Paws Autumn 2013

Autumn 2013
battersea.org.uk
The magazine of
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Rewarding
rehoming
Dispelling the myths around
rehoming a rescue animal
Also inside this issue:
Lost and found
Tales of heartbreak and joy
Branching out
It’s Home from Home at our new
Sydenham mini rehoming centre
Stars of TV
Catching up with some of our
canine stars of the small screen
Dogs are welcome on holiday
at
Haven
Save up
to
50%
*
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7
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October h r and
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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.
A16
Our friendly UK holiday advisors are waiting for your call 7 days a week, 9am-9pm
Call:
0843 320 9734
Quote:
TO_PAWS
23 coastal
parks
Calls cost 5p per minute plus network extras.
Go online to find out more by typing in this special web address
Visit: haventouring.com/topaws
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 Offers are subject to promotional availability and can be withdrawn at any time, apply to new bookings only and cannot be combined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.
01
Contents
Executive Editor
Dee McIntosh
Small screen stars
Head 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
Editor
Caroline Stringer
Contributors
Jude Peppis
Kate Winsall
Helen Stone
Diane Johnson
Clint Singh
Please send your pictures and letters to:
Paws magazine
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
4 Battersea Park Road
London SW8 4AA
paws@battersea.org.uk
For more information and our
opening hours, call 0843 509 4444 or
visit our website battersea.org.uk
Old Windsor
Priest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2JN
Features
10
16
22
24
President
HRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO
Paws is designed on behalf of Battersea Dogs
& Cats Home by williamjoseph.co.uk
Advertising enquiries
corporate@battersea.org.uk
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 touch
Please 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 paws@battersea.org.uk
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
dataprotection@battersea.org.uk
03Welcome
04News
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
Data Protection Officer
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
4 Battersea Park Road
London SW8 4AA
44,918 (Jan–Dec 2012)
Rehoming a rescue
Lost and found
Battersea branches out
Stars of TV
Regulars
Brands Hatch
Crowhurst Lane, Ash, Kent TN15 7HH
Patron
Her Majesty The Queen
24
26
Take us home
Visit our rehoming
gallery on page 26 to
give one of these furry
fellows the second
chance they deserve
Made in
the U.K
03
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.
Welcome
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
Claire with our
cover star Phyllis
the Mongrel
04
Autumn 2013
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 latenight events at the London Cattery this autumn.
Battersea?
More like Cattersea
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.”
Carmela and
her kitten Pino
3,000
Cats, kittens and
pregnant mums arrive at
Battersea each year
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.
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
cat.rehoming@battersea.org.uk
05
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.
More awards
for Paul?
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.”
Will there be
more success
for Paul (and
Twinkle)?
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.
A gift of love
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.
Mrs Baxter
with her Battersea
dog Emma
If you’d like to know more
about remembering us
in your Will, please call
020 7627 9247 or email
legacies@battersea.org.uk
Harry, Lucie, Ola and Lyanna catch
up with the latest news from Battersea
Thousands of pet friendly cottages…
Donation to Battersea with every booking!
Visit www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
06
Autumn 2013
Fun in the sun
Sammi
and golden
Cockapoo
Charlie
“Look mum, top of
the world”
High, wide and handsome
Is this Battersea’s furthest – and highest – ever dog?
Hottest, busiest, softest, woofiest –
we made all sorts of records at our
2013 Battersea Old Windsor Fun Day.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
Carnival
time
Raising a bucket
for Battersea
(Photo: Michael Horsley)
Carley Stenson gets
face to face with our
fun dog classes
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
07
Battersea
autumn fun
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.
Pirates and
a superdog
at the Annual
Reunion
Annual Reunion and Fun Day 2013
Fundraising Groups Information events
How 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 events@battersea.org.uk, visit
battersea.org.uk/annualreunion or call 020 7627 9339.
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 j.fraser@battersea.org.uk
Royal Parks Half Marathon
Have 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 2014
Runners 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.
Cheering
on our
marathon
runners
Height of cool
Our 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.
out our
To find out more ab
l
pl
,
nges ease emai
events and challe
a.org.uk, visit
events@batterse
/get_involved
battersea.org.uk
39
or call 020 7627 93
Join us for
an Arctic
adventure
Thousands of pet friendly cottages…
Donation to Battersea with every booking!
Visit www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
08
Autumn 2013
1,000
volunteer
gets a PM
welcome
th
Above
Battersea volunteers
and David Cameron
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 1,000 th 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.
The Prime Minister
meets our
1,000 th volunteer,
James Moore
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.”
Christmas
Carol Concert
Wednesday
11 December 2013
Doors open at 7pm
St Luke’s Church
Sydney St
London SW3 6NH
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.
For further information and to book tickets visit
battersea.org.uk/carolconcert
or call 020 7627 9295
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10
Autumn 2013
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
11
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.
Last year we gave
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.
of dogs and cats the safety
and security that comes with
having a permanent home.
1,000s
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.
“New owners of rescue animals
are giving an animal a wholly
deserved second chance at
a happy life.”
On average that’s
8 dogs and
6 cats
every day
finding new owners thanks
to our dedicated team.
Rob Young Head of Dog Rehoming
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.
Already rehomed a
Battersea dog or cat?
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.
12
Autumn 2013
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.
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
Will that first
encounter lead to
a happy rehoming?
Page 24
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.”
The rehoming process
1
2
3
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.
Visit one of our three
centres and make a
rehoming appointment.
Interview with our rehoming
team to assess your personal
circumstances and who may
be your perfect match.
4
5
6
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.
Take your new pet home and
help him settle into the family
and your routine.
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
“We’re here to
make sure that our
cats and potential
owners find the
perfect match”
Ros Davies,
cat rehomer
13
These families found their
perfect pets at Battersea and
haven’t looked back since.
Pep talk
Jo Volinska and Alistair Green visited our Old Windsor centre in December
2010 where they met four-year-old Lurcher Pepsy.
“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.”
Pepsy
Mr Tom’s time
Natasha Leech and Matt Richardson visited our London Cattery earlier
this year and made feline friends with Mr Tom.
“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.”
Mr Tom
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 sixmonth-old litter of English Bull Terriers. They took Hugo home with them.
“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
Brad, Michelle and Hu
go
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16
Autumn 2013
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.
Lost
and
found
Purcival’s story
It’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… ?
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 spotted
A 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.
17
“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”
“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.”
Liz McWalter
Making a splash
Shocking stuff
A very appealing fellow
On the wrong track
A Mongrel who was rescued (along with his worsefor-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 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.
A 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.
We 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.
18
Autumn 2013
Help and advice
Lost…
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.
What else can you do? These are some of the
other things you can do if you have lost your
dog or cat:
•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
962
dogs
81
cats
Successfully
reunited with
their owners by
Battersea in 2012
•Call your local veterinary surgery
…and found
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.
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.
•Download one of our free missing poster templates
from our website, battersea.org.uk
•Take the dog or cat to the local vet, animal hospital
or rescue centre to be scanned for a microchip
•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.
•Download our found poster from our website,
battersea.org.uk and put it up around the area
where you found the lost animal.
Purcival’s story (cont.)
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.
Home at last
Joanna, Stephane
and Purcival
19
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.
1
2
Billy
Stella & Roo
4
5
3
Scruffy
Saba
Beans
7
6
Skye
Chica
1 Billy, from Tina Fiorini
id Freeman
2 Stella & Roo, from Dav
nett
Ben
na
Ala
from
a,
Sab
3
Daisy Hoare
ine, Gavin, Jazzy and
4 Beans, from Cather
5 Scruffy, from Barry Hill
fers
6 Skye, from Lana Jef
el and family
7 Chica, from Tim Ste
Please send us yo
ur pictures by em
ail at
paws@battersea.
org.uk
You can also write
to the address on
Page 1
If you’d like your pi
ctures returned, en
close an SAE
20
Autumn 2013
Golden oldie
It’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
STAR
LETTER
Sam
One of the Battersea family
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
Dewey
Rocky
Bungle in the jungle
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
Bath time
Bungle
Muttley
I brought Muttley home from Battersea in January
2005, he was about a year old then, making him tenand-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
21
He’s our rock
Max enjoyment
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.
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.
Peter Sullivan, Barton on Sea, Hampshire
Buddy’s my best Staffie
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.
Max (and Eric Morello),
Tooting Bec, London
Max
Kayleigh Ayres, Reading
Our playful girl
Buddy
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
Tia
Now Tia joins two Sams and Jasper
My 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.
Edie
In Loving
Memory of…
Sapphi
Shauna and
Gwilym McAllister,
London
Sapphi
22
Autumn 2013
+1,000
cats & dogs
Battersea
Old Windsor
Pets At Home
Sydenham
Brands Hatch
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.
Nibbler
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.
Battersea branches out
Battersea’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
Above
Our new centre
at Sydenham is a
first for Battersea,
where our staff
and volunteers will
promote rehoming
rescue animals
and offer advice
and information
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
23
Visitors to our Brands Hatch home love
the grassy paddocks, woodland walk and
wildflower-covered meadows where our
dogs walk, play and have training.
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.”
Manager Richard King
is very proud of what
Battersea achieves at
Brands Hatch
Pudding, Brenda and
Niall
Bruno
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.
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.”
24
Autumn 2013
King
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.
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…
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.
Digit
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.
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.
Twinkle
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.
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.
25
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.
Bella & Missy
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.
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.
Egg
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.
Noah
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.
Minnie
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.
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.
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.
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 doeeyed 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.
Archie
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.
26
Autumn 2013
se
r Mou
o
f
e
s
A hou
o
ance t
h
c
d
n
o
e a sec
ooking
l
v
i
s
l
g
a
u
im
yo
Could ese great an e?
th
od hom
o
one of
g
a
r
fo
a star
Vera’s
Name: Mouse
Age: 6–12 months
Breed: 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 rehoming@battersea.org.uk
Name: Vera
Age: 6 years
Breed: 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.
us
ie Ruf
d
l
o
y
l
Lone
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444
or email rehoming@battersea.org.uk
Name: Rufus
Age: 10–13 years
Breed: 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.
Call our Brands Hatch centre on 01474 875109
or email catterybbh@battersea.org.uk
27
Dawn
A new
Name: Dawn
Age: 5–7 years
Breed: 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.
Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444
or email cat.rehoming@battersea.org.uk
r
Rizzle
g
n
i
t
s
nd tru
Fun a
Name: Rizzler
Age: 4 years
Breed: 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 rehoming@battersea.org.uk
Shane
y
l
d
n
Frie
Name: Shane
Age: 11 years
Breed: 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.
Call our Old Windsor centre on 01784 494460
or email bow.rehomers@battersea.org.uk
e
nshin
u
s
y
e
Kac
Name: Kacey
Age: 1 year
Breed: 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 bow.rehomers@battersea.org.uk
28
Autumn 2013
Help the Home and...
Buy for
Battersea
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.
Visit
Pet
friendly
holidays
orbattersea
battersea.org.uk/buyf
Help to raise valuable
funds for Battersea by
buying from our speciallyselected partners.
For every holiday booked
through the site Battersea Dogs
& Cats Home receives a 10%
donation of the holiday cost.
Whether you are planning a
relaxing autumnal escape or a
festive family get together book
your break with cottages4you
and feel great about supporting
the animals in our care.
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.
10%
donation for
every booking
E
IZ
POOCH WI
N
N
og
PO
O
CH
13
P RIZ E
Venraphed by
She ture
ffiel
d
20 1 3
Phot
ER
PR
prize
WIN N ER
20
and the 2013 Winner is...
Rylo the Picture
Perfect Pug
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.
NEEDS
BLEED
(BDCH)
You too can treat your dog
like a prize pooch with a Venture Pet
Pawtrait experience voucher.
In association with
£5
so fro
m
Ba ld i e
s
t
& te d ach
C rs on v
at e a o
s a D te uc
H o d h
om g to er
e s
For more details visit
venturephotography.co.uk/petpawtrait
29
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
1
Casper
2
Pumble
Archie
Pickle & Pee Wee
3
4
5
Pixie
6
Mischka
Harrison
1 Pumble, from Sarah
Fulker
2 Casper, from Teresa
dsay
3 Archie, from David Lin
Charlotte Birley
4 Pickle & Pee Wee, from
Hards
5 Mischka, from Susan
l
6 Pixie, from Louise Hal
Please send us yo
ur pictures by em
ail at
paws@battersea.
org.uk
You can also write
to the address on
Page 1.
If you’d like your pi
ctures returned, en
close an SAE.
30
Don’t
leave me
this way
Ask the expert
With Helen Stone
Canine Welfare Trainer
Autumn 2013
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.
Helen Stone is one of Battersea’s
dog behaviourists, and fosters
dogs who find it hard to cope with
kennel life.
Duchess was suffering a severe case of
separation anxiety when I fostered her
What to do
What not to do
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
FS21336067
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
LV.com
0800 085 0140
For textphone first dial 18001. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Calls may be recorded.
Who will look after them
when you’re gone?
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.
For more information about how
to word your Will and leave a gift
to the Home, please contact:
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.
Registered Charity Number. 206394
battersea.org.uk
The Legacy Office
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
4 Battersea Park Road
London SW8 4AA
or call 020 7627 9247
Ref: LPAD1308
32
Autumn 2013
Day in
the life
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.
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.
Diane Johnson
Receptionist,
Battersea Old Windsor
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;
“I’ve found a
“I’m not sure if I
could I swap it for
ferret, can I bring want a dog, can
a smaller one?”
it to you?”
I borrow one for
the weekend and
see how it goes?”
Another interesting enquiry
“Battersea Old Windsor
is a community, we
love the people and
the animals – it’s like
one big happy family”
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.
One big, happy family
Visit our Old Windsor centre at Priest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2JN.
Opening times and more information at battersea.org.uk
Christmas Goodies 2013
Order at battersea.org.uk or call 020 7627 9228
A very Merry Christmas to you all
Battersea 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.
Christmas cards
C01
24d
£8.99
C03
6 designs
£4.75
C02
Boxe
cards
£4.75
140x140mm
137x137mm
C06
10
£3.60
C05
127x127mm
Cards per
pack
£5.99
124x210mm
C08
£4.75
140x140mm
C04
£3.60
127x127mm
C07
£4.99
198x102mm
C13
£4.75
140x140mm
C09
£4.75
140x140mm
C10
£5.99
210x124mm
C11
£4.75
140x140mm
C12
£4.75
137x137mm
C16
£4.99
198x102mm
C14
£4.75
153x108mm
C15
£3.60
127x127mm
Books
Age 5+
£4.99
each
Battersea stories
A selection of entertaining and
educational tales based on true
life stories from our Home.
B02
B03
B04
B05
B06
B07
B08
B09
B10
B11
B12
B13
B14
B15
B16
B17
B18
B19
B20
B21
B22
B23
B24
Seasonal offer:
5 children’s books for £20
B01
£7.99
A Home of Their Own
The story of the Home from
its beginnings in 1860 to the
present day. Now in paperback.
Gifts for dogs and cats
Dog treat
advent calendar
Noodle
Duck
Monty
Mouse
Snowman
Rope Tug
G03
£2.99
18cm
G04
£4.99
G01
£3.50
29cm
G02
Cat treat
advent calendar
£3.99
28cm
G07
£5.99
39cm
G05
£3.50
Winter
Snowman
Cat Teaser
Desmond
Donkey
G06
£3.99
85cm
G08
£3.50
Four
Christmas
Cat Balls
Wrapping paper
Gifts for Battersea
dogs and cats
Wrapping paper and tags
Show your support for the dogs
and cats in our care over the
festive period by buying a gift for
them this Christmas.*
6 sheets of wrapping paper with
matching tags. 500x700mm.
Dog ‘special meal’
Cat ‘special meal’
Dog toy
Cat toy
Dog blanket
Cat blanket
W03
£3.99
6 sheets
W01
£3.99
6 sheets
N02
N03
N04
N05
N06
WHY NOT BUY
A GIFT FOR A
DOG OR CAT IN
OUR CARE?
W02
6 sheets
Thank you for supporting
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
N01
*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.
£3.99
Order form
£5.00
£5.00
£3.00
£3.00
£9.99
£9.99
Code (add colour if req’d) Price
Quantity
Total Cost
EXAMPLE GO7 5.99
2
11.98
Order online at battersea.org.uk
or 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
shop@battersea.org.uk 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 fundraising@battersea.org.uk 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.
A postage and packing charge of £3.00 will be applied to every order:
+ £3.00
Donation*
Total
If you would like your donations to
inclue Gift Aid, please tick the box and
sign below left.
Name
* 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.
Signature
Address
Phone
Postcode
Email**
Please make cheques payable to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
Or debit my:
Visa
MasterCard
Start date:
/
Security No:
Expiry date:
/
Issue No:
Maestro
Card No:
Maestro only
Maestro only
Date
Registered Charity Number 206394
Signature
Please note the diary and calendars will be available from October and will be sent separately from the rest of your order.
Gifts
S05
£11.99
S01
£9.99
Happy Endings
Calendar
1000 piece jigsaw
S02
£4.99
Traditional Advent
Calendar
S03
S04
£5.99
£5.99
Diary
Slim calendar
S07
S08
£4.00
£0.50
Back
Front
S06
Fridge
magnet
£7.99
100 piece jigsaw
S09
£3.50
Bookmark
S11
Ceramic mug
£1.00
Limited Edition
Tote Bag
S13
£5.00
each
S10
Pin badge
Jazz the Black
& White Cat
Oscar the
Ginger Cat
S12
Trolley
key ring
£1.50
Soft toys
400ml
Rocky the
Rottweiler
T01
£1.50
Travel mug
Max the Labrador
Retriever
Huey the
Husky
T05
T07
T06
T02
Dogs
£14.99
Cats
£9.99
each
each
21cm
30cm
T09
T08
T03
T10
T04
Cosmo the
Tortoiseshell Cat
Angel the
White Cat
Cherry the
Fox Terrier
Daisy the
Border Collie
Bo the
Boxer