Winter 2013 battersea.org.uk The magazine of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

Also inside this issue:

Moggie mayhem Our newest Ambassador tells us why she The cats take over as we celebrate 130 years of cat rehoming has a special place in her heart for Battersea Winter woofs Akitas, Huskies, Malamutes and Inuits are on the rise at Battersea Yule remember Favourite mistletoe memories from our staff and volunteers 01 Made in the U.K Contents

Executive Editor Winter woofs Dee McIntosh Head to page 22 to read more about Editor our friends from the Caroline Stringer frozen North

Contributors Jude Peppis Kate Winsall Sarah Tapsell Becky Medhurst Features

Please send your pictures and letters to: Paws magazine 10 Ambassador Amanda Battersea Dogs & Cats Home 4 Battersea Park Road London SW8 4AA 16 The cats are taking over [email protected] For more information and our 22 Super cool customers opening hours, call 0843 509 4444 or visit our website battersea.org.uk 26 Christmas at Battersea Old Windsor Priest Hill, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2JN

Brands Hatch Regulars Crowhurst Lane, Ash, Kent TN15 7HH

Patron Her Majesty The Queen 03 Welcome

President HRH Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO 04 News

Paws is designed on behalf of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home by williamjoseph.co.uk 15 Dog gallery

Advertising enquiries [email protected] 20 Paws letters

Note: Advertisements and advertising inserts appearing within or sent with Paws magazine 24 Take us home have been included at the advertiser’s request only. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not verify the quality, condition, validity or standard of the 28 Buy for Battersea offers, products or services advertised. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home does not in any way endorse any of the products or services offered. 29 Cat gallery

Keep in touch Please help us keep our records as up-to-date 30 Ask the expert as possible and inform us of any changes in your details. You can write to the usual Battersea Toy stories address or email [email protected] If you no longer wish to receive Paws magazine 32 Day in the life and/or other correspondence from the Home, please write and let us know, including your name, The seven Lurchers of Christmas address and postcode. You can write to the data protection officer at the address below or email [email protected]

Data Protection Officer Battersea Dogs & Cats Home 4 Battersea Park Road The cats are London SW8 4AA taking over Slink on over to page 16 to find out more about our latest kitty

44,918 (Jan–Dec 2012) campaign Essential Winter Healthcare A4 AD_Layout 1 05/11/2013 08:52 Page 1

03

I’m absolutely thrilled that the gorgeous and talented actor and presenter Amanda Holden has agreed to become our fourth Ambassador, joining essential winter international supermodel David Gandy, TV award-winning Paul O’Grady Welcome and best-selling children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson in promoting our animals and work at every opportunity. Like you, our Battersea Ambassadors healthcare Amanda is one of Britain’s most popular and much-loved personalities, are passionate and vocal supporters and we feel very proud to welcome her to Battersea. Meet Amanda and find of the work we do. out why she feels so at home at our Home on page 10. for your pets We love a Battersea Christmas. The days are at their darkest outside but here in London, and at our Brands Hatch and Old Windsor centres, our warm and bright kennels and cattery pens are sparkling with tinsel, and the calming music we play to soothe our dogs and cats is turning festive.

I’ve loved reading memories of special Christmases at Battersea on page 26, and I’m sharing my favourite seasonal memory there too.

The dogs and cats who’ll be spending their Christmas holidays at Battersea have only one wish on their list for Santa – a new home. If you have space in front of your fire this winter, turn to page 24 to meet some of our current residents.

Northern breeds like the Siberian Husky, Northern Inuit and Akita are increasingly chosen as family pets, and this year well over 100 have found themselves at Battersea. On page 22, we look at these stunning dogs and the commitment and work they need to be good companions and pets.

And there’s still time to order a gift or two from our treasure trove of Christmas 2013 Goodies, so I hope you’ll find plenty of stocking fillers to tempt you. We’ve called in some experts – including Rufus the Rottie and Sparky the Mongrel – to road test some of our gifts, and they share their verdicts on page 30.

Claire Horton, Chief Executive

W NE

to see our complete range visit www.jvp.co.uk or for more information email [email protected]

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Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B75 7DF Tel: 0121 378 1684 email: [email protected] www.jvp.co.uk 04 Winter 2013 05

Home Cats get a run Head start

Cheering on our marathon runners

Did you bag a ballot place in the 2014 Virgin Money London Marathon? If so, we’d love you to join Team Battersea. Our dedicated team will support you every Heads up for cats – Anthony and Emily step of the way with regular updates from the Home with Twinkle as well as an invitation to an exclusive behind the scenes tour of our London site. If you’d like to be on our team please contact [email protected] Film star father and daughter Anthony and Emily Head have backed our Cat Takeover campaign by urging cat lovers to rehome a rescue moggy Cats cash in from Battersea. The Buffy the Vampire Slayer star and Emily, who shot to fame in The Battersea celebrated the opening of Inbetweeners, came to Battersea recently to spend some quality cat time with us. our brand new Battersea Dogs & Cats Home from Home in September, and “I have always loved cats and will definitely get a cat from Battersea A work of art when I move into my own house,” said Emily. “Whether it’s a kitten or we can now reveal the mini centre’s cat, I think it’s really important to go to a rescue centre like Battersea.” very first rehoming successes. Paws has made a budding And our late-night Purrsdays have seen lots of people doing just artist out of Battersea fan that. We’re opening the Cattery to after workers, night shfters and We’re now part of the new Pets at Home store in Ruby Cahill, from Barnet. in betweeners on the last Thursday of every month, until 8pm. Sydenham, London with our ever first rehoming spot away from our three centres. Every day a dog and a Ruby came to our London centre for a special visit Visit one of our centres to rehome, or text CATS to 70800 to cat looking for a home will spend the day at the store on her 6th birthday in August, and when she received donate £5 towards caring for our cats. soaking up attention and tucking into the odd treat her very first copy ofPaws through the post she or two before returning to our Brands Hatch centre Above Battersea set to with a box of paint and an artist’s eye to draw dogs marked the in the evening. opening of our cover star Phyllis. We showed Phyllis’s pawtrait Read more about Home from Home, to her new owner Clare Hobbs, who rehomed our our latest kitty our mini-centre Two of our feline friends, Jeffrey and Pepsi, have at the new Pets beautiful Mongrel girl in August. “What a fantastic crusade on page 16 been lucky enough to find a brand new home after at Home store in drawing, Phyllis loves it!” said Clare. Sydenham, London spending time in the store’s cosy cat room. Maggie Right Pepsi with Labrosse from Lewisham visited Pets at Home and her new owners Below Jeffrey, fell for six year old Pepsi after the majestic moggy who also found spent 53 days in our care. Friendly gent Jeffrey was himself a new home through the Further Christmas rehomed just a week later, when Daphne Brebner mini-centre from Gravesend saw him in the store and then rehomed him through our Brands Hatch centre. Are you a Santa with a sprint in your step? Then join our Battersea team for the fundraising Santa Run in Victoria Park, East London, The Home from Home doesn’t just showcase on 8 December – we’ll provide the good cheer and the Christmas Battersea’s dogs and cats; visitors can also speak costume; you decide between 5k and 10k runs. to our expert team for information and advice on everything from house training to neutering, as well For more information please call 020 7627 9339 or email as pick up some brilliant Battersea souvenirs. With [email protected] over 1,000 visitors to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home from Home in just the first week of opening, we’ve Fostering got high hopes for our Brands Hatch dogs and cats. So, if you are close by, please do pop in to see the We’re looking for companions new mini-centre and meet our staff and animals. Find us at Pets at Home for our animals, to give them a break Bell Green Park You can find out more, including how to find us, Spine Road from kennel or cattery life. Sydenham at battersea.org.uk/fromhome SE26 4PU 06 Winter 2013 07

Shaking it up – Sami the Boxer Veteran Molly takes the title Bali, Barbados,

Meet our latest Ambassadog –15-year-old Mongrel Molly, who was Battersea … judged Best Battersea Dog at our Annual Reunion in Battersea Park. FESTIVE Molly was rehomed by the Clare family from Woking when she was just TV PICK six months old, and being crowned top dog was a long-held dream for owner Ruby.

“It’s brilliant to win Best Battersea Dog because we’ve entered every time we’ve been to the Annual Reunion,” said Ruby, 14. “I’ve known Molly my whole life and she’s the most wonderful dog we could ever have asked for. She’s deaf now and going blind but she’s still a great dog.”

Molly was also runner-up, with doggy pal Hector, in the Fancy Dress class for their Sherlock Hound and Dog-ter Watson duo.

Five thousand owners and their dogs came to the reunion, sponsored by PetPlan, and helped us raise £20,000 for our current residents. We also welcomed special guests and Battersea Ambassadors Dame Jacqueline Wilson and David Gandy, as well as Chelsea Pensioner friends from The Royal Hospital.

Honeymoon Paul has a very Fit for anything dog Mandy Battersea Christmas

Sami the Boxer, who came to our Brands Hatch Battersea has joined the ranks of centre as an undernourished stray in 2009, has Paul’s coming Home scaled the heights with owner Marianne Hunter this the great honeymoon destinations, year and is surely a shoo-in for fittest Battersea dog. thanks to Jeff and Irene Lille. for Christmas Sami is gaining quite a reputation for herself in the When they wed 38 years ago, on 1 March 1975, Psst, want to know a Battersea secret? Paul distance running world. Her challenges this year Jeff and Irene chose the Home as their romantic included two summer and one winter Fan Dance runs honeymoon hideaway. O’Grady’s back on our screens soon, with a brand in the Brecon Beacons, two Paras 10 endurance races, new For the Love of Dogs at Christmas special. the Grim Challenge and Zombie Evacuation runs, a “We’d seen a programme on the television about marathon, mountain trips and numerous training runs. giving a dog a home, so we set off to Battersea instead of going on honeymoon. I’d never had a dog Paul and the ITV team have been at our centres in London, “When I rehomed her you said to ensure she got before and when Irene spotted a German Shepherd Brands Hatch and Old Windsor, filming lots of lovely dogs with enough exercise,” says Marianne, of Orpington, Kent. Molly and Ruby, with the biggest paws I have ever seen, I said: ‘We heart-warming stories, happy endings, tinsel and tears. Our all new a winning pair “I assume this is what you meant…” ain’t having that one’ – so of course we drove home hour-long special will be the highlight of the Christmas schedule but with her that night …” Jeff explained. we can’t give you the date and time of broadcast yet so keep an eye on the listings. Mandy was the best wedding present ever, and a We woof you a merry Christmas big part of Jeff and Irene’s life for the next 13 years. The Lilles, from Eltham, South London, will never For the Love of Dogs is now a multi award- Christmas As Battersea prepares the festivities for all the homeless dogs and cats forget their Mandy, and have decided to keep her winning show, with a TV Choice Award, pudding Bobby who will turn to us for comfort this Christmas, we’re decking the halls memory alive forever by choosing to remember a National Television Award and a BAFTA with bow wows of holly for our first-ever family Carol Concert. Battersea in their Will. nomination since our primetime show was first broadcast in September 2012. We’ve also been We’re Home for Christmas at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, London, on If you’d like to find out more about how to leave nominated for a second NTA accolade Wednesday 11 December. As well as traditional carols, mulled wine and a gift in your Will, call 020 7627 9247 or email in the Best Factual Entertainment section and a mince pies, some of our lovely Battersea dogs will be greeting guests [email protected] TV Times Award for Best Factual Show. with a festive guard of honour. Fostering Tickets cost £20 for adults and £10 for children under 12. Seating capacity is limited, so please Bring in the New Year contact our Events team on 020 7627 9295 or with a furry friend. email [email protected] Find out more about dog fostering at battersea.org.uk/fostering and cat fostering at battersea.org.uk/cats/fostering Season’s Greetings from aspire Estate Agents, proudly supporting this event. 08 Winter 2013 ‘Without Battersea, Eddie and I would Forever loved Rehoming Mr Pickles never have found each other. Known nationwide after his boisterous appearances on our Paul O’Grady: That’s why I’ve For being your best friend. For the Love of Dogs ITV show as ‘the naughtiest dog at Battersea’, remembered For making home feel like home. Mr Pickles was rehomed by experienced Beagle owners Gordon Pitt and Battersea Dogs Christine Harland from Bletchley. “When we saw Mr Pickles’ story we were & Cats Home For being there when you feel down. in floods of tears. He’s only young and has had a really unsettled start to life. in my Will. For every stroke and every hug. Taking him on has been quite an experience, but he’s finally becoming a Will you?’ For all the love they give. happier and better behaved dog and is so affectionate,” says Christine. For Battersea. Forever. Elvis & Marie Please remember Battersea’s This harmonious pair were two of a litter of young cats found on the streets dogs and cats in your Will. with their timid mum. After 74 days at Battersea, they went home with Joe and Rachel from Beckenham in Kent and became Huxley and Molly. Send or call for your free information pack about leaving Shy Huxley is finding his feet in the garden, and Molly’s proving to be a a gift in your Will. wonderfully companionable lap cat. “Thanks for giving them such a good start,” says Rachel. Mr/Mrs/Ms/other First name Surname Address Nancy Postcode Labrador Retriever cross Nancy deserved the very best in life after being Telephone homeless, giving birth at Battersea, being rehomed and then coming back to us because her owner died. Happily, she’s found exactly that, with Please return to: Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, 4 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4AA Nicola and Steve Mather from Leighton Buzzard in Hertfordshire. “We live or call 020 7627 9300 surrounded by countryside, and Nancy loves her long walks in the forest – battersea.org.uk/forever Registered charity No. 206394 AA11 Mr Pickles and our 19-year-old cat Dennis,” says Steve. !

J3865_BDCH_Legacy_press_WIN13_PAWS_135X192_F.indd 1 01/11/2013 15:05 Rizzler

With 215 days at Battersea to his name, beautiful Staffie Rizzler was our longest-stay dog. He’d spent lots of time in a loving foster home when the real thing came along in the shape of the Perkins family from West London. Dalswinton “Rizzler has completely taken over our family,” says Sarah. “He has settled in really quickly, is a definite asset in terms of stopping squirrels digging up A Victorian stone-built house standing in 10 acres of gardens and the lawn and we couldn’t be happier with him. We feel very privileged to meadowland in the glorious Vale of Lanherne, midway between have him.” 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 Elvis & Marie for children under 16 years old.

B&B from £48.00 pppn, Nancy 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. Self catering lodge sleeping Dogs free of charge and 3 adults. allowed everywhere (except the dining room). Easy access to Newquay airport and the Eden Project. Licensed bar and restaurant serving 3 course dinner. 8 acres of private meadowland for dog exercise.

Proprietors: Stuart & Sal Hope Telephone: 01637 860385 Dalswinton House, St Mawgan-in-Pydar www.dalswinton.com Rizzler Cornwall TR8 4EZ [email protected] 10 Winter 2013 11

AMBASSADOR AMANDA

Our newest Ambassador, TV presenter, actress and award-winning West End star Amanda Holden tells us why she has a special place in her heart for Battersea 12 Winter 2013 13 A PASSIONATE ADVOCATE THE BIG

When our brilliant friend and steadfast supporter Amanda Holden visited our London home recently, it was clear how much INTERVIEW Battersea means to this dedicated animal lover.

Amanda couldn’t wait to share hugs and cuddles with the doggy guard of honour who greeted her, and she loved spending time in the Cattery, helping our volunteers play with and socialise a litter of young kittens. We’re thrilled to welcome you as a Battersea Ambassador. What does Battersea Dogs & Cats I’m so pleased to announce that Amanda is our fourth Battersea Home mean to you? Ambassador. Her commitment to the Home is unwavering – Amanda has I feel a great sense of relief when I know some of the Amanda with just co-hosted (with Paul O’Grady OBE) her third Collars & Coats Gala Ball sad stories will have happy endings. My heart breaks Battersea Staffie Amanda with Grace for us, helping Battersea raise money to care for all the dogs and cats who for the dogs and cats that are mistreated, lost or end Minnie the so desperately need our help – and she is a passionate champion of rescue up at Battersea, but I know they have a loving and Mongrel, who has now been dogs and cats. caring temporary home until new parents can be rehomed Amanda has been a much-loved face on the found for them. nation’s TV screens since her debut in 1992, starring Her continued support and her unquestionable love for animals makes in hit series including Kiss Me Kate, Cutting It and her a perfect advocate for the Home. We’re extremely grateful to now have We were also delighted that you were able to In Battersea: The Musical, which part would you Wild at Heart. She’s won Best Actress awards for four very special Ambassadors who, through their passion and dedication, visit our Home recently. We hear you fell for your love to play? her theatre work and has been a judge on Britain’s help champion the work that Battersea does for all its dogs and cats. photoshoot canine co-star Minnie, and also had I would love to be an all singing all dancing Vet, and do Got Talent. Amanda has a Yorkie-Jack Russell cross a purrfect playtime in the Cattery. Tell us a little a big song and dance routine using all the equipment called Rudie, and Muffy the cat. Claire Horton, Chief Executive about your day at Battersea. (including X-ray machines) – Pudsey the heelwork to Initailly I was worried I would feel sad when I visited music dog would have to be the lead though! Battersea, but it is such a happy joyous place full of happy endings. I can’t believe I didn’t come out with Do dogs and cats form part of your family life? Are ten new pets. I even saw the hugely talented Vets your girls Lexi and Hollie massive animal fans too? OUR FANTASTIC FOUR carrying out a castration – and found it morbidly Yes, we have Rudie the dog – he is mixed race. And fascinating. I spoke to my daughter Lexi about it, she Muffy who is a posh Siberian fluffball. They are both Battersea’s four Ambassadors can’t wait to come down and meet all the animals. brilliantly tolerant with the children, as 22-month-old are Amanda Holden, international Hollie often pulls Rudie around. And I often find Muffy supermodel David Gandy, our award- You’re now an Ambassador for the 6,000 dogs and dressed in doll’s knitwear! winning For the Love of Dogs star 3,000 cats who need our help and care every year. Paul O’Grady, and former Children’s Our Ambassadors What messages will you be sharing with your fans And did you have animals growing up? at last year’s Laureate and best-selling author Collars & Coats about responsible ownership? Yes, I think it is extremely important wherever Dame Jacqueline Wilson. They all ball; Amanda, Everyone can love an animal, but not everyone can possible to allow some kind of pet into your home, Dame Jacqueline, champion Battersea and our work. Paul and David. look after one. Get a pet for the right reasons, for to teach children about love, responsibility and loss. companionship and to enhance your life – not to be We had Elsa the Golden Labrador until she was 18 years left at home while you work long hours. Remember old, rabbits, cats and a pond! There is no way I could they are expensive, and sometimes they can test you! live my life without at least two animals! The upsides – if they are well looked after – are the loyalty, love, companionship and joy an animal can What will be in your pets’ Christmas stockings? Collars & Coats guests Ashleigh and Pudsey; bring to your life, which is utterly priceless. Everything I can fit into a football sock! Muffy isn’t Dr Christian Jessen a fan of catnip but loves anything that rolls. And Rudie and Hilary Alexander Photos: David Baird And will you be reminding people that rehoming enjoys squeakers! a rescue dog or cat is an incredibly rewarding and Battersea supporters including Dr Christian Jessen, Rula Lenska and fulfilling thing to do? And what’s your special Christmas wish for Craig Revel-Horwood enjoyed a Vintage Hollywood night out at this Rehoming and rescuing an animal is better than any Battersea? year’s Collars & Coats Gala Ball in Battersea Park. feeling in the world. Battersea is inundated with all My special Christmas wish is that Battersea doesn’t kinds of breeds, including some which you would pay end up with lots of furry four-legged presents, and With a Vintage Hollywood theme, the night oozed glamour and class, a fortune for. The rewards outweigh everything! instead gets a queue of people wanting to rehome but our guests all had a single purpose – to help us raise the funds we the deserving little souls in there. need to rebuild our Victorian kennels and give Battersea dogs the best What do you think about our kitty crusade, the Home in between home that we can. Cat Takeover, to put our felines firmly in the spotlight and find even more cute kittens and Our Chief Executive Claire Horton’s special guest was Battersea’s cool cats a new home? Amanda's first autobiographyNo President, HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO, and our legendary People often forget Battersea is a Dogs & CATS Home. Holding Back (Simon & Schuster) doggy Guard of Honour also welcomed A-list celebrities, sporting Those little balls of fluff need a home, just as much was released last month and is heroes and fashion icons including our Ambassadors David Gandy and as man’s best friend. The cute kitten factor is like available in hardback. Dame Jacqueline Wilson, and presenters Fiona Bruce and Ben Fogle honey to a bee. 15 Anxiety & Behaviour Solutions A big woof out to everyone who sent in a photo Dog gallery of their Battersea graduate. We’d love to use them all but we just don't have the space! Stop Pulling Mekuti Balance Harness Visit battersea.org.uk/dogs/happy_endings 1 to see more very special dogs. MONEY BACK GUARANTEE before “Try out our system for 30 days, Enjoy walking your dog! if you are not delighted, get your money back!” • Stop pulling on the lead 2 • Gentle, kind and really works! 5 mins after • Removes strain on dog’s neck “I cannot believe that this has really worked. I was getting fed up with being pulled around like a rag doll. The Mekuti arrived and every walk has been fantastic. Even with other dogs she was exactly the same, Tex calm and a joy to walk. I cannot praise this product enough.” Mrs A.L., Milton Keynes 3 Stella Honey 4 Anxious behaviour T-Shirts & Body Wraps Calming your dog with a T-Shirt or Body Wrap helps reduce: • Thunder and firework fright • Aggression towards dogs and people • Car and travel problems

“It really works! We had a week of fi reworks Vinnie and thunder. Every time I put it on him within 5 fi ve minutes he was asleep. 6 I am so grateful!” Cath, Wu Dog Training

Excessive Barking Calming Band A Calming Band is a very gentle way to help reduce: • Barking, whining and licking • Aggression and stress outside or inside “I really didn’t expect this to work, but it has! Before, he would start barking at any dog as soon as he could see them Buddy now he greets them with his tail wagging.” Mrs J.C., Durham Holly Please send us your pictures by email to [email protected] 1 Tex, from Amy Hatcher 2 Stella, from Paul Herrington & Graham Morton You can also write to the address on Page 1 ANIMAL CENTRED BEHAVIOUR AND TRAINING SOLUTIONS 3 Vinnie, from Aleks Sierz If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE 4 Honey, from Maria Parker ONLINE PHONE 5 Holly, from Dave Harding : www.mekuti.co.uk : 01132 590 589 6 Buddy, from Sarah Morris

Pull - Anx - Bark Full PAWS 1311.indd 1 05/11/2013 16:31 16 Winter 2013 17

Fed up of the dogs hogging the limelight, our cats are fighting back and using their cunning, cleverness and all-round cuteness to claw their way Famous Felines to the centre of attention. So far, they’re doing a very good job of it too. Our kitty crusaders may not need an ego boost The cats – and Battersea – have risen to the challenge of raising but many of our moggies are mighty enough to awareness of our 130-year role in caring for and rehoming cats. deserve it.

Our London Cattery is proudly displaying a three-storey high vinyl of a Larry, Chief Mouser at No 10 Downing Street beautiful black and white girl called Bertha, who is now enjoying life in Arguably the most famous feline who we helped her new home. Posters featuring Bertha and former resident Steve the to find a home, Larry took up residence behind that Ginger Tom have caught the eye of many a cat lover at busy tube and famous black door in 2011. He has fast become the train stations throughout London, including Britain’s busiest, Waterloo. most well-known kitty in the country as he greets VIPs, including American President Barack Obama, and Our website and social media channels have also dedicated themselves makes regular appearances in the world’s media. to all things cat. And best of all, we’ve seen lots more people visiting our Home so they can get involved in the Cat Takeover and rehome one Larry of our residents.

This year we’re celebrating our 130th year of looking after cats. Our moggies Left Larry on patrol in Downing Street are marking the occasion in their own Below Pluto takes it easy at Battersea style by staging a Cat Takeover in the Arts Centre hope of finding their pawfect partners. Shadow & Star prove cats are good for the soul Pair of pussycats Shadow and Star enjoy the ultimate haven of peace and tranquillity at the Jamyang Buddhist Centre in Kennington, London. Star, who is now called Tara – which is Tibetan for Star – and How the Cat Takeover began Above Bertha bursts out of our Cattery Shadow, who has been renamed Kala, spend their Below Steve the Ginger Tom features in adverts across London days in the calm courtyard welcoming visitors. When our founder Mary Tealby opened her Home for Lost & Starving Dogs in 1860, cats had roamed the streets for centuries. So, it wasn’t long before felines first found a Home with us in 1883. By the turn of the century, we were caring for around 500 cats with new arrivals turning up on an increasingly regular basis.

We’re proud to say that we have made a huge impact on the lives Pluto of London’s cats over the years. Today, we have an average of 190 cats in our care at any one time Pluto is cast as Battersea Arts Centre cat in our three centres and in foster This lovely local venue rehomed our super black fella homes and we find new homes back in 2007 and he’s been making his mark behind for them every day. the scenes ever since. He wins over his legions of fans by helping out in the offices – which often involves lolling around on a desk or taking a nap in someone’s chair. His artistic adventures are charted on Twitter @Pluto_BAC 18 Winter 2013 19

Taking over in your homes too Did you know?… How you can lend a paw in the Cat Takeover It’s not just at our Home where the cats are taking over either. Lots of our supporters on Facebook and Twitter have shared photos and videos Battersea has been looking after cats for of cats ruling the roost in their homes too. Whether it’s sitting in a sink, Visit one of our three centres to meet deciding a desk is the perfect spot for a cat nap or squatting in suitcases, your cats take over whenever the opportunity arises. your new feline friend – our London Here are some of our favourites. 130 years Cattery is staying open until 8pm on In that time we have looked after more than the last Thursday of every month for Matilda late night Purrsdays so you can meet Tigger 229,000 and greet our cats late into the evening fabulous felines Buy a present or a treat for In 2002, Battersea Dogs Home became one of the cats in our care by The photo shows that wherever Matilda made herself at home Battersea Dogs visiting our online shop at I want to sit – so does he. He is within an hour of getting here. battersea.org.uk/shop quite the poser too as you can She is into everything, constantly & Cats Home see – with his tongue poking wrapping herself around our legs out, he’s a cheeky boy. He has and is a great companion when definitely become a wonderful working from home.

member of the family – we love Mark Gilby, Wimbledon having Tigger with us.

Anna Goswell, South Croydon Molly, Benson and Baby Girl are In 2010, HRH The Lily-Rose Duchess of Cornwall all still looking for new homes – officially opened help us to care for a feline Lucky a state-of-the- art cattery at our waiting for a family by texting London centre CATS to 70800 to donate £5 For the first time in Battersea’s history, Benson more cats have been rehomed than dogs Molly Baby Girl at our London centre over the last year

1,607 1,342 Send your Happy Endings to Cats Dogs [email protected], and share your stories, photos and videos with us on Lucky has got into the habit of Lily-Rose has become firm friends religiously every morning at with the cat we already had, Facebook (facebook.com/battersea) 4:30am scratching the carpet Lucy-Lou, and they will regularly or Twitter (@bdch) using the hashtag or coming up to our face in bed curl up together and give each until we go downstairs and feed other a wash. She has also #CatTakeover and on YouTube and him. We don’t appreciate the discovered her purr and uses it Pinterest early mornings but we would do to full effect. She has developed pretty much anything for him. into a real character and is He is a spoiled cat, we adore him certainly vocal enough to make and he makes us laugh with his sure she is noticed. Visit battersea.org.uk/CatTakeover Our centres have funny ways, his funny games and Sarah Simmonds, Waltham Abbey his funny sleeping positions. He rehomed 16% more to download fun images for your is the light of our life. 16% cats than this time desktop wallpaper or your social last year, with 318 Kirsty Marshall, Epsom more more moggies finding media profile pages moggies marvellous homes Has your cat taken over your home? Send your photos and stories to [email protected] 20 Winter 2013 21

Santa’s little helper

We have had Donner, now called Holly, since rehoming her from Battersea as a pup. It’s nice to see, thanks to Paws, that her brothers and sisters, who were Cupid, Dancer, Vixen and Comet, are all doing well. Holly is a good dog, a loving member of our family and loves our three girls. Ozzie Sophie

Dave Harding, Walton-on-Thames Ripley The talented Ripley Age and beauty Paws for thought Dear Ripley, who we rehomed from you way back in 2005, is now 12 and Never be put off rehoming an oldie. My dear Sophie Our beautiful Siberian Husky/Labrador Maddie who still going strong. He has made history by being the first canine to travel died seven years and 15 days after coming home with we rehomed from Battersea two years ago. She loves from the Bluebell Railway’s Sheffield Park station to East Grinstead me. She was 18 and a beautiful old lady. What age was STAR to keep up with the news in Paws magazine. for the first time since it closed in 1958. The Bluebell is now connected she when I rehomed her from Battersea? It didn’t to the National network and attached is the photograph of him being matter – she looked at me, grinned, and I was smitten. LETTER Sanaya Ngo, South Croydon welcomed by the Station Master, who happens to also be the Bluebell’s What joy and love she gave to all who knew her. The Maddie chairman, Roy Watts. age of a ‘rescue’ is unimportant – the dog is.

Nigel and Toni Simpkins, Tonbridge, Kent Kathryn Andrews, Westerham, Kent Holly Oz is wizard Matchmaking, Battersea-style In March 2009, I was at Battersea when I came across a veteran dog then named ‘Bazza’. I was so struck by the sheer hopelessness and dejection in This is Angel, a Battersea girl. We got her when she his large old brown eyes surrounded by his greying hair. I knew without was 15 months old and she is now nine. It still only any doubt in my mind that he was coming home with me. Angel seems like yesterday. At the time of rehoming Bazza, his age had been estimated by the Battersea staff as ‘mid-teens’. Still with us in the Hampshire countryside Tim Stockwell, Sidcup four years later, his age remains a mystery and he is adored and cherished by all who know him. Now renamed Ozzie – or Ozwald Cobblepot on formal occasions – he Sweetest Rosie lives the life of a country gentleman – best friends with Honey, a rescued stray from Portugal, our two rescued battery hens, cats and horses – he Lucy… an update Myszka Myszka arrived at Battersea as a stray. She must is truly an absolutely irreplaceable member of our family and we feel so have been a resourceful little thing, because she lucky to have him in our lives. My mum retired and moved to Derby with her Tinners and friend Mo was almost blind. We formed a strong bond – she We know that realistically it is simply not physically possible for our partner John. I love him and am pretty sure he loves enjoyed lazing on my lap in the garden and would wonderful Oz to be around for that much longer and it is for this reason me too. Now I have five adoring grandchildren as you Two times three follow me everywhere. She managed to disappear that I wanted to make sure he had a mention in Paws before he gets his can see from the photo. In February, I was diagnosed while exploring, but thanks to a leaflet campaign, a angel wings – and I have no doubt they will be very special wings indeed with lymphoma, my spleen was also affected. When I arrived at Battersea that weekend, as a volunteer to make some neighbour contacted me after a week to say she had – for an incredibly special dog. When that time comes, we know that his I started my chemotherapy just a few days later aftercare calls, I didn’t expect to be going home with a cat – I already have been looking after her. ‘vacancy’ would only ever be filled by another older rescued dog, for they and happily now at week 15 there are no cancerous a 13 year old, Mojito, missing a leg and tail following an argument with Amazingly, this lady had seen her photo on the are truly wonderful, loving and wise and deserve to live out their last cells. My vet Elsa and my clinical nurses, Jenny, Zoe a car when she was a kitten, who was quite happy being the centre of Battersea website and had thought about adopting years in a loving home. and Lindsey are just the best, in fact everyone is lovely attention. But when I had a walk around the cat pens, I saw a little fluffy her herself, even remembering her Battersea We love you Ozzie, thank you for choosing us. and one of my reports says ‘Lucy is a lovely dog and ginger and white kitten, with a cone and an amputated leg and I knew name, Rosie. Myszka had a heart murmur and later we all love her’. I have lost some of my hair and am I could offer him a good home. developed cancer, but before that, we spent a happy Emma, Paul, your family and friends, Hampshire looking forward to it growing back at the end of my So he’s settled in well, the two cats have 6 legs and one tail (but what a two years together; she comforted me so much treatment. I read the Paws magazine with my Mum’s tail!) between them. Tinners loves chasing butterflies, insects and frogs while I was recovering from cancer and then I was help and always hope that the residents of the kennel in the garden and can make some quite impressive jumps for an invalid! able to look after her when she became ill. She had I sponsor (Number 9) find a loving home like I did. He’s very vocal, happy to follow you around and ‘talk’ at you and loves his the sweetest nature and I miss her terribly. I am so My Mum discusses my chemotherapy treatment evening ‘play’ with the brush – it’s amazing how much dust and leaves grateful for the time we had together. with me and worries a lot but I tell her that every can get caught up in that tail. He’s managed to bully both of my brother’s day is precious and I can cope with hair loss and cats, my parents’ cat and their Labrador into submission, although he Kelly Kolkiewicz, Wandsworth not feeling so good sometimes as long as we can be hasn’t had such luck with Mo; has happily travelled to Derbyshire and together. Cornwall in the car and made himself at home in other houses. He’s the friendliest cat I’ve ever known; he settles down and purrs on anyone who In loving memory Lucy (and Andrea & John Delaine), Derby makes the mistake of sitting down. Thank you for letting me take him home – he’s lovely and I feel so Layla lucky to have such a handsome, friendly cat! Philip and Lark Lane-Owen, Aldershot Lucy and family Could you sponsor a Kennel or Kitty Kabin? Find out how at battersea.org.uk/get_involved Megan Peat, London Layla 22 Winter 2013 23

It’s winter, and our friends from the explore this on a dog-by-dog basis as they can be prone to chase even though they might be playing.” Akita Siberian Husky north are in their element, weather- “They can be more wise. But can these double-coated And as they’re slightly more primitive and instinctive The Akita is the largest of Another Spitzy, double-coated work than your than a more highly-bred dog, they can be fans of the Spitz group of dogs (the breed, the Husky is born to run. characters fit into our lives as pets? digging, howling and other behaviours that they smallest is the Pom). Japanese He can – and will – go for miles, average dog, but think are perfectly acceptable but their owners won’t. Akitas were originally bred to with or without a sled. Huskies Wolf, bear, status dog, distance runner, family pet – be the protectors and hunting love company. They may not like the Staffie, the four-strong Northern breed pack once you put in the “But if you want a dog to teach fun tricks to, go companions of the Shogun – bond easily to many people, but of Akita, Husky, Inuit and Malamute risks being jogging with or simply snuggle up on the sofa, they’ll a military class – and Akitas are when they do they’re incredibly misread, misrepresented and misunderstood. time and training be up for the challenge,” says Sarah. bold, proud dogs who are loyal loyal. Huskies need lots of and protective to their family and exercise, and because their Battersea is taking in rising numbers of all these they are incredibly And a Northern breed’s perfect person? “Someone affectionate with people they recall can go out of the window breeds – so far this year 26 Akitas, 16 Malamutes, engaging, active, who enjoys training, likes the buzz know. Their impressive double when they sense the chase is on, 65 Siberian Huskies and one Northern Inuit. Back loyal and loving.” of teaching something new and also has patience. coats make them well suited to they often need to be kept on in 1988, when the dog occupying most kennels at Because the Northern breeds won’t do something the northern climes where they the lead and have a good level the Home was the Mongrel (15,099), followed by just because you’ve asked – like a Labrador – but originated. of training. the German Shepherd (1,614), we took in two Huskies, because they’ve weighed up what they’re going to one Akita, and no Malamutes. The Northern Inuit get out of the transaction, whether that’s the reward hadn’t even been invented. of love, or a sausage. And that answer might change from day to day. So why the change? And what are these lions of winter really like? Where is their ideal home in “And someone who doesn’t mind that at times they lowland Britain, and who is their human soulmate? will be more intelligent than you.” Super1 cool2 customers

Battersea Canine Welfare Trainer Sarah Tapsell has “They can be more work than your average dog, but You can find out a long-time interest in the Northern breeds, and much more about once you put in the time and training to bond and Alaskan Malamute Northern Inuit worked at a wolf sanctuary in North Devon for four the Husky, and raise create that relationship they are incredibly loyal and money for Battersea, years. The sanctuary also had pet Northern Inuits by tackling our loving. Their intelligence and energy mean you’ll Perfectly at home in the Arctic This handsome fellow is and Czechoslovakian Wolf Dogs. Arctic Circle by Dog have a very fulfilling and fun relationship. They take Circle, preferably pulling large actually a crossbreed designed Sled challenge. Find out more at to any activity well – agility, flyball fun scent work, loads for their Eskimo owners, to look like a wolf, but with Sarah puts the rise of the Northern breed down to battersea.org.uk/sled even pulling a sled.” the Malamute is a pack dog the gentler, more trainable the increase in our fascination with the ancestor of with a strong instinct to chase character of the domesticated all dogs – the wolf. In the wild, wolves are regaining Sarah says many arrive at Battersea looking and run. Kennel Club figures dog. He might have German a welcome foothold after hundreds of years of for a fresh start because their owners have say Malamute numbers have Shepherd, Siberian Husky persecution. underestimated the commitment and work needed risen tenfold in the past decade, and Inuit breeding within, so to create a well-balanced dog. And yet they do making them the fastest- his personality will reflect his “However exotic breeds like the Husky and the Inuit make good family pets, with the right guidance and growing breed in Britain. They ancestry. This is a relatively new look, the animal in your home is a beloved pet dog, ground rules. outnumber Poodles, Basset breed, not yet recognised by not a wolf,” says Sarah. “They’re as close to a wolf as Hounds and Corgis. the Kennel Club but growing in a Chihuahua is. “They’re not suited to being home alone all day 4 popularity. They can make with only a short walk. They need large amounts of 3 a very good family pet. “Northern breeds have been less intensively bred exercise, mental stimulation and games. The only away from that original template, it’s true – but they real way to build a good bond with them is to spend are still a different species, which is what allows us time with them, so they’re not suitable for everyone. 1 Alaskan Malamute Rambo originally came from Spain. His owner was evicted and Rambo found himself homeless too. to live alongside them in our homes as family pets.” 2 Siberian Husky Rose, found straying in Brentford, who needs “They need space – they’re really energetic animals. experienced and active owners. 3 Five-month-old Koda, an Akita who was given to Battersea because of These are dogs who tend to be intelligent, strong- Ideally an enclosed, safe garden so they can have his owner’s change in circumstances. willed and independent – and will make a decision Sarah Tapsell secure off lead time if their recall’s not great. They 4 Five-month-old Northern Inuit Maisy, a playful girl who was found Battersea Canine straying, and even though she had a microchip her owner chose not to if you don’t do it for them. Welfare Trainer can get on well with other animals, but we always claim her. She has now been rehomed. 24 Winter 2013 25

Name: Max Dex appeal Age: 4 years Max enjoyment Breed: Boxer Cross

This Christmas, Max will have been at Battersea for nine months. He’ll be dreaming of a White Christmas, of course, but also of his own loving home, where he’ll be the life and soul of the party and a magnet for all the toy action. He’ll enjoy training, and staying focused to earn treats, and will reward the love of his new family by being an amazing companion.

Call our Brands Hatch centre on 01474 875109 or email [email protected]

Name: Benson Age: 4 years Gentle Benson Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Beautiful Benson is FIV positive, which means he’d like to be an indoor cat Could you give a second chance but with an enclosed outside run. He was home alone before he came to Battersea; such a shame for a friendly, affectionate chap who loves being to one of these Christmas crackers stroked and groomed. He loves company, and playing games. Christmas looking for a home this winter? cat’s cradle, anyone?

Call our Old Windsor centre on 01784 494460 or email [email protected]

Name: Dexter Name: Dawn Age: 2–3 years Age: 3 years Dawn of a new life? Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Sweet Dexter needs calming influences to become an even more special As 2014 dawns, will our chunky black beauty be where she yearns to be – boy. He has loads of energy, and enjoys playing with other dogs. Dexter ruling the roost and calling the shots in a new home? Although happy can be shy around people until he gets to know them, so he’s hidden to give it up for treats and the odd stroke, Dawn is an independent lass himself away when visitors to our kennels try to meet him. Could you who would suit working owners. Rumour has it she trills like a diva and Samba’s got rhythm bring Dexter out of his shell? will wind herself around your legs as a party trick.

Call our Brands Hatch centre on 01474 875109 Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected] or email [email protected]

Name: Samba Name: Lola Age: 6 years Lola’s loads of fun Age: 4 years Breed: Domestic Short Hair Breed: Bull Mastiff

Samba came to Battersea in April, because her owner was moving house What a gentle giant Lola is. Lola has recently been voted the wiggliest and, as Christmas approaches, she’s not feeling very festive. Samba needs Battersea dog of 2013 – she can twirl faster than a garland of tinsel in a a calm, settled home to match her quiet, sensitive character. She loves breeze. She is much-loved by us all, for her sunny personality, her softness company and will bring comfort and joy to any silent nights with her and sociability with people and dogs, and her yearning brown eyes, peaceable, placid nature. which are surely saying: ‘Be my friend, and take me home’.

Call our Old Windsor centre on 01784 494460 Call our Battersea centre on 0843 5094444 or email [email protected] or email [email protected] 26 Winter 2013 27

Everyone wants to be home for Christmas. Rebecca Norris, Rehoming, Old Windsor Carly Perry, Rehoming Co-ordinator Matt Marshall, Volunteer Dog Socialiser, London Rosie was a Jack Russell Terrier who arrived here on I remember helping serve up festive dinners in the I would like to say, as I was in on Christmas Day 2012, that it was This year, 400 dogs and 200 cats will be the 14th of December 2011 as a gift; her owners didn’t café to the kennel staff on Christmas Day. We used magical… but it was just wet and windy. I’m coming in on Christmas guests at our Home and helping add have enough time for her so brought her in to us. to have a glass of wine with our dinner! Day 2013 and I will have a great day, just like every day I come into the Rosie was only a baby, weighing in at a little over 6kg. Dogs & Cats Home. Every day is magical at Battersea. to the very special memories I seem to remember she came in wearing a coat; once *** staff and volunteers the owners had left we then removed it and saw that Michael O’Byrne, Fundraising *** obviously she was heavily pregnant! The first time I came to Battersea on Christmas Day Clint Singh, Volunteer Photographer, Brands Hatch have of… That year I was working on Christmas Day, it didn’t go as planned. We rely so much on volunteers My favourite Battersea Christmas memory is the festive photoshoot I did cleaning, feeding and spending time with the dogs, to exercise our dogs, and whilst many do give up their in 2012 with a litter of kittens. They were really cute, and loads of fun to and making up special meals of potato, turkey and time, understandably it can be difficult for some to work with. I could have continued all day but one of the kittens held out carrot that had been cooked for them as a treat. get to the Home on Christmas Day so I had planned to her paw, almost as if to say: “Ok, we’ve had enough now!” All day Rosie was fine, just snuggled up in her come in and walk a few dogs around Battersea Park warm bed listening to the carols playing on the radio. before going to visit my family for a festive lunch. *** But the final time I checked, I noticed a tiny puppy However, the first dog I took for a walk was an Claire Horton, Chief Executive nestled next to her. She quickly gave birth to two more, elderly gent called Herman. Walking around the park I absolutely loved the Battersea Christmas carol concert in 2012. Quite coping really well and managing fine by herself with on Christmas morning is a wonderful experience simply, it was a moment for us all to come together, to share the joy of just me keeping a close eye on her. I named the pups with strangers smiling to each other and sharing Christmas, a really busy and often tough time for the Home and our Mary, Joseph and Nick – they were all rehomed, and so seasonal greetings. Herman got quite a few admiring animals. It brought our Battersea family together, to reflect on the year was Rosie. It was a really lovely Christmas for me, I do comments and cuddles too. we'd had and the poorly and desperately sad animals we'd taken through love puppies. Whilst no spring chicken, he was a clever chap and our doors, nursed back to health, loved, cared for and given a second as soon as he twigged we were making our way back chance. And it gave us time to give thanks for all we have and all we are *** to the Home, Herman dug his heels in and decided that able to achieve with the help of all of our supporters around the country. Jill Craven, Volunteer, London he was perfectly happy to stay in the park. Our brisk Christmas is my favourite time of year as it is a special time that brings I’d been volunteering at Battersea for almost three walk turned into an hour and a half marathon of wills, out the best in everyone; when people take that opportunity to say hello years in 2009, and decided that I’d spend Christmas and when I eventually did get him back to his kennel, to someone they don't know, to smile at each other, to laugh and to come Day helping out at the Home, walking dogs, sitting I didn’t have time to walk another dog. together with close friends and family and most of all to give thanks for in kennels, wearing a Santa hat; I simply wanted to I still remember him with fondness though and it the wonderful blessing of our pets in our lives. “do something”. was lovely to receive a letter from his new dad a couple The Battersea carol concert gave us a chance to do just that. It was The Animal Welfare Assistant was thrilled to see me, of months later. Walking dogs on Christmas Day is such a lovely event. I'll never forget how cold it was and yet how snug and and between us and another volunteer we got all the now a highlight of the festive period for me and I warm and happy we all were, especially our dogs who had such a lovely dogs out, managed a bite of Christmas lunch, laughed always think of Herman. You never forget your first. time. I of course had my lovely Wilma with me in her fleecy festive red a lot, cried not a bit and went home exhausted. It was a coat and we stood huddled together merrily singing carols in between good day; and one I have repeated every year since. a litter of Lurcher puppies being carried by our nurses and bundled up in the brightly coloured blankets knitted so lovingly by our wonderful supporters. We sang Battersea's very own version of the 12 Days of Christmas with lines like ‘Five golden Labs, four Siamese, three Tortoiseshells, two Ginger Toms and a Poodle in a pear tree.’ Paul O’Grady was there of course singing his heart out and as we sang and laughed and enjoyed just being together with our colleagues and our animals, snow fell softly and life, and the world, just for a little while, seemed almost perfect. *** Ali Taylor, Canine Welfare I once slept at Battersea on Christmas Eve with a dog called Cabbage, so I could make sure I was at work in time because I didn’t drive then (plus I was obsessed with the dog). And one Christmas Day I also did a live radio interview about people who worked on this special day and I was there to answer behaviour questions. The only problem was not one of them was dog or cat related so I was in danger of being rather embarrassed by my ignorance. One lady said her rabbit attacked her every morning and another question was about a bald budgie. I said they both sounded quite stressed and advised a visit to the vet! ***

Wish a Battersea dog or cat a very merry WHY NOT BUY Christmas with a tasty treat or top toy – A GIFT FOR A buy them a special present online at DOG OR CAT IN battersea.org.uk/shop OUR CARE? 28 Winter 2013 29

Help the Home and... We’ve teamed up with For every holiday booked through What a striking line-up of Battersea cats in cottages4you to bring you a the site Battersea Dogs & Cats fantastic selection of pet friendly Home receives a 10% donation of Cat gallery their new homes. Thank you to everyone who cottages. Discover properties in the holiday cost. sent us a photo of their special pal – we’re sorry the UK, Ireland and overseas and Buy for we can’t publish them all. You can see more at enjoy a break where you have the Whether you are planning a festive freedom and flexibility to do what family get together or a relaxing battersea.org.uk/cats/happy_endings you want when you want. escape in the new year book your 1 Battersea break with cottages4you and feel great about supporting the Visit PET animals in our care. 3 /buyforbattersea FRIENDLY 2 battersea.org.uk HOLIDAYS Help to raise valuable funds for Battersea by Don’t forget our friends at buying from our specially- SockShop are also donating selected partners. 12% of every order when the code BATTERSEA is entered Zac in the gift voucher code box when shopping online. Tony & Scooch 10% 5 DONATION FOR EVERY BOOKING Paddy

4

Christmas Carol Concert Fluffy Puffy Wednesday St Luke’s Church Sydney St 11 December 2013 London SW3 6NH 7

Up to £5,000 for vet For further information and to book tickets visit 6 fees per condition battersea.org.uk/carolconcert or call 020 7627 9295 No extra cost to pay monthly Hamish

FROM £9.10 PER MONTH FS21336792 Gypsy Jasper

Please send us your pictures by email to 0800 085 0142 1 Paddy, from Vanessa Mooney 2 Zac, from Helen O'Rahilly [email protected] For textphone fi rst dial 18001. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Calls may be recorded. 3 Tony and Scooch from Neil Symons You can also write to the address on Page 1 Prices are dependent on individual circumstances when you buy a new policy. Price 4 Hamish, from Angela Shaw shown is based on our Essential level of cover for a 3mth old Dachshund, micro chipped, If you’d like your pictures returned, enclose an SAE valued under £300 and living in the DT5 1AB postcode and are correct as at 10/09/13. 5 Fluffy Puffy, from Susan Constantinou 6 Gypsy, from Jessamy Llewellyn 7 Jasper, from Judy and Alan Lloyd 30 Winter 2013

We handpicked a gang of Battersea technicians – Rufus the Rottie, Staffies Ask the experts: Frog and Rocky, and Akita Max – to road test our great new range of dog toys. Developed using Battersea staff expertise and knowledge, and Toy stories in partnership with pet toy designer Rupert’s Pet Shop, these toys are designed to be safe and fun for dogs of all shapes and sizes. No toys were harmed in the making of this feature but some are looking a little the worse for wear…

Battersea Dog Toys Buy from Tesco, in our stores and online at battersea.org.uk/shop

Super Foam Flyer Super Squeaker Balls Super Flinger Retrieve Toy Made from our special safe, antibacterial foam. Light, easy Does what it says on the label, and all in non-abrasive Tough rubber and soft natural cotton rope combine in to throw and floats. material that’s kind to teeth. a great outdoor toy. Just swing and fling.

Frog: I nearly tripped over my ears running after this Rocky: THROW IT! *run, run, run* THROW IT!! *run, run, Frog: We played for ages. It was such fun and I didn’t amazing Flyer. When I did catch up with it, I found it easy run* (and repeat until it’s too dark to see anymore). want to go home for my dinner. My human co-tester was to pick up and run off with. Not for sharing. When we tried careful to throw the flinger for me, not at me, and I soon it in the paddling pool, it turned out that I don’t float… learned to bring it back for another go.

Super Squeaky Toy Tumball Hide ‘n’ Fetch Reward Bone Six squeakers and lots of lovely plush. Also made from our special foam, Tumballs have an Unwrap and put a treat in one of the pockets. Make exciting random bounce, they float and fit a standard ball your dog sit and wait, hide the bone and encourage him Max: Nothing like a sloppy, comforting cuddle with a launcher. to retrieve to get his reward. soft toy, is there? I’ve called him Marvin – we’ll be friends for years. Unless Rufus gets hold of him, of course. No toy Rufus: Oh. My. Dog. These guys are awesome, and you Max: When I found out there are three treat pockets, is indestructible, sadly. get two in a pack for double the fun. Tricky little bouncers I was so excited! Finding the bone was great and with too – they fly about all over the place. Amaze balls. Get a bit of practice I learned how to unwrap it and get the them on your Christmas wishlist, boys and girls. treat. Self service – yum.

Our brand new range of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home You can also find them in our three shops at the toys is available to order from the Christmas Battersea, Old Windsor and Brands Hatch centres, and Goodies pages at the back of this issue or online at online and in selected Tesco stores. The sale of each one battersea.org.uk/shop helps us look after all the dogs and cats in our care. 32 Winter 2013

Barry (Dean), with Rachel and Day in the life Rory, SE London For Christmas, Barry will be unwrapping a present (with a The seven Lurchers squeaky toy, but don’t tell him that or you'll ruin the surprise!). If he's lucky he'll get a few scraps of turkey of Christmas from the Christmas table, then a nice long walk in our local park, where he'll probably meet some Remember the seven Lurcher pups who lit up our ITV of his friends! That'll tire him out, Christmas special, Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs so he'll then go to sleep by the fire last year? Holly, Ivy, Mince Pie, Dean, Dora, Dilys and while we watch the telly. He’s rather Dixie were all born at Battersea on 2 November 2012. taken with the tinsel, so we think Their mum – a Battersea dog – rejected the puppies the Christmas tree will be in for a so the litter were hand-reared by our wonderful Vet mauling this year! Nurses. All happily rehomed, the littermates are looking forward to their first proper Christmas, so we asked Mince Pie, with the Maslin their new families to reveal what a Christmas Day in the family, Chippenham, Wiltshire life of a young Lurcher will be like. One of Mince Pie’s favourite things to do is to rip any piece of paper into shreds so Christmas Day is going Betty (Holly) and the Nail to be one exciting time for him. It family, East Molesley, Surrey will be snowing paper in our house. Apart from snoozing, Betty will Mince Pie has a sack full of presents undoubtedly be trying to eat our for him waiting to be played with, Christmas dinner and digging along with our three other dogs, holes in our lawn between naps. Toffee, Stanley and Betty, his best Of course, butter wouldn't melt … friends. Mince pies are a favourite at Christmas time, but my Mince Pie Dora and Jane Bishop, is a favourite all year round. Folkestone, Kent We’re really looking forward to Maggie (Ivy), with the Allen her first Christmas with us. I don't family, Teddington think our decorations are going to Maggie will be sleeping off her be very Dora proof, though. Dora roast turkey and chipolata lunch. will be unwrapping her favourite She was going to watch the Queen’s toy which is a small squeaky speech, but as Camilla didn't space hopper. She's also got her feature and the corgis did, she’ll own stocking, which we'll hang retire for an afternoon nap instead. on the fireplace, filled with treats After her nap she will be watching for Christmas Day. And she’ll be the recording she received in her eating the last treat in her very stocking, Paul O’Grady: For the Love own doggy Advent calendar. of Dogs, in the hope that she may see someone she knows… Ashling (Dixie) and the Thomas family, Morden, Surrey Susie (Dilys), with Penny and Ashling came into our lives on Alan Holman, Haywards Heath 29 December 2012 and helped to We knew it would happen, she mend our broken hearts after we loves the tree. Its lights, the tinsel, had to say goodbye to our dear the baubles and the noise it makes Washington (a Battersea dog) when you jump on it and make it after 15 very happy years. We’re fall over. Susie must learn, but we a bit worried about Christmas as can help. NO chocolates on the tree. Ashling does like to steal things Don't put the presents out under and eat them and we do have a lot the tree before Christmas morning of Christmas decorations, so plans and don't leave Susie alone in will have to be put in place. But the same room as a beautifully- she will definitely have her own decorated tree. After dinner, put Christmas stocking to hang on the the TV on, time to relax? Not mantelpiece and as long as she this year. Susie gets her lead, tail doesn’t chase the reindeer I’m sure wagging. We're all off out for a hike, there will be lots of treats for her. much better than lazing around. 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 £8.99 6 designs C03 24 C02 £4.75 Boxed £4.75 140x140mm cards 137x137mm

C06 £3.60 127x127mm 10 C05 Cards per £5.99 124x210mm pack C08 £4.75 140x140mm C04 £3.60 127x127mm

C07 £4.99 198x102mm

C13 £4.75 140x140mm

C09 £4.75 140x140mm

C11 C10 £4.75 C12 £5.99 140x140mm £4.75 210x124mm 137x137mm

C16 £4.99 198x102mm

C14 £4.75 C15 153x108mm £3.60 127x127mm 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 1000 piece jigsaw £9.99 S02 £4.99

Happy Endings S03 S04 Calendar Traditional Advent £5.99 Calendar £5.99 Diary

Slim calendar S06 Fridge S08 £7.99 £0.50 magnet 100 piece jigsaw

B01 £7.99 S10 S09 £1.50 £3.50

A Home of Their Own Bookmark The story of the Home from its beginnings in S11 1860 to the present day. Pin badge £1.00 Ceramic mug S13 Now in paperback. each £5.00 400ml

Trolley S12 £1.50 key ring Soft toys Travel mug

Jazz the Black Oscar the Rocky the Max the Labrador Huey the & White Cat Ginger Cat Rottweiler Retriever Husky

T01 T05 T07

T06 T02 Dogs Cats £14.99 £9.99 each each 21cm 30cm

T09 T08 T03

T10 T04

Cosmo the Angel the Cherry the Daisy the Bo the Tortoiseshell Cat White Cat Fox Terrier Border Collie Boxer Books Age 5+ £4.99 each Battersea stories A selection of entertaining and educational tales based on true life stories from our Home. B03 B04 B05 B06 B07

Seasonal offer: 5 children’s books for £20

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B15 B21 B22 B23 B25

Gifts for dogs and cats Battersea Dog Toys Battersea’s very own toy range, tested by our dogs for your dog. Dog treat Noodle Desmond advent calendar Duck Donkey

G01 £3.50 G02 £3.99 28cm T01 T02 T03 £6.99 £5.99 £3.99 G07 £5.99 Cat treat Monty 39cm advent calendar Mouse Super Squeaky Hide & Fetch Super Squeaker Six squeaker toy Reward bone Balls G06 £3.99 G05 85cm £3.50

G03 £2.99 18cm

Snowman Rope Tug

G08 T04 T05 T06 £3.50 Winter £8.99 £7.99 £6.99 Snowman Cat Teaser Super Foam Flyer Tumball Super Flinger G04 Four Random bounce balls, Retrieve toy £4.99 Outdoor active toy 29cm Christmas fit in standard ball Cat Balls launcher Wrapping paper Gifts for Battersea dogs and cats Wrapping paper and tags 6 sheets of wrapping paper with Show your support for the dogs matching tags. 500x700mm. and cats in our care over the festive period by buying a gift for them this Christmas.*

Dog ‘special meal’ £5.00 N01 Cat ‘special meal’ £5.00 N02 Dog toy £3.00 N03 Cat toy £3.00 N04 Dog blanket £9.99 N05 W03 £3.99 Cat blanket £9.99 N06 6 sheets *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.

WHY NOT BUY W01 £3.99 W02 A GIFT FOR A 6 sheets £3.99 DOG OR CAT IN 6 sheets OUR CARE?

Order form Code (add colour if req’d) Price Quantity Total cost EXAMPLE GO7 5.99 2 11.98 Thank you for supporting Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

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 [email protected] or call us on 020 7627 9228.

Data protection: We like to keep supporters in touch with our work. If you do not wish to receive further communications from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, please write to Supporter Services, 4 Battersea Park Road, London, SW8 4AA, email us at [email protected] or call us on 0870 890 0000.

n Please tick this box if you do want other offers or information from our carefully selected partners. Please refer to www.battersea.org.uk A postage and packing charge of £3.00 will be applied to every order: + £3.00 for our full statement on the use of your data. ** By providing your email address you are agreeing to receive updates about If you would like your donations to Donation* Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, and those of our carefully selected partners, inclue Gift Aid, please tick the box and from time to time. You can unsubscribe at any time. sign below left. Total

Name Address * 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. Postcode Phone n I am a UK taxpayer 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 Email** 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 Please make cheques payable to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. 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 Or debit my: Visa MasterCard Maestro not qualify. Card No: Maestro only Signature Start date: / Security No: Expiry date: / Issue No: Maestro only Date Signature

Registered Charity Number 206394