Sussex Pet Rescue & Cat Welfare Sussex

On Sunday 5 September 2010 there will be a sponsored walk in aid of Sussex Pet Rescue and Cat Welfare Sussex.

Setting off at noon from Hove Lagoon, you will walk to Brighton Pier and back. You can come along in animal fancy dress if you so wish – but it is not essential!

For information and sponsor forms, call 01273 725943 or 01273 749126 or visit the websites.

Both charities have lots of animals needing homes, can you help? Pictured are some of the dogs and cats who could join your family. Check out the websites for more details.

Ways to remember your loved ones

Anyone who has lost someone close to them will know how important it can be to have a permanent memorial, something that carries on after they are gone.

Often when people lose pets, others are not as sympathetic as when it’s a person. Not everyone understands pets are a significant member of the family and people need support to come to terms with their loss.

Some pet owners like to create a living memorial to their pet. I have a beautiful pot containing sunny coloured flowers to celebrate the life of my Katie Cat, as she loved lying in a warm patch of sunshine. The plants flower and come back every year. It was therapeutic making the pot look pretty and each time I water and tend to the plants, I think of my cat.

I have been looking at different ways to celebrate the life of our pets when they pass away and came across the Memorial Walk at Ferring Country Centre. You can buy a tree, bench or plaque which will be placed in the tranquil setting of the Memorial Walk. The nature path is a beautiful place and wildlife is encouraged to the area by keeping it as natural as possible.

Alternatively, you might like to dedicate a tree to your loved one through The Woodland Trust who work to plant trees across the country, ensuring we have beautiful woodland to enjoy and keep us healthy.

And as well as remembering your pet, you are contributing to two very worthwhile charities.

I hope you like my ideas. If you have created a memorial to your pet, why not let me know and send a photo too.

If you need someone to talk to after the loss of your pet, please call Grove Lodge and we can arrange a call from one of our trained staff.

Summer fun!

If you fancy a great day out, hurry along to Ferring Country Centre as they are having a Charity Summer Fayre and Novelty Dog Show on Saturday 24 July 2010!

The fun starts at 10 am with so much to see you will kept entertained until the end at 4 pm! The entry fee of £4 includes amongst other things free entry to the brand new small animal farm, with pygmy goats and pigs. It also includes falconry displays and dog agility demonstrations. There is also a market place selling crafts and gifts, face painting, a grand raffle and pony rides – you will have an action packed day! With refreshments on site, there is no need to bring a picnic – and Langhams traditional ales will be there to quench your thirst!

The garden centre will be open as usual, so you can pick up some flowers for the garden on your way out.

If you are reading this blog, you are probably an animal lover and will be well aware of the wonderful benefits of owning a pet. When you’re feeling down or stressed, a cuddle with your pet will improve your mood and relax you like nothing else. Ferring Country Centre recognises the importance of being close to animals for people with learning difficulties and how this can improve the lives of their clients enormously.

If you would like to get involved with Ferring Country Centre, take a look at the website and find out what’s involved.