This Christmas 450 dogs will be spending the festive season in kennels at one of Battersea’s three centres. Nobody knows these dogs better than the charity’s Ambassador Paul O’Grady, who will be documenting some of their stories in a Christmas Day Special of ITV1’s Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs at Christmas.
Here, the dog-loving presenter highlights 12 dogs desperately seeking a new home from one of the three sites in London, Brands Hatch and Old Windsor.
Battersea is open for rehoming every day of the year, except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, however the charity is careful never to rehome pets as Christmas presents. Paul explains: “I’m being very strict about who can take one of my 12 dogs of Christmas. None of these lovely dogs are going as Christmas presents, they all deserve fantastic homes for life. With some love and attention one of these dogs could become your best friend.”
If you are interested in rehoming one of Paul’s 12 dogs or any other of Battersea’s dogs or cats, please contact 020 7622 3626 or email rehoming@battersea.org.uk
Paul’s 12 dogs of Christmas are:
Maisy the two year old Mongrel
Paul says: “This girl can skateboard – what more could you want?! She’s got lots of energy and loves to learn, so she’d be perfect for someone who has an active lifestyle and enjoys the great outdoors.”
Penelope the four year old Bulldog
Paul says: “Give her a cuddly toy and Penelope will be your friend for life. She’s a gorgeous lady and is very well mannered as she knows lots of commands. She’d make a perfect new member of the family.”
Milo the two year old Lurcher
Paul says: “This boy loves people so much he gets a bit anxious when they leave him, so he needs someone to keep him company throughout the day. He’s a real joy to be around as he’s such a big softie.”
Fenton the two year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross
Paul says: “What’s not to love about Fenton? He adores a fuss, settles down easily, knows lots of commands and loves travelling in the car. He’s got a cheeky side but that makes him even more of a charmer.”
Shadow the four year old Greyhound
Paul says: “Shadow needs an owner who can help him gain confidence, and this lucky person will reap the rewards as he will make a great companion. He enjoys going for walks, but also loves to relax on his bed or out in the sunshine.”
George the nine month old Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Paul says: “George is your typical pup – he’s excitable and smart, so needs someone who can show him how to grow into a proper little gent. He loves to play and trains really well, so he’s an ideal puppy. Come and meet him!”
Chester the nine month old Mongrel
Paul says: “He’s not even a year old, so Chester really deserves to be in a loving home. He’s a playful and active chap who would love an active home. With his gorgeous face I’m hoping he’ll be snapped up soon.”
Kay the 14 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Paul says: “Kay is a very special older lady. She needs a calm home where she can relax, enjoy belly rubs and potter about in the garden. She’s all you could wish for – friendly, housetrained, and walks beautifully on the lead. If I had room I’d have her!”
Pan the two year old Husky cross
Paul says: “This chap is as handsome as they come, and needs enthusiastic owners as he’s got bundles of energy and a smart brain, so he’ll need to be kept busy – imagine all the fun you could have together!”
Bison the six year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Paul says: “With a name like Bison, how could you not love this little man? He’s calm and steady around people, and needs owners who can brush up his manners around other dogs, but he’ll be a pleasure to have around.”
Summer the four year old Mongrel
Paul says: “Poor Summer arrived as a stray and she’s a lively lady who loves being with people. I’m on the look-out for very special owners for her, who have the time and patience to give her lots of training and help her relax.”
Alfie the six year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Paul says: “Alfie is an anxious little dog who is doing really well in his foster home, where he loves treats and playing with toys, so his new owner can use these to continue his training. He might be middle aged, but he’s a real smashing lad!”
Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs at Christmas is new and exclusive to ITV1, and will air on Tuesday 25 December at 6pm.