Some people climb Mount Everest to challenge themselves. I just go to the other side of London.
This Christmas, for eight days, I have been looking after the dogs in a Crisis at Christmas residential centre for people who sleep rough. I’ve gone without sleep and had my strength tested. But, with the challenges, also come the rewards. Not least, of which, is seeing charities collaborate together for the benefit of homeless people and their dogs.
There’s nothing like seeing The Mayhew Animal Home van arrive early in a cold, desolate area on the other side of London during Christmas time, to make you realise the contribution The Mayhew make to animal welfare. With their owner present, each dog in the Centre was examined and treated.
Guests at the Centre were also offered referrals to the Hope Project (Tel: 020 7837 0006). This Project, organised by Dogs Trust, provides free preventative treatment and subsidised additional vet treatment for dogs whose owners are homeless or in housing crisis.
When you see a rough sleeper, including those with a dog, and you are concerned about their welfare, it can be difficult to know what to do. I find it useful to have in my phone, the number for the No Second Night Out scheme (Tel: 0870 3833333). This scheme helps those who newly find themselves sleeping on London’s streets. The phone line is open 24/7. The scheme accepts rough sleepers with dogs. If you are worried about a rough sleeper, online referrals can be made at www.nosecondnightout.org.uk .
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home look after many dogs who know what it’s like to sleep rough. Not that Blaze has experienced this. He arrived at Battersea when, after 7 years, his owner could no longer keep him. Blaze is an eight year old German Shepherd dog (cross). He is an affectionate dog who loves tennis balls. He would prefer to be the only dog in the household. If you can offer Blaze a home, contact Battersea on 0843 509 4444 or see details at www.battersea.org.uk
