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The Purple Poppy Blooms – But Buyer Aware! The purple poppy has long been a symbol of remembrance for animals but until recently was little known compared to the traditional red poppy.
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any millions of animals have served over the years, and many continue to serve today, yet for far too long their efforts have been overlooked. Eight years ago, Murphy’s Army took on the role of Ambassadors of Animal Remembrance in the UK and launched their first Purple Poppy Campaign. Their aim was to bring to the public’s attention the contributions made by service animals, and to raise funds for related causes. At that point in time, it was not possible to purchase a purple poppy online. Fast forward to 2023 and a very different story emerges. Selling platforms and social media sites are now awash with purple poppies. That’s good news, isn’t it? Well, it’s certainly good news that the animals are being given their rightful recognition but sadly not all of the purple poppies on sale help the causes they claim to support. Many businesses are profiteering from the rise in popularity and cashing in on people’s goodwill. A spokesperson for the charity said ‘We are very proud not only to have spread the word about the significance of the purple poppy but also to have helped many former service animals along the way. Animals have played and continue to play a vital part in protecting us, and it is only right that they receive the recognition they deserve. To see businesses and other rogue organisations cashing in on such a poignant matter is extremely upsetting. It is not just about the funds which genuine charities are losing out on, but the fact that they prey on people’s good nature too’. Animals have played a vital role in conflicts over the years, working alongside their human counterparts, often in harrowing conditions yet showing incredible loyalty and bravery. It is to all the animals, past and present, that Murphy’s Army Purple Poppy Campaign pays tribute.
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Police Dogs Rip – Currently serving with Police Scotland n If you would like to lend your support to the campaign a selection of the official Murphy’s Army Purple Poppy merchandise can be found on their website https://theyalsoserved.org/ or from one of over 200 outlets stocking them across the UK https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit? mid=1MpHssnqUFyVsaGh0plnVRmf1Vj_ iBkj8&usp=s haring Beneficiaries from the campaign this year include the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals founded by the Countess of Bathurst and The Horse Trust, both helping former Service Animals in their retirement.
May we never forget that They Also Served.
29 OCTOBER – 29 NOVEMBER 2023 RESCUE AND ANIMAL CARE
Police Horse Argent – Currently serving with Lancashire Mounted Police
www.rescueandanimalcare.com