Tails | Autumn 2020

Issue 11 I Autumn 2020 I themayhew.org

In this issue...

Mayhew Georgia: helping the dogs of Tbilisi and beyond Be a feral AdvoCat!

Positive training with Victoria Stilwell

AUTUMN 2020

AdvoC HelpingFeral at home needed! and overseas

Help us look out for London

Hello and welcome to our autumn magazine.

Although various restrictions remain in place across the UK and around the world as your latest issue of Tails goes to press, we’re heading into autumn determined to help animals and pet owners in need. It’s been a challenging year so far, but Front cover image: A free-roaming dog on the streets of Tbilisi. Turn to pages 12 and 13 to read about our work in Georgia.

Our vision

A society where people understand the importance and value of animal welfare.

Our mission

To promote animal welfare by delivering a broad range of community-based veterinary, care and education services in the UK and overseas.

Editor: Shelley Warnaby shelley@mayhewanimalhome.org Design: arc, www.arc-cs.com

Many thanks to our contributors and photographers: Charlie Care, Jess Feehan, Audrey Granger, Sarah Hastelow, Graham Hilling, Alissa Johnson, Pooch & Pineapple, Georgie Wishart, Natassja Yoxall.

Printed on 100% recycled paper. Please pass on to a friend and recycle after reading.

Contact us

@

info@mayhewanimalhome.org 0208 962 8000

Mayhew, Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green, London, NW10 6BJ www.themayhew.org Join us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter @themayhew Registered charity number: 1077588 VAT number: 820 4030 87

Company limited by guarantee number: 3837732 2 I

we’ve been proud of how our staff and volunteers have risen to the task. Overseas, our teams in Georgia and Afghanistan are working tirelessly to keep their various programmes on track and help animals in the face of adversity – on pages 12 to 15 you can read the latest updates on their projects.

We’ve also got plenty to be grateful for at home: Mayhew recently launched a new campaign asking you to be a Feral AdvoCAT and support London’s feral cat colonies (page 9), our TheraPaws programme is partially back up and running (page 5) and some of our longest-staying animals have found their forever homes (pages 16 and 17). We even managed to pin down world-renowned dog behaviour expert Victoria Stilwell for a chat (page 10).

Happy reading!

Mayhew’s Christmas Gift Guide is here!

If you’re looking for the perfect presents for your loved ones and would like to support Mayhew at the same time, flip your magazine over now to check out our 2020 Christmas Gift Guide – there’s something for everyone!

CATs Contents

n’s feral cat population

04

Mayhew news

10

Catching up with Victoria Stilwell

06

Feral AdvoCATs needed!

Grooming tips for colder weather

20

In their shoes: Mayhew’s Voluntary Resources Coordinator

08

18

Famous faces and their feline friends

12

22

Mayhew International: helping animals overseas

Cali, the cat with nine lives

16

24

Happily rehomed in lockdown

Christmas Gift Guide 2020

I 3

News

AUTUMN 2020

IN BESTOW SH

Talented hounds raise money for Mayhew!

T

his summer, we held our first online dog show, Hounds in Your Home.

It was a pawsome afternoon of fun, hosted by the fantastically entertaining Sue Perkins and a panel of celebrity judges. Tails were wagged, tricks were performed and ‘stays’ were pawfectly executed, but it was loveable pup Hugo who took away the title of ‘Best in Show’!

We were thrilled to raise over £1,250 and would like to say a big thank you to Butternut Box and Bought by Many, who sponsored the event, and to all the humans and pooches who tuned in, donated and took part.

TheraPaws: on the move again

W

ith certain restrictions lifted in July, our volunteer teams started making visits to some hospitals, care homes and mental health centres again. We’ve put in place a new risk assessment policy to ensure everyone’s safety, and even our TheraPaws dogs are being wiped down with antibacterial veterinary wash before and after every visit! With requests from mental health units likely to rise in the wake of Covid-19, we really hope to be able to continue visits over the coming months.

4 I

In memory of Eileen Crabbie

W

e were saddened to hear that Eileen Crabbie, adopter and longstanding Mayhew supporter, passed away late last year. In 2006, Eileen adopted her dog Nelly from us, and a few years later was helped by our Pet Refuge programme. Eileen was passionate about animal welfare and we are very grateful for her support. As soon as restrictions are lifted, we plan to unveil a plaque in her memory on one of our kennels.

A happy ever after for longstayer Linda

A

fter waiting 479 days in our care, one of our longest-stayers has finally found her forever home! Linda and her kitten Stella arrived at Mayhew in February 2019 after they were abandoned on a stranger’s doorstep.

Although Stella quickly found a home, Linda was shy and anxious and needed a bit more time, so we placed her with one of our wonderful foster carers until she was ready to be rehomed. We are delighted that Linda has now found her happy ending and we wish her a wonderful new life.

Find out how Linda and other recently adopted Mayhew cats are settling into their new homes on pages 16 and 17.

Swapping little paws for tiny toes!

T

his September, we said a fond farewell to Gillian Rich, Practice Manager at our Community Vet Clinic.

Registered Veterinary Nurse Gillian joined Mayhew in 2005 and has played a crucial part in the development of the clinic, helping to make it the busy and effective hub it is today. Her contribution to the charity has been invaluable: she has trained dozens of student nurses and veterinary care assistants, and treated countless animals, both in-house and in the wider community. We wish Gillian the very best of luck as she begins a midwifery degree this autumn.

Coming together for Carols at Christmas

A

lthough it’s been a difficult year, full of unprecedented challenges, we are hoping we can go ahead with our carol concert, taking place on Tuesday 8 December, at the beautiful St Giles-in-the-Fields. We will be taking every precaution to ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers and supporters, and would love you to join us to mark the season of goodwill with a glittering celebration in aid of the dogs, cats and communities we work with.

Please visit themayhew.org/events/carols for more details and to book tickets, or contact events@mayhewanimalhome.org.

To keep up with the latest news from Mayhew, visit themayhew.org/news or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

I 5

AUTUMN 2020

In their

shoes

I

n this issue, we catch up with Nathalie Quinn, our Voluntary Resources Coordinator, who works with all of the amazing volunteers who support Mayhew. We find out more about her busy and varied role and her passion for animals, including her own Mayhew rescue dog, Maggie.

“

Over 300 volunteers support Mayhew and a lot of my time is spent speaking to them and the staff they work with, which I really enjoy.

6 I

“

Nathalie Quinn

How did you become Mayhew’s Voluntary Resources Coordinator?

We also have volunteers who do little extra things that are really special – for example, ‘catnip Karen’ makes cat toys and even cardboard buses. The latter are supposed to be for the cats’ amusement, but what human doesn’t want to see a cat running around a London double decker!? Another volunteer makes delicious meals and brings sweet treats in for the staff, students and volunteers – those days are the happiest in the break room!

I started at Mayhew last June, although I’d wanted to work here for a quite a while. I have worked for a number of charities, including Save the Children, but I (and everyone else) knew I really preferred animals!

I adopted my grey Staffy Maggie from Mayhew in 2016 and immediately felt it was a special place – there’s a real sense of warmth and everyone seems genuinely focused on the best for the animals.

How have things been affected by the coronavirus pandemic?

management but also in retail, events and communications, which is pretty much the perfect mix for this role.

Over 300 volunteers support Mayhew, and this means a lot of my time is spent speaking to them and the staff they work with, which I really enjoy. Overseeing a bank of people this large and diverse can bring some challenges, but having a sense of humour and my very own ‘therapy’ dog works wonders!

I am also learning from our volunteers, some of whom have been with Mayhew for over 20 years. At the moment, I am reviewing our processes to make sure the volunteer programme is doing the best for Mayhew and all its people. Working in an organisation where everyone is an animal lover is a real game changer, as we all have the same goal.

What difference do volunteers make to Mayhew?

Maggie has changed my life, and that’s not an exaggeration. She has helped with my physical and mental health, as pets do, and she makes me laugh every day! After I adopted her, we were accepted to be TheraPaws volunteers, which we did for few months and loved, but then I got the job and had to stop as the roles overlapped.

What does your role involve?

I find most people assume being a Volunteer Coordinator is mostly recruitment, but it is so varied and each working day is different – although there is a lot more admin than I care for! I have a background in volunteer

Volunteers make up over 80% of our human team, which is about four volunteers to every employee. They contribute in a variety of ways, from fostering animals or promoting our projects in the community, to visiting prospective new homes for our rescues or inputting data – all are essential tasks we rely on every day.

Animal welfare doesn’t stop at night or on national holidays, so some volunteers provide vital support for us over the Christmas period. Foster volunteers, meanwhile, are ‘on’ 24 hours a day, for weeks or even months at a time. Some never physically come to the Home, but by assisting at events or working from their own homes they are still helping to save animals’ lives.

Covid-19 has meant we are all apart: I am working from home and we have been unable to have any volunteers come in to help at the Home, plus many events have been postponed or cancelled. We keep in touch with our volunteers via our dedicated Facebook group, newsletters and monthly Zoom calls, and we ran a number of virtual events over Volunteers’ Week in June to say thank you.

This year has shown us all how kind and generous people can be, but our volunteers have been showing us that daily over many years. I am really proud to be working with Mayhew volunteers and I hope I am able to for many years to come.

When you’re not working, what are your interests?

I moved last year to a house with two unloved, overgrown gardens, so I’ve been unknowingly recreating the one I grew up with. I talk to the plants in and outdoors, which my partner is pleased about as it’s the one time I’m not chatting in his ear!

I’ve really missed live music, comedy, exhibitions and outdoor swimming during the pandemic, but the Ladies’ Pond at Hampstead Heath is open again and so are some galleries and museums, so I’m really happy about that!

At the time of writing, we are not currently recruiting any volunteers or work experience students, but you can read more about our volunteer roles at themayhew.org/get-involved/ volunteering.

I 7

AUTUMN 2020

Feral AdvoCATs needed!

Help us look out for London’s feral cat population

What is a feral cat?

Feral cats are wild, unowned outdoor cats who often live in groups called colonies. These cats have typically had very little, if any, contact with humans and so are scared of people, much like urban foxes.

Feral cats are not lost or homeless – the great outdoors is their home and the environment in which they thrive and are happiest. Unlike stray or abandoned pet cats, feral cats cannot be domesticated or rehomed and therefore have different needs from their more widely recognised and understood feline counterparts.

8 I

A

recent study of 1,000 Londoners by Mayhew revealed that only 51% truly understand what is meant by the term ‘feral cat’. However, due to the devastating effects of the coronavirus pandemic, these elusive felines are in need of our support now more than ever.

Why do feral cats need our help right now?

Unneutered female cats are able to reproduce from just five months old and can have two or three litters a year, with an average of four kittens per litter. Our Trap, Neuter, Return (TNR) programme normally helps to contain and control the local cat population in London, but sadly during lockdown these services had to be temporarily put on hold. Due to this, we predict that the feral cat population is likely to have spiralled this year.

Many of the city’s feral cats rely on scavenging scraps from restaurants.

Lots of these are currently closed, so the increased numbers mean there is likely to be a strain on already limited resources.

As colonies grow, there is more chance of cats coming to harm through fighting, malnutrition and the spread of diseases such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

That’s why we are launching a digital campaign, Feral AdvoCAT, to encourage the community to help look out for London’s feral cats.

51% ONLY

R E A P Help us spread

D

S

OF LONDONERS TRULY UNDERSTAND WHAT IS MEANT BY THE TERM ‘FERAL CAT’

R D

W O

Thankfully, there are a handful of ways in which we can all help feral cats from a distance, without risking our safety or their comfort.

• One of the best things you can do as a Feral AdvoCAT is to help others understand feral cats’ unique characteristics and needs.

• Put out bowls of fresh water: Just like our own pet cats and dogs, feral cats need access to a clean water source.

In winter, make sure to check the bowls regularly in freezing weather in case the water has frozen over.

• Provide food once a day: Feral cats are resourceful animals and it’s very likely that your colony already has one, two or even three food sources. It’s extremely important that feral cats retain their natural drive and ability to hunt food for themselves, so we recommend only putting down food once a day. Place the

food in a dry, shaded area alongside a bowl of clean water.

• Build a shelter: Building a shelter for feral cats can be a fun family task over the school holidays! A shelter provides cats with a warm, safe place to hide in winter and a shady spot to relax in summer. There are many ways to build a shelter – find out more at themayhew. org/feral-advocat.

• Keep an eye: We are grateful to anyone who is able to regularly observe their local feral cat colony and alert our Animal Welfare Officers when any new cats appear. This enables our team to promptly trap and neuter them, which prevents the cat numbers from rising uncontrollably.

Helping cats, helping humans

Helping feral cats doesn’t just have a positive effect on your local felines – we’ve experienced multiple instances where it has enriched human lives too. Londoner

E

How can I be a Feral AdvoCAT?

T H

awareness and encourage more people to look out for feral cats by sharing our campaign on social media using #FeralAdvoCAT. Head to themayhew.org/ feral-advocat to find out more.

Doreen Beresford has been looking out for her local feral cat colony in Brent for years. She’s bonded with her neighbours over the cats and has seen first-hand how caring for them has given some of the vulnerable people in her community a sense of purpose. Watch her tell her story at themayhew.org/feral-advocat.

The mysterious eartip!

A feral cat that is missing the tip of an ear is one that has previously been neutered. Eartipping is done under anaesthetic, usually when the cat is undergoing neuter surgery, and doesn’t cause them any pain or loss of hearing. Eartips help charities who are running TNR programmes to identify which cats in a colony have already been neutered, so they know not to trap them again.

I 9

AUTUMN 2020

Catching up with Victoria Stilwell

V

ictoria Stilwell is a world-renowned dog trainer and animal behaviour expert. She stars in the hit TV show It’s Me or the Dog and is the bestselling author of five books, including her most recent, The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Puppy. We spoke to Victoria to find out more about her fascinating work.

Q

You are famous for championing positive dog training. Could you explain what that is for those who are new to this method?

Positive dog training incorporates many techniques, all of which are based on humane training – without force, fear, pain or intimidation.

It’s about creating boundaries, but using discipline to guide rather than instil fear.

Instead of putting the emphasis on correction, we focus on teaching dogs what to do in a situation. For example, if a dog is lunging on the lead, we need to find out why they are doing it and then use a variety of techniques to teach them another way rather than just saying “No”.

You’re giving a dog other options; that’s why it’s so effective. This approach is much easier for owners to put into use and, most importantly, it allows dogs to be more emotionally balanced and confident.

*Survey of 1,012 adults living within the M25, conducted July 2019.

10 I

The beauty of “positive training is that it helps you find out how to best motivate your dog to learn.

“

Victoria Stilwell

Q

We all know the adage ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’, but do you think it is ever too late to train a dog?

It’s a bit of a myth that positive training only works on puppies and ‘easy’ dogs.

The beauty of positive training is that it helps you find out how to best motivate your dog to learn and enjoy the process at the same time – it even works with dogs that have been in crisis and are now transitioning to care.

Q

Are some breeds harder to train than others?

I always tell my handlers, “You’re lucky you’ve got a German shepherd at the end of your lead, as it’s the Chihuahuas that are really hard to train!” (I’m allowed to say that, as I’m a Chihuahua owner!)

In all seriousness, it’s not so much about the breed: it’s their age, how they’ve been bred and their life experience that greatly affects their learning capacity.

Q

What does Mayhew mean to you?

Mayhew gives animals a voice, which they really need. Your message is one of humanity and kindness to both animals and people, and I think it’s really important to nurture people too. When I first came to Mayhew, I thought, “Wow, this is a great place. They are really doing things right.”

Q

Can you tell us a little about how your work developed?

When I lived and worked as a dog trainer in New York, I saw thousands of dogs a year euthanised in municipal shelters. I knew I had to do something, so I worked with a rescue group pulling animals from the shelters before they were put down. I wanted to create awareness about what you need to do to be a responsible dog owner, and so It’s Me or the Dog was born.

I never dreamed it would be as big as it became: going to over 120 countries around the world and lasting 10 years.

Q

Your new book, The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Puppy, was published in the UK in April. What would you say should be the primary focus when training a puppy?

Play! I think people are so focused on training, when actually for a puppy it’s an emphasis on play which really creates that human–animal bond. It’s important to establish that strong bond right from the start through shared life experiences.

For res informatio ources and n technique on positive training s, visit pos Check ou itively.co m. t Victoria’s courses o training an n dog d behavio ur for all d as well as og lovers, how to be c o me a dog vsdogtra trainer, at iningacad emy.com Victoria S . ti llw ell’s latest The Ultim book, ate Guide to R is publishe aising a Puppy, d in the UK by Ham lyn.

Ask Victoria

Q

During the pandemic there’s been a surge in people purchasing puppies. Do you have any advice for those considering getting a puppy at this time?

In some respects, this has been good for shelters and responsible breeders, but it has also emboldened the puppy farm trade, which is now technically illegal in England. If you want a puppy, please do your due diligence and make sure your pup comes from a reputable source. The love and comfort a puppy or dog provides is understandably even more appealing at this time, but remember that it is a commitment for the lifetime of your animal.

Q

Any tips for settling a dog into a new home?

Every dog is different. It could take two weeks or it could take months. My top tips are: don’t do too much, give them time and let them acclimatise before you have any friends or family over.

Q

How would you deal with a dog who’s reactive to other dogs on the lead?

If your dog is already lunging at another dog, just get your pet out of the situation as soon as you can.

Then start teaching your dog coping skills that will give them other ways to handle their discomfort and frustration when they are around other dogs – for example, activities that they can default to in an uncomfortable situation rather than lunging. Practise these in a calm, safe environment first and makes sure your dog is fluent before utilising these activities somewhere where they are less comfortable.

I 11

AUTUMN 2020

EW I

ATION

YH

AL. MA

E NT R N

Working hard to protect the dogs of Georgia

M

ayhew Georgia had exciting plans for 2020 and the year got off to a great start. We had two additional vet clinics in Tbilisi participating in our Trap, Vaccinate, Neuter, Return (TVNR) programme in the city; plans were underway for a pilot spay and neuter project in the resort of Anaklia on the Black Sea coast; and we were looking forward to a celebratory launch event at the British Embassy in the capital. Our target for the year was to neuter and vaccinate 1,350 dogs and bring even more local Georgian vets on board.

12 I

The impact of lockdown

As the coronavirus pandemic swept across the globe and Georgia went into lockdown in April, both the pilot programme in Anaklia and our launch from the British Embassy sadly had to be postponed. Veterinary clinics were closed for all but emergency care, and our TVNR programme was suspended for six weeks.

international

TVNR on the move!

Lockdown measures in Georgia began to be eased from the middle of May. We were keen to get the TVNR programme up and running again to ensure that fewer unwanted litters of puppies are born on the street and to continue our work building a safer and healthier community for both dogs and residents.

We are also very conscious of the need to expand our work outside the capital: conditions for dogs in the rural regions outside of Tbilisi are very poor, particularly as there is little access to any veterinary services. Although our pilot in Anaklia is on hold until 2021, we are very excited to announce that we are trialling a new partnership with Doggie Doc, which sees the first mobile veterinary clinic in Georgia begin operation.

This collaboration with mobile vet clinic Doggie Doc means we can run targeted population management and vaccination programmes in other regions of Georgia.

We plan to work outwards from Tbilisi to ensure consistency, with the team being led by Dr Ana Metskhvarishvili, Mayhew Georgia’s vet, and Dr Dato Omarashvili, also trained by Mayhew. Dr Ana and Dr Dato will also be sharing their expertise, training regional vets in techniques for animal handling, pre- and post-operative care and general animal welfare.

Having recently trialled spay and neuter days with the mobile clinic in two villages on the outskirts of Tbilisi, where we neutered and vaccinated 96 dogs, the team has started as it means to go on!

Giving dogs a healthier life and making communities safer

By the end of August, Mayhew Georgia had neutered and vaccinated (against rabies and the most common canine diseases) 507 dogs in Tbilisi and 126 dogs via the mobile clinic.

WE ARE HOPING TO NEUTER AND VACCINATE A TOTAL OF 1,350 DOGS BY THE END OF 2020. CAN YOU HELP US REACH OUR TARGET?

A warm welcome to new Friends

We are so grateful to Friends of Mayhew Georgia for their support and are delighted to welcome on board Sophie Katsarava MBE and Nina Ananiashvili.

Working with partner vets in Tbilisi, we aim to reach an additional 500 dogs in the capital, and with the collaboration with Doggie Doc formalised, we can continue to help more free-roaming and community dogs in the regions. Our target is to reach over 200 dogs between September and December, but to do so we will need to make two trips each month and neuter and vaccinate an average of over 30 dogs per trip.

Sophie is the Georgian Ambassador to the UK and told us that Mayhew Georgia’s commitment to “veterinary training and education in animal welfare is a fine example of the ongoing and strengthening relationship between Georgia and the UK”.

We need your help in order to do this. The cover sheet included with your copy of Tails explains how you can make a donation to support Mayhew Georgia, and the difference that donation will make to our work and the animals we help.

We have known that “conditions for dogs in

the regions are bad, but when we visit, it has become even clearer just how much needs to be done.

Prima ballerina Nina is Artistic Director of the State Ballet of Georgia and the Vakhtang Chabukiani Tbilisi Ballet Art State School. She is passionate about animal welfare and lives in Tbilisi with her husband and daughter and their adopted street dog Begi.

“

Georgia’s blossoming tourism industry and Tbilisi’s many restaurants, one of the main food sources for the free-roaming dog population, suffered greatly during this period. By early summer, the dogs were more visible on the streets and, with breeding season underway, our team were being notified of many dogs in urgent need of neutering and preventative care.

Dr Ana Metskhvarishvili DVM, Veterinary Surgeon, Mayhew Georgia

We’d like to express our gratitude to freight company Georgian Cargo, who have generously airfreighted essential deliveries of collapsible dog crates from the UK to Georgia for free. Thank you!

.

Take a lo ok at ou brand n r ew web s it e for Mayhe georgia w Georgia: .thema yhew.o rg.

I 13

AUTUMN 2020

EW I

ATION

YH

AL. MA

E NT R N

Mayhew Afghanistan: working through the pandemic to help the dogs of Kabul

T

his summer, we celebrated restrictions have meant the teams have been working at half their usual capacity over the first anniversary of the the summer, and we are therefore slightly opening of our Animal Birth behind on reaching our target of 10,000 dogs neutered within the ABC Centre’s first Control (ABC) Centre in Kabul. year (to July 2020). Nonetheless, freeThe ABC Centre allows us to roaming dogs continue to be brought into deliver our Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, the ABC Centre and our team has done a Return (TVNR) programme in fantastic job: working within the restrictions, they have neutered over 8,500 dogs by the city, which helps to humanely the end of August 2020. We are now set control the number of freeto reach the milestone of 10,000 dogs roaming dogs on Kabul’s streets neutered in the coming months. and vaccinate them against rabies, Winning the fight against rabies keeping both dogs and local Since August 2017, Mayhew Afghanistan’s communities safe. mass canine rabies vaccination programme Our ABC Centre, one year on

Our teams in Kabul have been able to continue working during the coronavirus pandemic as the government deems the programmes important for public health. However, with the city in lockdown, 14 I

has worked to eradicate rabies in the free-roaming and owned dog populations in Kabul, creating a safer and healthier environment for the dogs and local communities alike. We are now in our third year of this programme and are delighted to report that there have been no recorded

human deaths from rabies since 2018; the number of dogs with rabies has also been reduced.

Mayhew Afghanistan’s team works across 16 districts of Kabul, aiming to vaccinate a minimum of 70% of the dog population per subdistrict (studies have shown that at least 70% of the dog population must be targeted for vaccination in order to break the chain of transmission of the rabies virus).

During lockdown, the team used their annual sight dog population survey as an opportunity to reassess the dog population.

The results have now been collated and we’re pleased to report that the data shows a small reduction in the number of dogs on the streets. This data will help the team to complete the rabies vaccination programme and calculate the number of dogs to be neutered in order to continue the containment of the dog population in a humane way.

international

and care for their needs. I have different methods for handling small, medium and big dogs, and also other methods of dealing with aggressive dogs.

“

Controlling the number of dogs on the street has a vital role in Kabul, with many benefits for dogs and humans, including stopping the birth of unwanted stray puppies, reducing animal suffering and halting the spread of rabies in the city.

“

Dr Abdul-Jalil Mohammadzai DVN, Mayhew Afghanistan’s Country Director

MEET OUR DOG HANDLERS In this issue of Tails, we speak to Ahmad Farid and Rahmatullah, who are dog handlers in the ABC Centre in Kabul. They work in the pre- and post-operative care kennel block and help to look after all the dogs that come through the clinic as part of our Trap, Vaccinate, Neuter, Return (TVNR) programme.

How did you become a dog handler?

AF: I was previously a team leader in the dog-culling programme that was run by Kabul Municipality, which was very upsetting for me. In 2017, I was chosen for retraining and learned humane dog handling and catching techniques. Instead of poisoning dogs, we started to vaccinate and then neuter them. [In January 2017, Mayhew Afghanistan signed a landmark agreement with Kabul Municipality to stop the culling of dogs and instead implement a mass canine rabies vaccination programme and, subsequently, a spay and neuter programme]. I then started as a dog handler for the ABC Centre when it opened in July 2019.

R: I was part of the vaccination team in the field, trying to catch dogs by hand. When the neutering programme started, I asked if I could work at the clinic as a dog handler and was accepted.

What are your duties and responsibilities?

AF: We look after the dogs from when they are first brought to the clinic to when they are returned. We ensure they are safe

R: The most important responsibilities are to make sure dogs feel calm and relaxed when they are handled. I also take care of their needs, such as having a clean kennel, healthy food and clean water.

Do you enjoy your work?

AF: Yes. I love dogs and I really prefer to work at the clinic rather than out in the field as I can handle the dogs and be close to them.

R: I feel very happy. I can see that I have a gift for handling dogs and understand how to behave around them.

What have you learned during your time as a dog handler?

AF: I have been working at the clinic for about one year and I have learned more about dog behaviours and their needs.

Also, sometimes when I feel down and play with the dogs they can help me feel better too!

R: I now look after double the number of dogs I did when I first started at the clinic.

I try my best to make sure that when transferring them from the ambulance to the operation room they are not hurt and feel safe.

Are you pleased to be part of Mayhew Afghanistan’s TVNR programme in Kabul?

AF: I am grateful that this programme started and prevented the culling of more dogs. In my view, the best way of controlling the dog population is neutering, and as a human that has compassion I can’t agree to killing them.

R: I think the neutering programme is better than culling the dogs because just killing them can’t control the dog population.

We are delighted to see the hard work and dedication of the team is paying off, despite the challenges in delivery caused by Covid-19, but there is still much to do to reach our targets and deliver on our strategy. We are grateful for your continued support as we help more dogs and save more lives.

I 15

AUTUMN 2020

f these A few o s were iend furr y fr y their new db rename . You’ll find families er name rm their fo ckets. b in ra

OLLIE

“Beautiful Ollie has loved the recent sunny days and never wanders from our garden. When he gets too hot, he comes in and flops on the kitchen floor.”

HOWIE (LENNY)

Happily rehom

Meowzers! More than 110 Mayhew cats have found their forever homes ourselves inundated with requests and that some of our long-stayers – result. Let’s hear from some of those who have

TAMMY AND GARFIELD

“Tammy and Garfield have settled in very quickly and made themselves very at home. I can’t imagine the flat without them now.”

“We had started inquiring about rehoming a cat just before lockdown began, as our last cat, Chipie (who we got from Mayhew in 2000), had passed away at a grand old age a few months earlier. Two months down the line, we got Howie! He is settled in our home, where he charges around, chases his tail and loves to torment a luminous bug on a string which has been a favourite toy of cats in our house for two decades. We named him after a hero baseball player called Howie Kendrick – big, powerful, gentle and loveable, just like this lovely boy. Our tip? Even if you think you want a kitten, consider giving a home to an older cat!”

16 I

HARRY

NYX

COCO

MINNIE (LINDA)

“Harry has only been with us for a few weeks, but he’s a real part of the family already!”

“Coco has settled in brilliantly and quickly become Lady of the Manor!

She is the perfect companion and I am honoured to have been able to give her a forever home!”

“It’s been such a joy to watch our little Nyxxy gain in confidence and explore her new home. She’s a really lovely and gentle cat and we’ve had lots of fun playing with her favourite toy: a roll of string!”

“Minnie arrived with us and spent two very quiet days hiding under the sofa, but soon settled in as part of the family. She loves roaming around the garden and lazing on our bed. We can’t believe she was at Mayhew for so long as she is such a lovely cat.”

ed in lockdown

since we resumed adoptions at the end of April. We’ve been delighted to find like Olly, Harry and Linda (renamed Minnie) – have been happily rehomed as a adopted Mayhew cats since lockdown began…

KIPPER (LOUIE)

LILLY

PRINCE COSMO

SKIP (SUSAN)

“Kipper was very cautious at first, but he soon found his favourite place to sit. He’s a lovely boy – thank you for letting me have him.”

“Prince Cosmo loves to explore the garden, has claimed his place on his favourite chair and sleeps on the end of the bed. He loves a cuddle and is very chatty – he is a real character.”

In orde rt and pot o keep staff ential a dopters safe, we im some n plemented such as ew processes virt and a d ual inter views rop-off ser vice to trans port their ne the cats to w home s.

“Adopting Lilly has been one of the few good things to come out of lockdown.

Our old cat died last summer and the house seemed strangely quiet and empty without her. Lilly is unbelievably affectionate; if she wants your attention, she lays her paw gently on your arm. My children call this ‘the paw of blessing’ because it’s bestowed only upon Lilly’s favourite humans. We are all now completely enthralled by her.”

“Skip is a fun-loving, affectionate cat.

She settled in within two days and is now head of the household.”

MILO AND KIKI (ANGEL)

“Kiki and Milo are bright, funny and just adorable. After a couple of shy days when they initially arrived, they’ve since explored every corner.”

RUFUS (MONTY)

“Rufus has totally made our little family complete. He is really affectionate and loves to cuddle, run through his crinkly tunnel and play fetch! He’s the perfect cat for us and we are looking forward to many happy years together.”

ERNIE (BUCKY)

“He’s been an absolute joy, basically settled in straight away and now we couldn’t imagine life without him.”

Are you looking for your pawfect pal? To find out about Mayhew residents currently waiting for a forever home, please visit themayhew.org/rehome or call 020 8962 8000.

I 17

AUTUMN 2020

Grooming tips

for colder weather

W

hether you’re a proud dog owner or committed to your cat, regular grooming is essential to your pet’s wellbeing. Most of us have a brush on hand in late spring and early summer when our pets moult in preparation for hotter weather. But what does good grooming look like in the autumn and winter months? We asked Registered Veterinary Nurse Amy Burtenshaw, Senior Nurse in our vet clinic, to share her top tips.

A year-round commitment

Cats and dogs shed throughout the year, so maintaining your grooming schedule during autumn and winter is vital. “It is a misconception that animals do not need to be groomed in the latter half of the year,” says Amy. “Cold and wet weather can be especially harsh on your pet’s fur, so it will need some extra attention.”

Not only will keeping up with grooming ensure your pet stays healthy, it can also be a form of enrichment and bonding during a period when most us are spending more time indoors – alongside regular play sessions, of course!

It is a misconception that “animals do not need to be

groomed in the latter half of the year. Cold and wet weather can be especially harsh on your pet’s fur, so it will need some extra attention.

“

Amy Burtenshaw, Senior Nurse

18 I

Older animals in particular will benefit from support with grooming, as conditions like arthritis can make it harder to do themselves. Whatever your pet’s age, it’s a great opportunity to check for any lumps or bumps and signs of parasites. If you find something new, speak to your vet.

Brushing

Most cats and dogs experience a second big shed through September and October.

Regular brushing will encourage the moulting process and allow your pet to swap their summer coat for thicker winter fur. As at other times of year, daily sessions will prevent small knots developing into uncomfortable matts for long-haired animals, while for those with shorter coats weekly should be enough to keep their fur in tip-top condition. It’ll also help cats keep furballs to a minimum.

Animals with very short or thin fur, or those who struggle with the cold for whatever reason, may need a coat or jumper to keep them warm. If that includes your pet, a gentle brush after each wear will stop their fur becoming matted underneath.

Outdoor cats may venture out less frequently in wet and windy weather, but when they do, brushing as soon as possible to remove any mud, leaves, twigs or other debris will reduce the risk of matts.

Bathing

Anyone with a dog knows that wet weather walks come with a price: mud! Left

untended, damp and muddy fur can easily become matted, so tackle it straight away with a lukewarm bath and a pet-friendly shampoo for extremely mucky areas.

Even if a full wash isn’t needed, always wipe or bathe your pup’s paws in tepid water once they’re back in the house – any ice, grit or mud can nestle between their toes and quickly become uncomfortable.

Cats should only be bathed if absolutely necessary, in which case try using warm water first before resorting to a product.

Like dogs, they may need their paws wiped or bathed after they’ve been outside.

Home grooming toolkit

Variety of brushes (eg, FURminator, KONG Zoom Groom, soft slicker brush, soft bristled brush, flea comb, wired comb)

Nail clippers (of suitable size for your animal)

Claw-clipping

Cats and dogs should naturally wear down their claws themselves, but clipping will help avoid painful ingrowth if you notice they’re getting too long. Checking your pet’s paws regularly is particularly important for cats, who may be less active in colder weather, and for older animals. If you’ve not clipped your pet’s claws before, we recommend asking your veterinary nurse to show you how – it can cause injury if done incorrectly.

Pet-friendly shampoo

Some pets may be reluctant to be groomed, so be patient and progress slowly using toys and treats as encouragement. For Amy’s step-by-step guide to establishing a good grooming routine, check out themayhew. org/ask-the-experts-how-to-groom-

To clip or not to clip?

Since your pet’s fur is there to keep them warm, it makes sense to avoid a drastic haircut once the temperature falls. However, if you do choose to take your dog or cat to the groomers, or if a few knots here and there require a trim, pop a coat on until their hair grows back.

If your pet develops severe matts, seek veterinary advice on how best to remove them.

I 19

Image courtesy of LMJU Archive

AUTUMN 2020

Famous faces and their feline friends Sir Isaac Newton (1642–1727)

Scientist Sir Isaac Newton, best known for discovering gravity, was very fond of his cat Spithead. When Newton was carrying out experiments with light in a darkened attic, Spithead kept disturbing him by nudging open the door. Newton had a cat-sized hole cut in the door and hung a black cloth over it to keep out the light. Spithead was now free to come and go as she pleased, while Newton could concentrate on his scientific experiments. This is claimed to have been the first cat flap.

20 I

Charles Dickens (1812–1870)

Edward Lear (1812–1888)

In 1862, Dickens was distraught when his beloved cat died. As a lasting memento, he arranged for his pet’s paw to be stuffed and mounted on a specially engraved ivory letter opener. It is now on display at the New York Public Library.

In later life, Foss continued to bring Lear solace as he battled with depression and loneliness. When Lear moved to San Remo in Italy, he asked architects to design an exact replica of his old house in England to avoid confusing Foss. At the age of 17, Foss sadly died and was buried with an inscribed tombstone in his master’s Italian garden.

Lear survived his devoted feline companion by only two months.

Renowned author Charles Dickens once said: “What greater gift than the love of a cat?”

His own white cat was initially named William, after Shakespeare; however, he renamed the cat Williamina when she gave birth to kittens!

One of the kittens became known as the master’s cat and would sit with Dickens while he wrote by candlelight for hours on end. To get his attention, this kitty would mischievously put out the candle with his paw!

Edward Lear, best remembered for his humorous poems and illustrations, adopted a tabby kitten called Foss in 1873 who was a source of comfort and joy. Lear made charming drawings of them together and Foss inspired his most famous poem, ‘The Owl and the Pussycat’.

Congress Image courtesy of Library of

Image courtesy of Wellcome Collection

C

ats have given comfort, companionship and even artistic inspiration to famous people throughout history. Volunteer contributor Azmina Gulamhusein looks at some influential figures whose lives and work were enriched by their love of cats.

Florence Nightingale (1820–1910)

During the Crimean War of 1853–1856, Florence Nightingale nursed wounded British soldiers in hospital wards infested with rats. She was delighted when a soldier gave her a small cat to help control the rodents.

Nightingale observed how pets provided therapy for her patients.

Over her lifetime, Nightingale owned more than 60 cats. She was chronically ill after the Crimean War ended, but a family of Persian cats gave her companionship. Nightingale served them specially prepared food on china plates and they left ink paw prints on many of her letters!

For the last two decades of her life, Nightingale was bedridden. Her cats would lie on her pillow and made this difficult period more bearable.

Before she died at the age of 90, Nightingale made arrangements in her will for the cats’ ongoing care.

Sir Winston Churchill (1874–1965)

Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill was a dedicated cat lover. His biographer, William Manchester, recalled an amusing incident when Churchill was on the phone to the Lord Chancellor and his tabby cat, Mickey, started playing with the telephone cord. Churchill shouted, ‘Get off the line, you fool!’ then, realising how this might be interpreted, quickly reassured the Lord Chancellor: ‘Not you!’

During the Second World War, Churchill praised the war effort of his grey cat Nelson – ‘He acts as a hot-water bottle and saves fuel, power and energy!’

– and he referred to his last cat Jock, who was ginger with a white chest and paws, as his special assistant. Apparently, meals in the household did not begin until Jock was at the table. It is thought that Jock was lying on his master’s bed when he died at the age of 90.

After Churchill’s death, Jock continued to live at his country house, Chartwell, in Kent, which eventually became a National Trust property. Churchill’s family requested that there should always be a marmalade cat named Jock at Chartwell, and when the original Jock died in 1975, another ginger puss called Jock II was welcomed to the estate. This tradition continues and Jock VII, a young, handsome ginger rescue cat, is the present occupant.

I 21

AUTUMN 2020

Cali, the cat with nine lives

Mayhew’s Community Vet Clinic

Our vets quickly extracted the needle, cleaned Cali’s abscess and removed some dead tissue from his cheek before we settled him down in our Cattery with antibiotics and pain relief. It’s likely that Cali swallowed the needle and thread by accident, and he was extremely lucky that it didn’t pierce his throat or find its way further down into his stomach, where it could have punctured his internal organs or led to a serious blockage.

Due to Covid-19, we can currently* only be contacted Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm, by phone on 020 8962 8017 or by email via vetclinic@ mayhewanimalhome.org. We are working with limited staff and will respond as soon as we can. We appreciate your patience during this time.

W

hen our Animal Welfare Officers brought three-year-old stray Cali into Mayhew earlier this summer, they suspected his swollen face was the result of an infected cat bite. However, nothing could have prepared them for what they actually found: as well as suffering from a nasty abscess, Cali had a large needle and a wad of thread stuck halfway down his throat.

Because Cali was a stray, he was also a little bit underweight and had matted fur, so our Cattery team fed him lots of nutritious meals and groomed his coat until he had 22 I

recovered. Despite his ordeal, Cali was a really friendly cat and loved to sit on laps and be stroked while our Cattery staff bathed his wounds.

Given the risks associated with swallowing a sharp, foreign object and leaving an abscess untreated, our quick action undoubtedly saved Cali’s life. With nobody else around to look out for him, his story could easily have had a much sadder ending.

Thankfully, Cali recuperated quickly, and we’re delighted to report that he has now been adopted and is settling in well with his forever family. We wish him all the best for the future!

Our vet clinic provides veterinary care for all pet owners as well as our inhouse animals.

The services we offer to the public are mainly preventative care, including free and low-cost neutering, vaccinations, microchipping and flea and worming treatment. We also undertake emergency surgery and provide medical treatment for rescued animals like Cali, when and wherever necessary.

*Correct at the time of going to press.

Please check our website for any updates.

Mill Lane Veterinary Surgery Advanced medical care for your pets Proud to support Mayhew Joshua Rusnak BVSc CertSAS MRCVS 68-70 Mill Lane London NW6 1NJ www.mill-lane-vet.com 020 7794 1777

New clinic now open: Alymer Parade Vet 17 Aylmer Parade London N2 0PH

DO YOU NEED TO GO INTO HOSPITAL BUT ARE WORRIED ABOUT LEAVING YOUR BEST FRIEND? If you need to go into hospital for a short-term stay but have no one to look after your cat or dog, you may be eligible for help under Mayhew’s Pet Refuge programme.

We will take care of your pet while you receive treatment or recover from illness, allowing you to get the treatment you need reassured that your pet is in expert hands.

Get in touch with our Animal Welfare Officers to find out more by phone on 020 8962 8000 or by email via awo@mayhewanimalhome.org.

www.themayhew.org Registered charity no. 1077588

I 23

Christmas Gift Guide 2020 Christmas ideas for pets and pet lovers all wrapped up!

ct e f r nts r u P ese er pr r und fo ÂŁ10!

Paw stocsome �llerking s!

Gifts that make a di�erence

These virtual gifts have been chosen because they play a vital part in our work. Every virtual gift includes a special card explaining the lasting di�erence your contribution will make to our work, so you have something in hand to place under the Christmas tree!

Gifts in aid of Mayhew

Christmas dinner for a cat or dog

This gift could provide an extra-special dinner with all the trimmings for a Mayhew cat or dog on Christmas Day.

Gifts in aid of Mayhew International

Fleece blanket for a cat or dog

This gift could provide a Mayhew dog or cat with a �eece blanket to make them feel cosy in their cabins.

Flea and worm treatment

This gift could provide medicated baths, �ea treatment and worming medication for one animal, to help ensure cats and dogs abroad can bene�t from having a healthy and disease-free life.

Cat dinner product code: VG027 £5.00 Cat blanket product code: VG064 £10.00 Dog dinner product code: VG018 £5.00 Dog blanket product code: VG065 £10.00 Product code: VG056 £5.00

Heat pad for a sick or injured animal

Help the dog of a homeless person

This gift could provide an essential heat pad for animals to maintain their optimum body heat, eliminate the risk of infection and speed up recovery when receiving veterinary treatment at Mayhew.

This gift could provide a free general health check for the animal of a homeless person, including �ea and worming treatment and microchipping, as well as a collar with tag and lead and a coat.

Product code: VG049 £15.00

Product code: VG051 £25.00

Help the pet of an owner in crisis

Our Pet Refuge programme is a lifeline for pet owners facing personal crisis, providing a safe place for their pet to stay while they get back on their feet.

This gift could provide temporary shelter and care for an animal in need, helping us keep people and their pets together.

Product code: VG053 £50.00

TheraPaws visit to a care home or hospital

Give the gift of joy to the elderly and to patients in hospitals and care homes across London. This gift could provide a TheraPaws visit to provide cheer and companionship to those who need it most, especially over the festive period.

Neuter a street animal

This gift could provide vital surgery to help combat the street dog overpopulation crisis overseas, where unwanted animals are left to survive on the streets and often end up leading unhappy, short lives subject to disease, starvation and cruelty.

Product code: VG050 £25.00

Surgical supplies

Rabies prevention and vaccine package

This life-saving gift could immunise one street dog against rabies and stop the disease from being passed to other animals or humans.

Product code: VG045 £15.00

Dog-catching net and pole

This gift could provide our International team with a dog-catching net and pole to catch street dogs with minimal distress, so they can be vaccinated quickly and easily.

Product code: VG057 £50.00

Help train an overseas vet

This gift could provide our team of vets in Afghanistan and Georgia with essential surgical supplies and instruments to perform life-saving surgeries and neutering operations.

This gift could help towards funding Mayhew International’s Veterinary Training Programme to promote safe and secure veterinary practices abroad.

Product code: VG032 £100.00

Product code: VG034 £250.00

Product code: VG055 £150.00

Last order date for Christmas delivery: 14 December 2020

ATION

E NT R N

Stripes product code: MS063 £5.99 Kittens product code: MS066 £5.99 Hounds product code: MS067 £5.99 Black cat product code: MS078 £5.99

Fizzing bath bomb

Looking for a stocking �ller or two? Kids and adults alike will love the �zz and bubble of these bubblegum-scented bath bombs! Vegan, SLS- and SLESfree. Size: 160g.

Dog product code: MS076 £2.99 Paw product code: MS077 £2.99

Order now!

Visit shop.themayhew.org Call 020 8206 5870 Complete the enclosed order form (included with print edition of Tails) and send to: Mayhew, Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green, London NW10 6BJ

Sponsorship gifts

(These gifts support our Mayhew Animal Home projects.)

Sponsor a Dog Room or Cat Cabin at Mayhew to help provide our animals with a safe, stress-free environment to live in until they �nd their permanent home. Or, to give our cats and dogs even more, opt for the Dog Room Deluxe or Cat Cabin Deluxe.

You will receive:

• Personalised certi�cate

• Pro�le of one of our current dog or cat residents • ‘Who We Are’ booklet

• ‘A Day at Mayhew’ lea�et

• Mayhew Oyster card holder • Mayhew pen

• Mayhew collection box

• Mayhew cuddly dog or cat toy

• Mayhew cotton tote bag (Deluxe option only) Sponsor a Dog Room

Dog Room product code: VG038 £60.00 Dog Room Deluxe product code: VG039 £120.00 Sponsor a Cat Cabin

Cat Cabin product code: VG036 £60.00 Cat Cabin Deluxe product code: VG037 £120.00

Order online at shop.themayhew.org

Order by phone: 020 8206 5870

EW I

Women’s bamboo socks

Hypoallergenic, antibacterial and 40% more absorbent than cotton, these breathable bamboo socks are a real treat for feet. Shoe sizes 3–7.

YH

M A L. A

Mayhew International gifts

Pictured: Cat Cabin Deluxe sponsorship pack.

Gifts for dogs

Bamboo dog bowl

Reduce your carbon paw print with a recycled bamboo bowl – available in two stylish designs! Material: bamboo composite (60% bamboo, 35% melamine, 5% cornstarch); BPA- and phthalate-free. Dishwasher safe; not microwave safe. Capacity: 400ml; dimensions: H5 x W17 x D17cm.

Pink product code: DG043 £5.99 Blue product code: DG044 £5.99

Gifts for cats

Bamboo cat bowl

Ideal for the eco-conscious cat owner, these recycled bamboo bowls come in two fab Feline Fine designs. Material: bamboo composite (60% bamboo, 35% melamine, 5% cornstarch); BPAand phthalate-free. Dishwasher safe; not microwave safe. Capacity: 400ml; dimensions: H5 x W17 x D17cm.

Yellow product code: CG029 £5.99 Red product code: CG030 £5.99

Gifts for animal lovers

Reusable face covering

Masks that will raise a smile – choose from two fun designs to keep yourself and others safe while out and about.

Double-layered with cotton lining and polyester outer. Washable up to 60˚C. NOT MEDICAL GRADE. Dimensions: H13 x W23cm.

Masks and other face coverings are a complementary protective measure to social distancing and current government guidelines must still be followed.

Dog nose product code: DL071 £3.99 Cat print product code: CL079 £3.99

Festive cat hot-water bottle

Give the gift of kitty cuddles this Christmas with a super-soft hotwater bottle. Not suitable for 0–3 years. Material: polyester outer, natural rubber bottle. Capacity: 1 litre; dimensions: H31 x W19 x D3.5cm.

Product code: CL071 £9.99

Feline Fine cat eye mask

These �u�y kitty eye masks are the ultimate in relaxation, bringing a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘cat nap’! Not suitable for 0–3 years.

Material: polyester, elastic. Dimensions: H10 x W18 x D 0.5cm, strap L30cm.

Jolly Doggy farmyard sheep

With its 100% cotton �lling and unbleached rope legs, this soft but strong squeaky toy is the natural choice for the discerning dog owner.

Dimensions: H25 x W10cm.

Product code: DG046 £5.99

Mayhew x Freak Meowt catnip hearts

Handmade felt hearts stu�ed full of high-strength, premium quality Canadian catnip and guaranteed to make your cat go wild. Dimensions: H8 x W9cm.

Purple product code: CG015 £3.50 Orange product code: CG027 £3.50 Pink product code: CG026 £3.50

Feline Fine gel hand sanitiser with cover

Keep clean on the go with this squeezy hand gel in a cute silicone holder. Ingredients: alcohol (62%), aqua (EU), carbomer, glycerine, propylene glycol, triethanolamine and perfume. Size: 29ml; dimensions: H8.5 x W4 x D2.5cm.

Product code: CL073 £2.99

Black cat product code: CL076 £3.49 Ginger cat product code: CL077 £3.49

Feline Fine ceramic oil burner

A pretty addition to any home – just add water and your favourite essential oils. Candle and oil not included.

Dimensions: H9.5 x W8 x D8cm.

Black product code: CL074 £3.99 White product code: CL075 £3.99

Mr Twister Delia Duck

With tough rope limbs plus a built-in squeaker for playtime and a �u�y plush body for cuddling afterwards!

Dimensions: H41 x W13cm.

Product code: DG045 £5.99

Grumpy Cat door dangler

Dangle Grumpy Cat from a door handle and watch his extralong tail tease your pampered puss.

Product code: CG031 £4.99

Simon’s Cat reusable bottle

Keep tea or co�ee hot and soft drinks icy cold: our thermal-insulted bottle makes eco-friendly easy! Materials: stainless steel, BPA-free plastic. Not dishwasher safe. Capacity: 500ml; dimensions: H26 x W7 x D7cm.

Product code: CL072 £9.99

Cat bottle stopper

A serene seated kitten bottle stopper to keep wine fresh and lasting longer.

Material: cork, resin. Dimensions: H8 x W4.5 x D4.5cm.

Product code: CL078 £2.99

Last order date for Christmas delivery: 14 December 2020

Christmas Gift Guide 2020

Welcome to the Mayhew Christmas Gift Guide 2020, a fantastic selection of gifts, cards and seasonal items, specially chosen for animal lovers and their pets. Every purchase you make helps us continue our work to improve the lives of dogs, cats and communities, at our Home in London and around the world.

Thank you for your support – and Merry Christmas from all of us at Mayhew!

How to order

Three easy ways to shop

1. Online

Visit shop.themayhew.org – open 24 hours a day.

2. By phone

Place your order by calling 020 8206 5870 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

3. By post

Send your completed order form (included with the print edition of Tails), together with a cheque or credit card details, to: Mayhew, Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green, London NW10 6BJ.

Cards, wrap and calendars

Purrfect Christmas

Christmas Westies

Playful friends

Twas the night before Christmas in a cat lover’s house… Greeting: With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Pack of 10, H15 x W15cm.

The only thing sweeter than one Westie in knitwear is two! Greeting: With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Pack of 10, H15 x W15cm.

An adorable festive scene for dog and cat lovers alike. Greeting: With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Pack of 10, H17 x W12cm.

Product code: MS070 £4.99

Product code: MS071 £4.99

Product code: MS072 £4.99

Festive cat gift wrap

Dogs in jumpers gift wrap

Mayhew 2021 cat calendar

Christmas signpost

All signs point to cute this Christmas!

Greeting: With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Pack of 10, H15 x W15cm.

Sold in support of Mayhew International

Product code: MS073 £4.99

Mayhew 2021 dog calendar

No one could resist this stylish Christmas kitty-themed gift wrap in festive red! Made from top-quality recycled paper; includes �ve sheets of H70 x W50cm gift wrap and �ve tags.

Make your presents stand out with this jolly red gift wrap covered in sweaterwearing pups. Made from top quality recycled paper; includes �ve sheets of H70 x W50cm gift wrap and �ve tags.

Treat yourself to twelve months of beautiful Mayhew cats and make sure you never miss an important date again. Wire bound with hanging hole.

Opens to A3.

With a stunning photo of a di�erent Mayhew pup to enjoy every month, getting organised has never been so much fun. Wire bound with hanging hole. Opens to A3.

Product code: MS075 £3.99

Product code: MS074 £3.99

Product code: MS068 £7.99

Product code: MS069 £7.99

Order online at shop.themayhew.org

Order by phone: 020 8206 5870