Do you ever have a nightmare that you have to do something for which you aren’t prepared?

I’m hoping this nightmare is not about to become a reality for me. But, if it is, you could be there to witness it.

This year’s Ealing Animal Welfare Bazaar is on Saturday and, as the organiser, I’ve been in hospital for the past week – away from my post.

But wait, now I’ve taken a back seat, other people are coming forward with new ideas and offers of help – I’m not as indispensible as I thought I was. I can see the Bazaar could be better than ever this time.

And it needs to be. You don’t have to be the sharpest tool in the box to know charities at the Bazaar need our support.

Clever dog suffers from boredom

Quin is one of the sharpest tools in the Boxer Department at Dogs Trust. This beautiful Boxer (crossbreed) is described by Dogs Trust as “too clever”.

The problem with being a clever dog in kennels is that he’s bored. He needs to occupy his brain.

Quin arrived at Dogs Trust as a stray in 2014 so his life is slipping past with no real opportunity to live life to the full.

He’s looking for an experienced home that is prepared for a big bouncy boy. He gets on well with other dogs.

If you think a clever dog would fit into your lifestyle, meet him at Dogs Trust, Harvil Road, Harefield or speak to Sian Fairlie on the Dogs Trust stall at the Bazaar.

Guest speakers

As well as having lots of gifts and bargains to buy, the Bazaar also has six great guest speakers including Zoe Edwards, animal welfare manager from The Mayhew Animal Home, Duncan McNair, chief executive from Save the Asian Elephants and speakers from Animal Aid, Sea Shepherd, Animals Asia and Four-Paws.

More than 30 animal charities will be there with Blue Cross being the latest addition. Blue Cross run two fantastic animal hospitals in our area, one at Hammersmith and one at Victoria – very worth supporting.

The 38 Ealing Animal Welfare Bazaar takes place on Saturday 5 March (10.30am-4.00pm) at Hanwell Methodist Church, Church Rd, London W7 1DJ.

Admission is free. Details online here. Many people move in for the whole day.