Hobo the Northampton stray gets help from former Dogs Trust team member

From time to time, sadly, people do leave Dogs Trust and we like to try and keep in touch with them to find out what they're up to. When we read the recent stories about Hobo*, the badly starved dog who was found near death in Northampton, we didn't at first realise that one person heading a collection for Hobo was a former Dogs Trust employee.

The University of Northampton's Press and PR Officer, Claire Bicknell, roused her colleagues to collect food, toys and blankets for Hobo, who is currently being treated by the PDSA in preparation for rehoming. She explained:

"Hobo's story really upset me - the photographs of him were very distressing. I used to work for a dog welfare charity and he is one of the worst cases of cruelty I have ever seen. As the PDSA is a charity, I knew they would be looking for donations so I wanted to do something to help them.''

Having got to meet the dog himself, she was delighted to report that:

''He's looking really well and has put on about 3.5kg. I wish I could rehome him myself but it wouldn’t be fair with me out at work all day. I hope he gets a lovely new home.''

Well done, Claire! It's great to know that you're carrying on the good work in your spare time and we hope Hobo finds a forever home soon.

*Please note that the linked BBC article contains distressing images of animal abuse.

The Wag and Bone Show is back! Come join us at Windsor Great Park this summer

The popular and successful Wag & Bone Show is back for another year of fun, games and all things doggy. The even, on Saturday 2nd August in Windsor Great Park, helps raise funds for seven major animal charities and provides entertainment for all the family, both two- and four-footed members!

Former Blue Peter presenter Peter Purves provides commentary on the main events throughout the day, which is sponsored by Purina PetCare. As the owner of seven dogs, he has declared that "whatever the weather, I think The Wag & Bone Show is a winnner. So much to see, so much to do, I defy your dog not to have a wonderful day. And you might even enjoy it yourself, I know I shall!"

Pedigrees and crossbreeds are eligible to take part in loads of different events and The Blue Cross will be looking for this year's 'Top Dog', so if your dog has a melting expression, is a
loveable rogue or you are the best doggy family then enter the Top Dog competition. There are
10 categories at £2 per entry and you can register online at www.thewagandboneshow.com.
Scruffts, the fun dog competition run by the Kennel Club, caters specifically for crossbreeds and
only costs £1 to enter. You may even find yourself in the national final in November. Categories
like Child’s Best Friend and Golden Oldie ensure there is something for everyone at this year’s
Wag & Bone Show.

Other events and services (by no means an exhaustive list!) include:

• Dogs Trust Dogmobile with dogs looking for homes
• Obedience tests at Temptation Alley
• Doggie Water Bobbing
• Doggie Dash fitness tests (prizes for every entrant)
• Meet the Agony Aunt and Uncle for a Q&A on behaviour training and more
• Southern Golden Retriever Display Team performance
• Race between the charity mascots Barney (Blue Cross), Bat (Battersea) Carla the Cat (PDSA) Fred (Wood Green Animal Shelters), Rufus (KC) and Zippy (Dogs Trust). Come on Zippy!
• The Shopping Village
• PDSA free 10-minute dog 'MOT'

Tickets and information: 0871 230 5569 or online at www.thewagandboneshow.com
Ticket Price: Adult: £10 in advance (£11 on the door)
Concessions: £8 in advance (£9 on the door)
Children (5-16 years): £8 in advance (£9 on the door) Up to 4 years - Free
Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £25 in advance (£30 on the door)
Camping: Caravan and camping facilities are available onsite priced at £25 for two nights. Book
your site in advance by telephoning 01753 847900
Opening Hours: 10am to 5.30pm, Saturday 2 August 2008