According to Rightmove, West London is amongst the 10 unhappiest places to live in Great Britain and Harrogate is the happiest. I happen to be travelling to Harrogate at the moment, so I’ll see how it compares.
Some of the best things about West London are the wonderful events on our doorstep. Not least of which is the family day out being organised in Hyde Park by The Mayhew Animal Home on Sunday June 15. Called Hyde Bark, there will be stalls, a celebrity-judged Dog Show, children’s activities and a sponsored dog walk around the Serpentine. It takes place in the Cockpit area between 10am to 5pm.
Now I’m in Harrogate, I’ve seen the following message on display: "In this house, we do happy, we do second chances." Many of the animals in this column need a second chance. Gagatek and Jacek are two gorgeous cats who, after their owner’s circumstances changed, need a second chance. They snuggle up to each other and adore each other. They must be homed together. By all accounts, Jacek has a headbutt to end all headbutts.
Giving these two Polish boys a second chance is likely to make one new owner very happy. If this could be you, call 020 8962 8000 or see themayhew.org .
The Mayhew also has many kittens waiting for homes. In keeping with the saying that you are happier if you give rather than receive, even if you can’t home a kitten, you may like to sponsor a kitten unit (£5 per month). In return, as well as knowing you are helping the kittens, you get a certificate and your name on a plaque.
This month is National Microchipping month and, for four weeks, The Mayhew is offering free microchipping. Appointments fill quickly so call 020 8962 8017 or email vetclinic@mayhewanimalhome.org. as soon as possible. Having your pet microchipped is one way to help avoid the unhappiness of not having a lost pet returned to you.
Back home from Harrogate now. I’ve missed the buzz of West London.
Read more of Marion's animal welfare columns.
