Blind dog Scout gets a plaque
THE first commemorative plaque scheme to recognise incredible animals has been launched, and a special dog from Hinckley is one of the very first pets to be honoured.
Scout was fully blind and rescued just days away from death. However, now, he lives a happy life with his owner Tracey, and brings joy to others by volunteering at a dementia home and raising money for charities.
Similar to the English Heritage blue plaque scheme, Pet Plaques turns the attention on to beloved pets.
Started by house and pet-sitting business Trusted Housesitters, the scheme will see green markers attached to houses up and down the country, commemorating the achievements of our beloved companions.
Each plaque gives a brief description of the animal’s achievement and features ears to set it apart others.
Tracey Ison, owner of Scout, said: “I’m incredibly proud for Scout to receive a plaque – more so because of the fact other people will be able to see what we see in Scout – an amazing dog that has done an amazing amount.
“Our friends, family and neighbours are all as proud as we are for Scout to receive this plaque, as they know like I do, what a great dog he is.
“It’s such a great affirmation for all of us for Scout to be recognised as one of the very first pets to receive a plaque.” English Heritage’s blue plaque scheme has honoured notable men and women for more than 150 years by placing a marker on places they worked or lived in, but a scheme has never been dedicated to animals. The launch of Pet Plaques aims to change this, by giving deserving animals their own place in history. Recent research by the brand also helped to inspire the reason behind launching a plaque scheme solely for pets, as it revealed that some of the nation’s animal owners value their pets just as much, if not more, than friends or family. One in five (21 per cent) UK pet owners admit that they would rather spend time with their pet, than their partner, and just over a third (35 per cent) even admitted that they would rather be with their pet than their friends. Tim Lyons, managing director at TrustedHousesitters said: “There are countless stories across the country of pets who have a special bond with their owners or do something incredibly heroic. “We’re now looking forward to hearing more inspirational tales of cherished pets as the scheme continues to grow.” More than 20 plaques have so far been placed on homes all over the UK. To nominate your own pet, visit:
People will be able to see what we see in Scout – an amazing dog that has done an amazing amount. Tracey Ison