TV show’s love at first sight for animal centre
acole@thekmgroup.co.uk Their heart-warming rehomings and amazing rescue tales are beamed into millions of living rooms every week, but staff at Leybourne animal rescue centre don’t feel the need to shout about it.
Many Kent viewers tuning in to Channel 5’s Dog Rescuers on Tuesday nights, presented by actor and comedian Alan Davies, may not be aware that they’re watching the Castle Way centre on screen.
Staff have got used to TV crews and Jonathan Creek star Mr Davies, a dog lover, dropping in to film for Channel 5, with the show’s Christmas special being filmed at the centre in its entirety.
Centre manager Christine Dooley said: “They came here and they loved what they saw. They found the site was suitable and we had areas where they could do all their links, so they were keen to stay here.
“And they have worked with us ever since.”
She added that Mr Davies was involved in filming regularly, although not every scene shot at Leybourne involved him.
The show also follows inspectors as they investigate crimes against dogs and puppies.
Dermot Murphy, assistant director inspectorate for the RSPCA, said: “We are delighted to show our dedicated officers working hard in often difficult circumstances to help rescue and save dogs from cruelty and neglect.
“They face heartbreaking situations but deal with them with compassion and dignity to help protect man’s best friends.”
Mr Davies has said of his role in the show: “Like a lot of people, I’ve got a soft spot for dogs. In this show, we see the best and the worst of the relationship between humans and dogs.”
The programme is now in its third series, and airs at 8pm on Tuesdays.