There's a Punch cartoon which shows a posh French Poodle looking questioningly at a tennis ball thrown for her to retrieve. The owner is saying to her "Never mind 'Pourquoi?' - just get it!"

Some dogs understand play more than others. When I met Pancake I threw a tennis ball for him and he looked at me as if to say "What did you do that for?".

What he does understand is going to the office. He loves spending time in the office of Sian Fairlie, Supporter Relations Officer at Dogs Trust Harefield . He's keeping Sian company because he's coming up to his first Anniversary of being at Dogs Trust and he's tired of kennels.

He arrived on Pancake Day last year after his owner moved abroad and, unless he is homed soon, he's going to be there for Pancake Day this year.

Pancake is a crossbreed with a lovely wiry feel to his coat. He is very friendly and enjoys meeting new people.

When I met him, he welcomed me into Sian's office warmly (but politely). If you're looking for a dog to take to the office, he could be your man. He's easy to have around.

Pancake could live with children aged 10 or older but needs to be the only dog in the home as he's not that keen on other dogs – but Dogs Trust hope this may change when he's homed. He's clever, knows some commands and would enjoy more training.

If you would like to know more about this gorgeous boy, you can meet him at Dogs Trust, Harvil Road, Harefield.

Cat shop volunteers needed

If working in a shop rather than an office is more your cup of tea, the Cats Protection charity shop in Albert Terrace, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing is desperate for volunteers.

Help is particularly needed on Thursday and Saturday afternoons (1pm-4pm) and Wednesday and Friday mornings (10am-1pm). If you can help either call into the shop or phone 020 8998 3940.

Finally, don't forget this year's Ealing Animal Welfare Bazaar is taking place on Saturday March 5 (10.30am-4pm) at Hanwell Methodist Church, Church Road W7 1DJ.

Over 30 charities will be taking part – including Sian representing Dogs Trust. More details nearer the time but if you can't wait, have a look online .

Read more of animal stories and articles from the getwestlondon team and contributors.