Animal Rescue

Dedicated animal expert Marion Garnett, founder of the Ealing Animal Charities Fair, continues her column

IT wasn’t easy to see him breathing.

Thin as a rake, white as a sheet and slumped on the pavement with his eyes closed, I thought he had died. This was an ordinary Sunday afternoon in London and, as usual, it was painful seeing people who have to make their home on the streets.

I was on my way to the weekly Dogs on the Streets (DOTS) station which takes place in the heart of where many people sleep rough – the Strand.

Founded by Michelle Clark in 2017, this award-winning charity supports the dogs of rough sleepers and their owners.

On arrival at the station the welcome is palpable. Two volunteers serve hot food for the owners, one volunteer sorts out supplies for the dogs, other volunteers are talking to the clients. Sandwiched between these tables and Charing Cross police station is DOTS large “vet van” which is also a RCVS registered veterinary practice equipped to undertake veterinary care, vaccinations, biopsies and blood tests.

The dog station is busy, seeing about 20 dogs, unsurprising as homelessness in London has increased.

For rough sleepers with dogs, getting off the streets is particularly difficult as many hostels do not accept residents with dogs.

DOTS also help clients find accommodation with their dogs and represents them at meetings with services and councils.

DOTS alsp has foster care kennels where dogs can be cared for if an owner is hospitalised. If you need to tell a rough sleeper with a dog about DOTS, the station is on the Strand every Sunday afternoon between 2-4pm.

Contrary to dogs who live on the streets who meet a variety of dogs, before ex-racing greyhound, Everest, arrived at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, it’s thought he hadn’t met any dogs other than greyhounds.

Consequently, Battersea’s staff have been helping him feel comfortable with a variety of breeds.

Everest is a friendly boy who loves toys and cuddles – he’s also likely to need help remembering his manners in his new home.

If this could be with you, Everest is waiting at Battersea’s rehoming centre, Battersea Park Road.

For the first time, there’s going to be an animal blessing service at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Acton on Saturday, October 12 (2pm).

We are invited to bring our pets along to celebrate their greatness and worth. If you can’t bring your pet to Church, you are welcome to bring a photo – including photos of beloved pets who have now died.

Everest