Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Honours Paul O'Grady
Following the comedian and pet lover's death
Paul and one of the dogs being cared for at Battersea. Picture: Battersea Dogs and Cats
March 29, 2023
In a statement shared with the PA news agency Battersea Chief Executive Peter Laurie said, “Battersea will forever remember Paul as a devoted animal lover with the biggest heart, who fell head over heels in love with every dog he met at our centres.”
Mr Laurie paid tribute to the comedian who was both a Battersea Dogs & Cats ambassador and presenter of the award-winning TV show For The Love Of Dogs, which was set at the home, “Paul will always be associated with Battersea and we are truly saddened to have lost such a true friend and huge part of our charity.”
O'Grady was initially scheduled to film For The Love Of Dogs at Battersea for just a few days, but ended up staying as a volunteer for months afterwards. He became an ambassador for the home after the first series was aired while a bronze statue of his late dog, Buster, was erected on a plinth at the centre.
Paul also adopted a dog from the home, a Jack Russell-Chihuahua called Eddy. “Paul had an extremely hands-on approach as a Battersea ambassador and has been fundamental in helping our charity to communicate important campaign messages,” continues Peter Laurie.
“He was a champion for the underdog and would do anything to ensure all animals live a healthy and happy life. He will be dearly missed.”
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