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www.battersea.org.uk
The magazine of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Summer 2013
For the love of dogs and Paul O’Grady We welcome a second series of the BAFTA nominated award-winning show
A helping pawHow to communicate with deaf and blind dogs
Reader surveyTake part in our survey and tell us what you think about Paws
Did you know we’ve been rehoming cats like Wally since 1883?
Features
10 130 years of cats 16 Join our fundraising family22 A helping paw26 For the love of more dogs Regulars
03 Claire’s Welcome 04 News19 Dog gallery 20 Paws letters24 Take us home28 A day in the life of... Paul O’Grady29 Cat gallery30 Buy for Battersea31 Ask the expert: Good food guide32 Paws survey
Executive EditorDee McIntosh
EditorCaroline Stringer
ContributorsCharlotte CullinanDebbie ChapmanKate WinsallMiriam Lightbown
Please send your pictures and letters to:Paws magazineBattersea Dogs & Cats Home4 Battersea Park RoadLondon SW8 [email protected]
For more information and our opening hours, call 0843 509 4444 or visit our website www.battersea.org.uk
Old WindsorPriest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2JN
Brands HatchCrowhurst Lane, Ash, Kent TN15 7HH
PatronHer Majesty The Queen
PresidentHRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO
Paws is designed on behalf of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home by www.williamjoseph.co.uk
Advertising [email protected]
Note: Advertisements and advertising inserts appearing within or sent with Paws magazine have been included at the advertiser’s request only. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not verify the quality, condition, validity or standard of the offers, products or services advertised. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not in any way endorse any of the products or services offered.
Keep in touchPlease help us keep our records as up-to-date as possible and inform us of any changes in your details. You can write to the usual Battersea address or email [email protected]
If you no longer wish to receive Paws magazine and/or other correspondence from the Home, please write and let us know, including your name, address and postcode. You can write to the data protection officer at the address below or email [email protected]
Data Protection OfficerBattersea Dogs & Cats Home4 Battersea Park RoadLondon SW8 4AA
01
44,918 (Jan–Dec 2012)
Contents
on p26on p26Behind the scenes...
Kate ReeveRos DaviesPaul O’GradyPhil Robinson
on p32on p32What do you think?
03
Welcome
On 13 April, just four months into the year, we welcomed the 1,000th dog of 2013 into our London centre. Pictured with me here looking particularly appealing, he was one of a litter of weeks’-old puppies and their mum, who came to Battersea because their owner could no longer look after them. We named him Emerald and like his brothers and sisters, he was an incredibly precious arrival who soon found a loving home.
Everything we do at Battersea, from providing second chances for tiny pups like Emerald to reuniting lost cats with their worried owners, is only possible because of the generosity and kindness of our supporters. So in this issue of Paws we say thank you to one of our fundraising groups, our growing band of community fundraisers, and let you know how you could join them. Turn to page 16 for fairy cakes, pamper days and dog shows – all for the love of Battersea.
We were absolutely thrilled when our great friend and Battersea Ambassador Paul O’Grady returned to the Home to film the second series of his wonderful ITV show For the Love of Dogs, being broadcast on ITV on Thursdays, right now. Once again, stories of Battersea dogs are tugging at the heartstrings of the nation. We don’t want to give too much away and spoil your enjoyment of the series, so our feature on page 26 takes a fascinating look behind the scenes of what happens when Paul and the film crew come to Battersea.
Last year we cared for 2,760 cats and in 2013 we welcomed the 230,000th in a very long line of moggies which stretches all the way back to 1883. Yet animal lovers still think of us as purely the dogs’ home! When our wonderful new cattery was opened by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall in 2010, people were surprised to discover that we have such long experience in caring for and rehoming cats and kittens. On page 10, Paws celebrates our 130–year relationship with cats.
I’m really looking forward to two special dates in the Battersea calendar – our Old Windsor Family Fun Day on 6 July, and Battersea’s Annual Reunion, in Battersea Park, London on 8 September (see page 7 for details). Happy days when Battersea dogs and their owners come back to say hello and friends and supporters from far afield come and join us for a day filled with fun, laughter, games and all manner of lovely things for everyone to enjoy. I very much hope to meet you at one or both of these great, and hopefully sunny, fabulous days out.
Claire Horton Chief Executive
With Johnson’s Veterinary strength flea and worm control it’s easy to care for your pets yourself.
Available from your local pet shop.
www.4fleas.co.uk
Active Ingredient: Nitenpyram
Active Ingredient: Nitroscanate
let sleeping dogs lie…
...treat them at home
50pAt all participating pet stores. No cash alternative. Only one voucher per pack.To the retailer: Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd. will redeem this voucher, providing it has been received in part payment forany Johnson’s 4fleas tablets or one dose easy wormers. Redeem by returning all vouchers to JOHNSON’S VETERINARYPRODUCTS LTD. FREEPOST (BM2565) SUTTON COLDFIELD, West Mids B75 7DF. (Please note there is a £2 minimumredemption value) Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd reserve the right to refuse the redemption of any vouchers. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer ends 31.12.13
OFFyour next purchase of Johnson’s 4fleas tablets or one dose easy wormer
Johnsons_London Pet Show Advert_April2013_220x140mm_Layout 1 15/03/2013 09:29 Page 1
Summer 201304 05
Fair Dinkum
‘G’day Battersea’ from Down Under – meet Bruce, the first knitted Staffie to make it to Oz since the little wrigglers became cuddly mascots for our Staffies. They’re Softer Than you Think campaign to help everyone give the much maligned breed a second chance. Bruce was knitted by Dr Skelton from Kings College Hospital, and after an arduous journey he made it to Perth, Australia, to join newlyweds Adam and Leah in the quest to promote Staffies.
Impressionist Alistair McGowan has a new character in his life after a recent visit to Battersea – cute kitten Timmy. Alistair and his fiancée Charlotte rehomed little Timmy at Easter. The scamp caught their eye after recovering from a severe skin condition which also affected his littermates Tosh, Tarker, Tess and Treacle, resulting in a lot of veterinary treatment and a four-month stay at Battersea. The cattery staff and volunteers who helped them made a huge difference to their young lives, and thanks to them, they have all found new homes.
IN BRIEF
RightBruce the knitted Staffie in Perth
Chauffeur drivenA welcome delivery of blankets, toys, food and treats arrived at our Brands Hatch centre recently, courtesy of the Kent Mk1 Cortina Club. “This is their 2nd annual visit and they brought along ten classic Ford Cortinas, Consuls, and a Ford Hotrod,” said Tanya Madden, one of our rehomers. “They met a number of dogs and had a tour of the kennels and cattery with some of our weekend volunteers.”
Battersea gives evidence at House of Commons In April Battersea Chief Executive Claire Horton was invited to give evidence on dog legislation and welfare to the MP members of the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Committee at Westminster. This was an important opportunity for us to advise politicians on the need for more effective dangerous dog laws including those surrounding owner responsibility and preventing dog attacks happening in the first place.
Every little helpsTesco New Malden has left our dogs licking their lips with a donation of more than £200 worth of goodies, including jars of Marmite and peanut butter, which make a tasty treat when smeared onto their toys. And our cats were purring with delight over their gifts of food and treats.
Battersea champions
“Chips for pets”
RightAlistair and Charlotte with Timmy
LeftThe Kent Mk 1 Cortina Club...
Join us for an experience you will never forget...
BelowOur friends at Tesco make a special delivery
Two Battersea Border Collies are celebrating after being crowned champion dogs. Pele was rehomed from our Old Windsor centre by Sam Rawson in 2005, and became her fi rst working trials dog. After earning all their qualifi cations, the Dublin-based pair have now become Irish Working Trials Champions, an amazing achievement.
Battersea’s Best to Pele, named for Battersea, George Best and Pele, was one of the very fi rst graduates of our Service Dogs programme, which assesses dogs less suited to a pet home for their working potential.“He is now a champion,” says Sam. “Well he always was and always will be. So thanks to all the guys and girls at Battersea for a fabulous dog.”
And Joanna Mayston is another proud owner of a Battersea dog. “Swift won the Kennel Club Special Pre Beginner Obedience Stakes Final at Crufts, and was presented with her prize in the main arena. I am so proud of my girl Swift – and thank you Battersea!”
WINNERSWIFT
Top home for Timmy
Left and belowThe Battersea team on microchipping duty
Battersea is offering microchipping, by appointment, for free, to support the Government’s decision to make chipping a legal requirement in 2016.
And we are taking to the streets and parks of London to microchip the capital’s dogs, helping owners and pets be reunited, and supporting responsible ownership.
In the fi rst three months of 2013, Battersea’s community team chipped hundreds of dogs at events in Lewisham, Brixton, Denmark Hill, South Norwood and Abbey Wood,and more owners made an appointment to have their dog microchipped onsite at our London centre.
“Many dog owners don’t appreciate the importance of a microchip until they’ve experienced the distress of losing their dog,” says Lisa Bunce, who is one of the team that’s been out and about with a microchip machine. “Two thirds of the dogs that arrive at our London site aren’t microchipped and nearly all fail to have an ID tag, which makes it virtually impossible for us to reunite the dog with its owner. Microchipping a dog takes no time at all and I would urge all owners to take the time to get it done.”
“Microchipping becomes a legal necessity for all dog owners in England in April 2016, and we’re pleased that so many people have asked Battersea to microchip their pets well ahead of that deadline”.
To see where we are next and make a free microchip appointment call 0843 509 4444, visit facebook.com/Battersea or view @BDCH Twitter.
Battersea works with Petlog, the UK’s biggest lost and found database for microchipped pets, and all our dogs and cats are microchipped before they go to their new homes.
Battersea!”
Far rightJoanna and Swift at Crufts
Below rightPele turns on the style
Summer 201306 07
Running eventsA huge thankyou to the fantastic teams of runners in the Virgin London Marathon and Bupa London 10k run, who raised an amazing £26,000 to help us continue our vital work looking after all the dogs and cats in our care.
If you would like to take on a running challenge for Battersea there’s still time – we have a limited number of places left in the Royal Parks Half Marathon on 6 October, 2013. What better way to support our dogs and cats than to go for a run in the park? To join Team Battersea in this iconic half marathon please visit www.battersea.org.uk/get_involved
Tristan and Isolde, Romeo and Juliet, Tom and Jerry – life’s better when there are two of you sharing it. Just ask the 33 pairs of cats Battersea has just managed to rehome, like sisters Pickle and Pee Wee, who had three stays at Battersea totalling 131 days, before they went home – together – to south west London.
We get around 120 calls a month from people wanting to bring in two or more cats, and Cattery Rehomer Ros Davies says: “At the moment, we have an unusually high number of pairs needing to fi nd new homes, and it does tend to take a little longer to rehome cats together. We suspect some people are concerned that two cats cost too much or take more work but a pair of cats can be wonderful pets for working couples as they have each other for entertainment during the day. People rehoming a pair will have twice the love and twice the fun.”
If you could give two cats, or any of our cattery residents, a home please call us on 020 7622 3626 or visit www.battersea.org.uk where you can look at all the cats and kittens who need a new home, like adorable sisters Pickle and Pee Wee.
The two Battersea littermates who were reunited in Paws have now become a threesome. In our last issue we reported how the owners of Christmas pups Cupid and Dancer got in touch to let us know how their youngsters (both renamed Sam) were getting on. Now, Vixen’s mum Julia Summers has emailed to say: “I am proud to say I now own Vixen, renamed Jasper. Here he is with his trademark ears – one up, one down.”
Sams – Meet Jasper
RightLeslie Coles and Chris Fritot with Staffies Buddy and Dizzy
BelowPickle and Pee Wee
Summer fun
Take me home:
Louis on p24
Battersea knows no boundaries when it comes to fi nding good homes for our great animals, and we’re celebrating our latest long-distance matchmaking successes. Leslie Coles and Chris Fritot made a 1,300 mile round trip from their home in Grouville, Jersey, to meet and adopt super Staffi es Buddy and Dizzy, who are now enjoying Channel Islands’ life.
“Battersea is a wonderful charity which works hard to rehome Staffi es and change their reputation, and even though it was a long way, the journey has defi nitely been worth it,” says Leslie.
And for Glenn and Leanne Edison, from Loch Lomond in Dunbartonshire, Scotland, there was a 1,000 mile journey to meet and rehome New Zealand Huntaway Loki, who came to Battersea because his owner couldn’t give him the care he needed.
Two-year old Loki travelled to this stunning part of the Scottish Highlands to live with his new owners in a waterfront hotel in Ardlui. Having spotted him on the Battersea website Glenn and Leanne couldn’t be happier, admitting “We knew as soon as we saw him that Loki was the one.” Their epic trip was crammed into one long day starting with a one hour drive to Glasgow, a fl ight to London, a further drive to Battersea, rehoming Loki, then hitting the high road back to Loch Lomond.
Miles of smiles
A pair affair
LeftJasper in his new home
THANKYOU
...a unique challenge sledding the forests and highlands of Lapland...
Calling all dogs: Your Battersea needs You!We’re asking dogs to bring their owners to two special days of family fun this summer at our Old Windsor centre and in Battersea Park.
Sunday, 8 September 2013, 11am–4.30pm, Battersea Annual ReunionPlease bring your families along to our brilliant Annual Reunion. Meet up with your old Battersea pals and make new friends in Battersea Park. Enjoy dog displays, competitions, stalls and fun for all the family.
Saturday, 6 July 2013, 10.30am–4.30pm, Old Windsor Fun DayYour people can enjoy a great day out at our centre in the Berkshire countryside with children’s games, refreshments and stalls, while you tackle our fun dog show, games and agility.
Face painting
Competitions
Dog show
Agility displays
Summer 201308
1 SylousShy Staffi e Sylous is growing a personality as large as his fuller fi gure as he settles in with the Perry family from Orpington, Kent. After beingoverlooked by visitors during his 111 days at Battersea, Sylous fi nally caught the eye of Geraldine and John. “His adorable personality won us over,” said Geraldine. “We’re thrilled with our new family member and would recommend Battersea, and Staffi es, to everyone.”
2 FentonLife’s a beach for Fenton, now enjoying a new name (Munro) as well as a new life after a lengthy 401-day stay at Battersea’s Old Windsor centre. The north Kent coast is now his playground, and Veronica, Jim and James McKnight are his adoring new family, who say “After losing our last lad, Hamish, we were devastated, and it was this great natured Staffi e, Fenton, who stole our hearts and has helped to mend them.”
3 Vincent“When we fi rst met Vincent we thought he would probably keep himself to himself and only show up at feeding time. He now joins in on the daily walk, watches the dogs practise their agility and enjoys the odd pony ride amongst other things! The goats are back out in the fi eld and he takes himself off to visit them throughout the day!” Ros and Caroline Seignot are the ones Vincent has to thank for this new lifestyle, after 61 days at Battersea and lots of hard work building the two-year-old’s confi dence.
4 IsabelleFizz came to our Brands Hatch centre because her owners were going abroad. For the next 265 days, Fizz stayed put, anxiously watching the comings and goings in the cattery. When the Cassells, from Sevenoaks in Kent, stopped in front of her pen, her stay came to an end. Fizz became Isabelle and, although still a little shy and wary of the big outdoors, is turning into a right cuddle monster.
Rehoming
...raising money to help look after our dogs and cats.For more information please contact the Event Team on 020 7627 9339 or email [email protected]
Dalswinton
B&B from £48.00 pppn, weekly rates available. SPECIAL OFFERS: Please visit our website.
Car parking and solar-heated outdoor pool (in season).
All rooms en-suite with tea/coffee, colour TV and free WiFi.
Dogs free of charge and allowed everywhere (except the dining room).
Licensed bar and restaurant serving 3 course dinner.
Proprietors: Stuart & Sal HopeDalswinton House, St Mawgan-in-PydarCornwall TR8 4EZ
Self catering lodge sleeping 3 adults.
Easy access to Newquay airport and the Eden Project.
8 acres of private meadowland for dog exercise.
A Victorian stone-built house standing in 10 acres of gardens and meadowland in the glorious Vale of Lanherne, midway between Padstow and Newquay. Overlooking the village of St. Mawgan, with views to the sea at Mawgan Porth, our hotel offers a warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and great food prepared with fresh local produce.We are totally non-smoking, and are not suitable for children under 16 years old.
Telephone: 01637 [email protected]
Summer 201310 11
With a long back CATalogue, including rehoming a cat to 10 Downing Street, it’s surprising how few people still realise the well-established connection between the Home and our feline friends.
130 yearsof cats
If you visit one of Battersea’s three catteries today you are likely to spot heated beds, hand-knitted blankets and special diets for even the fussiest felines. Cats are now cherished members of the family, and there are estimated to be over eight million of them across the UK. However, if you turned back the clock 130 years, life couldn’t be more different for the country’s cats. They were widely regarded as vermin, and routinely kicked or beaten in the streets. One of Battersea’s fi rst famous supporters, Charles Dickens, compared them to the lowlife of the city, writing: “They leave their young families to stagger about the gutters, unassisted, while they frouzily quarrel and swear and scratch and spit, at street corners.”
It was in this anti-cat landscape that Battersea fi rst started caring for the capital’s unloved moggies. Having started in 1860, the Home initially faced a tide of negativity from the public and the press, who often ridiculed the founders for helping stray dogs. However the charity was determined to improve the lot of London’s unwanted animals, so when it was offered a £500 donation from a wealthy patron to start caring for cats, the Home decided that feline, as well as canine residents, would be welcome.
Main pictureKeepers Andrews and Dupson have their hands full, circa 1900
BelowThe home in around 1910
Since those fi rst cats strolled through the door in 1871, Battersea has cared for around 230,000 cats and seen a sea change in the public’s attitudes. Back in the late nineteenth century the charity desperately struggled to rehome its cats, and appeals to help the cats were largely unsuccessful. Now the charity welcomes thousands of visitors to its catteries and fi nds new homes for nearly 2,300 cats each year.
One, a tabby stray called Larry, was adopted by 10 Downing Street and is now Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Offi ce.
Many of these new homes are found by Battersea’s top cat Rehomer Ros Davies, who joined Battersea in 2002 and fi nds new families for more than 550 cats each year. She says: “It’s my job to work out which cat fi ts which owner, and in many respects it’s like being a matchmaker. Today we spend a lot of time getting to know each cat so we can fi nd them the best home, and it’s wonderful when we receive letters from happy owners updating us on their cat. It is incredibly different from when we fi rst started 130 years ago, when we had to beg people to help our cats.”
1860The Temporary Home for Lost and Starving Dogs is established by Mary Tealby in North London.
1913The Home stops boarding cats, and only cares for strays.
1871The Temporary Home moves to Battersea, where it has remained ever since.
1918Rationing makes it increasingly hard for the Home to get food for its animals, handouts are often relied on.
1883Stray cats and boarders start arriving at Battersea.
1939During World War II the Home closes its cattery due to staff and food shortages.
1886Queen Victoria becomes patron of the Home.
1948The cattery re-opens to London’s stray cats.
1907A new cattery opens with stoves to keep it warm in winter. Today it is used for staff offi ces.
1956HM Queen Elizabeth IIbecomes the Home’s patron.
its animals, handouts are often relied on.
A history of cats at Battersea
One thing that certainly hasn’t changed is the colourful four-legged characters arriving at Battersea’s gates. In the early 1930s nine tabby cats ended up at Battersea who had performed as a troupe all over the country. One could walk a tight-rope while another clung on from underneath, and a third would lie in a pram while a fourth pushed him along. All nine found good homes, and presumably kept their new owners very entertained. Over the years Battersea has also cared for an Amur leopard cat discovered in a garden, and even helped a pregnant mum found near the primate area at London Zoo.
It’s not just Downing Street’s Larry who has famous friends, as a number of celebrities have rehomed cats over the years. Battersea cats have gone to live with author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Radio DJ Lauren Laverne, model Sophie Dahl, comedians Alistair McGowan and Catherine Tate, and actors Timothy West and Prunella Scales. Cats have also gone to live in the Globe Theatre in London and even a Buddhist centre. In fact, Battersea rehomes cats across the country, and about a fi fth of cats are rehomed outside of the M25.
Summer 201312 13
1970HM Queen Elizabeth II opens our new cattery, housing 30 cats, with fi bre-glass cat cubicles and under-fl oor heating.
2010Battersea celebrates its 150th anniversary and its £5 million London cattery is opened by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall.
2011Battersea cat Larry (right) moves into 10 Downing St.
1999Battersea buys its Brands Hatch centre in Kent, developing kennels and a cattery. Today the cattery cares for an average of 25 cats at any one time.
2013Battersea holds its fi rst cattery Valentines’ Day event, called ‘Feline Lonely’.
2000The Home sets up its Lost Dogs & Cats Line. Today it receives over 3,000 calls a year about lost and found cats.
2013This year Battersea celebrates 130 years of caring for cats, and a lot has changed for our four-legged friends over the years.
2005Cats are fi nally recognised in the charity’s name, as it becomes known as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
The care cats receive has also changed dramaticallyover the years. In the beginning the cats were in crowded shared pens, and rationing often meant food supplies were stretched. Today the Home spends £14.65 a day caring for each cat, who receive their own pen and have diets tailored to their individual needs. Alongside a dedicated team of staff, more than 80 cat socialising volunteers give up over 12,000 hours a year to spend time with the cats. The Home also has a team of 80 foster carers who open their homes to cats in need, such as those who are recovering from operations and mums and kittens.
Battersea even has a special cattery enrichment programme to ensure residents are kept mentally and physically stimulated. Ros explains: “When we started helping cats in 1883 the residents had to be grateful for food and a roof over their heads. Today we really focus on their environment, so we have a range of toys, scratching posts, climbing frames and carpet squares which our cats love. To keep the catteries interesting we use various scents, such as pine branches at Christmas, rosemary from our herb garden, and scented kitty cushions.”
Nowadays the breeds of cats enjoying these little luxuries are incredibly varied. While domestic shorthaired cats account for 80% of cats, last year Battersea cared for 13 Ragdolls, 20 Persians, 19 Bengals and 4 Burmese. They would certainly have raised a few eyebrows back in 1883, when most were street moggies.Another dramatic change at Battersea has been in the veterinary care cats receive. The early days saw frequent outbreaks of illnesses among residents at all cat homes in the capital, and Battersea was no exception, regardless of how clean it kept facilities. The borders were the most prone to infections and often stopped eating, forcing staff to ask their owners to come and fetch them early. Battersea worked hard to try and keep the cats healthy, and in 1899 the cats were frequently visited by the vet of the Home’s patron, Queen Victoria. In 1913 Battersea was still struggling, and decided it would no longer board cats and would only accept strays.
While Battersea still doesn’t board cats, their health couldn’t be more different. All cats are seen by a member of the veterinary team upon arrival, and receive regular check-ups throughout their stay. The new cattery includes special quarantine areas for any ill cats, and Battersea does thousands of operations on cats every year, including over 1,000 neuters.
Yet despite our love for cats, even today Battersea still has to deal with some very diffi cult cases. Ros explains: “We regularly receive cats and kittens who’ve been dumped in bags by busy roads, trapped in boxes by skips, or left to fend for themselves in arctic conditions. Sadly there are still some people who see them as disposable, or an inconvenience.” To try and tackle this Battersea works hard to raise awareness of the importance of responsible cat ownership, as the majority of cats arriving at the charity are not neutered, microchipped, or wearing a collar and tag.
Ros concludes: “We are incredibly proud to have cared for cats for over 130 years, during which time a lot has changed at Battersea and in the public’s attitudes to cats, but we know there is still work to be done. We are now looking forward to another 130 years of cat-fi lled fun here at Battersea.”
1979Battersea acquires its Old Windsor centre. Today Battersea Old Windsor cares for an average of 45 cats, with separate areas for mums and kittens, and an on-site clinic.
2013Battersea holds its fi rst
Lonely’.
© Chris Montgomery
Dogs go crazy for Honey’sHoney’s is made using lean, minced meat (choose from a variety of seasonal recipes including free-range chicken, pork, beef, lamb, duck and wild rabbit) and grated vegetables. As dogs derive a third of their nutrition from bone, Honey’s grind it up (so that it can barely be seen) and mix it in. We also recommend that you give your dogs bones for their teeth and to exercise their upper body and jaws (and because they love them) and so offer individual bones in convenient sizes, as well as chicken and duck wings.
How the Honey’s service worksHoney’s deals direct with all its customers. You can order online or by telephone. Food is made to order, frozen and shipped overnight in insulated boxes to arrive the next day. Pop everything in the freezer and take it out and defrost as you need it.
Honey’s prepare everything to orderOne of the first things you’ll notice if you decide to feed your dog Honey’s is that we take a very personal approach. It isn’t just that we want to know your dog’s name, we also want to know his or her vital statistics, medical history, lifestyle, preferences and personality. We like a photograph, too, so that we can see what he or she looks like. Why the fuss? Honey’s prepare all our dog food to order, and, armed with the information you provide (together with your feedback), we can adjust the ingredients and quantities on an ongoing basis, so as to best meet your dog’s needs.
100% money back guaranteeHoney’s is proud to say that almost all our customers come to us by word of mouth. In order to ensure that we maintain our reputation for quality, service and integrity we guarantee that your food will arrive in first class condition on the promised date. If you are dissatisfied with the quality of our food simply follow the instructions in the delivery box and we will refund the cost in full and without argument.
Your detailsName:Address:
Postcode:Telephone number (day):Telephone number (evening):Email:
Your dog’s detailsName:Breed (if relevant):Gender:Weight (if known):Do you want your dog to gain or lose weight?:Any health issues or allergies:
I enclose a cheque or money order for £30 payable to Darling’s Real Food Limited or, Please contact me for my credit card details
Honey’s Real Food Darling’s House, Salisbury Road, Pewsey, Wiltshire SN9 5PZ Telephone: 0844 656 1566 Web: www.honeysrealdogfood.comEmail: [email protected]
SMALL PRINT! Only one hamper per customer. If you take advantage of this offer you can’t take advantage of any other new customer offer made by Honey’s. This offer is open to any reader of Paws Magazine until 31st August 2013. Please see the Honey’s website for all the company’s usual terms and conditions – all of which apply. The website also contains full details of the ingredients. Honey’s Real Dog Food is made by Darling’s Real Food Limited.
ANY QUESTIONS?Honey’s will be happy to help.
Just call or email.
Honey’s dog food is 100% ethical, raw and British
YES! Please send me a half-price hamper!
The easiest way to order is to call Honey’s on 0844 656 1566 (calls cost 4p a minute but they will call you back). If you prefer you can email [email protected]. Please let us know the name of your dog, his or her weight, breed, gender and any health issues or allergies. Plus your address and phone number(s). Don’t send credit card details, we’ll get those later. Or order by post using the coupon below. Don’t forget to mention you are a Paws Magazine reader.
Honey’s Real FoodDarling’s House, Salisbury Road, Pewsey, Wiltshire SN9 5PZ
Telephone: 0844 656 1566Web: www.honeysrealdogfood.comEmail: [email protected]
How to Order
CODE: PM
Usual hamper price £63.
Special price for Paws Magazine readers:
Just £30 (including
overnight delivery)
Have you noticed how raw feeding, sometimes referred to as the BARF diet, is in the news a lot nowadays? It is the diet that dogs would eat in the
wild and there’s a growing body of evidence that it leads to happier, healthier, longer-living dogs.
Now, whether you are an experienced raw feeder, or have heard all about the benefits and want to try it, here’s a great opportunity.
Honey’s, a small, family-run artisan dog food producer based in Wiltshire, is offering readers of Paws Magazine a hamper of its mouth-wateringly delicious raw dog food for less than half price. This means that you can order a £63 hamper of Honey’s for just £30, including overnight delivery.
Ethical companyBefore we tell you what goodies there are in the Paws Magazine hamper or explain the benefits of a raw diet, we just want to say a few words about what makes Honey’s different.
Honey’s is the only dog food producer in the UK that insists on using British, ethically-sourced ingredients. We really care about farm animal welfare, visit all our suppliers and won’t touch meat that isn’t free range, wild and/or organic. More than this, we utilise the finest cuts of meat and our food is completely suitable for human consumption.
At Honey’s we really believe in what we are doing. If you contact us for raw feeding advice, even if you never plan to become a customer, we will happily answer your questions, provide free recipes and even consult the company vet on your behalf.
The Honey’s team offer a genuinely personal, old-fashioned service.
Also, as anyone who has approached us for a donation to a canine charity has discovered, we never, ever say no. Indeed, we do a lot of other things to support good causes.
Your hamper will contain nine kilograms of Honey’s complete food: chicken (3kg), beef (2kg), lamb (1kg), pork (1kg) and duck (2kg); two meaty marrow bones; and a bag of chicken wings. PLUS: personalised feeding instructions and a copy of Jonathan Self ’s comprehensive guide to canine nutrition: Honey’s Natural Feeding Handbook.
Experienced raw feeders will be interested to hear that Honey’s now sells butcher’s offcuts for people who want to go the DIY route.
Already Feeding Raw?
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We have covered raw feeding fairly regularly in the past so we probably don’t need to say a great deal about it here. Dogs and their wolf ancestors have been eating raw food for over a million years. It is what their teeth and digestive systems are best suited for and, as you can imagine, they thrive on it.
Benefits include a glossy coat, healthy skin, lean muscle tone,
robust immune system, sweet smelling breath, healthy teeth and gums, better digestion, strong heart and more energy and vitality.
Dogs eating a raw food diet can be expected to live longer and to suffer less illness and disease. Indeed, if your dog has any health issues (even minor problems such as allergies, dry skin, bad breath and what the Americans refer to,
euphemistically, as ‘gas’) it is quite likely that a switch to a raw food diet will clear them up.
It also has to be said that more and more vets feel that modern, processed food is actually bad for dogs. Honey’s chief veterinary surgeon, for instance, believes nine out of ten canine health issues are a direct result of dogs eating the wrong diet.
The Honey’s Half-Price Hamper contains...
(including overnight delivery)
Now, whether you are an experienced raw feeder, or have heard all about the benefits and want to try it,
Honey’s, a small, family-run artisan dog food producer Paws Magazine a
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Summer 201316
Battersea relies on its generous FUN-raisers to help raise much-needed money for its dogs and cats.
Join our fundraising familyDid you know that fairy cakes, walking boots and balloons can all help care for the dogs and cats at Battersea? While they’re not items you’ll spot in the kennels or cattery, they are just some of the things Battersea’s supporters have used to raise much-needed money for the Home with their fantastic fundraising efforts. The charity doesn't receive any central government funding towards the care of its dogs and cats, which costs £12.7m each year, so it is all thanks to the generosity of these supporters that Battersea can exist.
Anyone can raise funds for Battersea and there is no end to the range of exciting things you can do. From organising a cake sale or a sponsored walk, to holdinga charity car wash or a big party, inventive animal lovers work hard to fundraise for the charity, knowing that every penny they raise is going to a great cause.One baker who turned her love of all things cake-based into a fundraising venture was Tineke Mollemans, who works at Penguin Books UK. Tineke organised a huge cake sale at her offi ce, and with the help of Battersea made some fantastic posters to advertise it to her colleagues. Her plates of brownies, cookies and cupcakes raised an impressive £360, which Penguin Books UK then kindly matched, so Battersea received a whopping £720. Another innovative idea from the children at Sherwood Park Primary School in London was to hold a sponsored silence. When they held their silence all 400 students took part and they raised an amazing £2,000.
Whether you want to fundraise as an individual, at work, at school or as part of a fundraising group, Battersea has lots of fun ideas to help you raise some cash to help the Home, including:· Ask your supermarket if you can bag customers’ shopping and ask for a donation for your service· Have a swear box at work, at home or in your pub to raise money for Battersea. It’s amazing how quickly the donations come rolling in!· Organise your own take on a popular TV show Whether it’s Come Dine with Me, Strictly Come Dancing, X Factor or even Blind Date, gather your friends and charge them to take part· Make a sacrifi ce and ask people to sponsor you to give something up – chocolate, TV, take-aways, drinking… the list can go on· Arrange a fancy dress or dress-down day at school or work, and ask people to make a donation to get involved.
17
LeftMiriam (left) with Driscoll and Kate with Ellie
Below rightStaff at Penguin Books were thrilled with Tineke’s tasty selection
The teamMiriam and Kate make up our Community Fundraisingteam and they are here to offer guidance and support on all aspects of your fundraising. Whether you want to shake a bucket for Battersea, organise a sponsored walk, a cake sale or plan a big party, they can help you every step of the way. To discuss your fundraising ideas please contact Miriam and Kate on 020 7627 9314 or email [email protected]
Summer 201318
Another way to raise money is to tap into your skills. If you can trim hair (on people or dogs!), teach people how to play a musical instrument, cook, clean or even maintain cars, then you could offer your time in exchange for a donation. That’s what Marilyn Eagan asked her friends to do when she organised a pamper day in her village in Oxfordshire, offering a selection of treatments for her lucky neighbours, and raising £226. The day was such a success that Marilyn has now set up a local group of volunteers called the Busy Bees, who are arranging more fundraising events for Battersea. She says: “I support Battersea as they have helped and cared for animals as long as I can remember. No matter how small a contribution, Battersea are always very grateful and thankful. They keep in regular contact and support anyone who wishes to help them, with a friendly voice at the end of the phone when needed.”
Setting up a local fundraising group like Marilyn is a great way to join the Battersea fundraising family. Most groups include about four to seven people, including a coordinator who takes overall responsibility for the group and a treasurer who looks after the money. Groups are responsible for managing their own meetings and events, which can be anything from coffee mornings to bring-and-buy sales, quizzes and gala balls. Anyone can set up a fundraising group and no experience is necessary, and Battersea is always available to offer lots of advice and support to help the groups raise as much as they can.
19
Dog galleryA 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 facebook.com/Battersea to see more very special dogs.
Hugo from Alienore Lanson; Hercules from Charlotte and Tim Baimbridge; Penny from Jane Cundiff; Islay from Claire Leslie; Star from Clive Andrews; and Russell from Olive Thornton.
Star
Hercules
Islay
Penny
Russell
Hugo
Islay from Claire Leslie; Star from Clive Andrews; and Russell from Olive Thornton.
Please send us your pictures by email at
[email protected] or visit
www.facebook.com/battersea
You can also write to the address on Page 1.
If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE.
Please send us your pictures by email at
[email protected] or visit
www.facebook.com/battersea
• £10 could pay for specialist food to help sick animals recover from illness• £15 will pay for toys and treats that keep dogs and cats active and stimulated• £30 could help pay for vital medical equipment in our veterinary clinic• £100 will pay towards equipping a chill-out area to help nervous dogs relax• £1,000 could provide up to 50 dogs with their own clean bedding, feeding bowls, toys, collars and leads• £5,000 will equip a veterinary clinic and provide vital medical care for sick dogs.
How your fundraising helps...
BelowMalcolm, Maureen and Dom from the MAD Dog Club
Having enjoyed fostering over 30 Battersea dogs, Maureen and Malcolm Merone from Southport decided to set up the MAD Dog Club fundraising group in 2012, with other local dog owners. Maureen explains: “We started by arranging a Battersea fundraising stall at local events, and we now organise various activities including dog shows, doggie games, a tombola and children’s lucky dip. Last year we successfully raised approximately £800 at just three events.We now have at least eight events scheduled for 2013 and hope to exceed last year’s total.”
If you would like to discover more about starting your own fundraising group like Maureen and Malcolm, Battersea is holding two information events where you can fi nd out more about how to set up a group, what support Battersea can offer and where your donations will be going. They will be taking place on the following dates:
Saturday 15 June – Battersea LondonSaturday 29 June – Old WindsorIf you would like to attend, or if you are unable to but want to know more, our friendly Community Fundraising team would love to hear from you. They can also help you generate fundraising ideas, plan and publicise your event.
BelowMiriam (left) with Driscoll and Ellie, and Kate
Summer 201320 21
In Loving Memory of...
CharlieEnfys and Noel Mercieca, Dyfed
JessieCarol, Dave andRyan HanksWisbech, Cambridgeshire
20
Scorch markI just wanted to let you know that Scorch died today of old age. Scorch was one of the Battersea dogs in The Daily Mail’s ‘ten long-serving dogs’ feature. He was a Rottweiler/GSD Cross who’d had psychological upsets in his puppyhood. He was nearly two when Peter saw him in The Daily Mail, went to visit him, fell in love and brought him home to live with his other Battersea dog, Bismarck, who taught him how to be happy and playful again.
Since then Peter and Scorch have been inseparable; some 12 and a half years! Scorch was the most affectionate and sweet-natured of dogs there ever could be. He soon found his own place on the sofa, welcomed Lilli-Beep and Winnie-Wednesday (both Battersea Border Collies) into his life and was content to be bossed and herded by them (as is their nature!), but remained a constant joy to us all.
So, at the age of 14 and a half, Scorch leaves a huge Scorch-shaped hole in many hearts. He was the most perfect dog and showed the real trinity of Battersea’s work: Battersea’s care and rehabilitation; Peter’s opening his home and heart; and the joyful life Scorch had from youth until his dotage. He’ll be sorely missed. But we thank Battersea for him! As Byron said, he had all the virtues of Man without the vices. We’ll miss him. We love him.
Peter Yrureta and Angela Whitehead, Mitcham, Surrey.
Ten years of joyWe’re celebrating ten wonderful years since we rehomed Judy from Battersea Old Windsor. She is about 13 now and is going very grey as you can see. We can honestly say Judy (we kept the name as it suited her so much) has given us ten years of utter joy.She is a loving pet and adores her home, especially her bed by the radiator! We would be lost without her and we long for many more years yet. Thanks Battersea for giving us the best pet we could have ever wished for!The Clapham Family, Reading
Isle of SkypeThis is Skype enjoying her new island life on the Isle of Wight. She has been great for me, she’s full of fun, and very affectionate. She’s made some dog friends, Wilson, Dillon and Benji, who have taught her how to retrieve in and out of water. Skype loves the water and the freedom to run, splash and swim, getting as sandy as she can and climbing the steep cliffs. No more empty house – I didn’t realise how empty until she came. I love her very much, and thank you for the great job you do.Dale Durfee, Isle of Wight
Family guyMy wife and I rehomed our Battersea dog on Fathers’ Day 2001. Since then we have had two sons (ten & six) and our dog Giza is now 12. He has been a fantasticmember of our family and still gives us loads of pleasure and laughs. When we fi rst saw Giza, it was his wrinkly face that made me fall in love with him instantly and it was only when he stood up in his kennel that we realised he only had three legs. The vet at Battersea advised that as this was a birth deformity it would have little impact on his life. This proved to be true as when playing with other dogs in the park he just took short cuts across the middle to keep up.He doesn’t run around so much anymore but is still a fabulous member of our family. Thanks Battersea!Pete Smyth, Sittingbourne, Kent
Our LaddieLaddie’s irrepressible spirit will live in our hearts as long as we breathe. We shall never forget the day that he saved our long-departed Collie Lyle’s life, by leading us to Lyle when he was drowning for want of eyesight to fi nd the steps out of our pool – a story once featured in Paws. Laddie’s uncanny, human-like intelligence, ravishing beauty, delicate grace, and ubiquitous mach-speed frolicking will never leave our minds’ eyes. I shall never forget hours of playing catch and hide and seek with him in our yard. Laddie now joins Lyn’s and my legion of beloved pups, Larry, Doug, Lyle and Hossie. Lyn’s memory and mine, of course, extend to others from our earliest days, each still loved and ever missed. Laddie came to us 12 years ago from London’s inspirationally loving Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who also gave us our remaining best friends, Bobby and Lance. Battersea has thus given us a veritable lifetime of joy, for which we extend our boundless gratitude. Having Bobby and Lance to comfort us helps greatly, of course, but with similar ages, their treasured presence is dauntingly tenuous, too.Lyn and Lee Lovett, Bermuda
AboveJudy enjoys sitting by the radiator
LeftGiza with Sam, Tracey and Daniel
Below and rightSkype and Skype with Dale
BelowLaddie (on the left) and his two pals
STARLETTER
Tom bowled us overWe fi rst saw Mr Tom on Battersea’s website. He sounded lovely, and reminded me of a cat I had whilst growing up. When we came to Battersea, we were thrilled that he was still there and we saw him in the socialising room. As soon as I sat down he was on my lap and purring away, and I think that sealed the deal.He’s settled in very well at home and he’s still very much a lap cat. If we’re not sitting down, he’ll follow us around until we do and then he jumps onto the nearest lap straight away. He’s such an easy cat to look after, because he’s a lovely character and doesn’t have a bad bone in his body.Matt Richardson, Chatham
Staffi e’s a crackerCracker is a very special lady to us but you would know her better as Mumma, one of the stars of Battersea’s BBC programme back in the 90s! She was a stray and pregnant when brought to you, and was one of the stars of the show with the progress of her and her puppies fi lmed through the whole series! Over the past 15 years she has been a loyal companion, an immediate hit with everyone she meets, loving, fun and always up for a snuggle on the sofa! Cracker is still full of life although it has slowed down a bit for her now. Just read the page on ‘Super Staffi es’ on your website and although she is a crossbreed, Cracker has all the traits of a Super Staff! Reliable, gentle and affectionate, a true 'nanny dog'. We will be forever grateful to Battersea for saving Cracker and uniting her with us.Jason and Faye Widdowson, Dunstable
Terry: So much loveI am very sad to have lost Terry, a Lurcher cross, but so grateful to Battersea for uniting us over 10 years ago.I came looking for a dog who could run with me and who needed a loving home. Terry wagged his tail at me and the rest is history! We had a fantastic ten years in which he came all over the country with me and even acted as the ring bearer at my civil partnership!I don’t know how old he was exactly – but approaching 17 – and when his back legs gave up completely it was time to admit defeat. He was such a noble, dignifi ed dog, full of character, who could not bear the indignities of old age and frailty. I loved him very much.Vernon Thompson, London
Matt Richardson, Chatham
LeftScorch
RightMr Tom
Below, left to rightCracker and Terry
Jessie
Charlie
Above
Summer 201322
Training any dog can be difficult but the rewards are often shared.
Ahelpingpaw
23
Just like us, dogs have fi ve senses – sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. Of these, smell is the most important. Dogs have a sense of smell which is far superior to ours, and colours and guides their lives in ways we can’t even begin to imagine.
If this seems a random way to begin reassuring you that your deaf or blind pet really can lead a safe and happy life, consider this: sight and hearing are less important to your furry pal than smell, and he can expertly adapt to life without them. That’s why deafness and blindness, while undoubtedly a handicap, needn’t be a deal breaker. Or even an ornament smasher, if you’re careful!
Making sense of trainingHere at Battersea we care for almost 6,000 dogs every year. A very small number – perhaps ten dogs – have signifi cant hearing problems, and the fi gure for sight impairment is around the same.
We want these dogs and cats to have the same chance of a happy rehoming as their kennelmates, so we give them special support and training – which they absolutely love.
Canine Welfare Trainers Ali Taylor and Brian Brady, who you’ll meet again in the second series of our ITV show For the Love of Dogs, both have a special interest in helping our lovely deaf and blind dogs, so we asked for their advice.
Ali’s partially-blind Dobermann Maggie is the latest addition to her canine family. Maggie came to Battersea because her owner was ill, and is entering her retirement years. Ali says she’s fi tted right in with the Taylor household of oddbods, where commonsense rules like not moving the furniture apply.
”I’ve told my dad not to move either, and that suits him fi ne as he’s just retired,” Ali said. “Blind dogs will mentally ‘map’ their homes. They soon come to know where everything is and will trot around quite happily as long as you don’t change things around, and train the kids to put their toys away rather than leaving them lying around.
“Most dogs that are blind use their sense of smell to get them around so you should never underestimate what they are capable of achieving,” she went on to explain. “There are certainly things that you should help them with so they know that what they are doing is right such as praising them and not changing the house around too often.
“Blind dogs need direction through verbal commands, and so it is ideal to make sure you sound exciting and give your dog information – deaf dogs rely more heavily on body language and sign language.
“Obviously hand signals don’t work for blind dogs but if, for instance, Maggie sits I will give a gentle one fi nger tap on her side or back and reward and praise. So then, when I want her to sit, a verbal command and a fi nger tap. For a lie down two taps and repeat, and so on.
There are some great tips for owners of blind dogs at www.blinddogs.net/blind_dog_tips.html
Light fi nger taps can work well for those dogs that lose both hearing and sight, and are just one way to communicate with your pet.
“The key to any successful relationship is communication. This applies to the relationship between owner and dog as much as any relationship between people,” says Brian. “Whether or not a dog can hear you doesn’t make too much difference. The main thing is that you establish a clear method of communication which will allow your dog to know what you’re asking of him and when he’s got it right. “Just as we’d train a hearing dog with spoken commands, we can train a deaf dog with hand commands. “You’ll be amazed how quickly a dog will learn and respond. It’s also a really nice way of stopping yourself from speaking and taking the time to concentrate on communicating and building a bond with your pet. “It can be a very calming and soothing activity. Silently teaching your dog to respond to your hand signals, giving him a ‘good dog’ sign, accompanied by a small treat and lots of warm expressions when he responds.
“Of course if there is more than one of you, you’ll need to agree on the hand commands you teach the dog and ensure that everyone is giving them in the same way. “Consistency is key in any training, so ensure that you are all clear on which commands to use for which actions and that you’re all doing them consistently. “Your dog will also gain a lot of information from your facial expression, so be expressive. Exaggerate when you’re happy with him, give him lots of encouragement and ignore him if he is doing something you don’t want him to.
“Remember to stay in your dog’s line of sight (or within hearing distance if he’s blind) when training and out on walks too. Keep him on a lead and use a longline so he can enjoy a wander.
“Training any dog can be diffi cult but the rewards make it worthwhile. This is especially true when you’re training a dog who can’t hear you. It needn’t be any more diffi cult than training a hearing dog, you just need to remember that no matter how loud you shout he won’t hear you!” There’s lots more info on our website about training deaf dogs – you can download our worksheet at www.battersea.org.uk/about_us/whats_new/training_a_deaf_dog.html
44 33 22 11
But if your dog is deaf, it’s all about body language and facial expressions
AboveAli Taylor and Maggie
Above rightBrian Brady and Freddie
Owners of sight impaired dogs need to use touch and verbal commands...
24 Summer 2013
Name: ChelseaAge: 3–5 yearsBreed: Staffordshire Bull TerrierChelsea is an affectionate and social girl who enjoys being with people - her favourite way of greeting new visitors is to give them a big lick and she enjoys nothing more than cuddling up in her bed next to you. Chelsea also has quite a sensitive side to her character and can be worried by loud or unique noises, which is why she is now spending time in a foster home.Call our Brands Hatch centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: BarnabyAge: 3–5 yearsBreed: Domestic Medium HairBarnaby arrived at Battersea a very wary and undersocialised stray tom with a backpack full of anxiety and attitude. He has since mellowed considerably but is still a lively, playfully-predatory young adult who loves his food.Call our Battersea centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: Oscar and LouisAge: 7–10 yearsBreed: Domestic Short HairOscar is a very shy and sensitive boy while Louis is the most confi dent of the pair. They both love a good stroke however and are looking for a quiet home with owners who preferably have experience in nervous/shy cats.Call our Brands Hatch centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: ChloeAge: 15 monthsBreed: MongrelChloe is a gentle natured girl who has a sensitive side to her character and once she has built a bond, her affectionate and fun nature shines through. Chloe enjoys playing with all toys and could live with another dog who can act as a good role model and playmate. Call our Old Windsor centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: MiloAge: 2–3 yearsBreed: LurcherMilo has a charming personality and is beautiful too. He is friendly, affectionate and always has something to say – he sometimes even has a little talk to his toys when playing. Milo does have a sensitive side and can be anxious outside, so he is looking for an owner who is willing to give him extra time to settle into his new home.Call our Battersea centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: ChloeAge: 7–10 yearsBreed: Staffordshire Bull TerrierThis beautiful older girl is a classic solid Staffi e. She’s blessed with a lovely, happy-go-lucky character, and has a youthful and active outlook on life. We’re looking for a special retirement home for this special girl, who came to Battersea after she was found straying.Call our Battersea centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Name: StiggyAge: 3 yearsBreed: Domestic Short Hair (cross)Stiggy has been through a very unsettled time recently and is fi nding it diffi cult to adjust to life at Battersea. When he’s not hiding away, he enjoys a gentle stroke and chin tickle. Stiggy is such a sweet-natured boy who deserves to once again have a quiet, calm home where he can settle, get to know his new owners and become a cuddly companion again. Call our Old Windsor centre on 0843 509 4444 or email [email protected]
Could you give a safe and loving home to these beautiful boys and girls?
Take us home
25
Chatty charmerChatty charmerMilo
25
CuddlyCuddlyChelsea
...has cattitude
...has cattitude
Barnaby
Oscar
Sensitive boy
Playful
Chloe
Louis
Confi dent guy
StiggyStiggy
In the dumps
Happy go luckyHappy go luckyChloe
Summer 201326 27
How do you follow up a National Television Award winning, BAFTA-nominated, television series about Battersea? With another one of course...
It’s a tall order but the second ITV series of Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs is in full swing and we hope Paws readers agree that its lost none of its magic. Offering a snapshot of life behind the scenes at Battersea, millions of viewers can rely on our very own Ambassador, Paul, to fall head over heels for every dog he sets eyes on. No doubt you are laughing and crying in equal measure,when Paul shares with you the sometimes hilarious and sometimes heart breaking Battersea stories he encounters along the way.
Filming a series of eight programmes involves Paul, camera crews and make-up artists setting up camp at the London site and capturing events every day for the best part of three months. They become part of the furniture and it doesn’t take long before staff and volunteers are used to seeing all sorts of unusual sights and they take it all in their stride. This year the ITV cameras capture canine dramas from tiny newborn puppies rejected by their mum; to King the biggest, slobbery dog Battersea has seen in years; another one who takes the prize for being our naughtiest dog, creating mayhem wherever he goes; and the incrediblysad story of… well sorry, we can’t tell you about that desperate, lonely soul yet, so keep watching the series and all will be revealed.
Perhaps it’s our imagination but this second series seems to spend a lot of time with Battersea’s busy Clinic team. The six vets and 20-plus vet nurses had their hands full, with a litter of nine newborn pups needing to be hand-reared, and another litter that went down with parvo-virus, a potentially fatal disease for dogs at such a young age.
And then there was Patrick, a goofy pup brought in on St Patrick’s Day with a badly swollen stomach. Battersea’s vets have had to deal with all sorts of dog and cat injuries over the decades but even they were taken aback by this likeable young Mastiff.
Just hours after Patrick arrived as a six to 12 month old stray, he was rushed into clinic for emergency surgery, with a wooden kebab skewer protruding a good two inches out of his stomach. It had travelled through his body after being swallowed whole with a juicy piece of meat on the end and it pierced the side of his stomach. What a sight but until they operated, the vets didn’t know how much harm had been done to his vital organs.
Battersea Head Vet Shaun Opperman admitted “a case like Patrick’s is very rare to see in any vet surgery. He’d obviously swallowed the skewer whole but we had no idea what we’d fi nd when we opened him up. Too much to one side and the skewer would have damaged several important organs. A bit to the other side and at least Patrick would stand a chance of surviving.
“Patrick was a very lucky boy indeed, as the skewer managed to miss all his major organs and, astonishingly, within hours of his emergency surgery, he was wagging his tail and looking out for his next kebab. His case tells us you never know what a day at Battersea will bring you. I’ve worked here for over 20 years and I’m still surprised by some of the sights I see.”
Each year, Battersea cares for around 500 vulnerable puppies. They’ve either been born at the Home or, like Rusty and Pepper below, arrived as youngsters in need of our special help. Rusty and Pepper and their six Staffi e littermates were rejected by their mother when they were just days old, and needed round the clock care from Battersea staff, who fostered the puppies and had to feed them every two hours throughout the day and night. Paul helped out with the feeding too, and thanks to everyone’s amazing dedication, all eight grew into beautiful, healthy pups with a happy life ahead.
Such stories make this series of Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs just as compelling as the fi rst. But don’t just take our word for it, make sure you keep tuning in at 8.30pm every Thursday night till the end of June, or catch up on ITV Player. Each week we absolutely love hearing what you think about the programmes through our Facebook and Twitter (#pogdogs) so don’t stop now!
BelowRusty and Pepper
Below leftPatrick on his arrival
RightPaul keeps an eye on Twinkle
BelowA healthy Patrick poses for the camera
24hrs in the life of...
Paul O’Grady
29
Filming the second series of my award-winning ITV series For the Love of Dogs truly is a labour of love. Every week, I get to work at wonderful Battersea, where the inspirational staff and volunteers look after so many waifs and strays, giving them the love and care they’ve often missed out on, and fi nding them new homes.
As I’ve found out, no day at Battersea is ‘ordinary’ – there’s more drama here than an episode of Corrie. Let’s see what today brings…
After arriving at work, I’m into makeup. Got to look my best for my Battersea boys and girls. Trouble is, I’m in danger of ruining the slap straight away as a little old Staffi e goes into theatre for quite a complex operation, under the care of Phil the vet. I love Staffi es, and this nice old lady is pulling on my heartstrings something awful. I so hope she makes it, and will be back later to help her recover, post-op.
Scrubs off (I look like a serial killer in this get-up; especially the headgear) and lunch on the go ordered, next up on the jobs list is a consultation with Head Vet Shaun and a poor girl with one eye and a toe missing. She shows me her war wounds, and I tell her she’d fi t right in with my lot.
I can’t leave Clinic without calling in on the litter of Staffi e pups being looked after in Rachel the Head Nurse’s offi ce. These guys are so clever they even use the puppy pads to pee on. Battersea, housetraining capital of the world. After a good old cuddle, it’s time for weight watchers. No, not me – I’m weighing up whether my Lurcher friend Twinkle is ready to go home. You’ll have to watch the series to fi nd out her story, though…
I’m not much for stopping to eat, so I use the fi lm crew’s lunch break to do the same as everyone else here – spending time in the kennels or cattery with the animals, giving them companionship, time and someone to share the day with. I’ve just met Mongrel Cookie – ooo, am I in trouble. What a cracker she is.
And what about this little fella? I won’t spoil your enjoyment of the show, but watch out for my new best buddy. There’s always one, isn’t there?
While I’ve been up to my eyes in kibble and Kongs, my patient’s been snoozing the day away. I was with her when she came round from the anaesthetic, and now I’m away back to Clinic to see how she’s doing – and to organise an emotional reunion.
Yet again, my day at Battersea has been full of tears and laughter. As the limo bike arrives to take me home to my own brood, I know I’m in for an evening of worry about my Battersea family. But they’re in the safest hands, and I’ll be back soon.
24hrs in the life of...
Paul O’Grady
28 Summer 2013
Saffron from Andy Mesa; Pud from The Dearle Family; Candy from Lauren and Michael Hopgood; Teddy from Alan West; Jinks from Alice Sullivan; and Lily-Rose and Lucy-Lou from Sarah Simmonds.
Cat galleryOur former Battersea cats have a spring in their step, and no mistake. 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 facebook.com/Battersea
Lucy-Lou
Teddy
Pud
Candy
Lily-Rose
Jinx
Saffron
Please send us your pictures by email at [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/batterseaYou can also write to the address on Page 1.If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE.
Please send us your pictures by email at [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/battersea
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30 Summer 2013
Help to raise valuable funds for Battersea by buying from our specially selected partners...
PetplanPetplan is the UK’s number one pet insurance provider, covering more pets than any other insurer. Pet insurance can help you give your pet the best possible care and cover the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment. So why not take out a policy with Petplan today and 10% of your premium will go to supporting animals at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home?
GiveacarTurn your old unwanted car into a cash donation for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home with Giveacar. We will arrange free collection of your old car, then either sell it at auction or scrap it. You will have the option to either keep half the value and donate the other half to Battersea, or if you’re feeling extra generous you can donate the whole amount!
Riviera TravelRiviera Travel has an enticing range of European and worldwide guided tours, short breaks, river cruises and tall ship cruises, for the traveller looking for something just a little bit different. Book your holiday with Riviera Travel and we’ll donate 12% of the fi nal cost to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Please remember to ask us to make the donation when booking. Call 01283 742356 to fi nd out more or visit us online.
Help the Home and...
Ask the expert
BelowHealthy and active Pups at home
Alan Poletti, from Ravenshead in Nottinghamshire, rehomed Jack Russell Terrier Pups from Battersea fi ve years ago. He emailed: “Thank you for the Spring edition of Paws. It’s the usual good read with both heartwarming and heartstring pulling features!
Reading the diet article on page 10, I note your vet’s advice to ban all human food. Does this apply to green vegetables as well because most of our dog's meals are supplemented by one or other form of green vegetables, peas, broccoli, beans and often carrots.
Pups has a basic dinner diet of chicken with rice on several nights, grilled white fi sh once a week and occasional chopped beef and lamb. The only other meal is a small bowl of breakfast biscuits or packet dog food, all hopefully within the recommended daily intake for her size.
Pups is a healthy Jack Russell who enjoys a reasonably active life with three walks a day, regular vet check-ups and whose weight has not changed since she was at Battersea. As responsible pet owners we only want the best possible for her, but it would seem that you may not endorse her current food regime.”
So we asked Battersea vet Phil Robinson for his comments. Phil says: “It sounds like your little dog Pups is eating better diet than me, a meal of grilled fi sh once a week sounds delicious!
Dietary advice for dog owners always a diffi cult subject to approach due to the simple fact that no two dogs are exactly the same. A little Jack Russell will require a different amount of energy when compared to a Great Dane.
Size of dog is certainly not the only contributing factor, breed plays a role in diet too. A working breed dog might require several times the amount of energy as a toy breed.
Age, with the gradual slowing of the metabolic rate, plays its part too. As you can imagine, it is very hard for a dog food company to create a food to suit all shapes and sizes. Nonetheless they invest a lot of time in creating a balanced healthy diet for dogs.
The diet that Pups is currently receiving does sound like it contains plenty of variety and nutrition. The only drawback is that it is very hard to know if it has the correct levels of essential fatty acids, amino acids and vitaminsthat Pups requires.
The advantage of complete dog food is that they have already done all the calculations for you, all you need to do is select a food for the correct breed and age, then feed for your dogs’ weight.
Let’s not make dinner time entirely boring though! My advice would be to feed complete dog food and reserve a bit of fi sh, chicken (avoiding any bones) or vegetables for a treat every couple of days.”
Thanks Phil, If you would like to ask our Battersea experts about dog or cat care, please drop us a line at [email protected] or write to the address on Page 01.
Good food guide
31
cottages4youThousands of cottages4you properties are pet friendly, so you can book knowing that your dog is welcome too! Whether you’re looking for a cosy retreat, a fun-fi lled family getaway, or somewhere lavish and luxurious, you’ll fi nd a fantastic selection of properties. What’s more, for every holiday booked through the site Battersea Dogs & Cats Home receives a 10% donation of the holiday cost.
Sock ShopSocks are not just for Christmas, they are also great for keeping feet comfy during the warmer weather. Why not head out and about with your dog in a great pair of walking socks, or go to that summer festival in a funky pair of welly socks? Whatever you are up to this season, with a huge range of summer socks available, SockShop will have your perfect pair! When shopping online at SockShop enter the code BATTERSEA in the gift voucher code box and press validate so 12% of your order total is donated to Battersea.
Riviera TravelRiviera Travel has an enticing range of European and worldwide guided tours, short breaks, river cruises and tall ship cruises, for the traveller looking for something just a little bit different. Book your holiday with Riviera Travel and we’ll donate 12% of the fi nal cost to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Please remember to ask us to make the donation when booking. Call 01283 742356 to fi nd out more or visit us online.
Phil Robinsonwith
www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbatterseaVisit
Buy for Battersea
www.battersea.org.uk/buyforbattersea
Venture PhotographyVenture Photography is the UK’s biggest pet photographer. Our Pet Pawtrait Experience allows pet owners to include their favourite furry friend in a Venture family package for £35 with £5 donated to Battersea. The Experience includes a fun-fi lled family photoshoot at any Venture studio creative image preparation, a cinema-style viewing of your photoshoot and fi nally your favourite photograph in a hand-made 7x5 frame.
Every dog at Battersea has a diet tailored to his or her individual needs – which includes the occasional treat. Why not treat one of our dogs yourself, and buy them a pack of Pedigree Jumbones for just £2? You can shop online at www.battersea.org.uk/shop
Give one of our dogs a treat...
8 Which of our regular Paws items are you most interested in reading? Please choose from 1 to 5
A A day in the lifeB Ask the expertC Buy for BatterseaD Cat galleryE Celebrity supporters/rehomersF Dog galleryG FeaturesH Letters pagesI News about BatterseaJ News about supportersK Rehoming newsL Take us home 9 Which is your favourite regular item? Please choose one from the above list (A to L)
10 Which is your least favourite regular item? Please choose one from the above list (A to L)
11 How interested you would be in reading about any of the following in Paws in the future?
Animal care Ask the vet problem page Battersea dogs and cats Competitions and giveaways Expert advice Fiction stories Former residents’ new homes Fundraising In loving memory Kids/family section Puzzles Quizzes Social issues (e.g. Status dogs) Specifi c breeds information Top tips and tricks
And finally, a little about you and your pets*...
12 Are you…?
Male Under 16 45–54
13 What is your postcode?
14 How many dogs and/or cats do you own?
Dog Cat
15 Are any of your pets from a rescue shelter?
32 Summer 2013
We’d like to know what you think of Paws magazine so we can shape its future style and content around the things you like to read. Please complete this survey and return it in the envelope provided by 30 June 2013 or post to: Paws Magazine, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, 4 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4AA. Alternatively this survey will be available to complete on the Battersea Facebook page throughout June 2013 at facebook.com/Battersea
1 What other types of magazines do you regularly read?
Animal related Art and culture Business and trade Celebrity Environment and nature Fashion Health and fitness Home and lifestyle Listings
2 How much of each Paws magazine issue do you read?
All of it Most of it
3 On average how many people read your issue of Paws?
4 How would you prefer to read Paws in the future?
In print On the website
5 Please rate the following:
Visual design Written style Written content
6 How many times a year would you like to receive Paws?
7 What do you most like reading about? Please tick only one
Advice pieces (e.g. spring clean your pet’s diet) Behind-the-scenes at Battersea Cat features Celebrity features Current issues and things in the news (e.g. microchipping) Dog features Features about Battersea’s outreach work (e.g. Service Dogs or education programmes) Nostalgia features about Battersea’s history
MusicNewsPhotographyReal lifeScienceSportsSunday magazinesTeenNone of the above
Some of itNone of it
Via the appEmailed to me
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* Please be assuredthat your details will be used for research purposes only and in accordance with the Data ProtectionAct and MRS guidelines.
1 Very interested2 Fairly interested3 Neither interested nor disinterested4 Fairly disinterested5 Very disinterested
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25–3465+
Paws survey
Female
17–2455–64
35–44
0 +54321
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1 Very interested2 Fairly interested3 Neither interested nor disinterested4 Fairly disinterested5 Very disinterested
Excellent Very poorGood Fair Poor
Battersea dogOther rescue dogNon rescue dog
Battersea catOther rescue catNon rescue cat
battersea.org.uk
They give you so much love and affection in your lifetime, and now you can look after them for the rest of their lives. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home can care for your beloved pet and find them a new home if you pass away first – simply make sure your Will clearly states your wishes. You can also choose to remember Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in your Will and help us care for thousands of dogs and cats who have nowhere else to turn.
Who will look after them when you’re gone?
Registered Charity Number. 206394
For more information about how to word your Will and leave a gift to the Home, please contact:
The Legacy OfficeBattersea Dogs & Cats Home4 Battersea Park RoadLondon SW8 4AA
or call 020 7627 9247Ref: LPAD1303
The capital’s coolest canines will be strutting their stuff in divine creations from LoveMyDog followed by
the Old Spitalfields Market annual Paw Pageant
Dressed up to the (Ca)nines Jimmy Chews Mini-mutt Maxi-muttSix of the BestPaw-fection
CATEGORIES
Old Spitalfields Market open 10am - 5pm
Visit www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com for further information e:[email protected] enter your dog. All proceeds go to battersea dogs and cats home.
1PM - 3.30PM
MONDAY 26TH AUGUSTBANK HOLIDAY
PAW PAGEANT
