Alex Gray, who appeared in series 1 of the BBC One show The Traitors, met several animals looking for new homes when she visited Blue Cross’s headquarters and rehoming centre in Burford, Oxfordshire last month.
During her visit, the TV presenter and live host was introduced to 20-year-old Native Tamsy, who came into the care of Blue Cross after a change in his previous owner’s circumstances, and Dream, a seven-year-old Thoroughbred ex-racer who came to Blue Cross from another horse charity.
Alex, who has two rescue cats called Binx and Boo and a horse called Ruby, led Dream from the field to the stable and groomed her, and gave 16-year-old Arab type Ginge, who came into Blue Cross from the RSPCA, a horse lick.
She also met a pair of rabbits and stroked some of the cats including nine-year-old Tinkerbell who is blind in one eye, a nine-month-old kitten named Johnny and a ginger cat named Tyrion who is currently looking for a new home with his friend Beetlejuice.
Meeting the residents
“My horse Ruby, and my cats Binx and Boo, mean everything to me, and we’re lucky to have each other. But there are many pets out there who have yet to meet their perfect match. Sadly, some have been waiting longer than others,” said Alex.
“It was an absolute joy to spend time with some of the horses and ponies at Blue Cross’s rehoming centre in Burford, and incredibly inspiring – the team give them the care and compassion they need, building their confidence so they are ready to go into their new homes.
“As well as the stables, I was also able to visit the cattery, where I met some beautiful felines, including Johnny who is such a character and completely stole my heart. And I even got to meet some gorgeous longer-eared residents too – rabbits Bella and Carrot!
“I would encourage anyone looking to get a horse, pony or small pet to consider Blue Cross – they have so many beautiful animals who have so much to give.”
Welfare needs rising
Research by Blue Cross has found millions of cats and dogs could be just one vet bill away from being surrendered or facing the need to find a new home. In the last four years alone, the charity has seen a 122% increase in dogs coming into its care and an 80% rise in cats.
“It was a pleasure to welcome Alex to our centre and introduce her to some of the animals in our care,” said Hannah Wiltshire, centre manager at Blue Cross Burford.
“Sadly, we are seeing a growing number of animals needing our help, with a hidden pet welfare crisis unfolding behind closed doors across the UK.
“Many owners are facing heartbreaking decisions as rising living costs force them to choose between feeding themselves and their families or keeping their pets.
“We also know that there can be a real sense of shame or stigma around having to give up a pet, but reaching out for help is a responsible and compassionate choice.
“At Blue Cross, we are here to support people through that difficult decision without judgement, and to find every animal a safe, loving new home.”
Images © Blue Cross.
