Animal Rescue with Marion Garnett
NOBODY said life would be fair. And it isn’t.
Visiting the dogs at the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) rehoming centre today, there were several dogs there who, although they have only just arrived will, no doubt, be flying out the gates with new owners in no time. But Kaleb isn’t one of them. It’s two years since this large lurcher arrived and he’s not flown anywhere. Small dogs, particularly cute dogs and popular breeds don’t usually take long to be reserved (which is, of course, great news) but Kaleb has received virtually no interest – although he is adored by staff and volunteers.
I’ve just spent a couple of hours with Kaleb, both in the paddock and in his pen and the time flew by. He was such good company. Forget being with people who ignore you or are always looking past you to see who else they can talk to, with Kaleb I had his undivided attention- except for when lunch arrived, Stuffed Kong and Scattered Biscuits, which I let him eat quietly on his own.
He’s been given one of the largest kennels at the centre so there was plenty of room for us to play. He caught virtually every tennis ball I threw for him and, touchingly, when he jumped to catch a ball and landed awkwardly against his bed frame (yes, he’s got a proper bed in there), he came and stood by me as if to say, “I might be a big strong boy but that hurt, please give me a love”.
Kaleb likes agility and is looking for a calm owner who is experienced with large breeds and would train him further. See details at nawt.org.uk or you can meet him at the rehoming centre, Tylers Way, Watford bypass.
NAWT is busy preparing for their fantastic open day on Monday May 7 (11am-4pm). When you visit the centre, it’s easy to see the animals (which include cats, rabbits, guinea pigs as well as dogs) are loved but the facilities are not luxurious.
The open day is an opportunity for raising funds as well as having a great day out. There will be a dog show, agility display (which will include Kaleb) and lots of stalls. You can also look round the centre and meet the animals.
If you have any good quality items such as toiletries, chocolates, plants or unwanted presents that could be sold, please take them to reception beforehand.
Dedicated animal expert MARION
GARNETT, founder of the Ealing Animal Charities Fair continues her column