| A dog's life |
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| Written by Hermione Edwards, 2006 | |
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Page 2 of 2 Some of the notes are so funny and endearing that I found it hard not to break into the kennel and steal an unsuspecting pooch. I wouldn’t dare though, because if there is one overriding feeling I brought away with me, it is that you can only leave with a dog in hand if you are the right owner for that particular animal. The fee of £70 is enough to stop anyone taking the decision too lightly, rather than a reflection of what it costs to look after a dog – the average dog costs the Home £900. Tragically, there is still as much a need for animal rescue organisations today as there was in Victorian times and they perform an invaluable service. The animals are beautifully looked after and real care is taken over where they are rehomed. Several friends of mine have found dogs (and cats) there, and all have had thoroughly rewarding experiences caring for these animals that are hungry for love. UK rescue organisationsBattersea Dogs’ Home Lost Dogs and Cats Line: 0901 477 8477 calls cost 60p per minute. The Blue Cross One of Britain’s oldest animal welfare charities. As well as rehoming animals, it provides veterinary care for people who can’t afford private vets’ fees. It has 11 adoption centres around the UK. Head Office: Shilton Road, Burford OX18 4PF, tel: 01993 822651, www.bluecross.org.uk.
Formerly the National Canine Defense League, the Trust is devoted entirely to rehoming dogs with16 rehoming centres around the UK. Based at 17 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7RQ, tel: 020 7837 0006, www.dogstrust.org.uk The oldest animal welfare organisation in the world with centres spread throughout the UK. www.rspca.org.uk This charity has centres in Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Somerset and Cornwall, with a network of local branches. Home to a surprisingly wide variety of animals, primarily dogs and cats but farm animals, horses and donkeys, ducks, poultry and small domestic pets too, the Trust also provides short-term care and rehabilitation for wildlife – tel: 020 8950 1320 (10.00am to 4.00pm daily) or visit www.nawt.org.uk |
