My childhood was full of dogs. I can’t remember a time where there wasn’t a dog or puppies in the house and I remember my mum washing every puppy with warm water, cotton wool balls, and John’s Talcum Powder.
Her pride and joy, Sheba our German Shepherd, that she’d longed for, but sadly she lost her life to a tumour aged just 7. That was it. No more dogs as it was hard for mum and dad to say goodbye the older, they got.
It was so sad, as I never actually got to say goodbye to her.
Exiting with the perpetrator, we didn’t have any pets together. He’d never really mentioned having pets until it was near his birthday and he wanted a bird, which of course, I got.
He killed the said bird as a form of punishment one night, when I went to bed alone and left him in the living room drinking.
Now, as an advocate and campaigner for survivors of domestic abuse I am a huge fan and supporter of the Naturewatch Protect Animals, Protect People Campaign and Purple Paw Campaign because, well quote frankly we don’t give our pets enough credit that they are due.
Purple Paw is all about you and the special bond you share with your pet. For so many of us, animals are not “just pets” – they are part of our family. They’re there in the quiet moments, the difficult days and the joyful ones too. They ease loneliness, lift our spirits, give us a reason to step outside and offer comfort when we need it most.
As part of our ‘Protect Animals. Protect People.’ campaign, Purple Paw is shining a light on why the animal–human bond truly matters. We’re inviting you to share your story and a photo of the companion who makes a difference in your life, whether they supported you through a tough time or simply make you smile every day.
By sharing your experience, you’ll help us celebrate this connection and show just how powerful the bond between people and their pets really is.
Now I’m a momma to a ginger tom cat, my Harper, who offers me unconditional love and companionship every single day, helping combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Now please, share your story and be a part of the Purple Paw community.
Thank you.