scheme. Because he’s a small pony he was outgrown several times, so he’s helped many children become happy and confident riders. Now aged 17, he’s as fun-loving and energetic as ever.

Darius has proven that it’s never too late to try something new and, with his current rider Becky Frost, 13, he’s become a horseball star. Horseball is a cross between polo, rugby and basketball which sees teams of six competing to score goals, with four from each side on the pitch at once.

Although he’s only been playing for a few years, Darius has proven to be a natural and Becky is a member of the Twin Trees Equestrian Centre junior

team, travelling around the country to go to matches.

Becky says: “Horseball has given me and Darius great confidence as we have built up such a level of trust. It’s great fun.”

Becky’s mum Su Scott says Darius has been a much-loved member of the family since they got him in 2007. At first he was ridden by Becky’s older sister Katie, who had success with him in showjumping and cross-country before introducing him to horseball. When Katie outgrew him, Becky took over.

Su says: “Darius epitomises a good family pony. You know your children will be safe with him and he’s really keen to try things. He’s a real people pony!”

ANGEL AND NATALIENot only does Natalie Smith think her pony Angel is a superstar, she’s got an award to prove it.

Angel won 2011 Rescue Horse of the Year in the Your Horse magazine awards in November. It’s a fantastic success for the piebald pony, who came to us from the RSPCA in 2000. She was extremely thin and had cracked and overgrown hooves. She was also pregnant, but sadly her foal died within minutes of being born. If that wasn’t enough, one of her eyes was damaged from a rare medical condition that meant only one eye grew while she was in the womb.

During her time with us Angel made a remarkable recovery. She was rehomed with a family for several years, then in 2008 found a new home with Natalie Smith. The pair formed a strong partnership and now successfully compete in dressage competitions.

Natalie says: “Before Angel I’d only been riding for a few years and I didn’t do very much. I didn’t jump because I thought it was scary and I didn’t do Ph

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dressage because I thought it was boring but Angel showed me otherwise.

“Angel taught me everything I know. They say that everyone has one extra-special horse in their lifetime and she is undoubtedly mine. She’s such a major part of my life, and my family’s life too.”

Natalie nominated Angel for Rescue Horse of the Year after one of her friends urged her to enter. She was overjoyed when she got an email to say that Angel had won. She says: “She’s so fabulous, I can’t believe how amazing she is.”

AbOVE: This isn’t an accident in progress – this is horseball

Miss tiBBs Thirsk rehoming centre

0300 777 1540

hoMes Wanted


OUR ANIMALS ONLINETo learn about all our pets available for rehoming, visit www.bluecross.org.uk

French lop Iced Bun is a young rabbit who’s full of life and loves having a good run around and a rub behind her ears. She’s looking for a home together with her sister and best pal, Sponge.

Steffi is a sweet and kind horse who’s looking for a home as a non-ridden companion. She enjoys fuss and attention and her favourite pastime is being groomed.

Poor Moulder is desperate for love, but he’s being overlooked because he’s 13 years old. He’s the most loving and gentle companion anyone could ask for and he’s always eager to meet new people.

Rolo is a lovely young boxer crossbreed who has lots to offer a new family. He’s loyal, affectionate and cuddly, and he loves his walks, so he’ll keep you busy and active.

Poppy is a sociable, playful puss who loves chasing toys, and she’s really loving and affectionate. All she needs now is a place to call home.

take me homeCan you offer any of these Blue Cross animals the companionship and attention they derserve?

French lop Iced Bun is a young rabbit who’s full

iCed BunBurford rehoming centre

0300 777 1570

Miss Tibbs is a sociable cat who enjoys giving affection – as long as it’s on her terms! Once she gets to know you she’s a fun and friendly character.

Poor Moulder is desperate for love, but he’s

MouLderLewknor rehoming centre

0300 777 1500

Steffi is a sweet and kind horse who’s looking

steffi Burford rehoming centre

0300 777 1570

Poppy is a sociable, playful puss who loves Poppy is a sociable, playful puss who loves Poppy is a sociable, playful puss who loves

poppy Torbay rehoming centre

0300 777 1550

Rolo is a lovely young boxer crossbreed

roLo Southampton rehoming centre

0300 777 1530

steffi Burford rehoming centre

Tillie started her life without anyone to look out for her. The kitten was just a few days old when she was

found abandoned on a farm with her two brothers, on the brink of death.

Sadly Tillie’s brothers died and she was left all alone, fighting for her life. The next few days were crucial, and staff at our Lewknor rehoming centre cared for her by day and took turns to take her home and nurse her through the night. Tillie was a true fighter and she blossomed into a happy, playful and confident kitten. Soon she was old enough to start life in a new home.

Now Tillie has a bigger family than she could ever have dreamed of. Not only does she have her loving new owners Lynda and Dean Marshall, there’s also Labrador Barney, crossbreed puppy Jess and cats Poppy and Cali, who were all rehomed from Blue Cross.

CONSTANT COMPANIONSLynda says: “No matter where I go, I turn around and Tillie’s a few feet away. She always likes to be close to us. She also loves playing with Poppy and Cali and we often see them charging across the landing together.”

Tillie also gets on well with the dogs and likes to come out and see what’s happening when they’re playing in the garden. There’s never a dull moment in the house, and that’s exactly how Lynda and Dean, from Oxfordshire, like it. Lynda says: “Our 15-year-old cats Oscar and

a family affairShe had a tough start to life, but now Tillie has found her ideal home with the Marshalls – and their menagerie

HAPPY ENDING

Emmie died in 2010 and it was so empty in the house without them. There was no one poking their head around the corner to see what we were up to and we missed the heartbeats in the house. We felt lost.”

That autumn Lynda and Dean rehomed Poppy and Cali, then, a few months later, realised their dream of getting a dog. Lynda says: “We’d always wanted a dog but our work commitments had never allowed it. When our situation changed, we decided the time was right, but, of course, we had to have a dog that was good with cats.”

MATCH-MAKERSThanks to our tailor-made rehoming scheme we can match people to the right pet and vice versa, so we were able to find them the perfect pooch, and cat-friendly Barney arrived in December

2010. In June last year, Lynda logged on to the Blue Cross website and, when she saw Tillie’s profile, she was smitten. She says: “We felt we had room in our house, and our hearts, for another cat, and when I read about Tillie’s sad start to life, I had to go and see her. Tillie was sociable with both cats and dogs so she was a great match for us. She’s an absolute joy.”

The newest arrival is Jess, who had a tough start after being rescued from the streets of Ireland, and was rehomed as a friend for Barney, who is already besotted with the puppy. Lynda says: “That’s it now – our family is complete!”

If you recognise Tillie it’s because she appeared on one of our mailings last summer, highlighting the rising number of kittens being abandoned. At the time she was called Pippa. We’re delighted to report a happy ending for her.

Today Tillie is confident enough to pose for her picture

“We had room in our house, and

our hearts, for another cat”

Tillie is never far away from Lynda

AbOVE: Tiny Tillie, soon after she was found abandoned on a farm


The real war horsesSteven Spielberg’s War Horse was a box office triumph when it hit cinemas this year. But behind the fiction lie true stories of the bond between man and horse in the First World War

British convoy and started shelling.

“My grandfather was thrown off his horse and one of the other horses he was travelling with was very badly injured. He

took all the ammunition off the injured horse, putting it on his own back and

on another horse, before leading them to cover in a wooded

copse. He tied up the injured horse and carried on back through enemy fire to the trenches so he could drop the ammunition off.”

George knew he couldn’t save the injured horse, but

he couldn’t bear to leave him to a slow and painful death, so he told his commanding officer that they needed to go back to the woods.

HEROIC ACTIONSRuth says: “George just wanted to put the poor horse out of its misery, but drivers didn’t carry guns so he needed his commanding officer to go with him. They started back towards the copse, but they were under such heavy fire and shelling all around them that the officer ran back to the trenches.”

George was so determined that the wounded horse wouldn’t suffer that he carried on, and led the horse back through heavy fire to the front line so he could be humanely destroyed.

Unbeknown to George, his selfless actions had been witnessed through binoculars by a French soldier. Ruth says: “The soldier saw the whole thing and wrote to my grandfather’s commanding officer to tell him what George had done. As a result, George was awarded a military medal for bravery.”

George was one of the fortunate men who survived the war. Ruth says:

George Turner was just 16 when he escaped his strict grandmother and ran off to join the army.

The Hereford lad, whose parents had died when he was young, didn’t let being underage stand in the way of him serving his country. It was 1914, just before the outbreak of the First World War, when he was enlisted into the 56th (London) Division Royal Artillery and it wasn’t long before he was shipped off to the trenches in France.

George became a driver. His job was to look after war horses and take ammunition and food to soldiers at the front line. He was young and inexperienced so he always carried the Drivers’ and Gunners’ Handbook to Management and Care of Horses and Harness with him, which Blue Cross had produced to help soldiers look after horses in the war. The handbook gave George valuable advice to help him care for the horses, but sadly nothing could protect him from the threat of an enemy attack.

UNDER fIREHis granddaughter, Ruth Turner, says: “Drivers were a prime target for the enemy because they were carrying vital supplies. One day my grandfather was taking some ammunition to the front line when his convoy was spotted by a German observation balloon. It was a sunny day and the sun had reflected off the horses’ brasses, which caught their eye. The enemy gunners were alerted and they opened fire on the


“George led the wounded horse back

through heavy fire”

AbOVE: A wounded horse awaits a Blue Cross ambulance LEfT: Horses weren’t the only animals to be involved in war: dogs were used as messengers or regimental mascots

HISTORY

“He always said that the thing that saved his life was the precision of the German bombing. They were so methodical that he used to be able to count between the shell blasts and gallop the horses to a safe position in between attacks.”

George’s story mirrors that of the character Albert in Michael Morpurgo’s children’s book War Horse, which has been made into a hit West End theatre production and, more recently, a Hollywood movie, directed by Steven Spielberg. The story is about a young boy who runs off to join the army, despite being underage, so that he can save his beloved farm horse, Joey, who was sold to the British army. Like George, he was devoted to helping horses, even if it meant putting his own life at risk.

Ruth still has her grandfather’s battered Blue Cross handbook. It was one of the many ways we helped animals in the First and Second World Wars, back when we were known as Our Dumb Friends League. We had been set up by a group of animal lovers in 1897. Our initial aim was to care for working horses on the streets of London, but we created the Blue Cross Fund to help animals in the Balkan War. When the First World War broke out we quickly re-established the fund and, just like The Red Cross helped human victims of war, we were there to care for the animals.

bLUE CROSS IN WARTIMEWe sent vital veterinary supplies to more than 3,500 British units. The fund was paid for by generous members of the public who were horrified to hear of the plight of animals in war.

As the war continued, we realised that while Britain was relatively

well-equipped with knowledge and supplies to help its horses, our allies weren’t, and we extended help to France and Italy, providing hospitals to treat injured animals on the battlefields. In France alone more than 50,000 horses were treated for mange and, when the Americans joined the war, we sent veterinary supplies to their army, too.

It’s estimated that more than six million horses and mules played a part in the First World War, 1.2 million of which were supporting the British army. The legacy of the work we did was so important that in the 1950s we changed our name to Blue Cross, in honour of the war fund. Today we continue to help thousands of animals in lots of different ways, thanks to your generous support.

bUY A SPECIAL COMMEMORATIVE VETERINARY CHEST To mark the release of the War Horse film, Blue Cross has produced a commemorative keepsake box. Each contains three books – Blue Cross at War, War Horse by Michael Morpurgo and Animals in War by Jilly Cooper – plus posters, postcards and a certificate. We have 10 for Blueprint readers to buy for £35 plus postage and packaging, which includes a donation to Blue Cross. To order or find out more, call 020 7932 4061 or email [email protected]

AbOVE: A poster, postcard and photograph from the Blue Cross wartime archive, showing some of our work in the First and Second World Wars


VETERINARY


Little Bobby was enjoying a walk around a boating lake when he was picked up and thrown in the air by another dog.

The attack on the Yorkshire terrier crossbreed was so severe that he was left with extensive life-threatening injuries and every minute was crucial to his survival. His terrified 80-year-old owner Evelyn Davidson wrapped him in a blanket and rushed him to Blue Cross’s Grimsby animal hospital.

She says: “It was horrific and Bobby was terrified. I knew he was in a bad way but I must admit I didn’t realise just how bad it was until we got to the hospital.”

A little miracleAfter a savage attack, it was hard to say whether Bobby would survive. But he isn’t the kind of dog to give up…

didn’t mean that he was out of the woods.”

bACK fROM THE bRINKThe next day Blue Cross staff nurse Michelle Clarke brought her own dog, Lyra, into the hospital to donate blood so Bobby could have a transfusion to help him in his fight for life. He then needed round-the-clock intensive nursing care.

Evelyn says: “I was so upset that I couldn’t even eat. I went to see him every day and his little tail wagged but then he started to turn his back on us as if he was giving up. There was one point when I was preparing to say goodbye to Bobby. I couldn’t believe this was happening – he’s only three years old.

“But then suddenly he seemed to get better and better and finally I could have hope. Everyone was amazed and the nurses called him a little miracle.”

Nearly a month after his ordeal, Bobby was finally allowed home, where he’s recovering well and gaining strength every day. Evelyn says: “Bobby’s back to normal now and he’s bouncing about like nobody’s business. In fact, some people have said he’s even livelier than he was before. It’s so lovely to have him back home where he belongs.”

Bobby’s treatment cost us more than £1,000, which was funded by generous donations from the animal-loving public. Evelyn says: “I really can’t praise Blue Cross enough – they never gave up on Bobby.”

As well as being treated for severe shock, Bobby needed major surgery. During a five-hour operation he had to have his abdominal muscle layer repaired, which was shredded down to his spine. His left kidney was removed because it had been crushed and severed into two, and the multiple deep bite wounds on Bobby’s body were repaired.

DOGGED SURVIVALFor poor Bobby, that was just the start of his road to recovery, and Evelyn was warned that his outlook was uncertain. She says: “The whole time they were operating it was touch-and-go, and even when he survived the surgery I knew it

bObbY’S bACK TO NORMAL NOW AND HE’S bOUNCING AROUND LIKE NObODY’S bUSINESS

AbOVE: A battered Bobby, in mid-recovery

RIGHT: Evelyn keeping a close eye on Bobby – and probably keeping him well away from the boating lake

Effective worm control is more than just worming. It’s about using all the tools available to break the lifecycle of parasites that affect the health and performance of your horse.

At Pfi zer Animal Health, we believe it’s important to use wormers responsibly. The right worm control strategy involves:

Managing your pasture to minimise re-infection

Testing regularly to assess worm burdens

Planning your worm control programme

Dosing with the right wormer at the right time

These concepts are explained in more detail in our free booklet, Worm Control for your Horse, available through your vet or SQP.

For more information speak to your vet, SQP or visit www.wormingyourhorse.info

test plan dose manageFurther information is available from: PFIZER ANIMAL HEALTH Walton Oaks, Tadworth, KT20 7NS

EQUEST & EQUEST PRAMOX are registered trademarks of Pfizer Ltd. EQUEST contains moxidectin. EQUEST PRAMOX contains moxidectin and praziquantel. Advice on the use of this or alternative medicines must be sought from the medicine prescriber. Use medicines responsibly: www.noah.co.uk/responsible/

POM-VPS

AH799/10

test plan dose manage test plan dose manage

Break the Cycle

ask the panelWhether it’s itchy cats, nervous dogs or allergic horses, our experts are here to offer their advice

essential to follow the recommendations of your vet.

Most animals can be kept comfortable using steroids, but in cats it can take large doses. Stronger, more costly drugs can be needed, especially where steroids produce side-effects. Bathing or nutritional supplements may help. Skin conditions can be frustrating and it may be worth discussing a referral to a specialist with your vet. Specialist consultations cost more but may save money in the long run.

MAKING fRIENDS

Q My daughter adopted a German shepherd dog, Oakley, about 12 months ago and he settled

in well. He came from a woman who was at work all day and he was kept in the utility room and hardly ever met other people. My husband and I often go to my daughter’s house to let Oakley out into the garden for a stretch, but he won’t come anywhere near us – he’s frightened of us. We have tried talking to him without looking at him, squatting

down sideways to his level and playing ball but he doesn’t want to know.Deanne Reid, via email

A Julie says: It sounds as if you have been doing the right things for Oakley, but his early

upbringing means he will find it difficult to bond with more than one person. Have you tried going for long walks with your daughter and Oakley? Dogs are often more relaxed when out walking than when in the home or garden.

When you’re back home, instead of trying to coax Oakley towards you, why not use food to create a game for him? Your daughter will have to start the game so he understands the rules, but once he gets the hang of it you can take over. Get ten pieces of hot-dog sausage, place a piece on a jam-jar top in front of Oakley, say “find it” in an excited tone and encourage him to go and eat the food. Repeat with all ten portions.

For three days continue placing the food down while Oakley watches, but place it further away, just around the corner or behind furniture. As you release Oakley to find the food say “find it” in an excited, encouraging voice. For the next three days continue as above, but gradually make the food harder for him to find: around the back of a chair, in another room, out in the garden etc, but always letting him see that the food is being taken and placed somewhere.

If he dashes out and gets each portion quickly and appears confident

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP

Q For a year now our 14-year-old cat Ted has had an ongoing skin condition which we have

endeavoured to overcome. Three vets at our local practice have tried various treatments, injections and tablets and now our cat is on antihistamines in the hope that his condition may be allergic. Unfortunately this medication appears to be having little effect and there seems to be no solution in sight. Michael Daniels, Essex

A Caroline says: Many of our patients have itching and skin problems that are distressing

for animals and owners alike. Allergies are the most common cause but there are many possibilities. Methodical investigation is essential. Rarer causes include mange, fungal infections like ringworm, hormonal problems (particularly excessive thyroid hormone, which is common in older cats) and some internal cancers.

Cheaper tests such as skin scrapes and hair samples are essential, but more expensive procedures such as biopsies may be needed if nothing is found. There is no definite test for an allergy, although response to treatment can “confirm” the diagnosis. Many animals develop multiple allergies, worsening their condition and making allergen avoidance difficult. Special allergy tests are only worthwhile if hyposensitisation therapy (which won’t help every case) is contemplated.

Allergies are not caused by something new. They develop in response to substances in the everyday environment or even food that a pet has eaten for years. Food allergies can affect the skin and changing brand won’t work; ask your vet about a proper low-allergy diet. Although fleas are rarely seen on affected pets, they are a common complicating factor and it’s


Do you have a pet or horse question that you would like answered by our experts?

Please write to: Ask the panel, blueprint, blue Cross, 7 Hugh Street, London SW1V 1QG or email [email protected]. Due to the volume of mail we receive, we regret we cannot answer every letter. For urgent enquiries, please contact your vet.

HAVE A QUESTION?

AbOVE: It can be a challenge to pinpoint the cause of feline skin conditions

ASK THE PANEL

you can move on to doing the same thing without letting Oakley see where you have put the sausages. This fun game can boost a dog’s confidence and form pleasant associations with you.

SWEET ITCH – SOUR PRObLEM

QI’ve been told my new pony is prone to sweet itch. What causes this and is there anything I can

do to try and prevent it?Emma Newall, Lincolnshire

A Kath says: Sweet itch is caused by an allergic reaction to saliva from insect bites. Your pony is not

alone is suffering from this condition as it affects around five per cent of horses and ponies in the UK.

The sweet itch season usually runs from April to October but may start earlier or continue later into the year depending on the weather. It is not contagious so you don’t need to worry about your pony infecting others.

Symptoms vary in severity but include itching, hair loss, weeping sores and thickening of the skin. Prevention is the key to managing sweet itch and you are right to consider what you can do even before your pony shows symptoms. The local environment is the main factor to consider: if you have moved your pony to a different area you may be lucky and find they show no symptoms in their new home. Unfortunately, you may instead find they become more severe.

Speak to your vet, who may recommend some treatment or supplements. Again, it is better to do this before your pony starts to show any symptoms. Try to keep your pony away from areas that will attract flies, such as water sources, muck heaps and woodland. Stable your pony at dawn and dusk when midges are most active. Several fly rugs are on the market, and fly repellents will also help protect against some types of fly bites.

With some forward planning and a little extra time, care and attention you should be able to ensure your pony remains comfortable and healthy throughout the year.

MEET THE PANEL

Julie bedford is head of behaviour services at Blue Cross. She can answer your animal behaviour, training or welfare queries.

Caroline Reay is chief veterinary surgeon at the Blue Cross hospital in Merton, London. Ask her advice on any aspect of pet health.

Kath Urwin is manager of our Rolleston rehoming centre. She can help with your horse concerns.

AbOVE: That special bond between dogs and the people they trust can take time to develop

bELOW: Prevention is the best strategy for some horse and pony afflictions

HEALTHY APPETITES!Have you ever thought about how nutritional requirements change with age? Parents will know that babies shouldn’t be fed salty or sugary foods and that certain ingredients should not be introduced till much later in life. Equally, toddlers need healthy food to fuel their activity and we wouldn’t expect them to consume the same foods a teenager’s digestive system will tolerate. When we get older, spicy foods can be less well tolerated and something that’s easy to digest becomes a primary consideration.

Now, what about your pet – wouldn’t it be logical to think that their nutritional needs will vary through life too? Vets and nutritionists at Hill’sTM Pet Nutrition certainly think so and that’s why Hill’sTM Science PlanTM range has foods suitable for puppies or kittens, adult pets and older dogs and cats. There are even foods suitable for pets that pile on the pounds more easily than others or that have a sensitive digestion.

Dogs add another complication – a Yorkshire terrier may weigh as little as 3kg and a great Dane could weigh 90kg. A 30-fold difference in weight is not something we generally see in humans – even an 18-stone adult is only three times heavier than a six-stone adult.

Yet a Yorkshire terrier may need as little as 75 kilocalories a day, while a great Dane may need nearer to 1,000 kilocalories. That’s still 13 times more calories for the bigger dog, but nowhere near the 30-fold difference we see in size alone. As different dog breeds show these enormous variations, Hill’sTM has developed foods specific to the breed size.

Find out more about your dog or cat’s nutritional needs at www.hillspet.co.uk or talk to your vet or local pet shop about choosing a pet food.


VETERINARY


fIND A REGISTERED VET It’s illegal for anyone unregistered to practise as a vet. The body responsible for this is the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Qualified vets will have MRCVS or FRCVS after their name. You can check whether your vet is registered on the RCVS website at www.rcvs.org.uk.

PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION Recommendations can be a useful way to find a vet. Find out what other pet owners in your area think about their vet, but consider whether they have the same type of animal as you because different pets have different requirements.

DISTANCE It’s good to choose a practice close to your home. Not only is it convenient, but it’s helpful to know that in an emergency you can get your pet to the vet quickly. Think about where the practice is located, if it’s near public transport links or, if you drive, whether it has a car park or public parking nearby.

OPENING HOURS Vets have to arrange for pets to receive emergency treatment outside normal hours, but it may not be at their own practice if they lack the facilities. You and your pet may be sent further afield, so it’s worth asking about this. If you work long hours, check whether the practice is open in the evening or at the weekend.

bEDSIDE MANNER Do staff treat your pet sympathetically? They may need to restrain or muzzle your pet for treatment, but there’s no excuse for rough handling. Also, think about whether you’re kept informed about what’s going on and, if you have to give your pet treatment, make sure you’re given clear information on how to do this.

PRICE Veterinary charges vary depending on location, facilities and overheads. Staff should be able to give you typical costs for routine treatments, but don’t forget to ask exactly what’s included

vetting your vetThere are so many vet practices out there that choosing which one to take your pet to can be tough. Read our advice before you make that important decision

when you’re given a quote. If your pet is having surgery, find out whether there will be further charges for post-op check-ups.

SPECIALIST VETS Most vets carry out a variety of medical and surgical procedures but there may be times when it’s better for a specialist to take over – for example if your pet needs an MRI scan or has a complex fracture. If your practice lacks a specialist they may refer your pet elsewhere.

Consider what pets the practice usually treats. If you have an unusual pet, it’s worth finding a vet with experience of that species. If you’re not sure, your local practice should be able to point you in the right direction, or you can search by species on the RCVS website.

EXTRA SERVICES Some vets provide extra services, such as puppy training, obedience classes or pet-care advice. Ring your local practice to see what they do.

Finding the right vet can make a big difference to the health of your pet

“Think about whether

you’re kept informed“

Fighting crime and keeping the UK border safe is all in a day’s work for body-detection dog Sam.

The former Blue Cross pooch is in France, sniffing out people trying to enter the UK illegally. Sam works alongside the UK Border Agency, finding obscure hiding places in lorries, including fake floors and ceilings. He’s been working only a short while, but he’s already had a result.

Sam is owned by Wagtail UK Ltd, which trains and provides specialist detection dogs for UK and international operations. It’s the perfect environment for Sam, who came to our Bromsgrove rehoming centre because his owner was ill and could no longer look after him. We struggled to find him a home because he had so much energy, and he needed a lot of stimulation.

We tried to rehome him into a family but he was so easily bored he became destructive and was returned to us. That’s when we contacted Wagtail UK. We had already seen their training

canine crime fighterSam’s focus and enthusiasm make him an ideal dog for sniffing out trouble on the UK’s borders

REHOMING

grounds in North Wales and thought their staff, housing and training methods were top-notch, so we arranged to take Sam up so they could assess him and see if he would be suitable.

TRAINING REGIME Wagtail UK trainer Rhi Atkin says: “We’re looking for focus and drive, and Sam had that in bags. The dogs are rewarded with toys so it’s essential that they are toy-motivated, and when Sam’s focused on a toy, nothing else matters.

“We took him up to our training area, which has various ledges and ramps for the dogs. Most dogs are a bit unsure at first but within seconds Sam had done a lap around the room. He was just up for it straight away.”

Wagtail UK took Sam on a two-week trial to make sure he settled in and enjoyed training. They then had to find a role for Sam, and they soon realised he’d be an ideal body-detection dog.

Rhi explains: “For this kind of work the dog has to be totally unfazed by

everything. They’re surrounded by vehicles, loud noises and people and they have to be completely focused on the job and not easily distracted.

“We soon realised that this was the perfect job for Sam because nothing worries him at all – he’s just a very happy-go-lucky chap. He took to it almost immediately. In fact he was one of our quickest learners.”

JObS fOR LIfE After 12 weeks of training, Sam went to France, where he had further

environmental training to acclimatise him. He’s now a fully-fledged body-detection dog. The working life of a dog depends on the animal; many work until around eight years old or even longer because they love it so much.

When a dog no longer enjoys their work Wagtail UK, which currently has around 60 dogs, finds them suitable family homes. But that’s a long way off for one-year-old Sam, who’s just embarking on his career of a lifetime.

“For this work he has to be totally unfazed by everything”


PETS INTO CARE


we’re there for your petIf you’re worried what might happen to your pets if you’re no longer able to look after them, the Blue Cross Pets into Care scheme may have the answer

A bLUE CROSS LEGACY The scheme is free of charge but many people, including Janet, generously decide to leave us a legacy in their Will as a way of saying thanks. While this is not at all essential, it’s a much-appreciated gesture. Legacies make up more than half of our income so they are vital in ensuring we can care for as many animals as possible in the future. Unfortunately we can’t accept pets on to the scheme with specific legacies or funds attached to them, but we promise we’ll be there for your pet, and the best way you can help us with our work is to leave a legacy to Blue Cross.

Janet Gower simply couldn’t imagine life without her beloved 13-year-old cat Tabbie. But, as she

lives on her own, she needed to know that if anything ever happened to her she could be confident that Tabbie would never be left alone in the world.

She says: “If the time ever came, it would be so traumatic for Tabbie, or any pet, to be left behind, and it’s a situation that requires such careful handling.”

That’s the reason why Janet, from Milton Keynes, registered Tabbie on our Pets into Care scheme. It was set up to give people peace of mind about what will happen if their animals outlive them. Many of us don’t feel that there’s anyone we can ask to take on our beloved pet after we’re gone, and this can cause a lot of anxiety.

With Pets into Care people can be safe in the knowledge that if something happens to them we’ll take in their pet, care for them and try to find them a new home. More than 3,000 people are already signed up to the scheme.

PEACE Of MIND For Janet, it means she can happily continue to have pets. She says: “It’s always a worry that your animal will outlive you, especially as you get a bit older, and it might stop people taking on a pet, which is such a shame because it means they both lose out and animals enrich your life so much.”

Tabbie has been on the scheme since Janet got him in 2003, and her two previous cats, Puss and Smudge, were also registered. She adds: “I have been to visit Blue Cross and the staff care so much about the animals. I wouldn’t trust my precious bundle of love to anyone else.”

About the Pets into Care schemeThe scheme is available for dogs, cats and small animals, such as rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. We’ll also consider horses on a case-by-case basis. Up to four pets per

owner can be registered at any one time.We’ll let you know within seven days of your

application whether or not your pets have been successfully registered. If so, we’ll provide you with a clause to insert into your Will and your executor will be responsible for carrying out your wishes.

Pets in our care are subject to our policies, including neutering, vaccinations and microchipping.

For more information, or to apply, call the legacy team on 0300 777 8240, email [email protected] or visit www.bluecross.org.uk/petsintocare

Make sure a loyal companion is always looked after

www.bluecross.org.uk Spring 2012

Get more news, information and pet advice from blue Cross by signing up to our e-newsletter at www.bluecross.org.uk/pawprint

SIGN UP TO THE bLUE CROSS E-NEWSLETTER

This is a picture of my cat Mimzi giving a thumbs – or should that be a paws? – up for your magazine blueprint. She is the eldest of three cats that I have and she is two and a half years old. I got her from a pet rescue centre here in Chingford. I think she looks very intelligent in this picture. Jeanette Le Carpentier, via email

MAGAzINE MOGGY

HANGING OUTMy four-year-old ginger tomcat Strawberry likes to adopt this strange posture in his cat’s cradle. I have never before had a cat who did this. His name comes from the fact that he is not really ginger, but strawberry blond. He came to me as a stray three years ago so I do not know his history, but he is tremendously affectionate as well as a good mouser! He is a wonderful companion and he really makes my day with his antics. Helen Elliott, Eastbourne

Gypsy’s mum was taken to the Blue Cross centre in Hertfordshire in the summer of 1997 and her litter was born on-site. Nine weeks later I brought the bundle of fur, alert eyes and wagging tail home. Gyp is all we could have hoped for and more. She took part in many competitions in jumping and agility, and she collected over 100 rosettes and was part of the Blue Cross team for three years at Crufts. We retired when she was ten years old. Her enthusiasm was waning a little and I was certainly puffing at the end of a round. Besides being part of the family she gets on well with others, most of all with our cat Cleo, who is also from Blue Cross. Gypsy is now 14 years old and still very healthy; she even won a few rosettes at a local dog show for fun. It is not the winning of all the rosettes but her love, faithfulness and all the smiles we have had that are the important parts of having her as a main member of our family. I am sure she would be embarrassed if she knew I was writing this but I just wanted to say thank you, Blue Cross, for such a superb lass.Jill V Pearce, Hertfordshire

ROOM Of ROSETTES As the writer of the star letter, Jeanette Le Carpentier has won £100-worth of Love2Shop vouchers, provided by Petplan, the UK’s largest provider of animal health insurance. For more information on Purely

for Pets pet insurance from Petplan and Blue Cross, call 0800 107 7551 or visit www.petplan.co.uk

A DOG’S LIfEWe were looking for a second dog to join our family and we came across Dudley (renamed Billy), a lovely mongrel looking for a home at the Blue Cross centre in Thirsk. The dogs met in the secure paddock and it was love at first sight! They have been totally amazing together and love nothing more than to snuggle up on the sofa. I can’t thank Blue Cross enough for all the advice they gave us about bringing a second dog into our house and for finding us such a wonderful dog. He has definitely found himself his forever home. Alison Polland, via email

have your sayWe love to hear from you – please send us your news and pictures of your pets

PET POST

STAR LETTER


PAWS fOR ME!bessie was just days from death when she was found abandoned outside our burford rehoming centre early one cold morning.

The frightened dog was in a crate and had clearly been there a while because there were dried faeces inside and she had pressure sores. We could tell bessie had recently given birth and was now very sick. She had a burst abscess in one of her mammary glands and a severe infection in her uterus, known as pyometra.

She needed surgery to treat both infections, but she recovered well and, despite her ordeal, she has a beautiful nature. She’s now been rehomed and is having a wonderful time cuddling up to her owner on the sofa.

GET INVOLVED


We’re a nation of tea lovers and what better way to celebrate the glorious brew than to have

a party and help sick or abandoned pets at the same time?

Up and down the nation animal lovers will be “paw-sing” for a few hours on Friday 11 May 2012 to hold a Blue Cross tea party and we need you to join the fun. It’s perfect timing because it’s the Queen’s diamond jubilee this year and there’s no better British celebration than a good old-fashioned tea party. So get your best crockery out, put the kettle on and raise a toast to Her Royal

paws for teaThis summer, why not turn a jubilee party into a fundraising opportunity with a Blue Cross tea party?

Highness. Or, if you’re already planning a street party or jubilee celebration, why not help a worthy cause like Blue Cross while you’re at it?

PETS IN NEED It’s really fun and easy to get involved. From a small gathering of a few friends to a school or social group, every penny you

raise will go towards helping pets in need. Last year we took in and cared for more than 6,500 unwanted animals and it’s thanks to people like you that we achieved this.

If you can’t hold a party on Friday 11 May don’t worry – you can have your tea party whenever you like, wherever you like. And, if you’re feeling inspired to get involved but you’re not sure where to start, our special tea party pack is full of ideas to help you.

To receive your free fundraising pack simply fill in the form enclosed in your copy of Blueprint, call us on 08444 993 663 or email [email protected]

Greta’s blue Cross tea partyWhen Greta Balson decided to hold a tea party for Blue Cross word soon spread – no one likes to turn down tea, cake and a chance to help a worthy cause. On the day, 25 people turned up to have a natter over a brew and do their bit for needy pets.

Greta’s husband was on hand for tea duty and their cat Jasper, from our Felixstowe rehoming centre, entertained guests. Greta says: “People came and went throughout the day but it was still a full house! Jasper’s a very sociable cat so he enjoyed himself too.”

The day raised £104 for Blue Cross.

AbOVE: Hats like Greta’s astounding creation are entirely optional

AbOVE: Bessie might not fancy a cup of tea, but she’d probably join you for a biscuit

OTHER EVENTS Come and visit us at any of these events to meet a few of the Blue Cross team and find out more about the work we do. badminton Horse Trials: 3-7 MayDevon County Show: 17-19 MayHerts County Show: 2-3 JuneSuffolk Show: 7-8 Junebrocklesby fair: 24 JuneEast of England Show: 6-8 JulyRoyal International Air Tattoo (fairford Air Show): 7-8 JulyNew forest Show: 24-26 JulyMid-Devon Show: 28 JulyPony Club Championships: 16-19 August burghley Horse Trials: 30 August-2 Septemberblenheim Horse Trials: 6-9 September Would you like to organise your own fundraising event? Could you give up six hours a year to manage one of our collection boxes? If so, our community and events team would love to hear from you. Give us a ring on 0300 790 9903 or email [email protected]

ACTIVE CHALLENGES COAST TO COAST CYCLE: 5-8 April and 9-12 August 2012. Cycle the breadth of Britain, passing some of our most incredible scenery, from mountains to moorland, on this 140-mile challenge. HADRIAN’S WALL TREK: 13-15 April, 13-15 July and 7-9 September 2012. Join the Blue Cross team and trek 25 miles over a weekend, taking in some fascinating landscapes and ruins by day and camping under the stars by night. Dogs are welcome. bUPA LONDON 10K 27 May 2012. Follow part of the 2012 Olympic marathon route, past some of the capital’s famous landmarks, including Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, on this fun run. bEN NEVIS TREK: 15-17 June and 5-7 October 2012. Conquer Britain’s highest mountain on this challenging trail to the summit and catch your breath by stopping to take in the gorgeous views from the Scottish highlands. PEMbROKESHIRE COAST TREK: 13-15 July 2012. Take in the stunning scenery along the Welsh coastline during this two-day, 25-mile trek. Discover rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and wooded estuaries that provide a perfect sanctuary for wildlife. THAILAND NORTHERN TRIbE TREK: 2-12 November 2012. Trek 57km over four days, passing through remote villages via stunning mountains and rivers. This once-in-a-lifetime fundraising challenge is an unforgettable chance to discover the real Thailand.

To find out more about any of these challenges fill in the tear-off form on page 28 and send it back

dates for your diaryFrom dog shows to treks in Thailand, there’s plenty going on in the next few months, so schedule some time to join the fun as we raise money for sick, injured and abandoned pets

DATES fOR YOUR DIARY

to us. You can also call the team on 01993 825567, email [email protected] or visit www.bluecross.org.uk/activechallenges.

LOCAL CENTRE EVENTS TIVERTON: Sponsored dog walk, Sunday 15 April.Annual fun day at Knightshayes Court, Sunday 10 June, 11.00am-3.00pm. For more information call Tiverton rehoming centre on 0300 777 1560.CAMbRIDGE:Spring open day, 11.00am-3.00pm, Sunday 29 April.For more information call Cambridge rehoming centre on 0300 777 1470. HERTfORDSHIRE: Sponsored dog walk, Sunday 27 May. Stall at Wheathampstead gala day, Sunday 8 July. For more information call Hertfordshire rehoming centre on 0300 777 1490.NORTHIAM: Spring dog walk, Sunday 22 April. Summer dog walk Sunday 29 July. Dog show and open day, Sunday 9 September. Hatch Grange, West End.For more information call Northiam rehoming centre on 0300 777 1510.SOUTHAMPTON: Annual fun day and dog show, Saturday 2 June, 10.00am. For more information call Southampton rehoming centre on 0300 777 1530.TORbAY: Oddicombe dog day, Sunday 22 April, 10.00am. Open day, Sunday 8 July, 11.00am-3.00pm. For more information call Torbay rehoming centre on 0300 777 1550.

TOP: Happy faces at the Bromsgrove charity shop AbOVE: Reach new heights with Blue Cross active challenges

AbOVE: One of last year’s dog show agility challenges


COMPETITION


a limited edition Rascal bear

The Blue Cross has three fabulous limited edition Rascal bears worth £250 to give away to Blueprint

readers. There are only 500 in existence and they’ve been handmade in England using the finest mohair.

Rascal bear is 41cm tall and has been produced by Merrythought, which has been making quintessentially British teddy bears for more than 80 years from its world-famous factory in Ironbridge, Shropshire. Treasured by both children and adults across the globe, all Merrythought bears are fully jointed and made using the finest materials and craftsmanship. Each bear has a unique character and superior quality, designed to last a lifetime. For more information about Merrythought bears visit www.merrythought.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER Answer the following question for a chance to win.

On page 14 we told you about the history of Blue Cross. But when was Our Dumb Friends League, as we used to be known, formed?

A) 1852 b) 1897 C) 1913

Answer

You can enter online at www.bluecross.org.uk/blueprintcompetition

Alternatively, write your answer on this coupon, along with your name, address and telephone number, and send it to:

Rascal bear competition,Blueprint, 7 Hugh Street,London SW1V 1QG

Strictly one entry per household. Closing date: 30 May 2012

Name:

Address:

Post code:

Telephone:

From time to time we may wish to communicate with you by phone or email. If you are happy for us to do this, please fill in your details below.

Email:

Tick here to receive emails about Blue Cross. Tick here to receive phone calls about Blue Cross.

Locations of Blue Cross services and charities

CONTACTS

MOVING HOUSE?Please don’t forget to let us know if you have moved home recently or are in the process of doing so. Updating us in this way is enormously important because, without your new address, we would be unable to claim Gift Aid on your donations, which is worth 28p for every pound you donate. Giving us your new address also means we avoid the unnecessary cost of contacting you at your old address and ensures you continue to receive your copy of blueprint.

To inform us of a change of address, please call our customer care team on 01993 822651, email [email protected] or fill in and return the coupon.Thank you!

Please write your old address below (including postcode):

(Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms)

Name

Address

Postcode

Please write your new address below (including postcode):

(Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms)

Name

Address

Postcode

Please cut out this coupon and return it to the following fREEPOST address: Tracey Nadin, blue Cross, fREEPOST Of224, bURfORD OX18 4bRPlease note that since we select our mailings up to two months in advance, it is possible that you may receive one or two further mailings to your old name or address before this amendment takes effect. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you.

SEND US YOUR SHARES…AND HELP ANIMALS IN NEEDMany of us don’t often consider the different ways we can support our favourite charities. As well as giving money, volunteering or engaging in fundraising activities, Blue Cross can also benefit from donations of shares. So you can help even more animals without it affecting your monthly outgoings!

Donating shares can be an extremely tax-efficient way of giving to Blue Cross and we can turn your contributions into much-needed funds. We also work with ShareGift, the charity share donation organisation, which specialises in aggregating shares, selling them and using the proceeds to make donations to charity. Since 1998, Blue Cross has received almost £75,000 from ShareGift. For more information about how you can donate your shares, please contact Selina Williams at Blue Cross, Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4PF, on 01993 822651 or by email at [email protected]

CUSTOMER CARE 0300 790 9903

Please visit

www.bluecross.

org.uk for more

details

blue Cross Animal Hospitals

Blue Cross animal hospital, Victoria

Blue Cross animal hospital, Hammersmith

3 Blue Cross animal hospital, Merton

Blue Cross animal hospital, Grimsby

blue Cross ShopsAndover, Banbury, Bromsgrove, Cheltenham, Chippenham, Droitwich, Dursley, Fleet, Frome, Hereford, Hungerford, Kidlington, Leamington Spa, Ledbury, Marlborough, Newbury, Pershore, Stow-on-the-Wold, Stratford-upon-Avon, Summertown, Tewkesbury, Warwick, Wells, Witney, Wootton Bassett, Worcester

blue Cross Rehoming Centres

Bromsgrove Burford Cambridge Felixstowe Hertfordshire Lewknor Northiam Rolleston Southampton Thirsk Tiverton Torbay

Pet fostering Cleveland County Durham Cumbria Lincolnshire &

Leicestershire Staffordshire Surrey & Kent West Yorkshire Wiltshire Pet Fostering Service

Scotland

Associates Mayflower Sanctuary Mountains Animal

Sanctuary

Partner Charities Society for Companion

Animal Studies Irish Blue Cross

27

25

1

2

4

3


find us

M6574/0112

Please send me your FREE advice & information pack on making or amending a Will and leaving a gift to Blue Cross.

Name (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms)

Address

Postcode

Telephone No.

Send to: Narelle Khan, Blue Cross, FREEPOST OF224, Room B112, Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4BROr please call 01993 825594 and quote B112

Return the coupon or write to the address below to receive our free advice and information pack on Will writing.

Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

We’ve been dedicated to the health and happiness of pets since 1897.

Abandoned or unwanted, ill or injured – we do what’s needed to give

every pet a healthy life in a happy home. We’re a charity, so the more

help you give us, the more help we can give pets.

A gift in your Will can help secure the future for thousands of animals.

If you need us, we can also be there for your special companion.

If animals have a place in your heart…

…fi nd a place forthem in your Will

www.bluecross.org.uk

Documents

SPRING 2012 blueprint - Blue Cross · Blueprint and find out how dog Rosie’s wish came true. 12 HOMES WANTED Meet some of the animals looking for a new home. 13 HAPPY ENDING Tillie