Barking Blondes: Christmas charity begins with dogs at home
The Mayhew animal rescue centre in North West London is holding its annual carol concert, this Tuesday, at St Johns Church in Hammersmith.
Billed as “Tinsels & Tails’ it kicks off the festive season in style. Drawing the support of animal loving celebs like Peter Egan, Bill Bailey and XYZ, it’s a chance to toast the altruistic, inspiring but often heart breaking work the Mayhew achieves.
For the third year running, we are flattered to have been asked to read at the service but sadly are helping with another event across town.
As beautiful as the Mayhew service is, probably the bonus, is the attendance of many of the successfully rescued mutts from the centre.
This is just one of the many canine Christmas events taking place in London highlighting the plight of homeless and abandoned animals.
In recessionary times all the animal rescues find it tough to make ends meet and tirelessly campaign to pull in the funds just to keep going. It’s hard to choose one over another as they all do great work.
It doesn’t take much to help a rescue….. simply donating some old blankets or dog toys will go a long way to help as they prepare to receive hundreds of unwanted pooches abandoned after Christmas.
It’s shocking that puppies are still bought as Christmas presents despite Dogs Trust’s famous and hard-hitting slogan: “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas’.
Once the novelty factor has worn off and the January blues kick in, puppies are taken into rescue nationwide in droves and abandoned.
Already brimful, rescues are preparing for an onslaught over the coming weeks. So spare a thought for these dogs, that through no fault of their own, end up homeless in the New Year.
As the Hound Pound booms over 70% dog owners are set to spend a minimum of £15 on their beloved pooch this Christmas. From festive jumpers, collars and leads, toys, even pre-prepared turkey dinners, there’s a massive choice.
Dog owners as with most ‘enthusiasts’ like the ‘dog lovers’ mugs, wellies, scarves, hats, mugs, mouse mats – the list is endless. But what about the discerning dog obsessive that’s got everything? For those who like a bit of history or something with the kitsch factor “Maison Dog” in Dulwich might just take the biscuit with its unique collection of out of the ordinary dog memorabilia.
With some items dating back to the Victoria era through to iconic 1950’s classic plastic pop art items, there’s an irresistible choice. The collection highlights just how dogs have been revered, treasured and popularised over the years. From ancient engraved dog collars to poodle salt and pepper sellers, terriers on wheels and nodding head bulldogs.
Finally, whilst enjoying our office Xmas dinner at the infamous “Julie’s” restaurant in Nottinghill…how chuffed were we when the Maitre D walked over to our table to say the great lady herself was on the phone!
Yes Julie, who is often referred to as the woman who in the 1960’s contributed to Nottinghill’s trendy image…..listens to our radio show…..along with her two spaniels! Woof! Woof!
Barking Blondes by Jo Good & Anna Webb, published by Hamlyn, £12.99www.octopusbooks.co.uk
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