Meet Dogs Trust: Abbie Smith

Having recently joined the Dogs Trust Digital Team, I will be spending my days communicating with all of our great supporters out there - so I thought I would take a moment to introduce myself to you all...

Name: Abbie Smith

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Digital Marketing Officer

You what...? Yes that’s right – I’m the new Digital Marketing Officer! And I’m thrilled. I’ve been working here 7 years in June so I’m no stranger to the brilliance of all things Dogs Trust. However moving to the Digital Team is totally new to me, and just a couple of days in – I love it! So far I’ve been getting to grips with the website content, doing my usual scribbled notes that make little sense… before neatly transferring into my notebook to be highlighted / colour coded - oh yeahhh,  I’m one of ‘those’ people!

I’m surrounded by digital gurus... Literally - Jacqui to my left and Lo to my right. Therefore I’m confident I will be learning lots along the way, and  I’ll most probably ramble in future blogs too –  there’s something to look forward to.

Best thing about my job: The people! Having been here a fair few years I’ve seen  people come and go, but the majority are ‘long timers’ and (hopefully)  aren’t going anywhere anytime soon – you can’t blame them. I was 17 when I started here, my first real job in the ‘big wide world’… so in all honesty – my colleagues could be rubbish…but I have no comparison - so to me they are great! This goes for my new team too; the best thing about working in the Digital Team so far has been instantly feeling comfortable enough to ask questions and being shown the ropes by Jacqui and Lo! Of course, having Twitter and Facebook open on my screen 24/7 will be an added bonus!

Pets: I have a gorgeous little 9 month old Kitten called Kenny. He is mischievous and a little crazy! He’s often casually hanging over my shoulder while I’m walking around the house – I always fail to tell visitors about this trait so they are a little alarmed when he springs up and does his best impression of a parrot.

Favourite websites: I’m a self-confessed Twitter addict, scrolling through the tweets of the rich and semi/not-at-all famous makes my journey to the office in Angel from my home in Essex much more entertaining!

What I'm reading now: I am half way through a book called Before I Go to Sleep written by S J Watson. It's a good read, It takes a bit of brain power to keep up – which is ironic since it’s all about a lady who has lost her mind!

Weekend plans: I will most probably go for drinks after work on Friday with the girls and for a meal of some kind on Saturday with my boyfriend and our friends. I always make time to see my Nan for a cup of tea too!

Meet Dogs Trust: Deana Selby and Daniel the Spaniel

We're all excited about adding some new content to this blog in the coming weeks. You already hear from Alex and Lo quite a bit, but soon you'll be seeing occasional videos and other bits and pieces from the lovely Deana, so we thought she'd better introduce herself! And Daniel, of course.

Name: Deana Selby

Job: Publications Manager

Location: desk on the fluorescent bathed first floor, head office

Best thing about my job: Getting to read all the letters and emails from Wag readers who are so delighted with their dogs, newbies and old-timers alike, that they simply have to tell someone about it. It’s a privilege to share someone’s dog-joy. I’m also a sort of canine agony aunt and spend time replying to bereaved dog owners, and although you may think this sounds a little strange I feel honoured to do so. Plus, getting to look at photos of dogs all day AND getting paid for it – what’s not to love?

Pets: Daniel the non-specific Spaniel. He’s the Speckled Prince of Barkness, you know.

Favourite websites: www.oldies.org.uk for reams of rheumy-eyed, grey-muzzled oldsters needing love. I’m also secretly addicted to Danny Baker on BBC Radio London, but I’m aware this doesn’t count as a website.

What I’m reading now: The entire oeuvre of Dr Seuss, Lauren Bacall’s autobiography By Myself and Then Some, Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy by Lyndley Dodd.

Weekend plans: Getting excited about seeing Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, and dog/kids/dog/kids/dog/kids ad infinitum.

Meet Dogs Trust: Laurier 'Lo' Nicas

It seems that it is time for my official introduction! I started work on September 1st as the new member of the digital team here and I won’t lie to you, I love it. One month in has reaffirmed what I already knew— great people, great job, great cause.

Name: Laurier Nicas (let’s face it, that’s a mouthful. Feel free to just call me Lo)

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Digital Marketing Assistant

You what...? I work with fellow digi-nerds, Jacqui Darlow and Alex Goldstein on all the web fun! My main duties at the moment include working on the new, highly anticipated site and using my crafty design background to jazz everything up a bit. I’m very excited to delve into more of the social networking soon.

Best thing about my job: Playing. I get to fiddle around in Photoshop, experiment on Twitter, and just jostle things up a bit. Coming in with a digital PR background and a communication/design education, I like to think I have a fresh outlook on the whole shebang! Plus working with Jacqui and Alex isn't half bad... ;)

Pets: I wish. Flatmates say no. Landlord says no. Some day soon, I hope (and as I am moving in with my boyfriend in January, this might happen sooner than he thinks).

Favourite websites: Not including the good old standbys, Google and BBC News, lately I have been reading many light-hearted and humorous blogs such as Awkward Family Photos, Not Always Right, and Scanwiches. These blogs keep things amusing and fun while I test my brain power with mental_floss and get emotional with PostSecret.

What I'm reading now: I am currently on page 425 of The Time Traveler’s Wife. I cannot put it down. Less than 100 pages to go and I’m dreading that feeling of loss that occurs when a good book ends.

Weekend plans: First, I'll Skype with my parents in the States— it is a weekly tradition! Then both the flatmates are away, so I think I will secretly tidy the entire flat. It’ll be a lovely surprise when they come back. This is not entirely selfless though, as there is nothing quite like blasting the radio in an empty house while you vacuum. I think I'll pull some Risky Business moves...

It was great to introduce myself to you— the first of many, I hope! Feel free to catch my daily ramblings on Twitter. I'm not nearly as amusing as I think I am, but you could humour me...

Meet Dogs Trust: Katie Purvis

I was a little taken aback when Katie sent me this profile to post for her as I noticed we're both getting married and changing our names in December! Turns out it's just a week apart, too. Here Katie tells us all about her work at Dogs Trust:

Name: Katie Purvis (soon to be Katie Chapel)

Location: Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, Darlington

Job: Supporter Relations Officer

You what...? It’s a really varied job, but basically I’m the first point of contact for local media and PR as well as supporting our Fundraiser’s Committee and promoting our work.

Best thing about my job: I’ve worked for Dogs Trust for the last 5 years, first as a Canine Carer, then as Receptionist and now in this role. The best thing about my job is that I get paid to do something I really believe in. Another benefit is having lots of puppies to hug whenever you feel like it!

Pets: Nellie, a 3 year old English Bull Terrier. She’s a real superstar and doesn’t mind me bringing centre dogs home for sleepovers!

Favourite websites: I’m a bit of a Facebook geek as I’m a really nosey person and like to see what people I went to school with are up to! I’m about to start decorating my kitchen and have found a site that stocks pink utensils and accessories, so that’s a favourite! Check out www.pink-princess.co.uk - its fab if you’re a girly girl!

What I'm reading now: I read all the time and I’ve always got a couple of books on the go. One of my favourites is ‘Guide Dog for the Thick – The Misadventures of Morris’, by Terry Doe. It’s short stories of humorous situations involving the writer and his bull terrier dog. I can really identify with Terry as my life generally revolves around Nellie and the scrapes she gets into – she’s a menace!

Weekend plans: I’m getting married in December and I’m meeting with our photographer for a pre-wedding photo shoot, so I can make sure only my best side is photographed!

Meet Dogs Trust: Vicky Kelly

Name: Vicky Kelly

Location: Dogs Trust Glasgow Rehoming Centre

Job: Supporter Relations Officer

You what...? I talk constantly about Dogs Trust, at least I’m sure that’s how it must seem!
I attend events, speak at community groups and organise events at the centre to promote the work of Dogs Trust.

Best thing about my job: Listening to people’s stories of the canine companions they have shared their lives with and seeing long term residents leave the rehoming centre with their new families.

Pets & Family: I have my rescue dog Toffee who hides her age very well. She has lived with my husband, Martin and I for over 12 years. Goodness knows what she thought when my two daughters arrived however she has always been a superb four-legged play friend.

Favourite websites: Without doubt Facebook! I have friends and family all over the world and it’s a great way to share photos and keep in touch.

What I'm reading now: Other than my friends status updates on Facebook and Oxford Reading Tree stage 5 (my daughters school book) I don’t make enough time to read. I do however enjoy books by Bear Grylls and Dame Ellen MacArthur as I am an adventurer at heart!

Weekend plans: Absolutely none what so ever! This is most unusual. Perhaps I’ll get chance to pick up a book?

Previous Meet Dogs Trust: (Pirate) Brian Child | Alexandra Roumbas

Image credit: Stuart Dreghorn

Meet Dogs Trust on International Talk Like a Pirate Day: Brian Child

Yes, I know this feature is usually run on a Wednesday, but when Brian sent me this brilliant photo it was inevitable that it had to be posted today. What? You didn't know? Today is the day for calling everyone 'me hearties' and 'arrrrgggg'-ing to your heart's content...

Name: Brian L Child (Known as Brains)

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Information technology Manager

You what...? As the IT manager I get to try out all the new technologies (Boys Toys) and if I think that Dogs Trust can benefit from them we all get to play. There is also a lot of detective work when trying to find the source of a problem

Best thing about my job: Meeting all sorts of people and new toys.

Pets: At my house, I have tropical fish

Favourite websites: A lot of guitar links and film making links

What I'm reading now: Silvertown – a story about London just before the second world war

Weekend plans: Out taking photographs and eating out with the grand children.


Previous Meet Dogs Trust: Alexandra Roumbas | Denise Gilgallon

Meet Dogs Trust: Alexandra Goldstein

I was hoping to hide behind this blog a little longer, but as it turns out I'll soon by sticking my head above the parapet at the International Companion Animal Welfare Conference anyway! For that reason, I shall venture forth...

Name: Alexandra Goldstein

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Digital Marketing Officer

You what...? I work under the Head Geek, Jacqui Darlow, helping to promote Dogs Trust through web activities. I really get the social side of the web to play with, and have the advantage of interacting directly with a lot of supporters through this site (on which I write the entries), Facebook, Bebo, MySpace and, of course, DoggySnaps.

Best thing about my job: Being allowed to use Facebook at work! Also, my job's very flexible, so I've been known to work from home when I've got the lurgy, which is very helpful.

Pets: I am currently in a garden-free flat, but I do miss my late cats who lived out their long lives with my mum and dad.

Favourite websites: Thanks to my job and because I'm an avid blogger, I've become obsessed with pet blogs. Since many of them are US-based I've been getting really involved in the election discussion. Bark Obama, which brings together Pet Connection bloggers, Terrierman and more is brilliant - insightful, interesting and very animal-focussed.

What I'm reading now: I've just received a Sony Reader from my lovely fiance. I first used it to read and review an advance copy of Patricia Volonakis Davis' Harlot's Sauce, which I found very interesting because of my Greek background. Then I rattled through The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and got stuck into Henry James' creepy classic The Turn of the Screw, both of which are out of copyright so can be read online and on some devices for free through Project Gutenberg.

Weekend plans: I'm meeting up with my soon-to-be bridesmaids for lunch in preparation for December's big day, going to some London Design Festival events and hopefully getting to chill out and chat to my friend Kirsty, who's staying with me on a jaunt up from St. Leonard's.

Previous Meet Dogs Trust: Denise Gilgallon | Hollie Sevenoaks

Meet Dogs Trust: Denise Gilgallon (and Harvey)

Much of the work Dogs Trust does to reduce alarming statistics like those found by our Stray Dogs Reports is done with Local Authorities in particular campaign regions. Here, Denise tells us more about how we can improve dog welfare in the future.

Name: Denise Gilgallon

Location: Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, Darlington

Job: Regional Campaigns Manager

You what...? My job entails working with Local Authorities promoting neutering, microchipping and responsible dog ownership. The aim of my job is to reduce the number of stray dogs and also reducing the number of dogs that are unnecessarily destroyed. I've been at Dogs Trust for 10 years.

Best thing about my job: Getting positive feedback from Local Authorities to say the number of stray dogs has reduced and they have collected no unwanted litters.

Pets: Harvey our 6 year old black cocker spaniel who we adopted from Darlington Rehoming Centre when he was 18 months old. He is gorgeous and we love him to bits.

Favourite websites: I love fashion and interior design sites and have just bought Harvey some fab new toys from a website. Obviously DoggySnaps is a firm favourite.

What I'm reading now: I've just bought No Time for Goodbye by Linwood Barclay, to read whilst on holiday in Scotland, a thriller, in which, a teenage girl wakes up one morning to discover her family have vanished without a trace. 25 years later, after a TV appeal, she begins to learn the truth behind their sudden disappearance. Looking forward to a good ‘can’t put it down’ read.

Weekend plans: Harvey, my partner and I are going on holiday to Scotland. The three of us really enjoy visiting Scotland as there are so many beautiful walks and Lochs to explore.

Check back on Monday for Harvey's profile!

Meet Dogs Trust: Jacqui Darlow | Hollie Sevenoaks

Meet Dogs Trust's Dogs: Sadie

Last week you met Buster Boy; this week it's the turn of the lovely Sadie, the most adorable advertisement for adopting an older dog you could find.

Name: Sadie Sevenoaks

Breed: Collie-Cross

Colour: White and beige, although I prefer the term ‘golden’

Age: 15

Who's your favourite two-legged friend at Dogs Trust? My Mum, Hollie, we’ve been best friends ever since I was a pup! I’m very friendly with everyone here at the office as well of course.

Who's your favourite four-legged friend at Dogs Trust? I have so many dog friends it’s difficult to choose just one! I’m fond of Reuben and Poppy as we’ve been on holiday a few times. I’m also like Charlie, who I share an office with.

What's your favourite toy? I’m a little old for toys…does my bed count?

What's your favourite treat? Anything fishy, I especially love a sprinkle of tuna juice on my dinner.

What do you dream about? I dream about loads of things but I can never remember what I dreamt of by the time I wake up!

Where's the best place to take a walk? As I’m an old lady now I’m not too keen on walking long distances. My Mum bought me a dog buggy from America so that she can push me along the street when I get too tired.

What are you favourite activities? I like to model for Dogs Trust, you may have seen me on various posters and leaflets over the years! I also like to rub my nose on people’s legs, bark at water, and take long naps and going to my hydrotherapy sessions.

What's the one thing you can't stand? Having my coat brushed!

What do your humans like best about you? They always tell me I’m a beautiful looking dog. I always blush when they say this!

How did you meet your humans? My Mum picked me out of a litter of pups when I was 8 weeks old.

Check in next Monday for another doggy profile!

Meet Dogs Trust: Hollie Sevenoaks (and Sadie)

Last week, you met web guru Jacqui Darlow! This week it's the turn of our campaigns and education crew to get a look in...

Name: Hollie Sevenoaks

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Campaigns & Education Manager

You what...? I manage a team of eight regionally based Education Officers, who visit schools to provide free workshops promoting the message of responsible dog ownership. I also manage a wide variety of projects as required by the Head of Campaigns. My role at Dogs Trust is always evolving and interesting, which is why I have been here ten years now!

Best thing about my job: The people that I work with and the fact that I get to bring my beloved four-legged friend, Sadie, to work with me.

Pets: I have just the one dog, Sadie, who is aged 15 but she's still young at heart. Sadie loves coming to Dogs Trust HQ and being fussed over by my colleagues.

Favourite websites: I love Facebook, who doesn't?! Also a fan of going to shows at the theatre, so lastminute.com helps me feed this rather expensive addiction!

What I'm reading now: I have just finished Marley and Me by John Grogan. It is a touching and humourous true tale of a man's relationship with his dog, Marley, from puppyhood to old age. It's one of those rare books that can make you laugh out loud and then cry the next minute.

Weekend plans: Sadie is currently undertaking a course of hydrotherapy to help ease her arthritis, so I'll be taking her to treatment this weekend as well as meeting up with friends for a good old chinwag and a curry!

Meet Dogs Trust's Dogs: Buster Boy aka BB

Sometimes the humans at Dogs Trust HQ get a little lonely without their dogs - and who can blame them? Us four-legged creatures are the best, after all. As such we've decided that we ought to get just as much press as the two-legged folk, and you can't be said to have 'met' Dogs Trust if you haven't met us...

Name: Buster Boy, but my friends call me BB

Breed: Lurcher cross

Colour: Tan and white

Age: I think I'm about 12. I was a stray, so no-one knows for sure.

Who's your favourite two-legged friend at Dogs Trust? My mum of course! She's called Jo and that's her giving me a cuddle.

Who's your favourite four-legged friend at Dogs Trust? My best friend is Charlie, a terrier who is also in the office. We go for walks together every lunchtime. Outside work I'm a bit of ladies man; lady dogs find me irresistible, but my favourite girlfriend is Bess, who's a Lurcher like me.

What's your favourite toy? I love anything with a squeak, especially my squeaky sheep. You know I'm really happy when I start throwing it around!

What's your favourite treat? Sausage. Mmmmm.

What do you dream about? Chasing squirrels! Mum says I run and woof to myself in my sleep, so you you know when I'm dreaming.

Where's the best place to take a walk? In London, I like walking by the canal as there are always squirrels to chase.

What are you favourite activities? Showing off how fast I can run, barking at the postman to make him jump, playing in the garden, sleeping and getting my humans to scratch my tummy and ears.
What's the one thing you can't stand? Being left alone. I suffer from chronic separation anxiety, which is one of the reasons I love coming to work with my friends.

What do your humans like best about you? They love my cuddles, my gentleness and that I'm always smiling.

How did you meet your humans? They found me at Dogs Trust Snetterton.

Meet Dogs Trust's Dogs is our new weekly Monday feature - check back next week for more!

Meet Dogs Trust: Jacqui Darlow

Our supporters like to contact us to tell us about them and their dogs; we'd like to return the favour. Over the coming weeks we'll be introducing you to some of the team at the HQ and Centres around the country. First up: web guru Jacqui!

Name: Jacqui Darlow (not spelled 'Jackie'!)

Location: Dogs Trust HQ, London

Job: Digital Marketing Manager

You what...? Being a Digital Marketing Manager, my day job entails looking after Dogs Trust's many websites as well as thinking about what exciting things we can do next online. I've been at Dogs Trust for 10 years now; I started out in the PR department.

Best thing about my job: Getting to surf the net for a living! :)

Pets: At my house, none; my two cats live with my mum, though as soon as I can get a house with a garden they're coming back home to me.

Favourite websites: I can't live without BBC News for information, but have to read the List of the Day blog at least once a week as it's brilliant!

What I'm reading now: I've just finished Theresa Rebeck's Three Girls and Their Brother, an interesting insight into the real world of being a model, the pitfalls of immediate fame and what happens when it goes to your head...

Weekend plans: My partner and I are house sitting, so it's the usual weekend stuff in a different location - like a mini holiday, but I'll still find time to be checking in on those DoggySnappers!