FOR PETS The magazine for Blue Cross supporters AUTUMN 2020

AAGAINSTGAINST AALLLL ODDSODDS AAMAZINGMAZING BBUMBLE’SUMBLE’S BBUCKETUCKET LLISTIST MMISSIONISSION KKittenitten ssavesaves ssickick bbrother’srother’s llifeife HHelpingelping ppetsets tthroughhrough llockdownockdown HHamster’samster’s bbigig nnewew wworldorld Thinking about getting a puppy? Our Puppy Knowhow advice will help Sign up for free emails at: bluecross.org.uk/puppyknowhow

Advice also available for people thinking about getting a kitten. Visit: bluecross.org.uk/kittenknowhow CONTENTS

4 FEATURES 10 Brotherly love Kitten Dot keeps sick sibling alive 12 Big new world Hamster gets palatial home 14 Leap of faith WELCOME Cat jumps from window to survive 16 Still standing It has been a challenging time here at Blue Rabbit Elton’s stray ordeal Cross, as it has been for everyone everywhere. 18 Covid-19 news special COVER STORY When the UK went into in March, Helping pets in the pandemic 04 many of our funding streams disappeared 20 Finding happiness Amazing Bumble’s zest overnight, with shops closing and big A partnership to rebuild lives for life fundraising events cancelled. But not once did 23 A tribute we close our doors to pets in the greatest need, Remembering Bob the THE TEAM as you’ll read about on pages 18 and 19. Streetcat EDITOR As always, For Pets brings you uplifting stories of 28 Horse rescue Aimee Brannen hope and strength through adversity – needed Rehabilitation to rehome CONTRIBUTORS now, more than ever. There are few tales as 30 Goodbye to sadness Rachael Millar heartwarming as that of our beautiful cover Burns victim cat’s past is Jade-Marie Fleuriot star, Bumble, who’s living life to the full despite a behind him Caroline Lake devastating diagnosis. And there is plenty more I PHOTO LIBRARY hope will bring a smile to your face in this issue. REGULARS Tracey Cooper Aimee Brannen, Editor 17 Take me home DESIGN These Blue Cross pets need Rachel Stables /thebluecrossUK @The_Blue_Cross a loving family PHOTOGRAPHERS 24 Get involved Martin Phelps Paws for Tea Helen Yates 28 25 Pet postbag Tiffany Lin All your letters ILLUSTRATION 26 Pet advice Eve Cahalarn Teach dogs or cats to high fi ve! 32 News 23 20 The latest Blue Cross news 34 Competition Win subscription for pet goodies 35 Contact us Get in touch or come and visit

Blue Cross is a charity registered in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154). © No part of For Pets may be reproduced or used in any form or by 12 any means, either wholly or in part, without prior written permission from Blue Cross. MC-14730-0420. All professional photos taken before lockdown.

bluecross.org.uk 3 AGAINST ALL ODDS

BUMBLE AND HER BUCKET LIST After being diagnosed with incurable kidney cancer, this one-of-a-kind dog is spending the time she has left cramming in as many adventures as possible, all while helping other Blue Cross dogs in need...

4 For Pets AGAINST ALL ODDS

bluecross.org.uk 5 AGAINST ALL ODDS

umble may not have the their head around. Nobody knows ADVENTURES years ahead of her that what other sad times lie in her past. Charlotte then offi cially adopted her, B such a special dog She immediately stole the heart determined to give her the best life deserves, but the love, fun and of Charlotte Mullarkey, an Animal possible in what time she had left. adventure fi lling her remaining days Behaviour Coordinator at the She soon created Bumble’s bucket will surely be enough to last any pet Devonshire centre, who agreed to list and a scrapbook documents all a lifetime. foster Bumble due to health concerns their adventures together. From beach trips and shopping fl agged on the four-year-old’s arrival. Charlotte said: “Because I don’t sprees to parties and painting Although otherwise bright, Bumble really know what kind of life she’s sessions, the staffi e-cross is busy was urinating blood and a scan at had before, I want to give her the ticking off experiences on an the vets soon revealed that she had best time she can have for however ambitious bucket list, all in between a mass in her tummy. long she’s got. helping dogs arriving at Blue Cross. Vets investigated further when “Some of it is just kind of normal neutering her and discovered a cyst for dogs to do, like going to the DIFFICULT START on her kidney. beach – but those are things that I Bumble found herself at the doors Antibiotics failed to cure the don’t think she’s ever done. Some of our Tiverton centre back in condition, so the kidney was are obviously more extreme things November last year. She had been removed and the tumour on it found that I’d love to try and do, but it’s just seized by police after her previous to be cancerous. about spending time with her. She’s owner allegedly used her to threaten Devastatingly, the cancer spread to so happy-go-lucky so she enjoys offi cers, something that anyone who her remaining kidney and she was everything, really.” meets this sweet girl struggles to get given months to live. Charlotte, after going through a

6 For Pets AGAINST ALL ODDS

“I want to give her the best time she can have for however long she’s got.”

bluecross.org.uk 7 AGAINST ALL ODDS

Watch Bumble’s video bluecross.org.uk/bumblebucketlist

8 For Pets AGAINST ALL ODDS

other dogs. So, it’s great to see from a behavioural perspective how those dogs interact with her.”

SHOPPING SPREE Things Bumble has ticked off her bucket list so far include a £600 shopping spree courtesy of Pets at Home, a cheese night, forest walks, paddling at the beach, a birthday party and creating her own piece of artwork. Charlotte added: “It’s really nice, but it is still sad at the same time. “Although it’s lovely that we’re cramming it all in, in the back of my head I’m thinking: ‘what if I don’t get to do this thing or that thing?’ diffi cult relationship breakdown, cuddly. She’s quite a caring dog. “But I try not to think about it too initially feared that she might not “So, she’s kind of pulled me out much. I just kind of act like she’s be able to keep Bumble after she of that really. She’s just changed every other dog. suddenly found herself living alone my life, which is why it has been so “It is really rewarding as well as I while in a full-time job. diffi cult [to deal with the diagnosis], know she otherwise wouldn’t be able But the centre made arrangements but obviously the good still outweighs to do this.” for Bumble to become part of the bad.” the team there so she could join Charlotte at work, especially since INTUITIVE she had shown such wonderful Due to her gentle and intuitive nature manners when greeting other dogs. around her own species as well as And so, Charlotte and Bumble humans, Bumble has gone on to were able to be there for each other help Blue Cross with dog introduction when they needed it the most. assessments and with socialising “Mental health-wise I was really dogs of all sizes and ages to build struggling, so around the same time their confi dence around those on I’d just been put on anti-depressants. four legs. She has even helped to It was awful,” said Charlotte. foster a litter of newborn puppies “I happened to have a doctors’ who lost their mum. appointment the day after Bumble’s Laura Sayer, Operational operation and the doctor actually told Supervisor at the centre, explained: me that she wanted me to keep her “Bumble is an extremely important because from hearing about her, she member of the team here. She’s an said: ‘I think this will help you’. excellent ambassador for the charity; “Bumble is very tuned into she is really useful when we have emotions. She gets quite worried new dogs coming into the centre. when people are crying, she’ll come We can use her – her enthusiasm up and lick your face and she’s very and love for people – to introduce

bluecross.org.uk 9 BROTHERLY LOVE

TINY KITTEN SAVES SICK BROTHER’S LIFE Little Specks was found poorly and vulnerable, huddled up to protective sibling Dot as they fought to survive alone and outside in the freezing cold...

10 For Pets BROTHERLY LOVE

ithout his devoted brother survived without Dot. He cannot these inseparable brothers together by his side, Specks see, and his condition means that and fi nd them the very special and W probably wouldn’t have he would have been very easy prey. supportive home that Specks needed made it. He would have been unaware of for his condition. The poorly black kitten was found dangers around him like traffi c and And after nearly 40 days in our huddled up with sibling, Dot, in a wild animals.” care, they found just that with Karren west London garden, as the pair Amanda added: “They were both Richards and son William, 17. desperately battled to keep warm in frightened initially but with some The kittens’ bond is as strong as the grip of winter. warmth, food, toys and love they ever and Dot is even less wobbly As well as being freezing cold, were both purring away by the next since being rehomed. fi lthy and frightened, the four- morning and happy to be with us.” “They’re amazing. Very month-old brothers were hungry, mischievous but very loving – they underweight and riddled with fl eas. BONDED always want to know what I’m doing. Sadly, Specks was also suffering Once the brothers were on the And they are still very close,” said with health problems which made mend, they went to our Lewknor Karren. him even more vulnerable. rehoming centre in Oxfordshire. Soon after being rehomed, the A kind member of the Jenna Martyn, Centre Manager, UK was put into lockdown due to public brought the duo to our said: “We could see how bonded coronavirus, and the kittens provided Hammersmith animal hospital in they were and how Specks relies a lifeline of companionship and London just in time, and they were on Dot for support. support to Karren, who was not soon taken to our fl agship Victoria “They both enjoyed being around working due to being furloughed. site for further treatment. people but defi nitely preferred She said: “The boys have to play together!” changed my life and given BLIND Blue Cross was me a purpose. They’ve Specks was found to have cataracts determined to keep kept me going.” covering both eyeballs, leaving him with little to no vision. He was also diagnosed with a nervous system disorder called cerebellar ataxia, which causes loss of balance, shaking and wobbly movements. It’s therefore unlikely that Specks would have survived without Dot’s support, explained Amanda Rumball, London Welfare Offi cer for Blue Cross. “Dot was found huddled up with his brother and I really think he stayed with Specks because he knew how much he needed him. “He could have left him, but he never did,” she said. “I don’t think Specks would have

Read more on Dot and Speck’s new life at bluecross.org.uk/dotandspecks

bluecross.org.uk 11 HAMSTER’S NEW LIFE

rapped in a wooden hut far too small and with a T guinea pig she should A BIG NEW never have been housed with, Frost’s early life must have been so stressful and frustrating. WORLD The hamster arrived at our Burford rehoming centre, Oxfordshire, inside a mop bucket in September last year when her owner realised she wasn’t FOR FROST getting the care she needed. Frost and her hut rival were bought Many small pets miss out on the enrichment, space from a pet shop as a pair – despite and care they need due to a lack of understanding Syrian hamsters being solitary creatures, and guinea pigs needing for their welfare. Thankfully, Blue Cross was there the company of their own kind. to give Frost the life she deserved… But, within four days, Kelly Grellier

12 For Pets HAMSTER’S NEW LIFE

When Kane and I are together in the evenings in the living room, it’s really lovely to have Frost as a part of it. She is part of our time together.

HAMSTER WELFARE Sadly, this wasn’t the fi rst case of its kind that Blue Cross has experienced, and son Kane had given Frost a really give her a lovely quality of life.” due a widespread lack of loving home, and she now has a Kelly said she also enjoys coming awareness of small pets’ palatial cage more than big enough up with creative ways to provide Frost needs among those that for her needs. with crucial enrichment. sell them. Some scars from Frost’s past The ideal home for a FITTING IN remain – she tends to get through hamster is a large wire Due to a hamster’s nocturnal habits, food too fast as she was previously cage with a plastic base she fi ts perfectly into their busy used to competing for it, so portions no smaller than 60cm by London lifestyles. need to be managed carefully. 30cm, by 30cm tall. Kelly said: “Because we live in a But the hamster is now as happy Wood should be fl at, and I travel a lot for work, she’s as she can be, and has made her avoided as it absorbs perfect for us because she is awake owners happier too. urine and quickly becomes in the evening so we just get to pet Kelly added: “When Kane and I are smelly and unhygienic. her and watch her running about. together in the evenings in the living We recommend that “And then she goes back in her room, it’s really lovely to have Frost as hamster wheels should be cage and explores in there for the as a part of it. at least 21.5cm in diameter rest of the night. So, it means we can “She’s part of our time together.” to avoid spinal problems.

Find out more about keeping hamsters happy at bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/hamsterwelfare

bluecross.org.uk 13 ABANDONED CAT

She was also in terrible condition, with a fl aky coat, bald patches around her eyes and sparse fur on her ears. Amanda Rumball, London Welfare Offi cer, said: “She was severely emaciated and dehydrated. Thankfully, nothing showed up as broken on her X-rays. She was ravenously hungry and had to be put on fl uids and pain relief. We had to start to slowly rehydrate and feed her. “Despite all she had been through she was so gentle and just craved attention. She was so sweet.” After a week of round-the- clock care, Minnie went off to our Lewisham rehoming service, based at Hadlow College, located in the south London borough. Danielle Durnford, Centre A LEAP Manager at Lewisham Blue Cross, said: “We fed her little but often, and she was put on a special digestive OF FAITH diet. If she was suddenly overfed it would make her really ill, as she had Minnie was left with no choice but to risk her life gone so long without anything. by jumping two storeys after being abandoned alone in a fl at… NERVOUS “She was a little bit wary of new er owners just upped and move from where she had landed. things, and was nervous on the fi rst left one day to never So, she just laid there, emaciated, day, but once she realised we were H return, leaving Minnie all alone and scared. feeding her, she was OK. But if you alone in a fl at without enough food left food in there and walked away, or water, if any at all. RESCUED she didn’t actually eat it, so we had It was in the height of summer Thankfully, she was found just in to sit with her every time we fed her. and the black and white moggy time by a member of the public who If we got up and left, she wouldn’t was soon starving and severely brought her to our animal hospital in touch it and would go straight back dehydrated. In a desperate bid for Victoria, central London. into her bed. survival, she leapt out of the window Nobody knows exactly how long “She’s very loving considering her and fell two storeys. she had been cooped up for, but by background but I guess she doesn’t The fall alone could have killed her, the time she arrived in our care, she know that she was abandoned.” and while she was lucky enough to weighed just 1.4kg – almost half of After more than 50 days emerge from it unscathed, she had what a healthy kitten her age should recovering in our care, Minnie found no energy left in her fragile body to have been. a happy home.

14 For Pets ABANDONED CAT

bluecross.org.uk 15 STILL STANDING

LOOKING LIKE A TRUE SURVIVOR rom underneath the on neighbours’ doors to check low-hanging branches of whether the bunny was in fact a F a bush you can’t easily be known escape artist, but no one seen by potential predators, and you knew who his owner might be. can keep away from harsh winter Elton was nervous when he came winds. So it’s no wonder this was the to Blue Cross, but we slowly gained shelter Elton sought when he was his confi dence and he has now alone on the street. found a loving home. He came to The little lop-eared rabbit our Burford rehoming centre in a box must have been so containing lots of glitter, and as there frightened in unfamiliar was an Elton John song playing in surroundings and with no the background when he arrived, it one to take care of him. made sense to name him after the living legend. SURPRISE “Elton has the sweetest eyes we’ve Fortunately, Elton was ever seen,” says Hollie Jones, Animal discovered in the front garden Welfare Assistant. “We’ve heard from of a very surprised, but kind, his new owners just how wonderful person’s home. His fi nder knocked life is now he’s in their world.”

16 For Pets REHOMING

Hundreds of pets are just waiting COULD YOU to meet you TAKE ME HOME?

Can you give any of these Blue Cross pets a place in your heart and your home?

HARVEY CRUMPET Howdy! I just love to hang out with Hiya, me and my fi ve friends are all my human friends, but I’m a bit looking for new homes after a bit of a unsure about the ones with four legs, rough time of it. If you could give me so I need an understanding home the chance of a fresh start, I’ll make a with quiet walks aplenty. wonderful friend. Southampton, 0300 777 1530 Newport, 0300 777 1590

TOBY Hiya! I’m a friendly, companion pony on the lookout for a lovely human who understands my health needs. Could you be the one for me? Burford, 0300 777 1570

KASSIE TESS Hey! I’m a playful girl with a sensitive You may think I’m an old girl at the soul, and I just adore company and age of 13, but I can promise you, I’ve fuss. If you could give me some help still got a lifetime of love to give! Have with my medical needs I’d be your you got space on your sofa for me to bestest friend in return. put my paws up in my twilight years? Lewknor, 0300 777 1500 Bromsgrove, 0300 777 1460

TRISTAN I may be small, but I more than make up for it in love! I’ve had a tough past but I’m so excited to fi nd a special someone to trust. Have you got space for a Shetland? Rolleston, 0300 777 1520

Find your new best friend at bluecross.org.uk/rehome

bluecross.org.uk 17 COVID-19 NEWS SPECIAL

HELPING PETS IN THE PANDEMIC ince our fi rst animal after swallowing a bundle of elastic hospital opened in 1906, bands, several dogs who had eaten S not once have we closed toxic food such as grapes and poor our doors to pets in need – and this Larry the cat, who was dumped year has been no exception. outside our Merton hospital having Throughout the coronavirus been born with no eyes. pandemic, and the huge challenges and uncertainty it has brought, we VOLUNTEERS have continued to be there for the Meanwhile, our rehoming centres pets that rely on us so greatly. and services enlisted an army of Our animal hospitals in Victoria volunteer foster carers to look after in central London and Grimsby pets still waiting to fi nd homes when remained open for emergency care government restrictions put most Larry the cat during lockdown and found new rehoming processes on hold. ways of working, including remote Just some of the pets in foster Our Education Team has also consultations, to ensure no animal homes were Rosie and her fi ve delivered virtual pet welfare talks to went without vital medication or kittens (pictured top) who were born more than 3,000 children since April. urgent attention. Some prescriptions in our care in February, right before We couldn’t have done any of were even delivered on push bikes. the country was locked down. this without the generosity of our Among the crisis cases we saw As soon as regulations eased, we kind supporters, who rallied urgent were numerous stray animals hurt began matching pets with owners calls for donations after many of our in traffi c accidents, a cat called while adapting ways of working to funding streams ground to a halt. To Bluebell who needed urgent surgery comply with social distancing. all of you, thank you.

18 For Pets COVID-19 NEWS SPECIAL

KITTEN’S LUCKY RESCUE Our dedicated foster carers cared for so many pets during the lockdown, giving vital round-the-clock care. Pets just like little kitten Logan...

ogan is lucky to be open, and we needed to alive after being hand-feed him using a L found in a garden bottle. shed and rushed into our “He was so tiny that we STRAY LOCKDOWN care during the height of the popped him into a small coronavirus pandemic. crate so he could spend PUPPY RESCUED Believed to be around lunch in the team room with A four-month-old puppy found a week old, the kitten was us in safety. He was happily wandering alone on a busy taken to our Grimsby animal cuddled up with a teddy that main road during lockdown hospital in Lincolnshire by a was double his size and had is now enjoying a life of love, member of public who heard a good snooze.” thanks to Blue Cross. his desperate cries. Foster carer Amy Mowforth Terrier-cross Marvin was The kitten was then then cared for him day and found by a dog walker and transferred to Lewknor. night, hand-rearing him taken to our Suffolk rehoming Hannah Owen, Animal every three hours. centre in March. Welfare Assistant, said: In June, once he was He was not microchipped so “When Logan fi rst arrived strong and old enough, we when no one came forward to here his eyes weren’t fully found him a loving home. claim the youngster, the team took him into their care, with the dog warden’s approval.

SLEEPOVER Marvin was in good health but was nervous, so Animal Welfare Assistant Bradley Tovell set up a camp bed to stay with the youngster in his kennel the fi rst night. Marvin quickly found a new home when Blue Cross started to take applications for some pets by holding virtual ‘visits’ with potential new owners through video calls. He’s now thriving.

bluecross.org.uk 19 FINDING HAPPINESS

FINDING HAPPINESS WWally’sally’s ssouloul wwasas ccrushedrushed wwhenhen hhee aarrivedrrived aatt BBluelue CCross,ross, aandnd tthehe ppooroor bboyoy sstruggledtruggled ttoo fi nndd a hhomeome aass a rresultesult – uuntilntil hhee mmetet a llovingoving nnewew oowner,wner, wwhoho nneededeeded hhelpelp rrebuildingebuilding hherer llifeife aass mmuchuch aass hhee ddid...id...

20 For Pets FINDING HAPPINESS

found myself laughing frightened and hungry. TRUSTED CIRCLE “ when Wally was running in Nobody knew what trauma lay in The now four-year-old dog started to I the garden and, I thought: the siblings’ past, but while resilient make good progress and showed ‘That’s the fi rst time I’ve done that Gromit quickly grew in confi dence, great affection for his trusted circle since losing Martin’.” all Wally could do was hide and of people but remained petrifi ed of Those are the poignant words of quiver in his shadow. The only way strangers – particularly men. Gai Cox, who rehomed dog Wally to build his independence and trust He would cower in the corner from Blue Cross after her beloved in humans was to get him used to when meeting potential new owners, husband of 34 years passed away, spending time away from Gromit. leaving the sweet boy struggling followed by their dog, Basil, a year “The two brothers were so more than most pets at Blue Cross later. different,” said Claire Spiers, Animal to fi nd a home; more than 100 days, At her darkest time, the lurcher Welfare Assistant. “Gromit was much in fact. became the mum-of-two’s shining more confi dent, and a new family Claire said: “I felt so sad for Wally. light – and for Wally, Gai was his. soon fell in love with him and took Every day he hoped to be picked him home. out by someone who would make FRIGHTENED “Wally was much more timid. him their forever companion. Yet his He arrived at our rehoming centre He had probably had a traumatic hopes were dashed, time after time.” in Bromsgrove, West Midlands, in experience when he was a stray, But when Gai walked through the March last year with his brother as he had very little confi dence with door, she could see past Wally’s fears Gromit, having been found straying, new people.” and into his kind eyes – and knew

bluecross.org.uk 21 FINDING HAPPINESS

Every day I know I’m so lucky to Wally, Gai and her daughter Millie have him. Apart from being a bit that they needed each other equally. really scared of men – walking him, scared of men, he’s Gai said: “He has helped me he was just on edge. He was even just perfect. He’s massively. I don’t know where I scared of the television if there were an amazing dog. would have been, given the situation pictures of men. But within a week, I had found myself in. We’ve helped he got used to the TV. each other.” “He comes into the offi ce with me She continued: “At the start, he was every day. He’s still worried by men but is much better now.”

SMILING AGAIN Soon after rehoming Wally, Gai’s daughter Millie went to work as a vet with wildlife in South Africa for three months, and found huge comfort in seeing the lurcher helping her mum to smile again before departing. Wally has now been living with Gai for more than a year, and he is unrecognisable from the shell of a dog he once was. “We just had to help him fi nd his feet,” said Gai. She added: “Every day I know I’m so lucky to have him. Apart from being a bit scared of men, he’s just perfect. He’s an amazing dog.”

22 For Pets A TRIBUTE

When James and Bob became A TRIBUTE TO world famous, they didn’t forget the help we gave them at their toughest time, and the pair generously STREETCAT BOB supported us for many years. The funds they’ve raised have directly heir story touched the a friend as much as he did. Bob helped many more sick and injured world over. A recovering walked into his life and never left. pets and their owners. T heroin addict and a stray We will always be grateful to them. cat, whose incredible bond healed FRIENDSHIP Mark Bossley, Blue Cross Chief the scars of their pasts and The incredible story of their friendship Vet, said: “We’re proud to have been transformed both lives. and adventures on the streets of there for Bob and James when Bob Everyone at Blue Cross was London became a number one needed veterinary treatment and it saddened to hear of Bob the bestselling book internationally, was always clear to our team how Streetcat’s death in June, aged at called A Street Cat Named Bob, and much of a close bond they had. least 14, and sent our love and was even turned into a fi lm. But most “James and Bob have done a sympathy to owner James Bowen. importantly, James got his life back. huge amount to support our charity We knew the pair well and are Their success was extra special for by fundraising for us since James’s grateful to them both for their Blue Cross because we were there recovery, and because of them we’ve generous support over many years. for James and Bob at our weekly been able to help so many more James was trying to put his life mobile pet clinic in Islington, London, sick and injured pets. We’re really back together in 2007 when he met which helps those that can’t afford grateful to them and Bob will be truly the ginger tomcat, who needed private vet fees. missed.”

If you are struggling to come to terms with losing a pet, our free and confi dential Pet Bereavement Support Service is here for you on 0800 096 6606.

bluecross.org.uk 23 Give back to pets in need by hosting a socially distancing Tea Party at home, in your garden or local park. You could hold a virtual party; simply pop the kettle on and invite your friends to connect online for a chat and catch up over a cuppa with each person making a small donation.

Simply fi ll in the coupon at the back of this magazine or visit bluecross.org.uk/teaparty

#PawsforTea

Blue Cross is a charity that has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. LETTERS

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

Please send us your news and pictures of your pets! Sponsored by

JASMINE BRUCE teach me tricks which I also I had two elderly rabbits, Max My name is Bruce. I am a enjoy, but I don’t tell her that and Millie, who were both rescue dog just taking time or she might stop giving me nine-year-old Netherland dwarf out from my busy schedule treats. rabbits. Last June, Millie died to drop you a line. Two years I take her for a walk each unexpectedly, with no sign of ago, I was asked to go to live day but not when it is raining illness or distress. Max was by with Mary as she was very as she might catch a chill. her side when she passed away sad because her husband Much better to cuddle up on and I left him with her for about had died, and she was the settee until the weather an hour to say his goodbyes but, very lonely. Well, I improves. Sometimes we visit as he had always had a lady said I would give the coast. She likes to paddle bun, he went into depression. it a go as I am in the sea. It’s not for me, nasty The vet advised that he was too always up for wet stuff! I prefer sitting on old to be bonded with another a challenge. a bench and sharing an ice rabbit and I walked away feeling So, I moved cream. really sad for my elderly rabbit. in with her We often go on little trips I then spoke to someone from and began and we have even been on a Blue Cross who said I should get my task straight train. So, you see that I take my another one and encouraged me away. I decided job very seriously and I must to try it – it was then that I found the best thing I could do be doing something right as a one-and-a-half-year-old white was to be by her side all the I have heard people say that crossbreed rabbit, who needed time, so as to keep an eye on I am the best thing that has a home. It’s taken fi ve months, her. I learnt how to make her happened to Mary. but to see them both now happy smile and encouraged her to I try not to be too big together and playing is an headed, but I was very proud absolute joy! Fluff, who has been We love to hear how Blue Cross when I was awarded a fi rst- renamed as Jasmine has settled pets are changing lives... place rosette at a dog show. I in well and is a little treasure. But know I am a lucky dog to have to see Max so happy again is Please email your letters and photos to such a good billet and I really the best thing ever! In addition, [email protected] hope that lots of other dogs a robin has arrived ever since or write to For Pets Editor, Blue Cross, (and I suppose, cats) are as Jasmine came home with us and Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4PF lucky. comes and joins her when they I must go now as Mary go out and play! Find us on Facebook & Twitter wants to play ball. Sue Rodgers /thebluecrossUK @The_Blue_Cross Bruce

For Pets letters is kindly sponsored by Burgess, bluecross.org.uk 25 with the star letter awarded a £100 goody bag for a pet of choice! PET ADVICE HOW TO TEACH YOUR PET TO HIGH FIVE IIff yyouou hhaveave a ddogog wwho’sho’s kkeeneen ttoo llearn,earn, oorr eevenven iiff tthey’rehey’re a bbitit oonn tthehe rreluctanteluctant sside,ide, tteachingeaching tthemhem ttoo hhighigh fi vvee iiss nniceice aandnd ssimple,imple, ssoo yyou’llou’ll hhaveave tthemhem ddoingoing iitt iinn nnoo ttimeime aatt aall.ll. YYouou ccanan tteacheach yyourour ccatat ttoo!oo! TThoughhough yyouou mmayay nneedeed jjustust a ttouchouch mmoreore ppatience.atience.

26 For Pets are standing. position, butthiscanalsobedonewhenthey 1 away – patienceiskey. interest oraren’traisingtheirpawstraight Don’t beafraidtogobackastepiftheylose time withthe‘highfi ve’ instructioncue. Then repeatuntiltheymeetyourhandevery position tomeetyourpalmwiththeirpaw. 4 THE APPROACH pet when they are in the sitting pet whentheyareinthesitting It worksbesttoapproachyour paws handled;usefulforavet check-up. Training yourpet,especially dogs, alsoincreasesthe Not only does this trick look great, it also helps your pet feel more comfortable having their Not onlydoesthistricklookgreat, italsohelpsyourpetfeelmorecomfortablehavingtheir SWITCH HANDPOSITION mastered, switch your hand mastered, switchyourhand Once theyseemtohavethis bond betweenyouandkeeps your four-legged friendmentallystimulated. giving themthetreatinyourhand. a clickerortheword‘yes’,followedby towards yourhand,marktheiractionwith as theirpawleavesthegroundtomove sniffi ng orpawingatyourhand.Assoon curiosity willusuallycausethemtostart 2 PAW RAISE treat inaclosedfi st. Theirnatural First, concealyourpet’s favourite saying ‘highfi ve’ andrewardingthem. few times,beginmarkingtheactionby 3 SAY ‘HIGHFIVE’ your hand with their paw a your handwiththeirpawa When yourpethastouched lers.r.kbluecross.org.uk

Illustrations by Eve Cahalarn PET ADVICE 27 HORSE RESCUE

RESCUED FROM MISERY After being left to fend for themselves, a group of ponies are now healthy and happy after being rehabilitated by Blue Cross...

ine ponies found living They were brought to our Burford feral without the care they horse unit in Oxfordshire by the N needed are now enjoying RSPCA in two rescue missions in the lives they deserve. summer last year, stepping off the Popeye, Summer and Sebastian, trailer weak and bewildered. four, Indigo and Wesley, three, and Another pony taken in by Blue two-year-olds Little Beauty, Nigel, Cross from the same site was lame Ayla and Mango, were found with due to suspected pelvic injuries and dozens of other mistreated ponies sadly had to be put to sleep to end roaming across 500 acres. his suffering.

28 For Pets HORSE RESCUE

afraid of people, so the grooms had to work hard to build their trust. But all of them except Indigo, who was particularly scared, took to handling faster than expected due to The horses had been left to live feral they needed and placed them on their inquisitive nature. So much so, and breed beyond the control of their the road to rehabilitation. that only Summer and Ayla are now owner, allowing for little to no care. waiting to fi nd loving homes. When the ponies were rescued, REHABILITATION Clare Bevins, Veterinary and Yard pregnant mares were found with Mango, an emaciated bay cob, Supervisor, said: “Indigo took a long several foals still suckling from them. arrived in the worst condition. time to build a relationship with On arrival in our care, the ponies Wobbling as she walked, she anyone and every time something in the group taken in by Blue Cross weighed just 203kg and was given a changed, he went back a step. were so terrifi ed of being without body score of just one – the second “Him being confi dently caught their friends that the team had to from lowest possible. in the fi eld earlier this year was a quickly assess them before letting “It was so sad to see them in this highlight for everyone as it marked them run free in grassy paddocks in condition, especially when they were the turning of a corner. their groups. so young,” said Louise Lock, Senior “The others were fairly plain-sailing Once they were more settled, we Groom. but their main highlight, as always, got them all the vet and farrier care Understandably, the ponies were has been fi nding a nice new home.”

bluecross.org.uk 29 GOODBYE TO SADNESS

HORRIBLE PAST ‘A DISTANT MEMORY’ Baloo was found with suspected burns as he battled to survive as a stray, but the tabby was soon on the road to recovery, thanks to Blue Cross…

30 For Pets GOODBYE TO SADNESS

e must have been in agony. With painful sores around his neck and lesions on his H little legs, Baloo was in a sorry state when he arrived at our doors. Vets at our animal hospital in Victoria, London, suspected that his sore skin was down to an old, untreated burn. It was so painful for the tabby that we had to put him under general anaesthetic to clean and inspect his wounds. Baloo, four, was also prescribed anti-infl ammatories, antibiotics and creams to help his skin heal. Once he was stable, he went to our Southampton rehoming centre and transferred to a foster home, where he wore a tiny T-shirt to protect his skin and a collar to prevent him from licking his sores. Megan Baverstock, Southampton Supervisor, said: “After being on his treatment for a few weeks and getting lots of love and affection, Baloo’s skin started to heal and was much clearer and less itchy.” It was a long road to recovery, as his damaged skin kept fl aring up when his medication was eased. But the team kept it under control and, after 131 days, he found a loving home.

LITTLE CHARACTER Unrecognisable from the sad cat we fi rst saw, he is now an integral member of the Frost family in Hampshire, living with Joanne, husband Ian and their two daughters Georgia, 16 and Maia, 12. “Baloo has brought great joy into our lives. He has proved to be a great addition to our family, and we have fallen in love with him. He is a great little character,” said Joanne. She added: “I think he knows he’s going to be OK now and his horrible past is well and truly a distant memory.”

bluecross.org.uk 31 NEWS

BITESIZE while she rested so that her spine could heal. She has STORIES lived with her ever since. ALL THE LATEST And despite living with NEWS FROM lifelong mobility issues, BLUE CROSS Sammy has helped Megan care for and nurture countless other pets in need in foster care. Not only has her work included helping dogs and puppies, but cats, kittens and even rabbits, giving them all much-needed respite from centre life and helping to build their confi dence.

BIRTHDAY PARTY To recognise Sammy’s incredible work, she was thrown a special 17th birthday party earlier this year. Ryan Neile, Head of Behaviour, said: “Sammy’s amazing ability to read, interpret and respond to the subtle body language of other animals makes her the perfect foster friend. FOSTER HERO “Sammy will show and teach other animals how to behave in the n inspirational dog, who Southampton in 2003 after being world and that things aren’t quite was found unable to walk abandoned in terrible pain in a as scary as they seem. This special A as a stray puppy 17 years supermarket car park with her spine gift, however simple it may seem, ago, has been celebrated for her broken in two places. can never be underestimated as remarkable work in helping other She quickly stole the heart a hugely important part of helping rescue pets overcome their fears. of Megan Baverstock, Centre Blue Cross pets overcome fears, to Sammy arrived at Blue Cross Supervisor, who fostered Sammy socialise and learn new skills.”

HERTFORDSHIRE REBUILD GETS UNDERWAY Work has started on the long-awaited rebuild of our outdated Hertfordshire rehoming centre. Despite the challenges brought by Covid-19, our builders broke ground on the site on 8 June, with strict social distancing measures in place. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the 70-year-old dilapidated facility will be replaced with a modern centre at the forefront of animal welfare standards.

32 For Pets NEWS

WHATEVER WARNING OVER CAT HAPPENED TO? BREED ISSUES Blue Cross has warned people Every year Blue Cross fi nds families for thousands to think carefully before taking of homeless pets. We’ve caught up with a familiar face on fl at-faced pet breeds after a to see how she’s doing... homeless Persian cat needed urgent surgery. Mr Magoo arrived at our Burford rehoming centre aged 18 months with sticky and swollen eyes, as well as diffi culty breathing. Due to their short, ‘squashed’ fl at-faces which cause narrow airways and large eyes, Persians are predisposed to a number of conditions which can lead to a lifetime of discomfort and pain. Mr Magoo was treated for a common condition in which the eyelids and lashes grow inwards, causing irritation to the eye and a risk of blindness. Caroline Reay, Head of Veterinary Services, said: “Many people still don’t know that the perceived ‘cute’ wheezy noises made by these breeds of dogs You couldn’t see tiny Ned’s Soon, Ned had found a new and cats, as with Mr Magoo, beautiful white fur beneath home – and a new name are actually the pet struggling to the fi lth when she was found – with Nancy and James breathe due to their narrowed all alone in Grimsby docks. Hughes, and four-year-old airways, resulting from how they She was dangerously thin son Sebastian, who has have been bred to look the way and suffering from potentially followed in his dad’s footsteps they do.” deadly cat fl u as well as a to become a huge Star Wars stomach infection. At just six fan. In fact, it was Sebastian weeks old, she was clinging who named his new four- to life. legged friend Phasma, after Our Grimsby animal hospital the stormtrooper captain in Lincolnshire cleaned her of the same name in his up and nursed her better, favourite fi lm franchise. before transferring her to our “It has been really lovely to Cambridge rehoming centre. have her,” said Nancy.

bluecross.org.uk 33 COMPETITION

WIN! A YEAR OF PET TREATS

ove Louie has teamed up L with Blue Cross to donate HOW TO ENTER £5 plus VAT from every box Answer the following question Name: of pet goodies sold on its website. for your chance to win: To celebrate, it’s offering two lucky Address: readers one of its 12-month Which famous singer is the rabbit subscription packages for dog or cat featured on page 16 named after? boxes, valued at more than £300. (please tick) With a focus on enrichment, boxes are packed with high quality items, Elvis Costello such as Kong toys and natural treats, Ella Fitzgerald designed to keep pets entertained Elton John and mentally stimulated. One-off treat boxes are available, Fill in your name and contact as well as monthly deliveries to your details and post to:* Postcode: door. To fi nd out more, visit Freepost BLUE CROSS FOR PETS www.lovelouie.co.uk/blue-cross Or, enter online at: Telephone: bluecross.org.uk/forpets Closing date Friday, 2 October 2020 Email: *Strictly one entry per household.

Blue Cross respects your privacy and will keep your information safe and secure and will only use Nicola Batty is the winner of it in accordance with our Privacy Policy. We will not sell, rent or share your personal data with other organisations for their marketing purposes. We may use your data for profi ling purposes to make future a pet portrait in our spring communications more relevant to you. To see more about how we will use your information visit bluecross. org.uk/privacy 2020 For Pets competition *You can change your preferences at any time by contacting our Supporter Care Team on 0300 790 9903 Congratulations! or email [email protected]

34 For Pets CONTACTS

We have 55 shops and 20 national rehoming network locations

21 9 FIND US 1 Discover your local Blue Cross 15 18 Our animal hospitals Our pet care clinics 1 Grimsby 5 Ashford (Kent) 6 17 2 Hammersmith 6 Derby 3 Merton 7 Luton 4 Victoria 8 Torbay 10 9 York 12 7 20 11 13 14 Our rehoming centres 16 2 4 10 Bromsgrove 17 Rolleston 3 11 Burford 18 Sheffi eld 5 12 Cambridge 19 Southampton 19 13 Hertfordshire (Kimpton) 20 Suffolk (Ipswich) 22 14 Lewknor 21 Thirsk 8 15 Manchester 22 Tiverton 23 16 Newport 23 Torbay

Say hello, fi nd your nearest Blue Cross or make a donation

Call: 0300 790 9903 Email: [email protected] Visit: bluecross.org.uk Write to us: Freepost BLUE CROSS FOR PETS

Book a free education talk Animal welfare and responsible pet ownership workshops for children and young people in schools, youth groups and clubs. Call: 0300 111 8950 Visit: bluecross.org.uk/education

Pet Bereavement Support Service Free and confi dential support for anyone coping with the loss of a pet, for any reason. Call: 0800 096 6606. Lines open every day, 8.30am to 8.30pm. Email: [email protected]

bluecross.org.uk 35 We’re a charity that has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets “Remember me since 1897 ” Title: in your Will First name:

If pets have a place in your heart, Surname: please find a place for them in your Address: Will. A gift in your Will can help secure the future for thousands of pets.

Order your FREE information pack on making or amending a Will and leaving a gift to Blue Cross online at bluecross.org.uk/gift-your-will Or complete the coupon and send to: Freepost BLUE CROSS FOR PETS Postcode: Alternatively, call or email and quote: B220 Telephone: B220 Telephone: 0300 790 9903 Email: [email protected] I have already included a gift to Blue Cross in my Will bluecross.org.uk/gift-your-will Thank you for your continued support.

Blue Cross is a charity registered in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154). *From time to time we may wish to communicate with you by phone with news about the pets you are helping and ways you can help in the future. If you are happy for us to do this, please fill in your details above.