365 meets Bristol DAWG Greyhound and Lurcher Rescue
Posted on: 31 Jan 2018Recently, 365 went to meet the fantastic people at Bristol DAWG charity. For those who don’t know, the charity has been operating around the Bristol area since 2010, during which they have saved the lives of many Greyhounds, Lurchers and Whippets from all over the country.
The charity re-homes many ex-racing dogs and rescues sighthounds, whom have experienced huge welfare problems, from all over the country including Ireland. Many of which come from Trainers, Council Pounds and other Rescue Centres.
We were lucky enough to meet some of the lovely dogs alongside the wonderful volunteers, at one of their houses, where Penny fosters three dogs at any time in the hand-built kennels in her garden. The other sites and kennels are slightly further afield at different locations in the Southwest where there are more rescue dogs.
Amongst the rescued dogs, were Mikala, Birdy and Puma who are currently fostered by Penny but are looking for permanent adoption. Each has a very calm nature, in fact we spent most of our time cuddling them because they are so friendly and warm spirited. It is without a doubt that they make for truly special companions, which is why many of the volunteers have housed greyhounds and lurchers from the charity as their own.
Considering the poor dogs have had an abusive past, they still enjoy human company and every single dog that we met welcomed the comfort we gave to them. It was clear to see that all they want is love, affection and treats of course!
The charity has four Trustees, who are completely dedicated to the care of the dogs whilst they are waiting to be re-homed. The charity is always looking for help, be it to foster a dog or to lend a hand at one of their Doggy Days or fundraisers which happen almost every week.
Recently, two of the Royal Greyhounds were featured in the Ellen Kent Opera of Rigoletto, which was on at The Hippodrome earlier in January. Ellen is a huge supporter of the charity and after meeting the dogs, she couldn’t resist bringing them on stage in the hopes to raise money for the charity. They raised £326 in just 15 minutes and the show was a huge success with the dogs as relaxed as ever on stage and even falling asleep!
We were told that the charity rescued over 20 dogs in December alone, a large amount that is not unusual to them. To care for the dogs, the charity needs to be making £4000 a month, meaning that the volunteers work tirelessly to make sure ends meet. Without their dedication, the dogs would not be here today.
They are the nominated charity for Pets At Home, Eastgate, Bradley Stoke and Emersons Green Stores, who often donate food and other supplies to help with the day-to-day care of the dogs.
If members of the public are interested in fostering or adopting one of the gorgeous dogs, they are invited get in touch with the charity to arrange a meet.
More information about each dog and details on how to volunteer and adopt can be found on their website here.