Animal Life

Life at the helm of an animal charity animal charity

Working on reception at Woodside is not for the faint hearted. While hands on with the animals is hard, albeit rewarding work, reception duty is very much at the sharp end with the general public. A fi rm knowledge of what the charity is able to do is vital - as is a tough skin. Sadly, verbal abuse is part of the job. Most of our staff are multi-taskers, so there’s a broad range of skills and know-how available when needed. Despite this, phone calls can sometimes be challenging. • I think you may have my cat, can you put him on the phone as I’ll recognise his meow. • Can you run your dogs’ colours by me? I want one to match my sofa. • I’ve lost my completely black cat (sex not known) – do you have it with you? • I want a long-haired ginger kitten with three white paws. • Surely you can make space for my dog if I bring its cage? • I’m going on holiday in two days, can you take my dog? Our saddest caller was a regular one for a while. The gentleman had dementia and thought he’d lost the dog he’d had as a child. On the whole, most callers have sensible enquiries: • Do you only help cats and dogs? No, up to 18 species to date. • Why won’t you take my unwanted duvets? We’re unable to launder them. • Can I come up and walk your dogs? Yes if we have vacancies and you register with us. • Why is my kitten rolling around and crying a lot? Likely in season! Pregnancy at 5 mths is possible and not good for mum or babies. • Can you neuter my pet at low cost? Yes, subject to conditions. • Do you take rabbits? Yes, but only when you get to the top of a long queue. When one gets adopted, another can come in. ‘What We Do’ is a booklet we’ve created to explain just that. If you would like a copy, it’s available free from all our charity shops and Woodside Sanctuary, Elfordleigh, PL7 5ED. For a copy by post please send a second class stamp. n

Tonga arrives at

Dartmoor Zoo recently welcomed Tonga, an endangered Lau banded iguana. Found on the Lau Islands of the eastern part of the Fijian archipelago, this species is considered a national treasure by the Government of Kingsbridge Show Fiji, and its likeness has been featured on postage stamps and

There’s something for everyone at this great family event! currency. Borough Farm, Nr Kingsbridge TQ9 7QP Populations of these iguanas have been declining over the Back after a 2 year break for its 141st year! All the usual animal classes plus over a past century and they’re now hundred trade and craft stands - local food sadly listed as Endangered on the and drink, children’s pets corner, donkey rides, vintage and modern tractors, live IUCN (The International Union music, a licensed bar, a wide range of for Conservation of Nature) Red main ring attractions and much more... List. Threats include habitat destruction from logging and Saturday 3rd September 2022 • From 9:00am www.kingsbridgeshow.co.uk farming, invasive predators and the illegal pet trade. n