Although we can’t be the winners, the Humanimal Trust team couldn’t resist getting involved in the Virtual Pet Show, by sharing the stories of our own companion animals.
Molly, Betty, and Sybil, the companions (past and present) of Joe, our CEO.
“Molly and I found each other in Ireland whilst I was on holiday. We were both a bit of a mess, both suffering the after effects of mental and physical abuse, both lacking trust. But immediately there was an unbreakable connection that became a lifeline for Molly and for me, and never waivered in 16 years.
Right from the start, we took care of each other, well actually Moll took care of everyone, especially my daughter and the cats. She saved Betty’s life, the tiny very poorly kitten found on the motorway, and they became great chums. After many years of hikes, walks (herding us all up if someone lagged behind!), cuddles and ball chasing, I finally had to make that devastatingly difficult decision, but as always she helped me do it, and my heartbreak was eased by her peace and the oh so many happy memories.”
“Betty is now 8, but I never believed she would live for 8 weeks, let alone months or years! At just a few weeks old a friend found her on the motorway in a box, arrived with her in a towel and simply said if anyone can save her Joe it’s you! How could I refuse? But it wasnt just me of course, it was Rooster my daughter, Molly my Collie, and an army of vets and vet nurses. She was suffering from Feline Corona Virus, Giardia and Clostridium, she was emaciated, dehydrated and lethargic. But she was, and still is, the strongest, feistiest, most resilient cat I have ever known. She is still tiny, but has the biggest personality and attitude and is the funniest feline. Nobody can be glum when Betts is near. “
“Sybil is my constant companion – she has a chair next to me in my office, sleeps by my side in bed and is always eagerly awaiting my return should I need to pop out! Unfortunately, she suffers from FIC – Feline Idiopathic Cystitis, which can be caused by stress. She has had it since I rescued her 6 years ago, and I try everything I can to relieve her symptoms. I understand her anxiety, and she understands mine – we simply sit and breathe together until all is well.”
Pebbles, the companion of Andrea, our Research and Scientific Outreach Manager.
“This is my fabulous rescue dog who was found in poor condition after being used for breeding, a life experience that has had a lasting impact on her as she can be a nervous and worried soul. Despite her challenges, she has blossomed since joining my family and has the most amazing, gentle and funny personality. She is a daily reminder for me that animals draw on their resilience as much as humans do when times are tough, that kindness always wins in the end and that small steps add up to big progress.
She is the best dog because despite her early life experience, she lives in the moment and takes each day as it comes. She still worries from time to time (and probably always will) but she trusts me enough to show it, and I understand her well enough to support her when she needs it. This shared bond is priceless and means we can, and will, continue to learn from, and support each other for many years to come.”
Cheeky and Trueno, companions of Iva, our Research Management Consultant.
Cheeky (husky/malamute/border collie cross): “Cheeky, very much as his name implies is a cheeky, happy dog who always cheers me up, makes sure I walk enough and play enough. He loves his balls and sticks, long walks and adventures. We keep each other moving.”
Trueno (Andalusian horse) : “Trueno is retired from riding and loving it, spending all day hanging out with his field buddies, getting dirty and munching away, but still loving his pamper sessions and keeping busy with a little in-hand work. He is a sweet and gentle soul who gave us back our confidence. He loves a fuss, a big bag of carrots, and some mints, and is always happy to see us. It has been great for all of us just hanging out, no saddle or bridle in sight.”
Dinkie and Tinks, companions of Karen, our Volunteer Co-ordinator.
“Dinkie and Tinks are two of the most loving, gentle and gorgeous kitties. That’s not to say that they aren’t bossy and completely in charge of the whole household! They are my best ever friends, there when I need them, listen to my awful singing and the off the wall conversations that I wouldn’t have with anyone else, and are still there wanting to cuddle me. If that’s not pure love, I don’t know what is!”
Albi, the companion of Alex, our Administration and Finance Manager.
“Albi is a 5-year-old bundle of joy who joined my family during the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was living with two of my brothers and their girlfriends, so he was never short of love and affection, and he supported us all through a tricky time. Albi has given me the confidence to explore the UK on my own and has really helped my mental health and wellbeing – not only by being a source of unconditional love, but also by giving me a reason to get out of the house every day. He has lots of friends who come to visit and he has sleepovers at their houses too – he even regularly gets to go on playdates with his brother, Hendrick. Albi is great with children and loves visiting pub gardens where he often gets lots of fuss. Albi is my little shadow and just the gentlest soul you could meet.”
Enter your own special companion animal at: https://humanimaltrust.org.uk/virtual-pet-show/
Molly
Pebbles
Tinks
Dinkie
Cheeky
Trueno
Betty
Sybil
